“Cacophony in Campton”

Nestled within the picturesque town of Campton, New Hampshire, Bones Fest XXVII: “Cacophony in Campton” unfurled its musical tapestry, September 7-10, 2023. Under the stewardship of hosts Sky and Jessye Bartlett, this unique gathering celebrated the rhythm bones, an instrument that defies musical norms and beckons those seeking a distinctive music adventure.

The festival found its home in the historic Dole Mill, a hidden gem set against the backdrop of a tranquil river and its cascading waterfall. The wool mill’s lower floors had been magically transformed into an old-fashioned arcade, replete with pinball machines, air hockey, skeeball and the classic Galaga. Adjacent to this nostalgic heaven lay a packed dirt raceway, echoing with the buzz of RC cars and trucks.

Upon my arrival, a captivating scene unfolded in the parking lot. I watched Moms and Dads drop off children for their violin and cello lessons.  Host Jessye Bartlett leads a children’s classical music studio. She is currently preparing them for a Renaissance Festival performance, with authentic homemade Ren costumes. The children were dropped off early so that they could swim in the river.  It was beautiful watching the kids walk up out of the river, get a towel to dry off, collect an instrument, and go up for their lesson.  As I watched the happy, drippy kids, I knew this was a special place of joy created by the Bartletts.

Campton, often overlooked in the drive to reach Waterville Valley via I-93, is a hidden treasure along the Pemigewasset River. Founded in the 18th century, its origins intertwine with colonial history, and its present-day charm echoes through the Colonel Spencer Inn, an establishment honoring one of the town’s founding figures.

The festival’s essence lay not only in its workshops catering to bones players of all proficiencies but also in the unexpected encounters it fostered. A group of novices from Philadelphia, entranced by bones playing at an Irish dance, joined the festivity, injecting newfound enthusiasm into everything that happened during the weekend. Their exhilarating journey through the workshops culminated in a very respectable performance at the Grand Finale.

Beyond the festival grounds, adventurers went on field trips to play Rhythm Bones amidst nature’s grandeur. Guided by Jessye Bartlett, a cohort of players trekked the Rattlesnake Path, unveiling an awe-inspiring vista of Squam Lake, accompanied by the cadence of fiddle music, courtesy of Jonathan Danforth.

The grand finale unfolded in the halls of the Campton Historical Society, drawing curious townsfolk eager to figure out what a Bonesfest is. Folk, Irish, and Old-Time music resonated through the air. Memorable moments were had, paying homage to departed friends. The evening concluded with an unexpected Conga Line of Bones Shakers—a jubilant surprise for all.

In retrospect, Bones Fest XXVII was more than a celebration of musical dexterity; it epitomized a gathering of kindred spirits. Like a captivating family reunion, this festival enchanted with its friendship and rhythms, leaving an indelible mark on those fortunate enough to attend. I heard many times that, “Bonesfest is a reunion of a family you didn’t know you had.”  Campton truly opened its heart to a tapestry of sound and kinship.

Interview with Steve Brown on the history of rhythm bones and bones players.

Rhythm Bones Society – rhythmbones.com

Vintage Arcade at Dole Mill – https://www.facebook.com/DoleMill/