Paper Wings Brings Luminous Folk to Whallonsburg’s Grange Music Series

Paper Wings are Wila Frank and Emily Mann. All photos courtesy Paper Wings

On Saturday, April 18, the Grange Music Series welcomes Paper Wings to the historic Whallonsburg Grange Hall, an intimate Adirondack venue known for its thoughtfully curated live music.

From 7:30 pm – 9:30 pm, this folk concert invites listeners into a warm, harmony-rich soundscape shaped by American roots traditions and the quiet poetry of the natural world.

For those searching for things to do in the Adirondacks this April, this is the kind of evening that trades spectacle for something rarer: connection.

After all, that’s what ADK Taste readers come here for—a weekly guide to Adirondack stories, food, and events worth showing up for.

A folk concert in the Adirondacks that feels like home.

Long-time collaborators Emily Mann and Wila Frank—together, Paper Wings—create music that feels both timeless and deeply personal. Their songs unfold gently, carried by delicate banjo, acoustic textures, and harmonies so seamless they often sound like a single voice.

Emily Mann and Wila Frank, known together as Paper Wings, performing live in concert. — Catch Paper Wings captivating performance live.

Their latest project, Listen to the World Spin, leans into the pastoral beauty and emotional clarity that define their work. It’s an album shaped by reflection, solitude, and the kind of questions that tend to surface on long walks in the woods—or quiet drives through the Adirondack backroads.

There’s a natural resonance here. The duo’s songwriting frequently explores themes of wilderness, introspection, and shared human experience—ideas that feel particularly at home in this corner of upstate New York.

What to expect at the Whallonsburg Grange Hall.

The Whallonsburg Grange Hall is no ordinary venue. This restored 19th-century gathering space has become one of the Adirondacks’ most beloved cultural hubs, known for its acoustics, charm, and deeply engaged audiences.

Expect an intimate listening experience. No distractions. No overproduction. Just two voices, a handful of instruments, and a room that seems to lean in a little closer with every note.

Paper Wings’ live performances are often described as transportive—less like a concert and more like stepping into a shared moment of stillness. It’s the kind of show where the line between performer and audience softens, and the music lingers long after the final chord.

Why this Adirondack music event stands out.

In a region better known for peaks and paddles, evenings like this offer a different kind of adventure.

The Grange Music Series has built a reputation for bringing exceptional artists into a setting that feels distinctly Adirondack—unpretentious, rooted, and quietly remarkable. Pair that with a duo whose music draws so heavily from the emotional terrain of the natural world, and you have something that feels less like a booking and more like a perfect fit.

For travelers exploring nearby towns like Essex, Westport, or even making the scenic drive from Lake Placid, this is a compelling cultural detour.

Long-time friends and collaborators Emily Mann and Wila Frank, perform as folk duo Paper Wings. — The power and isolation discovered in nature are recurring themes in Paper Wings’ work, as they graciously invite audiences into vast landscapes where they can seek comfort while exploring universal questions and themes.

Who should attend.

This event is ideal for:

Folk and acoustic music lovers
Couples seeking a low-key, memorable night out
Travelers looking for authentic Adirondack cultural experiences
Anyone who appreciates storytelling through song

If your idea of a perfect evening involves thoughtful lyrics, warm acoustics, and a venue with soul, this one belongs on your calendar.

Watch Paper Wings perform.

This video offers a glimpse into Paper Wings’ signature harmonies and evocative songwriting, giving Adirondack concertgoers a preview of what to expect at the Whallonsburg performance.

Paper Wings performing with their signature close harmonies and stripped-down folk instrumentation.

This performance reflects the same intimate, harmony-driven style audiences will experience live in Whallonsburg in the Adirondacks.

Plan your evening.

Event: The Grange Music Series presents Paper Wings
Date: Saturday, April 18
Time: 7:30 pm – 9:30 pm
Location: Whallonsburg Grange Hall

Visitors are encouraged to check the venue’s official website or Facebook page for ticket availability and any event updates.

A quiet night worth seeking out.

In a season when the Adirondacks begin to stir from winter, this concert offers a different kind of awakening—one rooted in reflection, harmony, and the simple pleasure of listening.

For those willing to slow down, it may be one of the most memorable nights of the month.

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FAQ

What is the Grange Music Series in Whallonsburg?
A curated live music series hosted at the Whallonsburg Grange Hall, featuring regional and touring artists in an intimate Adirondack setting.

Where is the Paper Wings concert taking place?
At the Whallonsburg Grange Hall in Essex, NY, in the eastern Adirondacks near Lake Champlain.

What time does the event start?
The concert runs from 7:30 pm – 9:30 pm on Saturday, April 18.

What kind of music does Paper Wings play?
They perform harmony-driven folk music with influences from traditional American roots and contemporary acoustic songwriting.

Is this event suitable for visitors to the Adirondacks?
Yes—this is an excellent cultural experience for travelers exploring the region, especially those staying near Essex, Westport, or Lake Placid.

Where can I buy tickets or get updates?
Check the Whallonsburg Grange Hall’s official website or social media pages for ticketing and event updates.