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Kirkwood, Mo.— The Missouri Department of Conservation's Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center invites you to discover nature through music. The nature center will present a special concert by musicians Mike Fraser and Tenley Hansen on Friday, June 6, at 7 p.m. The performance promises an enjoyable mix of entertainment and education suitable for the whole family.
Fraser, an accomplished Ozark fiddler, and partner Hansen specialize in performing traditional music of the Ozarks. Honoring a long-time heritage of music and storytelling, the duo uses tales of Ozark history and Scots-Irish culture to create an engaging blend of songs and spoken word. The Scots-Irish people settled in the hardscrabble Ozarks after migrating west from the Appalachian country, and gave the region much of its unique character.
Fraser and Hansen draw much of their inspiration from Aldo Leopold, author of A Sand County Almanac and considered by many to be the father of modern conservation. In addition to timeless, traditional songs, the performance will include some of the duo’s original compositions inspired by Leopold’s teachings.
Fraser and Hansen began working together as members of the Shortleaf Band in 2006. Fraser plays fiddle, guitar, mandolin, mouthbow, harmonica, and autoharp. Hansen performs on keyboard, guitar, fiddle, spoons, bodhran, and vocals.
The concert is free and open to the public. However space is limited and advanced registration is required by calling 314-301-1500.
Fraser’s fiddle playing has been featured on two albums produced by the Missouri Department of Conservation: Voices of the Hills, a Journey to Shannon County and Fiddles and Forests. The CDs are available for purchase at Conservation Department offices and online through mdcnatureshop.com.
Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center is located at 11715 Cragwold Road in Kirkwood, near the intersection of I-270 and I-44. It is managed by the Missouri Department of Conservation and has been helping people discover nature through innovative programs for more than 20 years.
