When chef Jamie "Snakeman" Steinhoff isn't cookin' in the kitchen, he's cookin' on guitar. Now he's outta the kitchen and cookin’ onstage!

The 2011 album "Canned Heat" introduces this lesser known bluesman guilty of preserving authenticity paired with award winning performer Tracy K. Known for wailing on harmonica and beltin' out blues, Tracy K's desire to form a specific kind of acoustic duo was fulfilled after moving to Thunder Bay, Ontario where she met Jamie Steinhoff.

Woodshedding for decades, Steinhoff’s dedication to folk & blues from the 1920s to 40s is revealed in his swampy Delta slide and Piedmont finger style guitar work and gritty soulful vocals. The duo's steamy blues and lively rags, contemporary originals and vintage gems in the blues-folk tradition make up their sound. The acoustic tracks from Tracy K's repertoire find a home in this show with some of Jamie's clever originals.

Together, Tracy and Jamie have been recorded by CBC Radio’s “Bandwidth” and “Canada Live” and co-wrote an epigrammatic tribute for Jowi Taylor’s Six String Nation Guitar tour.

Don’t miss this incendiary blues duo at this year’s Whoop & Hol­lar Folk Fes­ti­val in beau­ti­ful Portage La Prairie, when they take the stage on Sat­ur­day, August 23^rd at 2:30PM and 5:15PM!

Broose is joined by for his annual check-in with Festival Co-Founder, and Artistic Director, Josh Wright!

Whoop & Hollar Folk Festival is an award-winning, non-profit organization and annual festival in Portage la Prairie, Manitoba that creates and celebrates community through music, art, and nature.

By means of its year-round programming, Whoop & Hollar is focused on promoting, supporting, and expanding the unique identity of its local arts and culture scene. The grassroots organization is 100% volunteer-driven.

The festival aims to revive the spirit of the music and dance scene that existed in the historic Hoop & Holler District (hence the name), nearly a century ago.

Why "FOLK"? We put an emphasis on the word "folk" because it signifies the music, art, food, stories, and cultures of "the people." "Folk" speaks volumes about acceptance and diversity—it's a broad term that embodies the festival's core values: music, art, nature and community. The music and other artistic media showcased at the festival are not limited to one or two genres - you'll find a little bit of everything.

Supporting local and regional performers that are both emerging and established is what we do best. Come and discover Manitoba's best-kept secrets and be a part of an unforgettable experience at Whoop & Hollar!

Formed in 2023, Midbrain Surfers is a Winnipeg, MB based quartet (Kiva Simova, Mike Thompson, Jay Taylor, Chris MAMA Bauer) that create improvised music for concert and mixed media.

Combining overtone/throat singing plus extended vocal techniques, jaw harps, melodica, slide-didgeridoo, electric oud, fretless bass, electro-acoustic percussion and electronics, their eclectic sound baths blend elements of jazz, neo-classical, world fusion, trip-hop, ambient, avant-garde and experimental music into dynamic, genre-defying, groove-driven spontaneous compositions.

FUN FACT: Kiva Simova (aka Kathy Brown) is originally from Portage la Prairie!

Don't miss the interplanetary sounds of the Midbrain Surfers at this year's Whoop & Hollar Folk Festival in beautiful Portage La Prairie, when they takes the stage at 11 pm on Saturday, August 23rd.

Fernanda is a prairie born folk singer-songwriter.

Channeling the essence of folk music through a unique lens, she weaves together poetry and melody into more than a sincere and simple ditty, but a vivid and warm embrace. Like the songbird that breaks the silence with a sweet and prayerful tune — making music is simply in her nature.

Tender yet powerful, hers is a voice that dances in the breeze and echoes across the hills. Her work reflects a gift of songwriting as a mysterious means of making peace with the pains and uplifting the joys of life.

Inspired by classic folk and roots music from decades past and across cultures, her musical style is tinged with a familiar vintage hue.

Fernanda is currently residing in Winnipeg and working as an emerging independent artist with hopes to share her music across the country and beyond. Her latest project in the works is entitled ‘Deer Trails’, a collection of original songs that explore inner and outer wilderness - the connection between the earthly and the ethereal. She is excited to share her music soon with your listening ears.

Don't miss Fernanda at this year's Whoop & Hollar Folk Festival in beautiful Portage La Prairie, when she takes the stage on Saturday, August 23rd at 8PM, 9:20PM and 10:40PM!

