Photo Credit: Brian Lima
Newport Folk Festival has triumphed as a leading institution in music and cultural engagement for over 65 years by building an intimate connection with annual attendees, and artists-who jump at the opportunity to return to the sacred event grounds and exhibit musical discovery and mastery of their craft. Now, building off its success and with consideration of its founders, Nathaniel Rateliff will follow in the footsteps of the only other appointee of the Newport Folk Stewardship Program, Pete Seeger, by taking on the coveted role.
Newport Folk Stewardship Program intends to recognize significant individuals who hold deep regard for enhancing and propping the esteemed legacy of Newport Folk. By appointing a steward willing to vow to consistently question and support the so-called “Folk Family,” Rateliff will work toward relevant initiations to impact future iterations of the festival format.
“I have always held the Newport Folk Festival in high regard historically, but once I finally attended as a performer, it felt life-changing,” Rateliff offered via press release. “I was immediately drawn into the community of musicians and fans. There is a general feeling of family among everyone present, and I consider it an honor to help curate, cultivate, and expand the spirit of Newport and the community that exists there. I view this as a valuable opportunity to learn from the talented performers who return each year, as well as from the dedicated fans and individuals who help shape the festival into what it has become today.”
Rateliff’s position results from his continued push to deliver meaningful and thought-provoking art as a musician, bandleader, and persistent ally. The musician’s status represents a three-year commitment, broken down into two years of stewardship and advisor tasks for the next recipient during a third transitional year. This achievement will see Rateliff promote artist advocacy, fellowship, and mentorship from the festival grounds and beyond.
“We spoke to people in and outside the organization about who would be best for the position and there was a clear consensus that Nathaniel should be the first. Not only is his indefatigable nature best suited to help us establish what it means to be a steward of Newport Folk, but mostly because he truly embodies what it means to be ‘Folk Family’. He has always answered our call to help a cause, played every stage and has been a force behind some of our biggest musical moments including the 2022 star studded Paul Simon tribute set (Simon’s first appearance in four years). If that’s not enough, he’s also one of the kindest and most considerate people I know. Basically, I see him as being our ‘Human in Residence’ as we embark on this new endeavor,” added Newport Festivals Foundation Executive Producer Jay Sweet.
For more information on the education initiatives of Newport Festivals Foundation, visit www.newportfestivals.org.
The post Newport Folk Festival Announces Stewardship Program, Appoints Nathaniel Rateliff as First Artist to Assume Role Since Pete Seeger appeared first on Relix Media.
