Play On - Herlof on the Guitar

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Prairie Public Radio is is home to The Great American Folk Show, hosted by Tom Brosseau. The show features unique musicians and interesting conversations. It was an honor for Herlof to be included in Episode #56! Tom was a guest at Herlof's house where they had a fun interview talking about music. A few weeks after the visit, Herlof was able to hear himself singing and playing guitar on the radio. It was an exciting experience for a young boy! Website Link 11/2022.

Tavern United in Grand Forks put out a call for local talent to gather for an Open Mic Night. Herlof jumped right in! For 30 minutes he was able to blast out some of his favorite country tunes for the tavern. 11/2022

Herlof was given the opportunity to play music for local nursing home residents. It was a fun group with a few familiar faces who were eager to hear a variety of music. Herlof shared pretty songs, skippy songs, and even a few for the cowboys. Video Link 1. Video Link 2. Video Link 3. 11/2022

In the spirit of Halloween, Herlof was excited to share a spooky musical treat with his teacher friend, Thomas.  Video Link. 10/2022

Herlof is always happy to play his guitar for the Glory of God - along with smiles from his mom in the pew!  10/2022

Herlof is in all his pride and glory when he gets to sing the National Anthem. His friends invited him back to the pumpkin patch in East Grand Forks to provide music for the evening during Military Appreciation Night. It was a beautiful fall evening along the river and the music mixed right in with the pumpkins and the fun. Video Link. 9/2022

Herlof was happy to provide musical entertainment for residents and guests at a local Good Samaritan facility supper. He was proud to be invited and came with a folder full of music with a little something for everyone.  Video Link 1. Video Link 2. 9/2022.

The Bismarck Cancer Foundation hosted their annual Applefest. It is a laudable cause that Herlof was proud to be a part of. To his delight, he was able to share music throughout the entire day!  Video Link 1. Video Link 2. 9/2022.

It was time again for the annual Steele County Museum Pie and Ice Cream Social. Herlof was happy to see great musician friends again and share in the joy of making music. When it was Herlof's turn to play he kept the visitors guessing. By pairing together Beethoven and Lynyrd Skynyrd and following Joe Diffie with a Spanish Waltz, Herlof's music selection had as much variety as the many plates of pie!  Video Link 1. Video Link 2. 9/2022

Herlof has excellent friends in the band, Town and Country. At a recent performance of theirs in downtown Grand Forks they let Herlof play a solo set as an opening act. It's a great night when you get to play through some big speakers and then enjoy the band afterwards! Thanks!  Video Link. 8/2022

The annual 'History Rocks' car show was hosted by the Grand Forks County Historical Society. Herlof's friends in the band, Kenny and the Classics, provided the music for the event. He was very grateful when they gave him the stage for a solo act to open the music. He eagerly played on his electric guitar for the crowd for almost an hour. Then we were able to spend the rest of the afternoon enjoying the band. But if you ask Herlof, the very best part of the day was getting to help the guys set up and tear down equipment! Video Link. 8/2022

Herlof has always been partial to the Beethoven song, Fur Elise. He brought the request to his guitar teacher for a summer project. Together, Thomas helped Herlof tackle the piece measure by measure. By the end of the summer there are still points to polish, but Herlof is proud to have a version of his own. He looks forward to sharing it and, in true Herlof fashion, will likely slip it in between his wild country rock tunes! Video Link. 8/2022

Herlof was happy to return to First Lutheran Church in Detroit Lakes. He was able to visit friends and participate with the worship services. It was a day of music and love and all the good stuff! 8/2022.

Gathering for a big extended family reunion is always a fun time. Adding a pirate theme and live music makes any event even better! With his wooden swords and trusty guitar, Herlof was ready to jump in and provide background music for the big event. 8/2022.

