Outreach Programs

Odyssey of American Music

Started in 1974, the Odyssey program sends professional folk musicians to Delaware Valley public, private and parochial schools who request the program to enhance the teaching of our culture and history through music. Working with teachers, artists present programs that enrich and compliment classroom studies. Musicians present age-appropriate songs written during various periods of American history or about historic and cultural events. The Odyssey program helps students to further experience the benefits of cultural enrichment by enhancing their appreciation for the music, integrating sight and sound for a greater level of appreciation. Students learn to understand how songwriters and traditional singers incorporated stories of actual events into songs that have been passed on through the generations.

For information about the Odyssey of American Music or to enquire about participating in this program, please contact or call 215-247-1300.

Community Service Program

Sometimes organizations don't have enough budget for entertainment. The Folksong Society likes to bridge that gap to bring Folk music to people through its Community Service program. Folk performers provide free entertainment to hospitals, senior care facilities, nursing homes, homeless shelters, seniors clubs, and other organizations and institutions throughout the area. Entertainment includes ethnic music, storytellers, children performers, instrumentalists, and singer/songwriters.

For more information, contact or call 215-247-1300.

Other Programs

From time to time the Philadelphia Folksong Society partners with other organizations to provide additional programs or participate in various events. Among programs we have participated in are: Everybody Makes Music! at The Please Touch Museum a partnership program reaching out to thousands of children from diverse backgrounds through interactive presentations designed to educate and entertain. Instruments purchased by the Philadelphia Folksong Society for this program were also used regularly by museum staff for other educational purposes. Our Library Music Program presents a wide range of quality educational performances in the intimate setting of neighborhood public libraries. The programs are hands-on, informational and admission is free.

If you are interested in a partnership program with the Philadelphia Folksong Society, please contact or call 215-247-1300.