Blues Society of Western PA - Newsletter

Another first happened in Pittsburgh! A new dimension was added to the Pittsburgh Blues Festival in July. Fidelity Investments made the dream of providing a children’s music tent a reality. The big red and white tent was located directly behind the Kids’ Zone tent. The musical happenings under that “big top” created many memories for youngsters and their families. Local blues musicians, Eugene Morgan, Bubs McKeg, Bill Weiner, Larry Nath, and Bob and Andy Gabig of the Blues Orphans provided musical presentations under the guidance of Jimmy Adler of the Jimmy Adler Band. Pamela Bick joined the children and assisted on vocals and percussion. June Esser coordinated all of the children’s activities in both tents for the weekend. The musical/educational presentations encouraged young and old alike to participate.

A “whole lot of shakin’ was going on” with the tambourines that were supplied by the Sweaty Betty Blues Band. The Food bank added shakers, triangles and drums to the mix under the big top. Many of the children took to the stage. Some were shy, some were very eager. They enthusiastically worked together to count out the beats of the songs. One young harp player, Henry Coyle, readily shared his musical talent with the audience. Some sang into the microphone. Some would not leave the stage. Their exuberance was overwhelming. It was a great weekend of blues for those that attended the festival. However, it was a great weekend for the children and their parents who visited the kids’ music tent. Way to go!