A summer Gospel Concert was the perfect setting for Herlof to share his big voice, little fingers, and a great message too!  Video Link 1. Video Link 2. 7/2022

Small town summer celebrations happily include outdoor events. Hatton's annual 4th of July festivities included a church service in the park as well as an afternoon of live local music. Herlof was happy to take part in both.  Video Link. 7/2022

Herlof was connected with the Nelson County Health System Care Center to share afternoon entertainment for the residents. It was a perfect day for sitting outside in the fresh, warm weather. The residents seemed to really enjoy the time - and so did Herlof! Video Link 1. Video Link 2. 6/2022

The Nelson County Arts Council along with the Pekin Park Board hosted another art show for local artists. Many unique pieces were on display and a variety of music entertainment was also provided. Herlof was happy to add to the event with his own version of art! 6/2022

Turkey time has come again! Our hometown of Aneta hosted their annual turkey BBQ festival. The weekend includes a car show and Herlof was happy to provide musical entertainment for car enthusiasts again. He had a number of new songs to add to his set list and he even had a pickup to add to the show! Video Link 1. Video Link 2. Video Link 3. 6/2022

Herlof was proud to participate in a Memorial Day program with the Northwood American Legion Post #92. Herlof has developed a sharp interest in American history and sharing music selections for this event was a perfect way for him to contribute to this special day of honoring those who have sacrificed for our freedom. 5/2022

Sharing music anywhere is great. But sharing  music in church is extra great! 5/2022

The Tolna Business and Event Center hosted a fun event for perfectly paired items. They filled the room with wine and cheese, charcuterie boards and specialty drinks, and treats with a chocolate fondue. There were silent auction items with donations from local businesses and a crowd of people. His mom's favorite pairing of the night was Herlof with his little guitar sharing music! It was a perfect way to spend an early spring evening on the prairie. 4/2022 

Local Soil Conservation Districts and the NRCS programs hosted a ladies' night for area women in agriculture. The event was both educational and entertaining. Herlof was happy to provide music for the crowd while supper was served. 3/2022

The local café hosted a talent show for some small town Friday night fun. The range of talent was impressive! Herlof was proud to jump in the mix with his guitar. He organized what he described as a historic medley of music. It was meant to express a travel through time with discoveries on the seas, the birth and revolution of the country, and finally the adventure of westward expansion. Take a listen and enjoy the ride! Video Link. 3/2022

The local restaurant hosted an event to celebrate Valentine's Day. They served an excellent meal and took the time to decorate with real flowers. Best of all, there was live music all night! Herlof joined together with a couple of new friends and they had a blast sharing tunes. Herlof said his favorite part of the night was when people danced along! Happy Valentine's Day! 2.2022

Many people travel through health journeys. Herlof's family keeps up with regular checkups for his dad at Mayo Clinic. While he is there, Herlof carries around his little guitar to share music and cheer for patients and workers passing through. He also enjoys playing special songs for his dad's doctor. Music makes the perfect medicine! 

Herlof was doing some Holiday travelling this year. He was happy to give the gift of music to residents at the nursing home in McClusky on Christmas Eve. He enjoyed playing a whole mix of cheerful music and even let his parents join in on a few carols! 12/2021.

The Lutheran Women's group hosted their annual Christmas luncheon. After salads and cookies, Herlof entertained the group with festive tunes to celebrate the birth of Jesus.  Video Link. 12/2021

Herlof had another opportunity to share music with his friends at CVIC. The Community Violence Intervention Center hosted a Gratitude Gathering event for their supporters and Herlof was invited to share entertainment. It was a privilege for  Herlof  to be a part of the group. It is quite an experience for a little kid to witness a room full of generous folks who support kindness and love for others. 12/2021.

