About the Song & Story Swap

The Pioneer Valley Folklore Society Song & Story Swap happens on the 1st Saturday of each month (except July and August) at The Nacul Center in Amherst, Mass., 7:00-9:00 p.m. Folksinger and songwriter Paul Kaplan is the regular host.

Please note that while pandemic precautions are in effect, the Song & Story Swap will be conducted over Zoom. You will find a button to register for the next Swap on our home page.

The Song and Story Swaps consist of three segments:

1. We start with a warm up round. A theme is announced and we go around the room, with each person invited to introduce herself or himself, and to tell a story or sing a song related to the theme. It's also quite acceptable to pass and just listen.
2. After a brief intermission, the guest performer plays about a forty-five minute set. Visit our archive to see a list of our past guests and themes.
3. We go around the room again, with folks invited to swap songs or stories, and no need to stick to the theme. The third round may continue until 10pm if the audience wishes, but no later.

There is no admission fee – a hat is passed during the guest artist's performance for donations, all of which go to the artist. $5-$10 is suggested. The guests will often have CDs available to buy.

The Nacul Center is located at 592 Main St. in Amherst, Mass., one-and-a-half blocks east of the railroad tracks. Parking is available in the lot behind the building. Please do not park along the side of North Whitney St.

Visit the Pioneer Valley Folklore Society home page to sign up to receive monthly email announcements of local folk events or to learn about upcoming Song & Story Swap performers and themes.

For booking inquiries and further information please contact Paul Kaplan at (413)-687-5002, or Jeff Lee at (413)-256-0433.