The Influence of Music

---

The Grand Cities host an outdoor concert series right along the Red River. Drake White, along with his band, The Big Fire, was one of the featured artists. Herlof was happy to get tickets for this show as he has been a fan for a few years and has had the chance to meet Drake White at 3 shows! Just like Herlof,  Drake White enjoys country music, Jesus, and America. So a live show is a hit for Herlof! 8/2023 

Herlof has had the opportunity to see one of his favorite artists, Eric Church, live in concert four times already. This last time was extra special because not only was it an outdoor stage at the North Dakota State Fair, it was also the first time Herlof was able to stay awake until end of the show! Herlof had a full, hot day taking in the whole fair experience from fried foods and carnival games to horse shows and pig races. The night was wrapped up with an excellent show put on by the Chief. Herlof cannot wait for the next experience! 7/2023

Herlof has had the opportunity to listen to The Waddington Brothers perform at a number of recent events and he enjoys the shows more each time. They are excellent musicians who are just as kind as they are talented. It is fun to hear their blended vocals follow along with their impressive instrument skills. Herlof has a handful of favorites tunes from their sets. Thanks for the music! 7/2023

The 31st Annual Missouri River Bluegrass Festival was held at Cross Ranch State Park and Herlof was happy to be in attendance. He was able to listen to a number of talented bands. It was a great opportunity to meet new music friends and learn about different styles of music and playing techniques. He even had a chance to participate a bit in the open stage portion as well as jumping in with one of the bands for a song! Thank you to all for sharing the music!  Video Link 6/2023

While performing at previous music events, Herlof had the pleasure of meeting a fellow guitar man named Elroy. Elroy hosts barn dances at his farmstead in a nearby town and he invited Herlof to check it out. The dances are a perfect exhibition of wholesome, country fun for people of ALL ages. Herlof was eager to attend and he spent the whole night scooting his boots to waltzes, polkas, 2-steps, and swings. 6/2023

Herlof had the pleasure of listening to Eliot Fisk performing in another Sunday Concerts in the Galleries performance at the Museum of Art. Eliot is an excellent guitarist and he was joined by Erik Anderson on the cello for portions of the performance. Herlof was surprised to recognize a piece in the show that he is currently working on himself in lessons! 5/2023

The Spring weather brought Herlof's favorite band out for a fun gig. The Red River Valley Motorcyclists hosted their Spirit of America Bike and Car Show at the Alerus Center in Grand Forks. Kenny and The Classics provided live music for the weekend.  Herlof spent the day with a front row seat and was happy to be invited to jump in for a couple of songs. Video Link. 5/2023

The Myra Foundation presents an excellent series called Sunday Concerts In The Galleries at the North Dakota Museum of Art on the UND campus.  Herlof is guitar guy, but he found the recent performance interesting. Narek Arutyunian and Steven Beck joined together the clarinet and the piano to provide wonderful classical music. 4/2023

Herlof is always eager to hear music that is out of the ordinary for him. This event was no exception. The Valley City State University Music Department hosted guitarist, Iakovos Kolanian. He comes from Greece and his style of music was enchanting. Herlof enjoyed the performance and appreciates a new musical friend. 3/2023  

North Dakota's own Tom Brosseau and friends along with The Waddington Brothers came to the Northwood Performing Arts Auditorium. There were folk songs from Tom Brosseau and bluegrass music from The Waddington Brothers. There were many familiar faces in the crowd as Herlof was acquainted with most of the performers from previous events as well as other local musicians in the crowd. It was fun for Herlof to visit with Tom again, and the Waddington Brothers instantly blew up any competition for his favorite string band! 3/2023     

Herlof had the pleasure of listening to some music at a local town's community hall. The two sisters that were performing had a unique piano/fiddle duo and played something for everyone. Herlof's metal-heeled boots made a loud click on the floor as he danced with his mom! 3/2023

The University of North Dakota hosted their family holiday concert titled Winter WUNDerland. The show was held on campus at the Chester Fritz Auditorium on a perfectly cold North Dakota winter day. The program was packed with excellent voices from the different UND choirs along with students from the Grand Cities Children's Choir. It was a treat to hear the holiday season sounding so pretty. 12/2022.

