Willy & Brian Claflin

Willy grew up on Lake Winnipesauke in Wolfeboro, New Hampshire. An introverted boy, he spent his days dreaming and wandering through the woods. At bed time, his father told him stories, and each night Willy worried about the wolf under his bed. By high school, he had extroverted himself into a rock and roll singer, fast on a guitar and given to high jinks. He also learned hundreds of folk songs. At Harvard University (1961-66), he studied American and French Literature, but made time for performing music and comedy in the Boston-Cambridge folk music scene. After a year reading French classics in Paris, he studied in Edinburgh, Scotland, where he collected a cappella ballads. By the late 60s, he was a teacher, known for his creative curriculum.

Willy has been a hit at regional festivals all over the country—and at the International Storytelling Festival in Cape Clear Ireland-- and he continues performing in concert venues and schools. Students of his from every corner have become teachers and storytellers, perpetuating Willy’s love of story and absurdity. His son Brian Claflin, a comedian, vocalist and song writer, lives in Somerville MA. They are collaborating on a soon to be released recording of ballads—In Yonder’s Wood. Off-stage, Willy is best known for his work in helping to save endangered squeaking rubber animals.

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