Loud As Folk Songwriters Showcase Has New Home
By Chris Buckley click here for original article
It's a monthly songwriters showcase that started at The Alley in Sparks back in 2011.
"We've expanded into a touring revue, we've taken Reno songwriters all through California and Oregon," founder Spike McGuire said. "We have people coming in from all over the world to play but the focus is on local musicians."
Five artists are featured the first Thursday of every month from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. at Pignic Pub and Patio in downtown Reno.
"It seemed like a great event for music and charity and the enjoyment of food and beer, what's not to like? Pignic co-owner Ryan Goldhammer said. "It's been great seeing how people come together for events like this."
The event is free but donations go to a local non-profit or project.
"It's a way to celebrate the great community we have here in Reno," McGuire said. "There's an incredible amount of talent in all areas, that's why we bring in celebrity guest chefs and celebrate their food, celebrate the talent of local songwriters, Reno just seems to celebrate itself on Thursday nights."
This month's recipient is non-profit folk school Mountain Music Parlor on Center Street.
"Our goal is to teach, preserve and pass on the grassroots music of America," said Renee Lauderback of the school. "We're hoping to build a recital room so students can showcase what they have learned and bring in special artists to have workshops."
The school opened in August and classes are designed for all skill levels.
"I teach the ultra-beginner class and I'm a schoolteacher so I've been told I have a lot of patience," school director Cindy Gray said. "Even if you've never touched one of these instruments we have loaners and we'll loan you a banjo, a fiddle, whatever you want to play, give me four weeks with you, one night a week, and we guarantee you'll come out of that class playing something you can take to a bluegrass festival and have fun."