Up-and-coming roots musicians are in the spotlight in our annual Emerging Artist Showcase, one of the highlights of our summer festival and always a fun event.

We consider an “Emerging Artist” to be a band or individual of any age who has not performed regularly at major festivals or concert series. Showcase applicants are solo acts, duos and groups playing acoustic roots-based styles such as folk, blues, Bluegrass, Americana, world music, jazz, country, folk-rock, Celtic, and the like.

Our judges have selected five finalists from our field of applicants. On Saturday afternoon of the festival, each finalist will perform a 20‑minute set followed by a brief interview. Judges will rate performances on stage appearance, originality, personality and overall consistency. The winner will play for our Main Stage crowd later that afternoon, AND receive a $1000 cash prize thanks to a generous donation.

Our 2024 Finalists

Erin Lunsford

Erin Lunsford is an award-winning singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist (guitar, banjo, piano) originally from Fincastle, VA and now located in Richmond, VA. Best known as the front-woman, lead vocalist and lyricist in touring indie-pop/soul band Erin & The Wildfire, her vocals have been described as soulful, expressive, and powerhouse.

Dann Pell

Dann Pell is a singer-songwriter and fingerstyle guitarist from Chester County, PA who makes meditative folk music in the spirit of Bob Dylan and Iron & Wine, with an occasional psychedelic flare reminiscent of Steve Gunn and Kurt Vile.

Joseph Alton Miller

With a focus on American roots/folk music, singer-songwriter Joseph Alton Miller strives to bridge the gap separating the many genres that make up the American sound. He has been recording and touring for almost two decades as a solo artist, sharing stages with acts such as Brandi Carlile, Living Color, Railroad Earth, and Richard Shindell (Cry, Cry, Cry).

The Honey Badgers

The Honey Badgers are known for their sparkling harmonies, honest lyrics, and undeniable chemistry on and off stage. Weaving their voices together with Michael’s driving guitar and Erin’s wistful violin, they spin stories and songs about finding yourself, finding each other, and finding your way in the world. They were recently voted #1 “Most Wanted” at Falcon Ridge Folk Festival Emerging Artist Showcase 2023.

Red Smith & Blue Dawn

Red Smith and Blue Dawn rise to the occasion! Red Smith is a powerful vocalist and songwriter with a driving guitar to match. Supporting trio Blue Dawn is Shelly Monroe on bass, Matt Zuckerman on dobro, and Joe Perloff on mandolin. This group blurs genre lines, channeling traditional bluegrass, country, rock n roll, folk and blues all with a unique spin.