The Folk Collection

The Folk Collection could just as well be named the “Singing the Classic Songs of the 60s Folk Era” group. Tony Unger, Ed Labowitz and Mike Sirota, along with bass man Bob Packham, grew up in the 1960's, when we fell in love with the story songs and 3-part harmonies of that acoustic era. Ed and Tony have been a duo on and off since their days at Hollywood High School. Mike joined the group in 2003 and Bob in early 2005.

Much of our repertoire is familiar to audiences of all ages. We have been influenced by well-known groups of the era, but we have our own blend, sound – and humor. Audiences get a real kick out of our unique medley arrangement of the great TV Western theme songs of the 50s (including songs like “Rawhide,” “Davy Crockett,” “Maverick,” and “Bonanza”).

We grew up loving folk music, and the turnouts at our shows confirms we have struck a “chord” with audiences of all ages, who really like listening to words and harmonies – and joining in when the mood and song fit. Our show is centered around folk music and good clean jokes. We are family friendly and our audiences are often multi-generational -- children, parents, grandparents, and even great-grandparents often enjoy The Folk Collection together. Don’t miss this opportunity to share an evening with The Folk Collection You will leave singing, toe-tapping, and smiling.

We also present a 45 minute educational program for elementary and middle school assemblies, "An American Journey -- Folk Music and Our History," in which we present important events in US history through folk music. We encourage the children to participate in the singng and answer questions about our history. Included are 20-25 tunes, including songs from Colonial times, the Revolutionary War, Appalachia, Westward Movement, Gold Rush, Civil War, WWI, to Woody Guthrie and John Denver. This show is especially valuable in these times where schools are not able to provide music appreciation.

Here are some quotes from presenters:

"Last night, as usual, every seat was filled with paying customers. I knew it would sell out. Always has. What a wonderful evening of song and show. The Folk Collection really has the stagecraft down to an art and a science. Huge applause and constant laughs all night long. I know the audience was warm and glowing when I saw how many of your CD's they bought.One lady took away four of them. That's success. I never left my own seat while you were on stage. I absolutely loved your show. These are the nights we club owners stay in "the biz" for. Everyone of every age was delighted. As always, you sold out the house so, next time, we will do two shows, one matinee and one in the evening. More than ever, the audience was laughing, clapping, and singing along with you - which was great for me, too, as I love satisfied customers! Looking forward to having you grace my stage in August. Wish it could be sooner." -- Bob Stane, legendary Southern California presenter, and owner of The Coffee Gallery Backstage, Altadena CA

"You were very well received, and achieved a standing ovation, which down here is like a gem (precious and few), was a great indication how much our group enjoyed you." -- Bobbie Young, Recreation Supervisor, Green Valley Recreation Center, Arizona

"I guarantee that everyone...that evening became huge fans of The Folk Collection.” -- Kim Akeley-Charron, Cultural Events Coordinator, City of Loveland, Colorado

"It was the perfect evening for an outdoor concert and The Folk Collection was a terrific band to open our summer concert season." -- Susan Martin, Cultural Center Administrator, Lakewood, Colorado

“Our patrons thoroughly enjoyed their music, humor and easy manner…Our audience gave them a standing ovation and I heard nothing but rave reviews. – Susan Garner, Yavapai College Community Events Artistic Programming Coordinator, Prescott, Arizona

"Your show was upbeat, soulful and captured the true spirit of the 60’s and 70’s while maintaining a freshness and contemporary feeling that made everyone feel good. You brought a lump to my throat and touched the heart of our audience." -- Phil Esparza, World Theater, Cal State University Monterey Bay

"Your professionalism and stage presentation was appreciated by everyone in attendance. Your song selections really reflected the 'Folk' era and everyone enjoyed the audience participation numbers." -- Walt Pyle, Event Coordinator, Calimesa CA Community Summer "Concerts on the Green"

"Not only is your group comprised of gifted musicians, you are all, truly wonderful entertainers." -- Michele Gilmour, Channel Islands (CA) Park "Concerts by the Sea"

"The enthusiasm and enjoyment you displayed during your show was infectious; everyone had a great time laughing at your stories and jokes, listening and singing along." -- Cathy Cronin, Concerts at Wood House in Woodland Park, San Ma