Why an American Center for Folk Music?
American folk music has never been the focus of an institution dedicated to celebrating it on a professional, permanent basis.
The Center therefore offers a singular and groundbreaking opportunity to celebrate Folk Music alongside existing American centers for rock and roll, country, bluegrass, jazz, and blues.
As the longtime home of legendary folk pioneer Pete Seeger, Beacon New York is a natural choice for the Center. Siting the ACFM in Beacon honors Pete's teaching that the power of song can change the world and bring us together.
The Center promotes and supports the burgeoning Hudson Valley art scene, contributes to the area's economic revitalization, and to the life of the Hudson Valley's many creative communities.