Herlof was proud to organize his own fundraiser concert for the Community Violence Intervention Center of Grand Forks. The CVIC is a group that Herlof's family supports and with music he was able to find his own way to help out. He planned his set list, made his own posters, and had a blast sharing the joy of music. The generous free-will donations that were given by the local community members was inspiring. Thank you to everyone who attended and supported this event!  Video Link. 11/2021 

The Steele County Museum hosted their annual Pie and Ice Cream Social and Herlof was happy to take part in the event. He had the pleasure to meet other musicians there too. The Hayshakers shared waltzes, polkas and other pleasant tunes and their instruments included a guitar just like Herlof's along with an accordion. It was a treat to hear all the music, browse through the museum items, and of course, taste some pies! Video Link. 10/2021

It was an honor for Herlof to participate in another Military Appreciation Night at the pumpkin patch in East Grand Forks. Point Paradise Stables is a connection point for many friends of Herlof. He shared music the whole evening which included a wide mix of music styles along with his "unique" entertainment flare! The best part was sharing a loud and proud moment for the National Anthem. Video Link 1. Video Link 2. Video Link 3 . 9/2021

Before the season ran out, Herlof was excited to share one last summer performance. He set up his own concert titled "Summer Ain't Over." It was set to be an outdoor show in the city park but a windy/rainy weather forecast required a quick move to the local pavilion building. It turned out to be a great location for one last blast of summer music fun. This  video link shows a few of the songs that were shared. It's an unpredictable mix of entertainment - just like Herlof! 8/2021

The city of Sharon hosted a great day of celebration for their 125th anniversary. Herlof especially had a fun filled day. In the morning he cheered on the old tractors in the tractor pull and in the afternoon he even got to ride through the parade with his dad on their friend's Farmall H. After a quick refresher nap he was ready to share music in the evening while people enjoyed a pig roast. Thank you to the City of Sharon for including Herlof in the fun event. Video Link 1. Video Link 2. 7/2021

Many thanks to the local county art council for including Herlof in their art show. He was a late addition to the music line up but he was thrilled to jump in. He had never been to an art show before and he was proud to participate is something so "fancy!" It must have been fun to be back up on a stage too because he was all smiles as he tried to find a little something for everyone. Video Link 1. Video Link 2. Video Link 3. 6/2021

Herlof's home town of Aneta celebrated their 60th Turkey Barbeque festival. The town was filled with people enjoying rotisserie roasted turkey and live music in the park. Around the little town there were all types of family events. Main street showcased a variety of cars and other vehicles and Herlof fit right in providing a selection of fun summer jams. 6/2021.

It was checkup time again for dad at Mayo Clinic. This is the perfect place for sharing many forms of gifts and Herlof loves to jump in to give the gift of music. He entertained patients and guests passing through the halls and even shared a number during his dad's appointment for the doctors and nurses. Cheers to health and happiness! video link. 6/2021.

Playing music is great. Playing music for a special reason is even better. Herlof was honored to be a part of the local Memorial Day program. He opened with the National Anthem, proudly shared "God Bless the USA," and ended with a fun round of "Battle Hymn of the Republic." With guitar chords he helped give respectful remembrance for all who have given their lives for freedom. video link. 5/2021

The summer live music season has officially kicked off! Herlof was extremely proud to share background music for his cousin's high school graduation party in the park. His older cousin is a great kid to look up to. And the gift of music is for everyone! Congrats! 5/2021

School is out for the summer! Herlof thinks the best way to celebrate is with a virtual spring concert - in his own style! video link. 5/2021

It was a great Spring day to share some Rock-n-Roll in the Red River Valley. Herlof traveled to Fargo to visit his friends again at Valley News Live. He was honored to be a guest on the North Dakota Today show, this time showcasing a different style of guitar (along with some longer hair!) Following a short interview he shared a couple of fun numbers from Elvis Presley and Roy Orbison. video link. 4/2021

Herlof enjoys playing around with composing original music. He has a number of fun tunes, but he was particularly proud to debut a special new one for a Sunday morning church service. It's a rock and roll song titled, "Christ Jesus." His mom created a video link while practicing at home, but the actual performance can be seen on the  St. John Lutheran Church webpage. And while you are there you can check out a few great sermon messages too! 3/2021   

Herlof's aunt had a small milestone birthday this year which rendered a surprise party for a few close friends. Herlof and his dad were both excited to provide live music for the event. Herlof was especially eager to give his personal gift - his latest number, "Oh Pretty Woman" by Roy Orbison. He practiced the guitar licks diligently and had the song ready to go in time for the party. It must have felt good to be "back  on stage" because he followed his gift with a few extra numbers as well! 1/2021.