Hailing from London Ontario, Katherine Fischer writes songs for souls with big feelings. Katherine's debut full length album "Great Loves" was released November 2022, and has garnered over 100,000 streams and 10,000+ listeners worldwide. It might something to do with how she reminds folks of Joni Mitchell and Phoebe Bridgers.Her first EP, the aptly titled “Here I Am” was released in 2016, and followed by her sophomore release "Wildflower Heart" in 2019.Last summer she collaborated with Ontario Parks and the Ontario Arts Council to bring the first musical tour to Provincial parks across Ontario. This summer, in addition to her park tour, she detours into the Keystone Province for an appearance at Whoop And Hollar.

Don't miss Katherine Fischer at this year's Whoop & Hollar Folk Festival in beautiful Portage La Prairie, when she takes the stage at 1:15 pm on Saturday, August 23rd.

Born in Cote d'Ivoire, Kelly Bado’s songwriting captures the beauty of the languages and rhythms she has encountered on her journey from Abidjan to Winnipeg. Her latest album, Belles ames, blends traditional sounds like the African vibe of Angelique Kidjo with the soulful serenity of Yuna and the innovative sound of Strome with modern influences like Soul R and B and jazz, creating a unique alchemy that sparks curiosity and a desire to explore traditional languages And our own background. Her music transcends cultural barriers, bringing audiences together in joy and hope. Her numerous western Canadian Music Awards, plus a 2024 Foir et Fier Gala award, are testaments to her wide appeal.

Don't miss Kelly Bado at this year's Whoop & Hollar Folk Festival in beautiful Portage La Prairie, when she takes the stage at 5:15 pm & 9:40 pm 9:25PM on Saturday, August 23rd.

Don't miss Roger Fournier at this year's Whoop & Hollar Folk Festival in beautiful Portage La Prairie, when he takes the stage at 3:30 pm & 6:30 pm on Saturday, August 23rd.

Whoop & Hol­lar Folk Fes­ti­val is proud to announce its 2025 head­lin­er, Cana­di­an folk leg­end, Valdy — get your spe­cial­ly priced ear­ly bird tick­ets for the week­end fes­ti­val are now avail­able until April 25^th! Head over to the fes­ti­val web­site to get your tick­ets today — use pro­mo code ​“VALDY” at check-out to apply discount.

The 11^th annu­al fes­ti­val hap­pens on August 23^rd and 24^th in Portage la Prairie and will show­case a fresh, eclec­tic mix of both emerg­ing and sea­soned artists from across Man­i­to­ba. Fes­­ti­­val-goers can expect to hear a wide range of folk music, as well as oth­er gen­res like pop, indie rock, coun­try, Latin jazz, and children’s music.

The fes­ti­val includes a com­mu­ni­ty out­reach event on Sun­day, fea­tur­ing free con­certs at the Ukrain­ian Con­nec­tion Band­stand in Portage la Prairie’s Island Park. Reg­u­lar pro­gram­ming, work­shops, jam ses­sions, and tent camp­ing will take place at Cot­ton­wood Acres out­side of Portage la Prairie, the main fes­ti­val site, on Saturday.

All fes­ti­val infor­ma­tion can be found at www.whoopandhollar.com - as always, UMFM is a proud media sponsor!

Our 2024 Whoop & Hollar interview series concludes with episode 10, as Broose is joined by Woody Holler, front man for the Woody Holler Orchestra!

What happens when western swing music meets jazzy grooves meets operatic vocals?

The resulting mix is a show not to me missed: eclectic, fun, and fascinating! Woody Holler's performance is reminiscent of a 1940's radio show, with a dramatic range from opera to show-stopping yodelling!

Don’t miss Woody Holler & His Orchestra as part of this year’s Whoop & Hol­lar Folk Fes­ti­val in beau­ti­ful Portage La Prairie on Sat­ur­day, August 24^th as he per­forms at the Cot­ton­wood Acres Site (Provin­cial Road 331, RM of Portage la Prairie) at 6PM and 7:40PM!

As our series nears it's close, Broose is joined on episode 9 by the supremely talented Just Prince!

Toronto-based singer-songwriter, Just Prince, is known for seamlessly blending Western and Eastern sounds into a harmonious tapestry.

With a captivating style that defies genre constraints, his music weaves elements of folk, rock, blues, and Hindustani classical music into a mesmerizing experience.

Just Prince's evocative compositions take listeners on a sonic journey, transcending cultural boundaries and resonating with the soul. Through his innovative approach, he crafts a musical landscape that bridges worlds with the intention of genuine songwriting and experimental expression.

Just Prince does double duty at this year’s Whoop & Hol­lar Folk Fes­ti­val in beau­ti­ful Portage La Prairie! Join him on Sat­ur­day, August 24^th as he per­forms at the Cot­ton­wood Acres Site (Provin­cial Road 331, RM of Portage la Prairie) at 6PM, and then on Sunday, August 25th at 2:15PM at the Ukrainian Connection Bandstand — Island Park, Portage la Prairie!

