About the Artist/Ensemble

KINNFOLK – the husband and wife duo of Josh and Julie Kinn – weave octave mandolin, bodhrán (Irish drum), and smooth vocal harmonies in their Celtic folk music from the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains. From sea shanties and working songs, to trad tunes and Old Time favorites, Kinnfolk’s fresh take on classics blends seamlessly with their original compositions. They share stories as enduring as tartan, spinning yarns steeped in Appalachian charm, enjoying playful banter with the audience. Their shows feel like a kitchen party, where everyone is family, and there’s always room for a dancer.

In 2023 Kinnfolk won the Robinson Emerging Artist Showcase, earning them a Main Stage appearance at Canada’s premiere Celtic event, the Goderich Celtic Roots Festival. They were also featured on the cover of the largest traditional music magazine in the world — Irish Music Magazine — and named one of the top 5 Celtic bands to watch in 2023 by The Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. In 2022, Kinnfolk received a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts and the City of Roanoke to create a body of work exploring the history, geography, and folk legends of their town. The resulting project, “Star Above the Mountain,” debuted to a live sold-out audience in June 2023 and became their third studio album, released in February 2025.

Concert/Performance Description

Kinnfolk performances may encompass 1-3 hours of traditional tune sets, Celtic folk songs, and original compositions. Expect audience interaction between songs, educating listeners on songwriting, the interplay between Celtic and Appalachian cultural heritage, and folk music as a traditional artform.

Technical Requirements

Two vocal mics (sm58 or equivalent), an instrument mic or one direct box with phantom power for a drum mic, and three direct boxes (active for all three preferred, but minimum one active required) for an octave mandolin, a bouzouki, and a guitar.

Educational Programs

Educational programming may include:

• Providing Irish traditional instrument workshops for beginner/intermediate students of any age
• Leading a 2-3 hour Irish traditional music session (an informal gathering in which musicians assemble to play traditional tunes together, typically at a pub or other public spot)
• Providing 30-60 minute demonstrations of Celtic music in schools to introduce/inspire interest in Celtic culture and history

Fees

Depending on the type of engagement and the distance traveled, fees range from $500 – $2,000. Please inquire for specific pricing.