Jon Ranard News Today

Family Folk Machine, Iowa City’s non-auditioned, intergenerational folk choir presents “Carry On: Songs for Living,” Nov.13 , 3pm at the Englert Theatre. Jean Littlejohn and Jon Ranard say the program consists of tunes ranging from They Might Be Giants to Robert Plant, sharing a theme of inclusiveness and offering each other our support during tough … Continue reading

For our return to the Englert, we are bringing a fun set of songs that celebrate the joy of singing together. We hope you’ll be there singing with us.

Like well-oiled gadgetry, Iowa Citys Family Folk Machine has found a way to switch gears, shifting rehearsals and concerts online. The final results will debut on YouTube at 3 p.m. Sunday.

As optimism grows, vaccine distribution widens and spring lifts our spirits, Family Folk Machine is taking tentative steps toward a more traditional choir-like experience. In the meantime, the final installment of our One Planet online mini-concert series will premiere on YouTube on Sunday, March 21, at 3 p.m. You’ll hear a fantastic arrangement from Associate Director Jon Ranard of Electric Light Orchestra’s “Mr. Blue Sky,” visit National Parks with global hero Dolly Parton on her so...