On episode 8, Broose catches up with dynamic duo Claire Morrison and Daniel Péloquin-Hopfner, better known to you and I as fantastic folk roots duo Fire & Smoke.

Fire & Smoke is a bilingual folk-roots partnership uniting exciting harmonies, deft storytelling, and ever-evolving live instrumentation.

Recipients of the CBC/Radio-Canada Phonogramme Prize, Chant'Ouest grand prize winners, semi-finalists at the Festival international de la chanson de Granby, and CBC Canada Live featured artists, the group made it to #5 on Espace Musique’s national Country-Folk chart with “Prends la maison” off their debut EP “Maiden Voyage” (2011).

Since returning from hiatus in 2021 with a sold-out show at Coup de coeur de francophone in Winnipeg and releasing stand-alone single “La route” (2022), the pair have been rolling out their follow-up collection of songs!

Don’t miss Fire & Smoke as part of this year’s Whoop & Hol­lar Folk Fes­ti­val in beau­ti­ful Portage La Prairie on Sat­ur­day, August 24^th as they per­forms at the Cot­ton­wood Acres Site (Provin­cial Road 331, RM of Portage la Prairie) at 4PM and 6PM!

In episode 7, Broose gets to know the multi-talented Don Adams!

Don Adams is a singer-songwriter from Northwestern Ontario, now living in Portage la Prairie. He grew up on a farm in Oxdrift, ON near Dryden. Don began writing songs at age 20; his influences include blues, jazz, soul, and country. He has written several hundred songs over the years, in a variety of genres. Don has recorded and produced a number of albums, including two Christmas CDs of his original songs. He also enjoys performing covers of some of the classics, making them his own.

Don’t miss Don Adams as part of this year’s Whoop & Hol­lar Folk Fes­ti­val in beau­ti­ful Portage La Prairie on Sat­ur­day, August 24^th as he per­forms at the Cot­ton­wood Acres Site (Provin­cial Road 331, RM of Portage la Prairie) at 3:40PM and then hosts the evening jam at 6!

We're back at it for episode 6, as Broose has a great chat with Portage's own Fred Acoby!

Fred Acoby is a local singer-songwriter and musician who has written a varied collection of music over the past 30+ years. With influences in country, blues, rock, and hip hop, Fred has played in several Portage and area bands and recently began diving into his solo music project. His latest single, Chaos and the Flame, was released on March 31st.

Don’t miss Fred Acoby as part of this year’s Whoop & Hol­lar Folk Fes­ti­val in beau­ti­ful Portage La Prairie on Sat­ur­day, August 24^th as he per­forms at the Cot­ton­wood Acres Site (Provin­cial Road 331, RM of Portage la Prairie) at 12:15 PM!

We hit the halfway mark of this year's series as Broose speaks with this year's Saturday night headliner, Hello Fiasco!

Hello Fiasco is a Canadian-American Pop Rock band that emerged publicly in 2021. Frontman Eric LaBossiere lives on the US side in Helena, MT (born Canadian), while the rest of the band all live in the Winnipeg, Manitoba region, including Joel Couture (bass), Joel Perreault (lead guitars/backing vocals), and Guy Abraham (keys/Ableton/backing vocals). Winnipeg drummer Cam Cordoviz, who is currently working with the band on their 2nd album, will be joining Hello Fiasco for 2024 touring.

With lyrics that are sometimes cheeky and sarcastic, the band’s songs are often meaningful and deep. Backed by the power and vulnerability of LaBossiere’s stylish voice, which is reminiscent of British Pop Rock like Bowie but also holding the American vibe of Brenden Urie (Panic! at the Disco) and Brandon Flowers (The Killers), the band’s driving rhythm section is wrapped up in a tapestry of majestic electric guitar tones, catchy piano melodies, synth landscapes and a barrage of powerful harmonies that all come together to make this Canadian-heavy band a force to reckon with.

They might be Pop Rock, but Hello Fiasco is definitely more than the standard fare of rock instrumentation and same old song writing we have all gotten used to.

Don’t miss Hello Fiasco as part of this year’s Whoop & Hol­lar Folk Fes­ti­val in beau­ti­ful Portage La Prairie, closing out the mainstage on Sat­ur­day, August 24^th at the Cot­ton­wood Acres Site (Provin­cial Road 331, RM of Portage la Prairie) at 10:20PM!

On the fourth episode of our series, Broose is joined by longtime UMFM favourite Alana Levandoski!