Herlof was back at the Empire Arts Center to kick off the Christmas season. The Holiday Show featured classic Christmas songs sung by talented performers and was accompanied by an excellent pianist. Herlof enjoyed the entertainment and the opportunity to wear a fancy hat in public! 11/2022.

The Empire Arts Center in Grand Forks put on a great production of School of Rock. Herlof said he may be a little too country for Rock-n-Roll, but he appreciates all the music! And a whole show of kids sharing music is something he especially connects with! Thanks for the entertaining afternoon. 10/2022.

Kenny's Music Shoppe hosted a guitar clinic led by Brent Paschke. Herlof was happy to be a front row student for the lesson. During the discussion Herlof picked up on tips with what and how to practice as well as how to explore different playing techniques. Brent Paschke was knowledgeable, skillful, and extremally nice. Herlof thought the night was insightful - plus it is just cool to hang out with a group of guitar guys! 8/2022.

Each summer Herlof enjoys traveling up to the Frost Fire Summer Theatre  in the beautiful Pembina River Gorge. This year the production was "The Sound of Music" which was right up Herlof's alley as a kid who enjoys both musicals and history. And for an exciting bonus, Herlof was invited to share a song on his guitar as part of the opening for two of the performances!  Video Link Weekend 1. Video Link Weekend 2. 7/2022 

Medora, ND is the perfect summer destination for Herlof. It is a place that blends together his loves for American frontier history and guitar music. He also gets to visit with one of his favorite presidents, Teddy Roosevelt. TR was an excellent friend on Herlof's recent trip out west and it was an honor to be invited to play on his stage as well as with the Great American Folk Show. Bully! Video Link. Video Link - Medora. 7/2022

Herlof found another role with his guitar this past year. For both their Christmas and Spring music concerts, a local school also led by his guitar teacher, invited Herlof to serve as an accompanist for the high school choir. Herlof found the job both fun and a little challenging. He is not used to having others do the singing! He was happy to be included in the group and share his guitar in a new way. 5/2022

Herlof ventured out into the infamous North Dakota spring blizzard weather to visit the North Dakota Museum of Art. Guitarist, Paul Galbraith, was performing classical music on his unique 8-string guitar.  Herlof enjoyed listening to the music and also watching the interesting playing techniques. It was definitely worth the trip through the wet, windy weather! 4/2022

Herlof was back at UND for another musical field trip. He attended the Guitar Studio Recital and it was a perfect fit for the little guitar man. On his field trip worksheet he explained that it was interesting to hear other students play material that he is beginning to look at. He  also was picking out handy techniques to try for himself! 2/2022

There were a few Holiday shows on the calendar that Herlof  was looking forward to attending this year. But due to the unpredictable North Dakota weather as well as continuing COVID complications, a number of shows had to be cancelled. Fortunately, Herlof  was still able to attend the Jason Mraz show in Fargo with his parents and aunt. It was a neat experience to attend a show downtown at the Fargo Theater. Jason Mraz and his small group shared lots of humor and talent on stage and even played a few numbers that Herlof likes to perform himself. Herlof maybe enjoyed the show just as much as the adults! 12/2021

Field trips are always fun but Herlof had an extra special music class while visiting UND. Along with giving lessons, Herlof's guitar teacher and friend, Thomas, also teaches classes at the university. Herlof was invited to check out the music building on campus and even sit in on a class. He felt pretty proud to walk into a college classroom with his little guitar. 10/2021

Everyone loves a story of a kid with a positive attitude. Put it to a musical and Herlof is first in line for a ticket. The Empire Arts Center put on a great production that was inspiring and entertaining. After the show Herlof was especially proud to get a picture with the little orphan Annie as well as receive a button from President FDR! 10/2021

