Columbia Music Night in Columbia supports the arts and builds community

by Mary Ellen Graybill

(Micah Kreider at Columbia Music Night, photo by Mary Ellen Graybill)

Inside a former Mennonite Church at 291 South 4th Street, Columbia, PA ” (still owned by the Mennonite church, but now an outreach center with a free medical clinic in the back of the building) was an electric atmosphere the first night of Ned Somerville’s “Columbia Music Night” on a snowy Saturday, October 29.

The open space buzzed and rocked with original and folk music; despite the snow and slush, over 20 people showed up to applaud the musicians performing a mixed program of folk music and electric guitar original music.  The hall was loaded with food and snacks donated by stand holders at the Columbia Market House and Andy’s Market – blueberry pie, apple pie, cookies, even hot dogs and sauerkraut. The event was FREE!

Some weather-caused cancellations by scheduled performers left more time for covers and original songs and improvisations by a month-old group named “The Mighty Voice and the Associated Wolf.” Lead singer and guitarist is Micah Krieder, 15, who said his Columbia High music teacher, Richard Jenson is his inspiration. Other members of the group are Nick Singleton on drums, 15;  guitarist Zachary Will, 15; and Nick Manuel, 15, also on guitar. All the musicians attend Columbia Jr./Sr. High School.

(The Mighty Voice and the Associated Wolf – photo by Mary Ellen Graybill)

For a change of pace, originator of the Columbia Music Night, Columbia resident and Donegal High School physics teacher, Ned Somerville, harmonized with Tex Allen, a Screen Actors Guild – SAG movie actor based in Columbia, on guitars singing “You Are My Sunshine,” “Keep on the Sunny Side,” and other Carter family songs. The audience happily sang and hummed along with another familiar song, “Amazing Grace.”

(Tex Allen and Ned Somerville collaborate in song, photos by Mary Ellen Graybill)

For more information 301-938 6719. columbiamusicnight@gmail.com Sign up for Columbia Music Night – performers wanted!