Alana is a veteran songwriter and recording artist, and a spiritual guide for women. She toured internationally for many years, was signed to Rounder Records, and had the joy of co-writing in Nashville, Los Angeles, London, Toronto, and Muscle Shoals, Alabama. After taking a break from the music business to have her family, she returned in her own way by building an online following.

In March 2024, after 3 years of preparation, research, and travel to her motherlands in Scotland, Poland and the West Country of England, Alana released a 13-song folk opera called Cianalas/Tãsknota, (meaning “homesick” in Scottish Gaelic and Kashubian), which she will be performing at this year's festival!

Don’t miss Alana Levandoski as part of this year’s Whoop & Hol­lar Folk Fes­ti­val in beau­ti­ful Portage La Prairie on Sat­ur­day, August 24^th as she per­forms at the Cot­ton­wood Acres Site (Provin­cial Road 331, RM of Portage la Prairie) at 1:20PM!

On our third episode, Broose connects with the Porteous Old Time Family Band!

The Porteous Old Time Family Band have a repertoire of Canadian tunes, but also love to play the Appalachian style. Still learning, and having lots of fun, Oliver, Francis and their parents Ian and Alana, enjoy performing at local festivals and are official buskers up at Wasagaming near their acreage at the foothills of the Riding Mountain escarpment.

Ian Porteous is the director of the Boom Chuck Old Time Music Camp in Kelwood, Mb, where he enjoys his life’s purpose: to initiate people into playing acoustic music with a circle of friends.

On Saturday, August 24th, Ian will be leading an open jam in the Red Barn at 4 pm, followed by a family band performance under the Big Top at 5 pm - Don’t miss the Porteous Old Time Family Band as part of this year’s Whoop & Hol­lar Folk Fes­ti­val!

On episode 2, Broose catches up with Winnipeg ex-pat and current Edmontonian Ben Sures!

A natural performer with an instinct for humour and storytelling. Ben Sures writes songs about everything from imaginary rayguns to sandwiches prepared for him by his father when he was a child visiting on weekends. He is a troubadour of the old-stripe, the Tom Paxton, Tom Rush, Eric Andersen, storytelling singer who can always turn a simple part of life into an entire song. Rich in characters, personality & detail, his songs faithfully utilize colorful lyrics many songwriters don’t have in their vocabulary.

Sures is immersed in the history of roots music, the old traditions informing this contemporary songwriter’s music. His most recent album ‘The Story That Lived Here’ was number one for consecutive weeks on the CKUA radio chart and was in the top ten of the national college charts in Canada. He is a winner of numerous international songwriting contests. He has performed across Canada, in Beirut, Lebanon and Puerto Vallarta Mexico. Ben Sures is also the author of the children’s book ‘The Boy Who Walked Backwards published by The Manitoba First Nations Education Resource Centre.

Don’t miss Ben Sures as part of this year’s Whoop & Hol­lar Folk Fes­ti­val in beau­ti­ful Portage La Prairie on Sat­ur­day, August 24^th as he per­forms at the Cottonwood Acres Site (Provincial Road 331, RM of Portage la Prairie)  at 6PM and 7:40PM!

Whoop It Up...With UMFM returns for 2024, kicking things off in style as Broose is joined by for his annual check-in with Festival Co-Founder, and Artistic Director, Josh Wright!

Whoop & Hollar Folk Festival is an award-winning, non-profit organization and annual festival in Portage la Prairie, Manitoba that creates and celebrates community through music, art, and nature.

By means of its year-round programming, Whoop & Hollar is focused on promoting, supporting, and expanding the unique identity of its local arts and culture scene. The grassroots organization is 100% volunteer-driven.

The festival aims to revive the spirit of the music and dance scene that existed in the historic Hoop & Holler District (hence the name), nearly a century ago.

Why "FOLK"? We put an emphasis on the word "folk" because it signifies the music, art, food, stories, and cultures of "the people." "Folk" speaks volumes about acceptance and diversity—it's a broad term that embodies the festival's core values: music, art, nature and community. The music and other artistic media showcased at the festival are not limited to one or two genres - you'll find a little bit of everything.

Supporting local and regional performers that are both emerging and established is what we do best. Come and discover Manitoba's best-kept secrets and be a part of an unforgettable experience at Whoop & Hollar!

On our 11th and final episode, Broose is joined by up and coming Portage singer-songwriter Rhea Goertzen!

Rhea Goertzen, returning to the Whoop & Hollar stage, is an emerging, young singer-songwriter from Portage la Prairie, Manitoba. Rhea, along with her father Ed Goertzen, have been gaining a lot of attention in the Manitoba music scene as they capture audiences with their unique acoustic style.

