by Sylene Argent, Local Journalism Initiative
For years, Steve Morin, Gord Harwood, and Neil Quiring have taken to the spotlight on various stages across the region together, sharing their love of music with countless listeners.
The trio, which began jamming together based on long-time friendships, shared their passion for folk and bluegrass-style tunes last Wednesday evening at the Arts, Culture, and Tourism (ACT) Committee’s weekly Tune up the Parks music session as part of the band, “Boys of Rhythm.”
Morin entertained his attentive listening audience with his vocal talent, in addition to playing the acoustic guitar and harmonica, while Harwood played the bass and acoustic guitar, and Quiring chimed in on the dobro.
Members of the Boys of Rhythm reside across the County, and enjoy connecting to the community through song.
“We are really privileged to be here, there’s a great turnout,” Morin said before diving into the first song for the around 60 individuals who came out to enjoy the outdoor concert at Essex Heritage Gardens this past Wednesday. “Being able to play here is the highlight of the summer.”
Morin – and his friends – have played in the Tune Up the Parks summer concert series since it was first established nine-years ago.
This year’s gig was slightly different than previous years, as the trio welcomed Paul Tremblay to sing a few tunes, including songs from rock greats Tom Petty and Elvis.
Trembley said he began joining The Boys of Rhythm on stage around a year ago and was pleased to make his debut in Essex Centre last week.
The Tune Up the Parks concert sessions are scheduled to take place in Colchester on Monday evenings and in Essex Centre’s Heritage Gardens Park on Wednesday evenings until the end of August. Performances begin at 7pm, and may be postponed or cancelled.
In Essex Centre, Harrow’s Texas Blues musician Lawrence Hank is scheduled to perform on Wednesday, August 16. On Wednesday, August 23, classic Rock band “Johnny and the Lawmen” is set to entertain, with this performance being coupled with the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada - Windsor Centre, which will offer “Sidewalk Astronomy” after the outdoor concert. Telescopes will be available to experience breathtaking views of the moon and other astronomical objects, weather permitting, information from the Town of Essex notes.
More information can be found at www.essex.ca/tuneuptheparks
