A mainstay event on Florida's east coast in the idyllic beachside town of New Smyrna Beach, the Florida Harmonica Championships has cancelled the blow-out for 2021 and is looking forward to 2022.
This would have been the 16th year of this good-spirited competition that originated the large-scale celebration/gathering of all things harmonica that brought people together to play, listen and party in the South East US. 2020's event was cancelled due to COVID.
As per Farley Palmer, founder and host, in a Facebook post of June 23, 2021, "…we’re not done but have to find a new venue…maybe some format changes…"
Special guests/judges over the years have included such internationally touring artists as Little Mike of Little Mike and the Tornadoes, Rockin' Jake, Brandon Santini, Ben Prestage, Lee Oskar and the famous Florida Bluesman, "Real Deal" Willie Green (R.I.P.).
Founded and still hosted by Adam Floyd and Farley Palmer in 2005, the event grew to featuring 20 contestants and performances by the special guests and closing with a band performance. The Championship is not genre-limited and presents awards in the categories of Best in Show, Creativity, Showmanship and Technical Ability, with winners hailing from across Florida, the US and even a Best of Show winner from France.
The Beachside Tavern location provided easy access, inside and outdoor seating/performance space, and set the tone for a great event with music loving people that came for the music and stayed for the good times. And, yes, the attendance may have out-paced the capacity at time or two - always a good sign for an event growing in popularity and renown.
Keep an eye on their WEBSITE or FACEBOOK page for updates and more information. Jazz & Blues Florida will have current information on the Festival Listing Page at www.JazzBluesFlorida.com as soon as dates are set for 2022.
Related Jazz Blues Florida Blog Entries:
Florida Harmonica Championship 2019
Florida Harmonica Championships 2018
Florida Harmonica Championships 2017
Florida Harmonica Championships 2016
Florida Harmonica Championships 2015
Florida Harmonica Championships 2014
Florida Harmonica Championships 2012
Florida Harmonica Championships 2011
Florida Harmonica Championships 2010
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