Recently, they have opened for Juno Award winner George Canyon and Rhea claimed 1st place in the Manitoba Country Voice competition. While performing at a variety of venues and festivals such as Dauphin’s Countryfest, they have wowed the critics with their poetic blend of classic and contemporary. There is nothing like the obvious connection and harmony that is found when family makes music together.

Don't miss Rhea Goertzen as part of this year's Whoop & Hollar Folk Festival in beautiful Portage La Prairie on Saturday, August 26th as she performs 3 shows at the Red Barn/Harlequin Hangout stage - at 1, 2:15 and 3:30PM!

On episode 10, Broose is joined by members of the amazing Indian City!

Indian City is a Juno Nominated Award Winning Pop/Folk/Rock Music Collective based in Winnipeg, Manitoba. The group was founded in 2012 by the late Vince Fontaine. Indian City’s unique live fusion of lyrics, music, and personality, express the modern conscience of today’s Indigenous People. Indian City has been recognized nationally and internationally, winning several awards such as: Western Canadian Music Awards, Indian Summer Music Awards, Native American Music Awards & Aboriginal Peoples Choice Music Awards just to name a few!

Indian City’s roster is always evolving, bringing together Indigenous Superstars and Guests to create not only exceptional albums, but also deliver energy infused performances with their live shows. You won’t want to miss seeing them, it’s a guaranteed stellar time!! Today’s lineup includes: Jay Bodner, Neewa Mason, Gabrielle Fontaine, Rich Reid, Lawrence “Spatch” Mulhall, & Pamela Davis

Don't miss Indian City as part of this year's Whoop & Hollar Folk Festival in beautiful Portage La Prairie on Saturday, August 26th as they perform on the mainstage at 9:40PM!

On episode 9, Broose is joined by Winnipeg musical mainstay Mark Reeves!

Powerhouse soul, blues and R&B rolled into one. A breath of fresh air, Winnipeg’s Mark Reeves is a classic example of one of those rare, blazingly talented independent artists who leaves unsuspecting audiences slack-jawed and eager for more. Like some kind of caffeinated single malt whiskey, Reeves’ bluesy roots rock goes down smooth and easy, but packs a powerful kick that can’t help but move you. Anybody who loves R&B will immediately be inspired by Mark’s infectious, dance-all-night groove thang - but there are profoundly beautiful moments, clever lyrical humour, and an unpretentious musical wisdom that makes you sit back while you catch your breath.

Don't miss Mark Reeves as part of this year's Whoop & Hollar Folk Festival in beautiful Portage La Prairie on Saturday, August 26th as he performs twice on the mainstage - at 4:45 and 6:45PM!

On episode 8, Broose is joined by up and coming songwriter Kael Sauerborn!

Kael Sauerborn is a self-taught instrumentalist and singer-songwriter originally from Gimli, Manitoba. After growing up on Willow Creek in the quiet country, he moved to Winnipeg, where a new pace took some getting used to. He’s never quite fit into one category- and so he’s learned about many. His sound lands somewhere in the folk-alternative arena, while blending dynamic guitar parts and vocals. His lyrics reflect the push-and-pull that is necessary to place oneself within this ever-changing world. Themes of connection, optimism, and self-surrender will have listeners easing their shoulders into a space we might not often go.

Don't miss Kael Sauerborn as part of this year's Whoop & Hollar Folk Festival in beautiful Portage La Prairie on Saturday, August 26th as he kicks off the mainstage at 12PM!

On episode 6, Broose is joined by beloved children's entertainers LuLu and the TomCat!

JUNO nominees LuLu and the TomCat enchant families with their fresh and highly interactive shows. With an energetic stage show of sing-alongs, storytelling,

puppetry and audience participation, these cool cats will have kids of all ages perking up their ears and purring right along. They have nine award-winning albums including one JUNO nomination, two wins at the Western Canadian Music Awards, and three Parents' Choice Awards. They entertain locally and internationally, and were proud to be chosen to perform for Canada at the World Expo in Japan. So come ready to wiggle and giggle along to their family-friendly music.

Don't miss LuLu and the TomCat as part of this year's Whoop & Hollar Folk Festival in beautiful Portage La Prairie on Saturday, August 26th - they've got 3 great shows in the Big Top Family Tent at 1:15, 2:15 and 3:30PM.

On episode 6, Broose is joined by splendid songwriter Madeline Roger!

