Common Ground on the Hill holds Traditions Weeks at McDaniel

Common Ground on the Hill returns to McDaniel's campus for its Traditions Weeks from July 6-11 and July 13-18. This annual summer series includes workshops in music, visual arts, dance, film, and more, plus evening concerts, gallery talks, keynote lectures, and late-night jams.

Walt Michael '68, artist in residence at McDaniel, is the founder and executive director of Common Ground on the Hill.

More than 100 classes will be offered along with free music performances and lectures at 8 p.m. each weeknight in WMC Alumni Hall. A keynote lecture on Monday, July 7, features former Maryland Secretary of State John Willis, who teaches at the University of Baltimore, and is titled “The Arts Are Stronger Than Politics.” On Monday, July 14, Drew Shuptar-Rayvis, a cultural ambassador and citizen of the Pocomoke Indian Nation, speaks about his heritage and experience.

Grammy-nominated blues musician Guy Davis headlines a benefit concert on Saturday, July 12, at 7:30 p.m. in WMC Alumni Hall for Common Ground on the Hill's Veterans Initiative scholarships, which are full scholarships for 10 veterans annually to attend Traditions Weeks. Additional performers include the Americana duo Lost in Holland featuring Marine veteran Josh Hisle and Michael G. Ronstadt, Walt Michael & Co., and others. Tickets are $25 and free for active military members and veterans, as well as their spouses and children. Click here to purchase tickets.

Plus, academic credit from McDaniel is offered each year to both undergraduate and graduate students who participate in Traditions Weeks. Note: deadline to register to receive academic credit for the 2025 Traditions Weeks has ended.

A person playing a banjo — Alumni are invited to a special reception on Wednesday, July 9, hosted by John Van Horn ’72. Register here.

More information

Common Ground on the Hill was founded in 1994 by Walt Michael ’68, artist in residence at McDaniel. The college has been a venue for Traditions Weeks since 1995.

Supported by the Carroll County Arts Council, Maryland State Arts Council, and Maryland Traditions, Common Ground on the Hill is one of eight Folklife Centers in Maryland and the only in Carroll County.

Jul 2, 2025