Barton and Para Tickets

Meet Barton and Para, foundational figures in Ozark and traditional Missouri music. Cathy Barton mastered the hammered dulcimer and banjo, while Dave Para is a seasoned guitarist and vocalist. Together, they sparked a living tradition that continues to resonate through festivals, recordings, and educational outreach.

As founders and longtime directors of the Big Muddy Folk Festival in Boonville, Missouri, Barton and Para helped illuminate regional folk roots since the 1990s. After Cathy’s passing, the festival’s legacy has continued under Dave Para’s leadership, keeping the spirit of community, storytelling, and song alive for new generations of listeners.

Whether you’re new to their music or a longtime admirer, you’ll find a deep catalog spanning 1982–2017, including Civil War era material, river songs, and Lewis & Clark-inspired works. Many early albums were released on Folk-Legacy Records, contributing to a lasting archival footprint that rewards repeat listenership and research alike.

In 2025, Dave Para performs with Erika and Cheap Shots across multiple venues and festivals, maintaining Barton and Para’s live tradition and continuing their educational outreach. For fans, historians, and casual listeners, Barton and Para offer a welcoming doorway into the sounds and stories of Missouri’s heartland.

Follow Barton and Para for updates, new releases, and tour information. Their social presence spans iHeart, Bandcamp, Gumbo Bottoms, and the official BartonPara site, with regular performances that celebrate the enduring appeal of Ozark music. Secure your seats for their next show and experience the heritage and warmth of traditional Missouri folk—brought to life by trusted community partners and a friend in the business.