Madeleine Roger is a folk singer-songwriter from Winnipeg, MB. While deftly accompanying herself on acoustic guitar, it is her artistry as a songwriter and storyteller that can silence a room, uniting her brilliantly crafted lyrics with stunning melodies that linger long after they are sung. Her critically-acclaimed debut album Cottonwood combines the elegant storytelling of folk traditions with the grounded feel of roots music.

Don't miss Madeline Roger as she takes the mainstage as part of this year's Whoop & Hollar Folk Festival in beautiful Portage La Prairie on Saturday, August 26th at 1:15PM.

Photo courtesy of Jen Doerksen

On episode 5, Broose is joined by wonderful folk/bluegrass outfit Heartsleeve!

Since Heartsleeve burst onto the Winnipeg music scene in 2018, they’ve quickly become a crowd favourite with their unique blend of rootsy folk music turned on its head. Don’t be fooled by their acoustic instruments; Heartsleeve is anything but traditional. Their music is infused with unexpected twists and turns, from ballads and foot-stomping bluegrass bangers to haunting carnival-inspired melodies. It’s impossible to predict what’s coming next, but one thing is always guaranteed: a right good time.

Don't miss Heartsleeve as they take the mainstage as part of this year's Whoop & Hollar Folk Festival in beautiful Portage La Prairie on Saturday, August 26th at 6:45 and 8:15PM.

On episode 4, Broose is joined by excellent prairie songwriter Shay Wolf!

Born and raised in the Canadian prairies, Shay Wolf has been a musician for 20+ years and an artist and creator since 2016. Her music explores the balance of opposites; her vocals and melody are dreamy yet sorrowful, her lyrics are scornful yet optimistic. She encapsulates listeners through her haunting, lilting melodies, strong storytelling and piano accompaniment. Originally hailing from Regina, Shay grew up competing and playing classical piano, in which she won several awards. She started songwriting in 2016 and now lives in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Shay released her debut EP, “Stay” in March 2023.

Don't miss Shay Wolf as she performs at the Ukrainian Connection Bandstand in Island Park as part of this year's Whoop & Hollar Folk Festival in beautiful Portage La Prairie on Sunday, August 27th at 3:30PM.

On episode 3, Broose is joined by fantastic indie pop group Bicycle Face!

Bicycle Face is a melodic pop duo hailing from Winnipeg, Manitoba. Idiosyncratic lyrics tell stories of ambivalent fairy tale heroines, lost love in outer space, and computer viruses intent on world domination. Featuring elated electric guitar, scintillating synthesizer, and intricate harmonies, Bicycle Face will draw you in with a sound akin to the most whimsical side of Metric, or Joanna Newsom with effects pedals.

Don't miss Bicycle Face as they take over the stage at this year's Whoop & Hollar Folk Festival in beautiful Portage La Prairie on Saturday, August 26th for 3(!!!) amazing shows at the Red Barn/Harlequin Hangout - at 8, 9:15 and 10:40 (all in the PM!) .

On episode 2, Broose catches up with longtime UMFM favourite Marco Castillo!

Winnipeg, the multicultural capital of Canada is so very lucky to have such an amazing artist like Marco Castillo to represent the vast and complex culture of Brazil. Born in the Capital Samba, Rio de Janeiro, he was raised in a musical family and that's evident in his musical knowledge. Latin Samba-Jazz Funk probably best describes Marco's music. Blending the unique traditional rhythms and contemporary sounds of Brazil with lush jazz-voicings and epidemic grooves, Marco has been impressing international audiences around the globe. Castillo made Canada his home in 2006 and Brazil wept – for she had lost one of her beloved musicians. Following in his father’s footsteps, a man who recorded tons of albums (including with Nat King Cole) and toured the world with "Trio Irakitan", Marco’s skills were honed at the feet of the best. Castillo’s extensive musical and rhythmic expertise spans from the gentle, warm musical embrace of the romantic Bossa-Nova, rustic and contagious root rhythms of Baião, and the festive, upbeat, exuberant Samba, to the velvety sounds of Smooth Jazz, and alluring, infectious funky grooves.

Whoop It Up...With UMFM returns for new season, kicking things off as Broose is joined by Festival Co-Founder Josh Wright (Vice-President / Artistic Director)!

Whoop & Hollar Folk Festival is an award-winning, non-profit organization and annual festival in Portage la Prairie, Manitoba that creates and celebrates community through music, art, and nature.

By means of its year-round programming, Whoop & Hollar is focused on promoting, supporting, and expanding the unique identity of its local arts and culture scene. The grassroots organization is 100% volunteer-driven.

The festival aims to revive the spirit of the music and dance scene that existed in the historic Hoop & Holler District (hence the name), nearly a century ago.

