Singer-songwriter Melissa Chilinski led a Musical Story Hour at the Moab Library on Saturday, Nov. 7, as part of a special collaboration with the Moab Folk Festival. The event, which featured music, stories, and crafts, was open to all ages.
Festival Performance Highlights
Chilinski, a multi-instrumentalist and vocalist known for her clawhammer banjo playing, participated in the festival's programming alongside various musical acts. Her performance was part of a larger schedule for the 2026 Moab Folk Festival, which included performances at the Center Street Ballfields and Star Hall.
Festival Venue and Schedule
The 2026 festival featured a variety of venues across Moab. On Friday, Nov. 6, Chilinski performed with Pearly Blue at Star Hall, followed by John Craigie. The festival also included a free community concert at the Helipad on Friday, Nov. 6, featuring Still The Weather and The Rebel Eves.
Outdoor Stage Lineup
The Moab Folk Festival's outdoor programming at the Center Street Ballfields included performances by Jordan Smart, The Rebel Eves, Bonnie Paine, and Rising Appalachia on Saturday, Nov. 7. On Sunday, Nov. 8, the outdoor stage hosted a Sunday Morning Inspiration Set, Steve Poltz, Sister Sadie, and Leftover Salmon.
Musical Collaborations
Chilinski's musical career includes work with several groups, such as the Salt Lake City acoustic swing band Pompe n' Honey and the trio Pearly Blue. She also performs with Melissa Chilinski & the Hearfolk, a Utah-based jazz group scheduled to release an album together in Fall 2026.
Community Involvement
Chilinski also founded the Trash Moon Collective, an organization that has operated since 2023. The collective organizes grassroots concerts, dances, and workshops designed to make bluegrass, old-time, and folk music accessible and affordable for the community.
Library Programming
The Moab Library hosted several other community events throughout October 2026. These included a screening of the documentary "Ocean" with Peggy Oki, a writing workshop with author Suzanne Roberts, and a presentation on American archaeology by R. E. Burrillo.
Festival Activities
The Moab Folk Festival's diverse programming spanned multiple days and included various workshops and community events, such as a drum workshop and jam session with Biko Casini of Rising Appalachia.
