Florida Keys Traditional Music Festival Premiers in Marathon Jan. 29-31

Some of America’s most celebrated grass-roots musicians are to be featured at a new Middle Keys event, the Florida Keys Traditional Music Festival, set for Friday through Sunday, January 29-31.

An excitingly diverse lineup is planned, including master Cajun, bluegrass, country, boogie-woogie, acoustic blues and western swing performers. For many, the festival will be their first performance in the Florida Keys, according to event organizers.

Scheduled headliners include the renowned BeauSoleil Cajun Trio with Michael and David Doucet, Appalachian guitar virtuoso Wayne Henderson and legendary piano man Daryl Davis.

The music fest kicks off at Sombrero Resort and Lighthouse Marina, mile marker 50, Friday evening, January 29, with a 6-9 p.m. evening concert.

Saturday’s lineup includes afternoon performances 1-5 p.m. and a 6:30-9:30 p.m. evening show. Sunday’s festival performances run 1-5 p.m.

“Folks in the Florida Keys love good music,” said event organizer John Holum. “The festival will give audiences the chance to experience the artistry of a unique group of stellar musicians performing great American music in an intimate setting.”

A complete schedule of musical performances can be found at www.keysmusicfest.org.

Tickets for individual concerts are $15 per adult and free for children 12 years and under. Four-concert ticket packages are available for $45 ($50 after Dec. 1).

To purchase tickets, visit www.keysmusicfest.org or the National Council for the Traditional Arts at www.ncta.net. All proceeds are to benefit NCTA and Marathon’s Dolphin Research Center.