Why "FOLK"? We put an emphasis on the word "folk" because it signifies the music, art, food, stories, and cultures of "the people." "Folk" speaks volumes about acceptance and diversity—it's a broad term that embodies the festival's core values: music, art, nature and community. The music and other artistic media showcased at the festival are not limited to one or two genres - you'll find a little bit of everything.

Supporting local and regional performers that are both emerging and established is what we do best. Come and discover Manitoba's best-kept secrets and be a part of an unforgettable experience at Whoop & Hollar!

On our final episode, Broose is joined by members of Toad Turner / Prairie Soul Acoustic, two halves of the same whole!

When led by the soothing lead vocals of Kara Hummelt, Toad Turner is a process of learning through the journey of what it means to be a band. Their intention is to attain a balance of equal giving and receiving between one another and the universe and to feel the motions of energies playing, dancing, creating, contrasting, coloring, deepening and being within us and around us.

When led by Dustin Harder on lead vocals the band morphs into a wide variety of musical genres best described as Prairie Soul Music.

Toad Turner / Prairie Soul Acoustic offer a unique range of sounds in their show, created by the melodica, harp, washtub bass, ukulele, kazoo, jugs, guitar, and a mix of magical rhythmic instruments.

Don’t miss Toad Turner / Prairie Soul Acoustic as they close out this year’s Whoop & Hol­lar Folk Fes­ti­val in beau­ti­ful Portage La Prairie — Sunday, August 28^th at 6:15PM.

On episode 10, Broose checks in with 15 year old fiddling phenom Morgan Grace!

Morgan is a 15-year-old, left handed fiddler from East Selkirk, Manitoba. She has been playing since the age of 4. Morgan grew up listening to and playing music around the kitchen table with family and friends. Her musical style has been greatly influenced from those early days to the vast amount of fiddlers she has been able to learn and play with. She plays a wide variety of old time classics and traditional Métis tunes in her own style.

Don’t miss Morgan as she takes the stage for two dynam­ic per­for­mances at this year’s Whoop & Hol­lar Folk Fes­ti­val in beau­ti­ful Portage La Prairie — Sat­ur­day, August 27^th at 5PM and 7:45PM.

On Episode 9, Broose catches up with Judy Cook - one half of the phenomenal family and children's entertainment duo Judy And Ruby!

Renowned children's entertainer Judy Cook has performed her original songs on television, at children’s festivals, and with symphony orchestras across Canada. Her partner Rubin Kantorovich is a lifelong musician who has toured extensively across Manitoba with various bands. Together, family and children's entertainment duo “Judy & Ruby” mix together diverse influences and throw in a whole lot of fun to create a show that is infectious and educational.

You lucky folks have three (!!!) chances to see Judy And Ruby take the stage at this year’s Whoop & Hol­lar Folk Fes­ti­val in beau­ti­ful Portage La Prairie — Sat­ur­day, August 27^th at 1PM, 2:20PM and 5PM.

On Episode 8, Broose is joined by the supremely multi-talented Taylor Abrahamse, live and direct from Toronto!

If you’re singing along to a song you don’t know, and suddenly feeling 10 years younger - you’re probably at a Taylor Abrahamse concert. Like a maple leaf caught in a gust above the Ontario prairies, Taylor blissfully floats between the borders of songwriting with his hook-laden hammerclaw folk/pop. With little more than a mahogany Martin, his playfulness, stunning songcraft & honesty leave audiences teary-eyed, electrified, and at ease with their inner-kid. Electri-eased? Easified? Whatever! His roots were born from a Paul Simon/Jim Carrey crossbreed, ready to break the rules with a glint in his eye, a tip of his Grandpa’s old cap.

You have two chances to see Taylor take the stage at this year’s Whoop & Hol­lar Folk Fes­ti­val in beau­ti­ful Portage La Prairie — Sat­ur­day, August 27^th at 7PM and Sunday, August 28th at 1PM.

On Episode 7, Broose is joined by the soundscape cellist wonder from the land down under, the amazing Rob Knaggs!

A hustler of dreams and opportunities, Knaggs has performed for belugas on the Hudson Bay, collaborated with throat singers, didgeridoo/yidaki players, and members of the Royal Winnipeg Ballet. He has shared stages with Tim Hecker, The Saints’ Ed Kuepper, and toured Australia wide with acclaimed US singer-songwriter Toni Childs. Drawing from ambient post-rock and the noisy fury of punk, armed with an electric cello and loop station, Knaggs’ original works move from fiery fuzzing roars to delicate meditative shimmers, showcasing a dynamic performance that is inspiring and bittersweet.