Herlof has always been a fan of Eric Church and he was excited to hear that the Gather Again Tour was visiting close to home. When Herlof was 5 years old he was lucky enough to see the Chief in Minneapolis, however he had a hard staying awake for most of the show. This time around, with a solid 8 years under his belt, Herlof was able to rock along for....most...of the night! It got a little late but he did  catch his favorite songs! 10/2021

The North Dakota Street Rod Association held a car show at the center of the state in McClusky. This event was extra special for Herlof for many reasons. Not only did he get to see a lot of cool cars, the small town is also where his mother grew up so it was a weekend visit to see Grandpa and Grandma. And finally, for a great musical twist, the band performing for the day was one of Herlof's favorite groups, Kenny and the Classics. Herlof was proud to see his friends from Grand Forks on the stage and was even more proud to jump in and play with them! The band is a wonderful encouragement for him. And Herlof felt pretty big after the show when he got to be an assistant with tearing down the stage! Video Link. 8/2021

The Northwood Performing Arts Council was pleased to host the first show in their new facility and Herlof was pleased to be in the audience. Robby Vee & His Rock 'n Roll Caravan put on an entertaining show that was right up Herlof's alley.  He was impressed with the rockabilly style on classic songs, talented guitar sounds, and fun vocals. He also picked up a few good moves to try for himself! Following the show Herlof thanked Robby Vee and shared his joy with music. Herlof was happy to receive an additional gift of a new special pick! 7/2021.

Herlof has some great friends! He was happy to enjoy live music downtown Grand Forks with the band, Town and Country. They also invited Herlof up to share a few songs with his electric guitar. Herlof loves a crowd and he was eager to entertain! And his mom loves how kind and supportive friends and fans are to the little guy! 7/2021.

After a virtual year, Herlof was happy to return to the Frost Fire Summer Theatre up in the Pembina River Gorge. The show was titled,  "The Marvelous Wonderettes" and it brought you back in time with a musical group of girls. Herlof laughed throughout the show and tuned in to a few great songs. Through different events and venues he has actually seen most of the actresses in other productions so it was fun to be able to follow them in new roles. He introduced himself as a musician as well and the girls encouraged him to keep it up! 7/2021.

Music is everywhere in Medora, ND - and Herlof loves it! During our 4th of July family trip he was able to enjoy music of all sorts. He said the Musical is "no doubt" his favorite. He also took in a gospel brunch, outdoor stages, and a behind the scenes tour where he could catch a closer look at the band stage. He met new musical friends including Max from the band, Wild Hands. Herlof even found himself singing along on a parade float. It was a musically inspiring trip, "no doubt!" He also snuck in a little entertainment himself! Video Link. 7/2021

Herlof has some great influencers in music. His friend and teacher, Thomas Anderson, was performing classical guitar works on Prairie Public TV and Herlof was excited to watch him. With popcorn and staying up past bedtime, we made it a family movie night! The music was fantastic and you can check it out on YouTube:  Video Link. 7/2021

Herlof was back at the Patch at Point Paradise Stables. He was honored to help participate in Military Appreciation Night again by playing the National Anthem. He was also thankful to rock out a few extra songs. Chris Johnson, who shared his stage, provided great music for the evening which made a perfect setting for a fall pumpkin patch on the Red River of the North. Military appreciation, fun for kids, and live music. Yes! Many thanks to all for including Herlof! Video Link. 9/2020

Town & Country was back out for a hot August night in Grand Forks.  Even when they have no idea what to expect when Herlof shows up with his little guitar, the guys always invite him in. It's the perfect experience for Herlof to learn how to play along with a band. Plus it's a great night out to hear some excellent music! Thanks again, Town & Country! Video Link. 8/2020

