Open Stage with host Ben Woolman. Start the evening with a few songs from Ben Woolman, one of the Midwest's leading finger-style guitarists. Then, take advantage of this great opportunity to put yourself on the Cedar stage, perform two or three songs, and enjoy the top-quality sound!

Ben Woolman sprouted from the roots of the many legendary guitarists residing in his home state of Minnesota. A student of garage band music, he spent his early formative years chasing his rock-n-roll dreams until those dreams moved away to college with his former band mates. He ended up alone with an acoustic steel string guitar but found solace attending local folk concerts by the likes of Bob Franke, Greg Brown, Leo Kottke, Pat Donohue, Larry Long, Enthralled by the power of the solo artist. Ben developed a love of songs, stories, and the singular expressiveness of the acoustic guitar. Ben's engaging, high energy, performances cover a diverse musical terrain which include American blues, folk, Latin, Jazz, Celtic, Classical, and African musics as well as his own brand of catchy, introspective compositions. He effortlessly moves from genre to genre keeping his audiences guessing and engaged. The influence of his early folk days is very prominent in his stage presence as he balances his virtuosic technique and intensity with humor and story telling which complement the music.

The Cedar Open Stage offers optional critiques of the participants by the host following the last performer. The supportive environment always attracts an interesting and talented assortment of participants. All are welcome, performers and audience members. Please support this season's sponsors MBOTMA, (Minnesota Bluegrass and Old Time Music Association), Willie's American Guitars and Hoffman Guitars, who through their generosity enable this event to be offered for FREE! Sign up 6.45 pm Music begins at 7pm.

Free!