Don’t miss Rob as he takes the stage for a per­for­mance at this year’s Whoop & Hol­lar Folk Fes­ti­val in beau­ti­ful Portage La Prairie — Sat­ur­day, August 27^th at 1:20PM.

On Episode 6, Broose is joined soulful Indigenous bluesman JC Campbell!

Growing up with a father who sang the blues and a mother who loved classic soul and country, it seemed as if JC Campbell was predestined for a life of making music. With three albums now under his belt, the Winnipeg, Manitoba-born Campbell has hit his stride with his new release, Lately, a seven-song collection that brings together all of his influences, while offering powerful messages of hope in dark times. As an Indigenous artist, Campbell has a unique perspective on the world, expressed through a soulful voice that would have been right at home in Memphis or Muscle Shoals in the 1960s.

Don’t miss JC as he takes the stage for a per­for­mance at this year’s Whoop & Hol­lar Folk Fes­ti­val in beau­ti­ful Portage La Prairie — Saturday, August 27^th at 12PM.

On Episode 5 Broose is joined by singer-songwriter, and UMFM alumnus, Lisa-Marie Serafin! She even graces us with a song recorded just for this interview!

Lisa-Marie is a singer, songwriter and song interpreter who has a passion for performing songs rich in story. She is originally from Winnipeg, Manitoba, and now lives, sings, writes, and makes art in a lakeside cottage in idyllic West Quebec, near Ottawa.

Don’t miss Lisa-Marie as she takes the stage for a per­for­mance at this year’s Whoop & Hol­lar Folk Fes­ti­val in beau­ti­ful Portage La Prairie — Sunday, August 28^th at 3:40PM.

On episode 4, Broose is joined by rising singer/songwriter Onna Lu!

Onna Lou is a singer-songwriter born in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Her music fuses Latin pop with Argentine Folk, Jazz, Latin American rhythms, Tango and even Flamenco. Her lyrics make a deep impact on the listener since she strikes the depth of human nature with her sharp-sighted views and her subtle but powerful poetry. The honesty of her melodies is a result of her Argentine roots and together with her beautiful and sensitive way of looking at life they make her music truly unique.

Don’t miss Onna Lu as she takes the stage for two dynam­ic per­for­mances at this year’s Whoop & Hol­lar Folk Fes­ti­val in beau­ti­ful Portage La Prairie — Sat­ur­day, August 27^th at 2:40PM and 7PM.

On episode 3, Broose is joined by Festival Co-Founders Linda Omichinski (President) and Josh Wright (Vice-President / Artistic Director)!

Whoop & Hollar Folk Festival is an award-winning, non-profit organization and annual festival in Portage la Prairie, Manitoba that creates and celebrates community through music, art, and nature.

By means of its year-round programming, Whoop & Hollar is focused on promoting, supporting, and expanding the unique identity of its local arts and culture scene. The grassroots organization is 100% volunteer-driven.

The festival was recently named the Rural Municipality of Portage la Prairie's signature event for 2019, and aims to revive the spirit of the music and dance scene that existed in the historic Hoop & Holler District (hence the name), nearly a century ago.

On episode 2, Broose catches up with longtime UMFM favourite Scott Nolan!

Scott Nolan is a renowned songwriter, poet, multi instrumentalist from Winnipeg, Manitoba: Treaty One Territory. His songs have been recorded by Hayes Carll, Mary Gauthier, Watermelon Slim, and Corin Raymond among others. He has recently produced albums for William Prince, Lynne Hanson, and Watermelon Slim. In January 2015, Scott started writing poetry, approximately three weeks after his 40th birthday. He is a songwriter by trade and often discovered melodies and rhythms in the shuffling of his feet. He spends most of his time thinking about words, music, and language.

Don't miss Scott as he takes the stage for two dynamic performances at this year's Whoop & Hollar Folk Festival in beautiful Portage La Prairie - Saturday, August 27th at 4PM and 7PM.

In episode 1 of our new series, Broose is joined by Chris Ghidoni from the Chris Ghidoni Band.

The Chris Ghidoni Band, from Brandon, Manitoba, was formed in 2016. However, the musicians have played together in other acts for several years; collectively, they have many years of musical experience. The band members consist of Chris Ghidoni on guitar and vocals, Hughie McLaughlin on bass and vocals, and Doug Sullivan on drums. This energetic trio delivers a solid performance of tasty R&B and Blues featuring the powerful voice of Chris herself, mixed with some classic
rock and a few renditions of popular songs from the 1980’s & 90’s thrown in for good measure.

Don't miss the Chris Ghidoni Band at this year's Whoop & Hollar Folk Festival in beautiful Portage La Prairie, when they take the stage at 9:25PM on Saturday, August 27th.