The Music Barn
Country and Bluegrass On Stage
The Music Barn is a new and exciting location in Sackville for visitors and locals alike. Featuring bluegrass, folk and country music, the Barn has attracted such renowned performers as the Grass Mountain Hobos, Eddie Poirier, and the Spinney Brothers, as well as high-caliber local talent.
While the old barn – 150 years, to be precise – is a recent arrival on the music scene, it had been the cornerstone of a productive family farm for many generations. Local businessman Brian Doncaster bought the barn, which had fallen into disrepair, and in February 2007, spearheaded a group of volunteers to begin renovations.
Brian’s roots are in farming – the Doncasters have farmed the Tantramar area for generations – but his primary interest was in music. His daughter is a talented fiddler, and after following her to music events around the Maritimes, he wanted to create a venue in Sackville for bluegrass and country musicians. What better place than a large welcoming barn, with lots of potential and room for parking?
A Unique Venue
Labeled by some as a smaller version of the Grand Ole Oprey House, the Barn is a unique venue. The acoustics are exceptional and the décor is rustic but comfortable; wagon wheels hanging form the ceiling serve as chandeliers and the traditional barn door invites summer evening breezes. The stage is at the back of the barn, high enough to provide a good view from every seat. The bathrooms are first-class. There is even a balcony for sound equipment and overflow seating. Performers from as far away as the southern US have all commented that there is absolutely no place like it.
The Barn is a thriving hub once again.
In June of 2010, the curators plan to host the first annual Bluegrass Festival – a three-day event with a variety of musical acts. There is ample space for attendees to camp and canteen service will be available. The Festival will offer workshops in fiddle mandolin, banjo, and guitar, providing a unique opportunity to learn from the pros. If you are a fan of bluegrass or just like live music, you owe it to yourself to come and see the Music Barn. Check out The Music Barn Event Schedule