John McCutcheon Returns to Moke Hill

Nov 28, 2018 by editor

On Thursday, January 10, 2019, beloved musician-storyteller John McCutcheon will perform in Mokelumne Hill at the historic Mokelumne Hill Town Hall, starting at 7:00 p.m. Tickets are $30 in advance and $35 the day of the show, $15 for children 12 and under. Tickets are on sale now at www.foothillconservancy.org and at the Foothill Conservancy’s Jackson office at 35 Court Street, Ste 1. The show is a benefit for the Foothill Conservancy.

Whether in print, on record, or on stage, people communicate with John McCutcheon’s versatility, charm, wit, and pure talent. “We introduced John to this area in 1992 and have presented him several times since,” said Foothill Conservancy Executive Director Amanda Nelson. “In every show, he has delighted, inspired, amused, and transported his audience. We are happy to have him back after so many years.” McCutcheon’s last Conservancy benefit was in 2001 and his last Mokelumne Hill performance was in 2004.

A native of Wisconsin who resides in Georgia, McCutcheon spent years immersing himself in the traditional music of the Southern Appalachian Mountains. He is one of the country’s most respected and loved folksingers. As an instrumentalist, he is a master of a dozen different traditional instruments, most notably the rare and beautiful hammer dulcimer. His songwriting has been hailed by critics and singers around the globe. His 30 recordings have garnered every imaginable honor including seven Grammy nominations and Parents’ magazine awards. And his commitment to grassroots organizing has put him on the front lines of many important issues, from supporting Wisconsin’s teachers to opposing environmentally destructive Alaskan mining proposals.

McCutcheon is best known for his captivating live performances. As the late Pete Seeger said, “John McCutcheon is not only one of the best musicians in the USA, but also a great singer, songwriter, and song leader.” Johnny Cash called him, “The most impressive instrumentalist I’ve ever heard.” Describing his stories, the Washington Post said, “He has an uncanny ability to breathe new life into the familiar. His storytelling has the richness of fine literature.”

People of every generation and background feel at home when John McCutcheon takes the stage, with what critics describe as “little feats of magic,” “breathtaking in their ease and grace…,” and “like a conversation with an illuminating old friend.” His performances feature original and traditional songs with the profound mark of place, family, and strength, along with stories told in a style that’s been compared to Will Rogers and Garrison Keillor. It’s an evening not to be missed!  The event will include light refreshments and a cash beer and wine bar.

For more information, call Carolyn at 209-223-3508 or e-mail carolyn@foothillconservancy.org.