2023 Robinson Emerging Artist 

Congratulations to our 2023 Winner, Kinnfolk. 

The Goderich Celtic Roots Festival is thrilled to announce the winner of the 2023 Robinson Emerging Artist Showcase. After careful consideration by a jury of industry professionals along with a public vote, this year’s Robinson Emerging Artist is Kinnfolk.  

This year's Goderich Celtic Roots Festival will be the 31st edition and Kinnfolk will be right at the heart of the action, joining international sensations, rising stars and homegrown talent alike in entertaining loyal audiences flocking to Goderich, Ontario for the annual event. 

Kinnfolk, (Virginia, US) stood out among the impressive pool of applicants with their unique sound and fresh approach to traditional Celtic music weaving bouzouki, bodhrán, and smooth vocal harmonies in their Celtic folk music from the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains.   

"We are thrilled to have Kinnfolk join us as the Robinson Emerging Artist winner," said Artistic Director Cheryl Prashker. "Their music is exciting, fresh and dynamic, and we know our audience will love them. We can't wait to see them on stage at the 31st Goderich Celtic Roots Festival."  

Named after Founders Warren and Eleanor Robinson, the Robinson Emerging Artist Showcase, now in its second year, is an opportunity for artists in the early stages of their career. Kinnfolk will participate in a series of artist development sessions and will have the opportunity to perform on the main stage at the Goderich Celtic Roots Festival, which takes place from August 11th to August 13th.   

The Goderich Celtic Roots Festival is committed to supporting emerging artists and preserving traditional Celtic music for future generations. We would like to thank all of the talented musicians who applied for the Robinson Emerging Artist Award this year and wish them all the best in their musical careers.

KINNFOLK

Since forming Kinnfolk in late 2018, Josh and Julie Kinn have played at festivals and listening rooms throughout Virginia and beyond. Their self-titled debut album dropped on March 7, 2020 (just one week before COVID-19 shut the state down!) and they released their first original single, "The Borden Set," later that year. As their notoriety has expanded worldwide in the past three years, their music has been featured on podcasts and radio programs across the globe. 

Visit their website to learn more about the duo. 

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