The Sunday School Program at Herlof's church was happy to hold their Christmas concert. Herlof was grateful that his teachers worked hard to organize a safe program following Covid restrictions. He was also proud to share his acoustic rendition of The Little Drummer Boy. Video Link. 12.2020

Merry Christmas from Herlof! Sharing Christmas cheer is a little tricky this year. But if you have a few minutes - even virtual gifts can have some magical merriment. And "O Holy Night" being sweetly sung to the electric guitar is something everyone in the house can appreciate!   Video Link. 12.2020

Happy Halloween from Herlof Huso! Herlof wrangled up his parents to help with this fun little production. He wanted it scary (but not too scary) and full of good music. Enjoy! Video Link. 10.2020

The best part of playing guitar is sharing fun times with dad! Video Link. 10/2020.

The annual "History Rocks" car show was hosted once again by the  Grand Forks County Historical Society.  It was a great Sunday afternoon to be outside - before the rain came down! Kenny and the Classics provided live music for the event, and once again they graciously shared their stage and equipment for Herlof to perform his own opening act. Giving (and receiving) the gift of music. Video Link 1. Video Link 2. 8/2020. 

Grandpa Paul was excited to host his 60th birthday party, and Herlof was excited to share some music for him! Herlof picked out 11 songs all on his own that he thought the party crowd would enjoy. The entertainment was pleasant while people ate supper on a perfect evening on the backyard patio. And Herlof's performance had a fun twist at the end when he made everyone stand up while he belted out the Star Spangled Banner! :) Happy Birthday! 8/2020.

It was a beautiful night for music! Herlof was ready to cure some COVID summer blues by hosting a safe social gathering at an outdoor concert . It was an evening of live music, perfect weather, and happy faces in a small town city park. With a wide range of music, Herlof entertained the crowd for close to an hour. Then he ran to the playground to ride on the merry-go-round!  Video Link. 7/2020.

There are many things to celebrate on May 25th, 2020. Today Herlof turns SEVEN years old! He is also thankful to honor Memorial Day. A virtual celebration concert was the perfect idea. And as a birthday gift to himself he plugged in his dad's electric guitar to share the music!  A very exciting day for a brand new 7 year old. Video Link. 5/2020.

Herlof's worlds of music and farming came together when he was asked to share a snippet of his guitar work for Agweek TV. His dad and uncle were included earlier on the show to discuss cover crops and field residue, and while the crew was around Herlof was happy to add his own touch. The article called him a "day brightener" which made Herlof beam! Thank you, Agweek! Article/Video Link. 5.2020.

Herlof has been having fun with his virtual concert series, "Washing Hands and Singing Jams." But this week he had the opportunity for a special set. He performed LIVE and the whole show was dedicated to his friend, Hunter Pinke. Following social distancing guidelines, Herlof set up on Hunter's deck for a small outdoor performance. A perfect evening to share some joy with a musical gift to HP. Video Link. 5/2020.

Herlof asked if he could do another cover concert from the couch. He's always exploring with new music to play. With the songs in this set he had to first work on a few chords that are kind of sticky for him. He was proud to play them "for people" and he even invited his dad in to help out on a couple of numbers! Coronavirus is hard - Keep up the positive vibes! Video Link. 4/2020.

It was time for another cover concert from the couch. COVID-19 can get a person down, but keep doing the things you love. That might mean learning a new tune! Video Link. 4/2020.

With a goal of slowing the spread of COVID-19, people are practicing social distancing. A few of Herlof's upcoming music events were postponed too. Many famous musicians are providing intimate concerts for people to watch from their homes during this time. Herlof thought he could spread a few smiles too so he came up with his very own concert to share from his living room. We hope it brightens your day! Video Link. 3/2020.

