“To curate stimulating performances that strengthen the inclusive community who celebrates the rich culture and diversity of folk music” 

“To support superb working artists on DMV local and virtual stages”

We are a predominantly volunteer organization that provides performance opportunities for emerging and nationally touring singer-songwriters, and folk and acoustic musicians. We have provided an intimate setting for a listening audience since 2002, producing more than 500 shows in a variety of locations in DC, Maryland and Virginia to date. 

Our vision is that live folk and acoustic music will be performed somewhere in the DC/Baltimore Metropolitan area every day. To achieve this, we work collaboratively with other folk and acoustic music nonprofit presenters, including local festivals. 

We seek to present a variety of music not only to attract and serve diverse cultures, but to expose cultures to each other through music. What the folk tradition offers is a window to the world, an insight into the lives, attitudes, spirit and hardships of those who’ve lived it.  And, at its best, contemporary folk song can do the same thing, shining a light on the events, the characters and the attitudes that shape our world so that, in time, the best of these songs will be absorbed into the tradition. 

Folk music has a way of connecting everyone — performers and audiences, as well as the greater community. Folk music inspires us and lifts us up, crossing all socioeconomic lines and brings people together. At a folk concert, the audience not only listens; it is encouraged to participate in the making of the music by singing along; thus building a sense of community in the audience. People who sing together are likely to start talking to one another during the intermission and after the show. These newly forged connections can cross the boundaries of age and class. 

Thus, FocusMusic invites you to join us in pursuit of building greater community among the residents of the greater DC/Baltimore area through the enjoyment of folk music.