Arts

Steel Wheels to play benefit show for BF school music program

BELLOWS FALLS — The Steel Wheels return to Vermont with a show at the Bellows Falls Opera House on Thursday, Nov. 15.

At this show, The Steel Wheels will support the music program at Bellows Falls' Central Elementary School. A financial contribution will be made by the band to the school based on the number of tickets sold. The show promoters are pledging to donate their share of the show's “back end” to the school program as well.

Based in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, this dynamic four-piece string band marries old-time musical traditions with their own innovative sound, generating what they call “a truly magnetic revival.”

On stage, the band members cluster around a single microphone singing four-part harmonies inspired by their shared Mennonite heritage. Added to this are Eric Brubaker's lively and evocative fiddle, Brian Dickel's grounded upright bass, and Jay Lapp's signature mandolin style.

The Magnetic Revival Tour amps up the quartet's message of finding common causes that people with diverse views will value.

“Even if it's coming together to just enjoy one evening of music together, well, we feel like that's something positive,” said Trent Wagler, lead singer and songwriter of The Steel Wheels. “What's better than singing, dancing, clapping together to feel less alone and part of something that is making a bunch of people feel happy all at the same time?"

Doors open at 7 p.m., with showtime at 7:30. Beer and wine service is provided by Pleasant Valley Brewing Co. Tickets are $18 in advance general admission, or $25 for Priority (Best-In-House) seating. Advance tickets are available at Village Square Booksellers in Bellows Falls, in Chester at Misty Valley Books, in Brattleboro at Turn It Up!, and online at brattleborotix.com. For further information, call 802-463-9595 or visit flyingunderradar.com.

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