Putting on our "Walking Shoes"
Putting on our Walking Shoes…
The Blues Society of Western PA is getting ready for a summer filled with Blues.
Yes, “WE” are looking forward to much music and reuniting with many friends.
I was asked the other night just what we have been doing. Hmmm…we have been very busy with an all-volunteer staff. Once more, a quick recap….
Blues in the Schools…
A master drum workshop by blues man, Bill Taylor, Dilworth the week of March 1. Freddye Stover and Eugene Morgan went to the New Salem Schools on March 18 to participate in a daylong event honoring music. JP Soars played on April 11 at Children’s Hospital on behalf of the Blues Society and the Pugar Memorial Foundation.
April 10, 2016….12th Annual Blues Challenge…
Guitarist of the year…..Jimmy Adler
Band winner of the year….Jimmy Adler Band
Solo/duo winner of the year….Charlie Barath
Both acts will represent the Blues Society of Western PA at the 2017 International Blues Challenge.
April 24… Young Guns Showcase and jam featuring Sam Louderback, Jason Born with special guest Shari Richards proved to be great fun. It was a great mix of young talent with sizzling chops and great vocals.
May 14…Blues Youth Jam. The blues is living through some very talented young players.
May 15…Blues Election, annual meeting. Moondog’s. The results:
Jonnye Weber…President
Tuck Majeran….Vice President
Cyndi Fink………Treasurer
Annie Sutton…..Secretary
Barbara Gangone….Membership Secretary
May 15…Blues Trail hosted by Annie Sutton, honoring the Blues. What a great offering!
Emphasis was placed on the voice and the song. It was an amazing show that was produced by Annie Sutton.
Now….let’s look ahead at what is coming down the Blues highway….
June 18, 19 …. Franklin Blues and BBQ, Franklin, PA with many local bands plus Studebaker John, John Primer, Long Tall Deb, Colin John and Rodger Montgomery. What an exciting place to be to share the blues. Stop by the BSWPA booth to say hello. This is a FREE event. All proceeds from vendors and sales will benefit music programs in Venango County schools.
July 8 … Washington Rebellion, Washington, PA….Blues Friday. Again, visit our booth. We will be there with smiles on our faces to meet and greet at the Blues Society of Western PA’s booth. Great blues shared among blues friends….what a great way to share a Friday evening.
July 15… Children’s Hospital….Black Cat Moan, 2Nd place solo/duo winner at 2016 BSWPA Blues Challenge will represent.
August 5….Wigle Distillery on the Northside featuring Black Cat Moan from 6 pm – 8 pm. FREE
August 12, 13, 14…. Heritage Music Fest, Wheeling, WV… The volunteers will load it up, pack it up and head for three days of music.
September 17…Blues Day Out…Blues and BBQ. Hopewell Park, Laird Ave, Aliquippa, PA FREE
Stevee Wellons Band, Rhythm Hawks, Bo’ Hog Brothers, Blu Soul and Bill Toms will be on the play bill that day. BBQ will be available. Play areas, a fishing lake, hiking trails and handicap accessible makes for a great venue.
October 2…The Blues Fights Back…a celebration of life and courage. Jergel’s, Warrendale, PA. 1 pm – 7 pm. All proceeds that day will go to “Our Clubhouse”, an organization that supports those with cancer and their families during and after treatment with counseling, support and activities. All funds will be used to help those in Western PA. More details soon.
….and do not forget… WE saved the best event for last!
2016 New Year’s Eve Blues Blast with Bubs McKeg and the Rhythm Aces and internationally acclaimed, Jp Soars and the Red Hots.
Details about purchasing tickets and securing your rooms can be found at bswpa.org.
Reserve your rooms early…it will be a smoking show!!!!
Eventbrite will be available for those choosing to purchase online. Those who would like to send checks will be able to do that also. Let the ‘Good times roll.’
Yes, “WE”, the Blues Society of Western PA, are putting on our walking shoes, rolling up our sleeves and will be working hard to spread the news… the Blues is ALIVE in Western PA. Actually, we will be running towards the blues, full throttle.
Please…go out and support LIVE music. Support your local musicians.
Wishing you good blues, memorable times and sunny days ahead.
See you down the highway.
Yours in Blues,
Jonnye Weber
President, Blues Society of Western PA
