TAUNY Program Director Camilla Ammirati. Photo by Susanna Rosen.

CANTON – Traditional Arts in Upstate New York (TAUNY) welcomes Camilla Ammirati as the organization’s new program director.

Ammirati earned her PhD in English from the University of Virginia in 2013 and her B.A. in English from Carleton College in Northfield, MN, in 2000. At UVA, she specialized in 19th- and 20th-century American literature, focusing on the relationship between domestic space and national belonging in early 20th-century American literature and music.

“Taking part in TAUNY’s great work allows me to combine personal and academic commitments I’ve long had to American folk and material culture, as well as my passion for both American and Celtic musical strains that meet in the North Country’s vibrant folk traditions,” Ammirati says.

Over the last several years, she has taught American literature and communication courses at the University of Virginia and more recently at St. Lawrence University.

Along with studying and teaching literature, Ammirati has been an active musician in the Boston bluegrass and Virginia old-time music communities, playing guitar and banjo as well as singing and writing music inspired by varied American roots traditions.

Prior to her American musical adventures, she traveled the U.K. and Ireland as a Watson fellow, exploring the relationship between music, folklore, poetry, and place.

Ammirati replaces Hannah Harvester, who came to TAUNY as an intern through the New York State Council on the Arts and was later named program director and staff folklorist.

"Since joining our staff in 2010, Hannah has greatly expanded the reach and depth of our programming,” says TAUNY executive director Jill Breit.

“We are sorry to lose her, but very enthusiastic about passing the baton to Camilla, who comes with many wonderful ideas for new initiatives, which she will work on while continuing many of the excellent programs Hannah began,” Breit added.

Ammirati can be reached at camilla@tauny.org and 386-4289.

To learn more about TAUNY programs and activities visit www.TAUNY.org.