By Eric Parrish, M.M., Worthington
I have been very impressed with the programing at our very own Memorial Auditorium this season! And, I know you would have been, too. In addition to the tribute bands and the locally produced entertainment, the amazing talent of original artists have been outstanding this year. I only wish the audiences would have been bigger. Much bigger.
As an arts educator and supporter in this community, I cannot emphasize enough the array of acts and talent the Friends of the Auditorium have brought in this year. From OK Go in the fall, to Minnesota History Theater's production of "Sweet Land," to the trendy Chastity Brown and the Minnesota Music Coalition we have been blessed with some amazing nationally known artists. Even this past week, Rogue Valley was here working with our middle schoolers and ended their week with a concert that was straight out of the Twin Cities live music venue
scene. Right here. Down the street. And for only $15.
This community has welcomed me and my music making for over 10 years, and in many ways we have all grown because of it, including the programing at Memorial Auditorium. My dad instilled in me the belief that new experiences are always worthwhile. So I encourage you to "try something new" and take a very small risk ($15!) and check out The New Standards on Jan. 26. I've heard them play at Dakota Jazz Club (where the cover was $30) and we're all in for a treat! And, perhaps you'll even consider becoming a member who will continue to support the great efforts of this wonderful asset to our community. I'll see you there!