ABOUT US

Conceived in 1989 by Jorma & Vanessa Kaukonen, Fur Peace
Productions nestled in the rolling foothills of southeast Ohio.

In 1989, we envisioned creating a place where students could come to learn guitar from Jorma. Little did we know how this idea would evolve. What started as a physical place has become a state of being—a mindset and a sense of belonging for everyone involved, including us.

In the early days of Fur Peace, we often referenced the movie “Field of Dreams.” Much like in the film, we have had one constant throughout the years: music. Despite the world’s changes, music has always been there, marking the passage of time. It’s the feelings that touch you and the memories you recall as you immerse yourself in this music camp in the hills of southeast Ohio. Our students and guests, both young and old, found themselves grinning from ear to ear as they stepped onto this magical land in Darwin, Ohio. That’s the essence of Fur Peace Ranch.

Over the years, we have welcomed thousands of onsite and offsite students in locations like Maui, Desert Hot Springs, and Upstate New York. We have hosted and promoted hundreds of shows, celebrated local artists with annual art festivals, and provided a unique location for countless organizations’ functions. None of this would have been possible without the key staff members who have been with us from the beginning and our current employees, whom we call the Fur Peace family.

Post-COVID, we adjusted our programming boundaries. Our classes transitioned to a permanent virtual format, opening opportunities to venture out to other locations nationwide. San Diego, Martha’s Vineyard and Sanibel are just a few new places where we’ve hosted guitar workshops. The future of Fur Peace Ranch workshops will carry the same magic created at our original flagship location.

Looking ahead, the Fur Peace organization will become Fur Peace Productions, based in Athens County, Ohio. We will continue our “On The Road Workshops”, promote music events and begin to hold small in-person workshops. Fur Peace Management will continue to represent Jorma and Hot Tuna, with the possibility of expanding our roster of artists.

Our vibe travels well and the magic goes on.

Blessings and Respect, Jorma and Vanessa Kaukonen