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In these great times of economic uncertainty, many investors pour their money into gold. A sounder investment, whatever the state of the economy, is music.

German Cantillo and Ryan Conroy of Santa Lucia perform on the main stage at Folk on the Rocks in 2008. - photo courtesy of Rachael MacNeill

The organizers at Folk on the Rocks (FOTR) are making it easy to reap joyful dividends by holding their early bird ticket special this month. The deadline is today to purchase gate tickets for the 2009 festival at a reduced rate through Birchwood Gallery. The purchase includes a FOTR membership.

"Everything's not doom and gloom in the economy," said director Lynn Feasey. "We've still got FOTR."

Feasey attended the Ontario Council of Folk Festivals in Ottawa in October. She left with more than 200 submissions from performers.

"There's a lot of interest in our festival," she said. "It seems everyone wants to play FOTR in 2009. It promises to be a very fun festival this year."

Although next year's festival theme has yet to be revealed, Feasey suggested it will reflect the intimate blend of music, friends and good times the festival is known for.

"Music plays an important role in people's lives," she said. "It's a great way for us to remember what really matters and to come together to have some fun."

In the new year festival organizers will launch a fundraising campaign to invest in site improvements such as stage repairs and other infrastructural upgrades.

The festival organizers are encouraging Northern performers to submit their application for next year's event. While the deadline for Northern performers is not until March 31, early applications will be reviewed as they're received. For application details, visit the FOTR website.

The annual FOTR Spring Dance is scheduled for April 4. Details will be announced soon. The 29th edition of the festival is scheduled for July 17-19, 2009.