Medora, ND is the perfect vacation spot for Herlof. Performance, live music, and Theodore Roosevelt all mixed together with a hotel with a pool. It's a  list of greats for Herlof. The Gospel Brunch gives an intimate and inspiring production while the Musical, paired with the impressive Coal Diggers Band, is an entertaining show held at the Burning Hills Amphitheater. Herlof has a few favorite performers and band members! This year COVID precautions prevented him from greeting many people, but it was still a great opportunity to see the action. And, of course, Herlof didn't leave town without picking up a new cowboy hat and belt from the western clothing store! 8/2020

Last summer Herlof discovered the summer theatre at Frost Fire Park. It's a perfect place to match Herlof's musical interests. This year the organization had to make the decision to cancel the live show due to COVID. But as an option to still let people enjoy the arts, they put together a "Virtual Entertainment Series" which showcases 4 smaller acts from different musical eras.  Tonight we watched the first act from our living room with a pile of stuffed animal guests. We look forward to the upcoming shows in the series as they are released. And we are even MORE excited to see future shows in person! 7/2020

During this crazy COVID summer, the band Town & Country is keeping the dream of live music alive in Grand Forks. Safely playing outside, they keep the joy of music moving. And they even invited Herlof up to share a few numbers. Herlof surprises the band with what songs he wants to play, but they do a great job of jumping in! He has the best friends! Video Link 1. Video Link 2. 7/2020

Live music is hard to find in 2020. When Herlof heard that his favorite band, Kenny and the Classics, was performing outside at a car show he was ready to attend! It was a perfect day  for Herlof. The band is patient and kind to their little friend. They let him assist with setting up the equipment and also tearing down. Relaxing in a lawn chair right next to the stage, Herlof was completely in his zone just listening to the music...ALL afternoon! The band even let him jump in to play a couple of songs!  It was a great day of listening, learning, and being "part" of the band! Thanks guys! Video Link. 6/2020

It's a recital piece...with a band! The Student Jam Session is a unique opportunity for the students at Kenny's Music Shoppe to experience their music in a new way. We were happy it was hosted again this year. Herlof appreciates the opportunity to gather with fellow music students and fans. He also enjoys playing for a crowd! This year he played 2 numbers and also pulled out a bonus song at the end! Video Link 1. Video Link 2. 6/2020

Ever since he was a baby Herlof has enjoyed a favorite show, Signing Time. He has been following the production through each stage of growing up. He enjoys the Signing Time family and has learned quite a bit of American Sign Language along the way. In the recent coronavirus situation, Signing Time has been hosting shows from home. They put a request for viewers to share their own musical versions of the  show's theme song. Herlof sent a video and was DELIGHTED to have it shared on the next live episode! Thank you, Signing Time! Video Link. 4/2020

Herlof's grandma has a friend who owned a handcrafted Dulcimer. She gave it to our family as a gift. It has a fun Appalachian sound and Herlof is having a good time figuring out how to play on it. What an amazing gift to share with us! And we look forward to sharing the music it makes with others. There is a lot of joy in the world of music! Thank You! Video Link. Video Link 2 with Dad. 3/2020.

We are lucky to have opportunities to enjoy local arts. The UND Department of Theatre Arts put on a production that featured live music with a 1950s twist. Their "route 57" stage was set up downtown Grand Forks at the Empire Arts Center which is always fun to visit. Herlof dressed for the occasion. A bonus for Herlof was that a guitar player in the orchestra was a friend from the music shop were he takes lessons. Herlof has the coolest friends! 3/2020.

Herlof was introduced to a whole new side of music at a fun bluegrass concert weekend held at Bismarck State College. A number of sponsors are involved in the event including the Bluegrass Association of ND.  Performances were held by local groups, Little Bluestems and Cotton Wood. The headliner was Blue Moon Rising from East Tennessee. The best part of the weekend was that a free bluegrass workshop was hosted by Blue Moon Rising and students were invited on stage to join in a song. A little different taste from Herlof's typical rock & roll!  Video Link. 1/2020.

