Baltimore Folk Music Society Inc.

The Baltimore Folk Music Society Inc. is a nonprofit, educational organization located in Baltimore, Maryland. Its primary mission is to preserve and promote folk music, dance, and tradition. The organization serves as a hub for community engagement through various events such as regular concerts, family activities, and dance sessions.

Mission and Objectives

The Society aims to further the understanding, investigation, appreciation, and performance of traditional American folk arts. It achieves this by sponsoring a wide array of events, including folk dances, concerts, and educational programs.

Events and Activities

The Baltimore Folk Music Society hosts numerous events throughout the year:

• Contra Dances: These are a staple of the organization's events calendar, with weekly sessions typically held on Wednesdays at Lovely Lane Church.
• Concerts and Performances: The Society organizes concerts featuring both local and national folk musicians.
• English Country Dance: This traditional dance form is part of the Society's offerings, often incorporating Irish tunes during special events like Saint Patrick's Day.
• Song Swaps: A monthly in-person song swap where participants share folk songs in an informal setting.
• Balfolk Music Sessions: These sessions focus on traditional and contemporary folk music from Europe, offering a space for musicians to explore and play together.

Community Involvement

The organization is supported by volunteers who contribute in various capacities, from sound engineering to coordinating events. The Society also partners with other regional folk groups, fostering a broader sense of community and shared cultural heritage.

Membership and Benefits

Members of the Baltimore Folk Music Society are eligible for discounts to events and can participate fully in the organization's activities. The organization encourages full-time students and those under 21 to engage with its events by offering them free admission to regular dances.

Overall, the Baltimore Folk Music Society Inc. plays a significant role in preserving and celebrating folk traditions, enhancing local cultural life through its diverse activities.