To say Homayoun Sakhi is committed to his craft is an understatement. The classical Afghan musician continues his family’s legacy of mastering the rubâb—the short-necked lute that’s Afghanistan’s most beloved national instrument. His life is dedicated to improving his own musicianship while at the same time helping Afghan folk music not only stay alive but find new life in modern interpretation.

June 23 was a difficult day for the bluegrass community. Ralph Stanley, the Virginia native and bluegrass pioneer, died at 89 years old.

Stanley and his long-time band, the Clinch Mountain Boys, made a memorable appearance in 2012 at the Richmond Folk Festival. Fans also were able to experience the legend alongside Joe Wilson and Frank Newsome on the Virginia Folklife Stage.