One of finest talents to come out of the Kootenays in recent years, Aspen Switzer, is returning to the stage at this year's Cranbrook's Idlewild Musicfest, August 21.

Last year was quite a year for the young performer from Nelson. Aspen's second CD, "humble but bearing no apology", was chosen as a finalist for 3 awards at the 2009 BC Interior Music Awards and she won for best Folk/Traditional Recording of the Year and best Roots/World Recording of the Year.__Aspen's pure and powerful voice sets her apart and brings meaning to the subtle poetry found in her lyrics. Her influences range from Folk to Country to Bluegrass to Rock and Jazz - but she has evolved a style that is all her own.

Aspen has played venues in England, Hungary and across Canada from Victoria to Charlottetown. In 2009 she started the year touring BC with her trio, followed by a cross-Canadian solo tour and performances in her one-woman show "Take You With Me" at Fringe Festivals in Montréal, Toronto, Winnipeg and Victoria. "

Aspen also performed with her trio at the Salmon Arm Roots & Blues Festival, the Kelowna Music and Arts Festival, and of course, the Idlewild Festival in Cranbrook.

Aspen Switzer will be on stage just before headliner Valdy. The audience will also enjoy the Kootenay roots music of Cranbrook's own redGirl. Cranbrook's old time favourites band, Old Spice will warm up the crowd starting at 3:30 p.m. Heather Gemmell, will also be playing at the concert.

The gates at Idlewild Park will open at 2:30 p.m. and music will start at 3:30 p.m. There will be food concessions, vendors, lots of fun and entertainment for the whole family.

Proceeds go towards supporting the Cranbrook Public Library's efforts to enhance their book collection and develop more inviting green spaces around the library.

Tickets are available at Lotus Books, Pages Used Books, the Cranbrook Public Library and the Kimberley Public Library.

For more information about the Idlewild Musicfest call the Cranbrook Public Library at 250-426-4063.