Northern Lights Trio Plus Geriatrics, July 5

 At the close of their first Tuesday noon performance in 2014, pianist Ron Olsen enthusiastically praised the audience and requested a return engagement on the Community Presbyterian's Church's (703 N. Pokegama Ave.) grand piano.  That’s high praise from a pianist who has toured professionally and performed on some of the world’s best instruments. But no piano makes really beautiful music without the expert nuancing of a keyboard artist like Ron, as he leads the trio seamlessly from easy listening and jazz standards through Broadway, sacred and secular music and into rock'n roll. 

Tuesday, July 5 the noon concert features the Northern Lights Trio + 1 and Geriatrics.  Ron and his group entertain requests and claim to have 2000 plus tunes in their head so come with your favorite titles in mind.  Queried as to how they decide and signal key changes, Terry Price, guitarist and percussionist, humbly replied, “We just know.”  The combo of keyboard expertise and sensitivity to a wide range of music on the parts of all member makes this one of the season’s favorite performances. 

Ron played in piano bars and supper clubs throughout the Midwest while in school and while working his "day job"  in Munich, Germany.  Terry was the percussionist many Midwest bands including the Dave Dighton Band of Iowa. Bass player Jerry Hagen was a member of the well-known Pretenders for many years. 

This year word has it that Don Olsen, Ron’s brother, will be joining the group the first half so I’m thinking we’re about to hear the washtub bass among other special effects.  Marcie Lindgren from the Edge will be on hand with specially discounted tickets for the piano bar which the band headlines at Bigfork, Aug. 13. 

At halftime the group will morph into Jeriatrics, a costumned rock ‘n roll group of the 60’s so come prepared to tap your toes, revisit your youth, and revive your sense of humor. 

You won't want to miss the Northern Lights Trio in concert next Tuesday, July 5 noon at Community Presbyterian Church in Grand Rapids.  As always the free concert is followed by a $6 church luncheon and a chance catch up with friends.