Folk group launches Poway concert series

The first “Midsummer Eve Acoustic Music Showcase” will take place at 6:30 p.m. on Monday, Aug. 9 at Old Poway Park.

The free event will feature several county folk singers interacting on stage as they perform standards, familiar tunes and some of their own creations.

The concert will take place at the park’s gazebo, and audience members are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets to enjoy the 90-minute show.

Featured in the bill will be Jeffrey Joe Morin, Alan Land, Mike Stubblefield and Poway resident Jeff Bertino, along with Lance Gucwa on upright bass.

Bertino, one of the founders of the Poway Folk Circle, said the concert builds on the group’s mission to provide folk singers from the San Diego County area with a venue to perform. The group was found in 2009 and has since expanded to include a bluegrass jam.

He said that based on the styles of the performers — some of whom have been playing shows for decades — audience members should experience an eclectic mix of music.

“I would say you’re going to see everything from show tunes to folk rock classics and original tunes,” said Bertino, who was a college music major then gave up music to become an engineer before reconnecting with his musical past.

The 52-year-old said he took about 25 years off from music as he followed his career and had his family.

However, after returning to music, he said he recommends that people shouldn’t stop playing, which in a way also coincides with the mission of the folk circle.

Bertino said the group’s aim is to create a thriving community of folk musicians here in North County, one that includes musicians of all skill levels. By focusing on folk music, which can be easily adapted to fit the styles of beginners and more advanced musicians, the musicians are able to interact on a level playing field.

“You don’t need to spend a lot of time without music,” he said. “You can enjoy life playing music and you don’t have to be a rock star to perform and do something worthwhile.”

For more information about other Poway Folk Circle events, go to www.Powayfolkcircle.com.