Write a commentThe Oswego Music Hall is very pleased to co-bill two of Canada's most critically acclaimed singer-songwriters and performers -- Dave Gunning and James Keelaghan -- on Sat., Oct 11 at 7:30 p.m.
The Toronto Star has described Gunning as "the next big thing in the True North of Song, . . . as compelling, as assured and attentive to every nuance of the writing process as Lightfoot, Cockburn and Stan Rogers before him.”
Sing Out Magazine wrote that James "Keelaghan sings with one of the most glorious male voices in the folk community. It is not only a treat to the ear, but it's a voice that fully illuminates the songs it transmits.” He's even been called "Canada’s finest singer-songwriter."
Gunning, born in Nova Scotia, is a working class hero who built himself up from humble beginnings and now gets his name tossed about with the likes of David Francey, Gordon Lightfoot, and James Keelaghan. His music transcends genres, but includes flavors and flares of Irish, Scottish, folk and country styles. His songs captivate and touch his audiences. With 10 acclaimed CDs to his credit, Dave has been honored with musical awards in both Canada and the U.S., and he's toured extensively in the U.K., Ireland and North America both solo and with his band. He recently performed in Afghanistan, entertaining troops. Dave's charisma and gift for enchanting audiences through down -to-earth songs and homespun humor are bound to work their charm in Oswego as well. 
Keelaghan has been called the "poet laureate of the folk and roots music world." He studied history at the University of Calgary and is now based in Winnipeg. With an international following in Australia and England, Keelaghan plays a wide variety of venues from large festivals and concert halls to intimate folk clubs. In 2003, he won first prize (Folk Category) of the 8th Annual USA Songwriting Competition, and in 2004, he was the recipient of a Juno Award.
Check out their music at their websites, http://www.davegunning.com and http://keelaghan.com/ and then treat yourself to a live performance at the Music Hall on Oct. 11. Shows start earlier this year than previous seasons, at 7:30 p.m. instead of 8:00. The venue is the same wonderful spot: the McCrobie Civic Center, 41 Lake St., Oswego. The atmosphere is intimate with candle-lit tables surrounding a small stage. Desserts, snacks, popcorn and beverages are available for purchase.
Ticket prices for this event are $14 if purchased in advance and $16 at the door. Children 12 and under are half-price; under 5 are free. Tickets can be purchased on-line at http://oswegomusichall.org/ or at The River’s End Bookstore, 19 W. Bridge St. in Oswego. Holders of tickets purchased before 1 p.m. on the day of the concert will have preferred seating. After 1 pm, seating will be general admission. For information about money-saving Season Tickets or becoming a member or a volunteer, go to the website or contact Membership Secretary, Carol Forrest at 343-2988.
The Music Hall’s next show, Sat. Oct. 25, will feature the North Country's Susquehanna String Band. The Music Hall has been run entirely by volunteers from its inception over 37 years ago. Volunteers can earn admission to shows through different tasks. Free Open Mic shows are held on Friday nights before all Sat. shows, making it a popular place for local and regional talent to be heard.
