by Garrett Fodor
The weather may have been cold, but that didn’t stop the light and happy sounds from emanating within Cottam United Church during the second gig of the weekly Winter Chill Concert Series.
On Saturday, the Kingsville Music Society (KMS) continued with its “Winter Chill Concert Series,” hosting the second of three concerts taking place every Saturday. The series began January 13. The free concert series is hosted at Cottam United Church and it is the second year the organization has been able to host such an event.
“The Town of Kingsville last year did a Winter Chill event in Cottam and we provided the music, and this year we wanted to do it again and bring the music back to Cottam,” John and Michele Law of “The Laws” said. They performed Saturday, and helped to make up the KMS with the Board of Directors. “It’s nice getting able to spread music around the community, and especially a free concert series in the winter.”
Saturday’s lineup was opened by Tiessen and Law, an acoustic guitar set before award winning country/folk/bluegrass songwriters “The Laws” took to the stage. The church pews were filled for the two-hour event, quickly drawing a crowd, with many bobbing along and enjoying the songs.
“It’s great for us to be able to provide a platform and offer a listening experience to some of our many talented local musicians,” Michele said. “Often times, local musicians don’t get this opportunity and we’re fortunate to be able to put this on. The last two weekends have been great, drawing nice crowds, who have all been really into the performances. With the “401 Smooth Jazz Band” next week, we think it’ll continue.”
Both John and Michele were grateful for all who attended Saturday, as well as the previous show on the 13th, and they hope to see everyone again at the closing show on January 27. They noted they try to cater to all ages, offering a variety of music during the Winter Chill Concert Series, as well as at the Kingsville Music Festival happening once again this year.
KMS thanked the Government of Canada which helped to fund the concert series through the “Community Services Recovery Fund.”
Looking ahead, John and Michele are excited for the KMS’s Kingsville Music Festival taking place August 9-11. They said there will be numerous acts across multiple stages. A full list of performers will be announced next month. For more details, to learn how to volunteer, or to purchase tickets, visit www.kingsvillemusicsociety.com.