The Magical Medora Christmas show was making its tour around the region. Herlof's family was happy to catch the inspiring show. A night filled with vocal harmonies, guitars, banjos, and pianos is right up Herlof's alley. Not to mention his favorite - comedic entertainment from Bill Sorensen! Having a taste of Medora brought out to towns across the state is a great Christmas gift. And as a bonus, one of the guitar players gave his pick to Herlof! 12/2019.

Spreading the gift of music through print. Herlof had special house guests, Ann Bailey and Eric Hylden, from the Grand Forks Herald visit him. Together with his family they spent some time talking about music and even playing a few songs. What a fun way to contribute to the music world. Hopefully his article will inspire the love of music in the region. When asked what his favorite part of the interview was Herlof quickly said, "having all the pictures taken while I was playing!"  :) 10/2019.

Friends of Herlof's host a pumpkin patch in East Grand Forks at Point Paradise Stables. For military appreciation night the Patch gave free admission to all military members. They also had live music provided by a cool and talented musician, Chris Johnson. Herlof sang the National Anthem for the event and following it Chris let Herlof share his stage for a few songs. It was fun for the little guy to rock on his guitar between pumpkin picking and games! Thanks for including Herlof in the event! Video Link. 9/2019.

One more street dance before winter comes! Grand Forks hosted a music event downtown which included 'Kenny and the Classics'. Once again, the band shared their stage and offered Herlof another cool experience.  He enjoyed playing a couple of his rock and roll hits with the guys. High fives all around for sharing the gift of music! 9/2019.

Herlof found his favorite band performing in Grand Forks. 'Kenny And The Classics' are always willing to invite Herlof up to share a number or two. And Herlof is always ready to join in! Thanks! Video Link. 9/2019

 Frost Fire Summer Theater put on an excellent Doo-Wop musical this year called "Life Could Be A Dream." Herlof had a front row seat and enjoyed the singing and dancing. He fully enjoys theater arts - laughing when it's funny and crying when it's sad.  This show was particularly inspiring for Herlof because it had a cast with a group of talented young men who like music just like him. They even took time for a fun picture with Herlof afterwards! 7/2019.

Herlof was happy to be included in an Art In The Park event hosted by a local small town. Local talent was invited to share music for a crowd enjoying  the summer evening on the grass. This was followed by an outstanding performance by The Downtown Horns, a unique band from Grand Forks. Between performing and dancing, Herlof was in his element the whole evening! It was a great opportunity to enjoy art. Video Link. 7/2019. 

Herlof was happy to see one of his favorite bands, Kenny and the Classics, playing outside on a perfect summer evening. He was even more happy to be invited to join in on a few numbers. Thanks guys! 7/2019

With good timing and nice people, Herlof found his way up on stage with the Johnny Holm Band. They invited him to play a song on his little guitar. He finally had an appropriate place to rock out with his favorite Eric Church number. And Herlof thought it was pretty fun to have a whole group of people cheering along. Video Link. 6/2019

Kenny's Music is where Herlof receives guitar lessons from his teacher, Heidi. Each year the music shop hosts a Student Jam Session where students of all ages have the opportunity to perform on a stage along with a full band and in front of an audience. It's a fun experience for everyone! This year Herlof performed Crazy Little Thing Called Love by Queen. Video Link. 6/2019.

Small town North Dakota was treated to some great music. A coffee shop filled with people and a variety of instruments and vocals. The talent was wonderful to listen to. 6/2019

Not every 5 year old gets to experience a rock concert like this! Herlof was extremely excited to see his favorite artist, Eric Church, perform live in Minneapolis. He rocked out for sure....until he fell asleep for the majority of the show!  Video Link. 2/2019

The North Dakota Army Band was on tour visiting schools across the state to promote music and military passion. They visited Herlof's school and although the Kindergarten class was not included in the event, Herlof didn't miss the chance to meet up with the band after the show. The guitar player was nice enough to pull his instrument back out and let Herlof show him a few things. A good experience for Herlof on many levels. 1/2019.