Folk singer Ben Traverse will perform at the Crystal Falls District Community Library on Friday and the Florence County Library in Florence, Wis., on Saturday.

CRYSTAL FALLS — Discover the rich tapestry of old-time music in a unique live presentation with singer Ben Traverse at 3 p.m. Friday at the Crystal Falls District Community Library.

He will also perform at 10 a.m. Saturday at the Florence County Library in Florence, Wis.

When people hear the term “American folk music,” they often think of the folk revival of the 1960s — a movement that continued, and sometimes appropriated, the rich tradition of old-time music into the cultural mainstream. But what exactly is old-time music?

The community is invited to “American Folk Music: Old Time in the Current Times,” a captivating program that delves into the heart of old-time music, a genre that forms a small but significant part of the broader tapestry of traditional American music.

While often primarily reflecting the culture of working-class English-Americans, this definition of old time music is incomplete. It overlooks the profound influences from other cultures, especially African-American culture, from which many elements of the style, including the iconic banjo, originate.

In this enlightening presentation, listeners will receive an in-depth overview of old-time music.

Great Lakes State-based troubadour Ben Traverse will perform a variety of songs along with his guitar, banjo, mountain dulcimer and autoharp.

Traverse is a dedicated musician and historian, passionate about preserving and sharing the rich heritage of traditional American music.

With expertise in a variety of instruments, Traverse brings a deep understanding and appreciation for the cultural significance and historical context of traditional music.

These performances will serve as lenses to explore old-time’s diverse cultural and systemic influences, the impact of these influences on its contemporary perception and the ongoing evolution and growth of the music.

The concert is free. Refreshments will be served.

The Crystal Falls Library is at 237 Superior Ave. downtown Crystal Falls.

For more information, contact Evelyn Gathu at 906-875-3344 or at egathu@crystalfallslibrary.org.