The Canote Twins, a film by Larry Edelman, is a feature length documentary about Greg and Jere Canote, identical twins who have been playing music together for most of their 70-plus years. And not just any old music, but simply amazing, genetically-matched singing and musicianship. They quickly bring to mind the rich tradition of singing brother duets, evoking such seminal duos as the Blue Sky Boys, the Delmore Brothers, and the Everly Brothers. And they take it up a notch, because they’re not merely brothers, but identical twins. And as musician and editor Paul Kotapish put it, “They’re really ‘twinny’ twins.” Their delightful repertoire spans Americana including rare fiddle tunes, quirky novelty songs, and swing classics, all uniquely interpreted through their positive world view. They’ve shared their music for more than half a century, teaching and performing at countless festivals and workshops, and on radio and television.

But delightful music is only part of the story. Greg and Jere have another unique characteristic – they are two of the happiest people you will ever meet. And their happiness is mysteriously contagious. Anyone finding themselves in close proximity to the twins, might also find themselves caught up in a vortex of joy and optimism.

This documentary spans their lifetime, right up to the present day. You’ll appreciate their musical inspirations and tap into some of the secrets of their happiness. Singlers will better understand the mystical closeness of identical twins. You’ll get to relive their cross-country touring with Sandy Bradley and their roles as the affable sidekicks on the weekly radio broadcast, “Sandy Bradley’s Potluck.” You’ll get to chuckle at the Spoonoplians, the pick-passing stunt, and other legendary antics. You’ll get a tour of Greg’s colorful collection of  American made plastic toys from the late 1940’s through the early 1950’s. You’ll see Jere working in his shop, building  banjos with his unique combination of traditional aesthetics and crazily creative designs. You’ll see Greg in his painting studio, shaping line and color for a special glimpse into his subconscious mind. And of course, you’ll see and hear LOTS of music!

And after it’s over, we hope you’ll feel a little more joyful, a bit happier. And can’t we all use a little bit more of that?

“You can’t help but be happy around them!”
–Sandy Bradley, Musician

“I can’t think of anybody else in the country who does the thing that they do. They’re unique and great. I just can’t think of anybody who would be able to fill their shoes if they weren’t around.”
–Mark Graham, Musician, Songwriter

“There’s some kind of energy that happens between them that is other-worldly. And they have this huge effect on other people. They’ve brought so much joy and warmth into the world. We need that.”
–Candy Goldman, Musician

Their music is so infectious, their personalities are so engaging, and their sheer joy in each other and in those around them, just brings people together. They’re magnetized to each other and it spreads out through the room.”
–Paul Kotapish, Musician, Writer, Editor