We have all been asked to keep close to home during the Covid-19 situation. Spending some extra time at home can give the perfect opportunity to learn some "new" music. Thankfully, Herlof has a dad who shares his talent and knowledge...and his guitars! Video Link. 3/2020.

A local Sons of Norway lodge was celebrating Pi Day by serving homemade pies and hosting a concert. Herlof was delighted to provide the music! He played tunes from Gene Autry and Garth Brooks to Chuck Berry and Jerry Lee Lewis. Celebrating mathematics, the Norwegian heritage, and music - what a day! Video Link. 3.14.20

The Center for Innovation, located at the University of North Dakota in Grand Forks, hosted a winter social for their tenants. The event was a pizza party with a surprise musical guest. And Herlof got to be the surprise! Herlof is lucky to have some great friends who help expand his experiences and support his growth.  2/2020.

There are many reasons for a person to smile. And Herlof loves to add to that list by providing music for people passing through the halls at Mayo Clinic. He is happy to pack along his guitar any time he has the chance to tag along on appointments for his dad. 

Video Link -guitar.  Video Link - voice. 2/2020. 

According to the internet,  47.5 million people were estimated to be traveling on US airlines over an 18 day holiday travel period. Herlof was lucky to be included in this group as he was able to visit the Denver, CO area. He experienced all types of music including a brass band on the street downtown, old time carolers outside of Union Station, and a fantastic jazz trio performing music from "A Charlie Brown Christmas." Of course Herlof had to join the musical fun by providing a few carols of his own a the Denver International Airport. ;) Video Link. 12/2019.

Herlof had a fun time performing at a nursing home in Valley City this summer and he was proud to be invited back for the Christmas season. From start to finish Herlof takes pride in running his own show. He introduces himself, talks through his set, and ends with shaking hands with each of the residents. Now...if only he didn't need his parents to drive him everywhere and carry his equipment!    Video Link 1. Video Link 2. Video Link 3. 12/2019.

The Christmas season brings gifts - and music is a great choice! Herlof had a busy day with TWO events scheduled. After school he was happy to share some Christmas cheer with residents at the nursing home. Hearing the room chime in with Silent Night almost brought his mom to tears! Then he made a few set list changes and traveled down the road. He was invited by his friend to provide entertainment during the social hour at a local Christmas party. It was a fun day from start to finish! Nursing Home Video Link 1. Nursing Home Video Link 2. Party Video Link. 12/2019.

Herlof was invited to share music at a memory care facility. Two things that residents enjoy are kids and music, so this was a perfect place for Herlof to share some joy! He is always polishing his performance and this time he had fun showcasing his ukulele along with his guitar. He sang familiar songs and encouraged sing-alongs. He also thought it was appropriate to match his hat with all of his music.  Video Link 1. Video Link 2. 11/2019.

Every few months Herlof's family gets to visit Mayo Clinic where his dad receives excellent care. Herlof had so much fun playing his little guitar at their visit last summer that he was ready to play again! A musical gift for patients and visitors walking through the atrium. His mom picks the music to try and keep it sweet, but Herlof also likes to slip in a few of those rock and roll ones!  Video Link. 10/2019.

While visiting Rochester, MN Herlof was introduced to "Open Mic Night" at the Cafe Steam coffee shop. His parents told him how it worked and Herlof was ready to sign up right away. It was a fun opportunity for him to see that musicians are all over the world. All kinds of people sharing all kinds of joy from music and other forms of art. Even his dad had to jump in and he let Herlof be his side kick! Video Link 1. Video Link 2. 10/2019.

Two weekends in a row Herlof had the pleasure of giving musical gifts to family members at their birthday parties. First Herlof's great-uncle hosted a fun party in his awesome work shop for family and friends to celebrate turning 69.  Herlof was excited to share a few of his favorite rock-n-roll numbers. A week later Herlof's great-grandma celebrated her 95th birthday at a beautiful party with the community. Herlof hand-picked songs specially for  the guest of honor.  And of course a round of "Happy Birthday" was played at each! 10/2019.

