Calliope Musicals energize La Veta in fundraiser for

LA VETA — Calliope Musicals lit up the Parkside in La Veta with their unique, energetic music and light show last Wednesday in their third trip to Huerfano County. They played Sarti’s bar in Walsenburg last winter, wowed the crowds in Gardner at Hippie Days, and last Wednesday awoke La Veta from a sleepy winter hibernation. The five member group is made up of Carrie Fussell, lead vocalist and guitarist; Craig Finkelstein, vibraphone and vocals; Josh Bickley, drums and vocals; Chris Webb, lead guitarist and vocalist; Andrew Vizone on bass and vocals; and Jerry Sparkman, technical support and “confetti cat”. Their facebook page describes them as a“…cheerful psychedelic party folk band from Austin TX.

Their high-energy live performance focuses on involving the crowd. ” Webb also said their music is sometimes referred to as “Rainbow Rock”. Whatever it’s called, their sound is definitely eclectic and totally enjoyable. Calliope Musicals was awarded the distinction as the Best New Band at the 2016 Austin Music Awards.

A good crowd of 75 or so people were treated to their fantastic show in the intimate setting of the Parkside. Calliope Musicals wants to make Huerfano County a regular stop on their travels. It is such a privilege to live in an area where high quality talents come to us to perform. Last year, top names from Americana, country, rock, and celtic music all performed in different venues across the county.

Hopefully this musical trend continues to grow, because the residents of Southern Colorado benefit greatly; no need to travel to the “big city” to enjoy great performances! The Parkside concert was a successful first fundraiser for getting a new digital projector installed at the Fox Theatre in Walsenburg, but expect a few more fundraisers soon. Mike Peters of Spanish Peaks Community Foundation, who manages the Fox, said about $40,000 is needed to replace the old projector. Donations to the theater are accepted, and Peters said the foundation hopes other types of fundraising will get the funds needed to continue the weekly movies at the theater.

Contact Peters at mpeters@spanishpeakscf. org with ideas for fundraisers, volunteering, or donations at www. foxtheatrewalsenburg. org or like them on Facebook.