1. Listen Conversation with MN Music Coalition’s Ellen Stanley: Caravan Du Nord

The Minnesota Music Coalition’s Caravan du Nord is trekking across our great state once again beginning Sept. 26. This traveling showcase of Minnesota musicians will embark on a journey though Austin, Detroit Lakes, Red Wing, Faribault, and Duluth. Historic theaters in each city will host music artists for full-day slates of performances, workshops, and community engagement.

The lineup features a selection of established artists, emerging talent, and local flavor. Genres range from indie-rock to bluegrass, giving each event’s trio its own unique ambiance. This year’s headliners include Romantica, Communist Daughter, John Mark Nelson, Sleep Study, and the Grammy-winning Okee Dokee Brothers.

In addition to live performances (tickets sold through the respective venues), the musicians will also share career insight with local aspiring artists. Joining a team of top industry professionals, business and creative skills will be taught in free afternoon workshops. A social hour will also be provided for networking between the panelists, artists and community members. Each stop on the tour will feature a host from the Current who will emcee the performances and participate in the workshop.

For those unable to join in the festivities, fear not—the performances will be filmed and recorded for online audiences. Caravan du Nord remains a vital piece of the Minnesota Music Coalition’s ongoing mission to connect and support independent musicians in Minnesota, with the support of the Minnesota State Arts Board.

Friday, September 26: Paramount Theatre, Austin

Artists: John Mark Nelson, Alex Rossi & Root City, James Bracken & Jon Stowell

Host: Bill DeVille

Sunday, October 5: Historic Holmes Theatre, Detroit Lakes

Artists: Family day featuring the Okee Dokee Brothers, Paul Spring, Dan Thornby of Hardwood Groove

Host: Barb Abney

Friday, October 17: T.B. Sheldon Theatre, Red Wing

Artists: Communist Daughter, Bomba de Luz, students from the Universal Music Center

Host: Mac Wilson

Friday, October 24: Newhall Auditorium at Shattuck-St. Mary’s School, Faribault

Artists: Romantica, Jillian Rae, Barbara Piper

Host: David Campbell

Thursday, November 6: Mitchell Auditorium at College of St. Scholastica, Duluth

Artists: Sleep Study

Host: Jill Riley

Selena Carlson is currently tackling a double major in journalism and music business at Augsburg College. In addition to writing, she is an avid enthusiast of all things banjo; biking; and breakfast for dinner.

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