Community News

     The Oswego Music Hall is thrilled to have the outstanding musical duo Magpie (Terry Leonino and Greg Artzner) celebrate its 40th anniversary with us at 8 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 19.

     When a folksinger of Pete Seeger's stature says "Greg and Terry can show us all what a wonderful thing it can be for two voices to harmonize together. How lucky I am to have lived to see and hear more links in the chain," you know Magpie's performance will truly be extraordinary.
     From the beginning Leonino and Artzner embraced different musical styles, from the traditional, classic country, swing, and blues of the early 20th century, to contemporary songs written by them and others. They started playing music together as students at Kent State, Ohio in 1973. Based in the Washington, D.C. area since then, and performing under the name "Magpie," their music has taken them to folk festivals, concert stages, museums and schools throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico, England, Scotland, and Italy. Terry and Greg have also been heard on many recordings, including eight of their own, two with Kim & Reggie Harris and several compilations
     Leonino's voice is a truly impressive instrument, not only because of its natural power, but also because of her versatility. She is a gifted singer of jazz and blues in the tradition of Connie Boswell and Billie Holiday, but is equally comfortable with the subtle beauty of traditional folk and contemporary songs. She is also an excellent player of the harmonica, mandolin, fretted dulcimer, and rhythm guitar.
     Artzner is an outstanding guitarist whose fingerstyle approach owes a lot to his heroes, guitar legends such as Reverend Gary Davis, Big Bill Broonzy, Phil Ochs and Rolly Brown. His playing is the solid basis of Magpie's sound, providing whatever is called for, whether it be a hard-driving rhythm, or a ringing lyrical beauty. His high baritone voice has equal range, and his captivating interpretation gives power and beauty to the full spectrum, from growling blues, to a Chilean lament, to a sweet croon.
     With the power of their delivery, Magpie is well known for their performances of hard-hitting topical songs. Politically, their viewpoint has been shaped by their life experiences. Artzner began to play music in the early '60s as a direct result of the Civil Rights Movement. Leonino also began singing at that time, and was a witness to the shootings at Kent State May 4, 1970, when National Guard troops fired into a group of students protesting the war in Vietnam. Leonino and Artzner continue to reflect these experiences in their own work as they frequently raise their voices in support of the ongoing struggles for civil rights, freedom, justice, and peace. They have also given a lot of musical support to environmental causes, working with scientists and educational organizations, including the Smithsonian Institution, and are considered to be among the very best in this musical field.
     To listen to some of Magpie's music, go to http://www.magpiemusic.com/first.htm and check out some of their music reviews. Then plan to enjoy Magpie's great songs, harmonies and breadth of musical taste live at their celebratory concert at Oswego's own Music Hall Oct. 19.
     The atmosphere is intimate with candle-lit tables surrounding a small stage with homemade desserts, popcorn and beverages available for purchase.
     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 p.m., seating will be general admission.
     Ticket prices are $14 if purchased in advance and $16 at the door. Children 12 and younger are half-price; younger than 5 is free.
     For the best deal – lowest ticket prices and prime seating – Season Passes and All-Season Passes are available and may be purchased at any show.
     For information contact, membership secretary, Carol Forrest, at 343-2988.
     The Music Hall is proud of the fact that it has been run entirely by volunteers for more than 36 years. Volunteers earn admission to shows through different tasks. If you are interested in making baked goods for a show, call Betsy at 216-4931. New bakers are always welcome!
     The Music Hall's next concert Nov. 2 will feature Nashville-based singer-songwriter Louise Mosrie.

     Music Hall concerts are made possible in part with funding by the NYS Council on the Arts. For more information call 315-342-1733 or access the Music Hall website at http://oswegomusichall.org/.