Music With a Message at Gathering of Friends, Nelson United Church, May 10th

Soulful harmonies, uplifting lyrics and an unique bunch of musicians come together this Friday at the Nelson United Church for A Gathering of Friends, a concert of music that's somewhere between multi-faith gospel, folk-rock, and a musical celebration of living life on the light side.

Starting with a snappy opening set of traditional fiddle tunes, the eight musicians then soar into a collection of powerful and inspiring original songs that have brought audiences to tears, to laughter, up on their feet dancing, or sitting in silent contemplation at every stop on their current tour.

An unusual collection of musical pilgrims, the musicians range in age from 19 to 63 (though most are in their 20s and 30s). Homesteaders, homeschoolers, sailors, seekers, and educators, they are all long-term participants in a collective spiritual and musical journey that has taken them over several continents and through a wide variety of lifestyles.

They came -- most recently -- from Cortes Island at the north end of the Georgia Strait, travelling south as far as Vancouver by sailboat, and then taking to the road for tour stops in Vancouver, Seattle, and Tonasket, Washington. The performance at the Nelson United church at 7 pm on Friday, May 10th is the final scheduled event in their spring BC tour. Admission is by donation.