The Bismarck Cancer Center hosted their annual Applefest fundraiser event. The weekend was filled with activities and entertainment at Buckstop Junction. Herlof was honored to be asked to participate and he created 2 unique performances. He shared a total of 20 songs that covered many different artists from a wide range of time periods and genres. He had the crowds swaying along or tapping their toes! It was a great experience and for a special cause. Video Link 1 . Video Link 2. Video Link 3. Video Link 4. Video Link 5. Video Link 6. 9/2019.

The Myra Museum with the Grand Forks County Historical Society hosts a "History Rocks" car show each year. People are invited to check out classic cars and also enjoy live outdoor music. The Kenny and the Classics band gave Herlof an awesome opportunity to share the stage. He got to perform a full set using great gear. He even had fun helping with the setup! Video Link. 8/2019.

Herlof was invited to provide entertainment at another nursing home this week. He organized a brand new set and had a lot of fun with the performance. Music is the perfect connection for bringing people of all ages together. Video Link. 8/2019.

A local business was hosting a grand opening event for the public. It was a night of summer fun and live music. Herlof was thankful to join in with the early set of entertainment. It was a great opportunity to perform a mini-show of his fun songs for a crowd. 8/2019.  

 Herlof was able to bring his guitar on the road. He was a musical guest at First Lutheran Church in Detroit Lakes. Playing in the lake, sharing music, and making new friends in faith is a great way to spend the weekend! Thanks for the invitation! 7/2019. 

Herlof was invited to perform a half hour of gospel music at a hometown summer festival. A hot day at the lake but the songs were sweet. Plus he made the local newspaper which proudly hangs  on the fridge! 6/2019

Herlof is a big fan of Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN. He gets to travel along with his family where Mayo takes great care of his dad. On a recent trip Herlof was able to spread the love and share some joy with patients from all over. A strong voice, a trusty guitar, and tiny doctor outfit! Video Link. 6/2019

It was an honor to share some patriotic numbers at a local Memorial Day service. 5/2019

 This spring Herlof was busy visiting area nursing homes. Pulling from a group of hymns and other classic favorites, which we call his "nursing home set," Herlof arranged some fun performances. The events included sing-alongs and even breaks for jokes and hat changes! Here he is performing in Hatton, ND. 3/2019. 

This spring Herlof was busy visiting area nursing homes. Pulling from a group of hymns and other classic favorites, which we call his "nursing home set," Herlof arranged some fun performances. The events included sing-alongs and even breaks for jokes and hat changes! Here he is performing in McCusky, ND. Video Link. 5/2019.

 This spring Herlof was busy visiting area nursing homes. Pulling from a group of hymns and other classic favorites, which we call his "nursing home set," Herlof arranged some fun performances. The events included sing-alongs and even breaks for jokes and hat changes! Here he is performing in Mayville, ND. Video Link. 5/2019. 

Herlof was excited to be a guest on Valley News Live for the North Dakota Today Show. He has been back to visit his friends a few times and each visit is a little different. His first appearance he sang his heart out with Elvis. 11/2018.

At Christmas time Herlof was invited back to Valley News Live to share some holiday cheer. Leather coats and Christmas tunes! 12/2018

To help kick off the summer season Herlof visited his friends on the North Dakota Today Show to share his version of "Battle Hymn of the Republic." He invited everyone to sing along from their living rooms! 5/2019.

Music is for people of all ages. Herlof was happy to entertain some Sunday school friends while visiting his grandparent's church. Sharing music is a great way to make friends! 5/5019.

Herlof is always happy to share music at his church! 2/2019.

It is very fun for Herlof's parents to watch him grow with his music performances. But they have to admit that the BEST concerts are the "Living Room Concerts." But be careful - Herlof has been known to charge admission! Video Link. 12/2018.