Harry Welling and Friends gave Vegreville a musical treat on October 15 as Perogies and Jam opened for the 2nd season at the Vegreville Train Station. Accompanying Harry and his wife Sinead, were their daughter Saoirse, Eric Martin on acoustic bass and electric guitar, and Marianne Darlet.

Harry’s infectious humour and powerful voice combined with great guitar work provided an evening of fabulous folk music including familiar songs by John Denver, Peter Paul & Mary, Tom Paxton, Ian Tyson, and Stan Rogers just to name a few, plus some of his own crafting. Harry was quick to point out that he received great inspiration from John Denver who was also from Germany and whose real name was Henry John Deutschendorf, Jr. before changing it to John Denver (after the capital of his favorite state in the US).

The audience was fully engaged in clapping and singing along on many songs. In particular, “Farewell to Nova Scotia” brought many to the front stage area to join in the performance. Harry’s connection with the audience included a tribute to the oldest in “It’s a Long Way to Tipperary” and to the youngest, there was “Puff the Magic Dragon”. This is the second time, that Harry and Sinead have come to Perogies and Jam and in this time, they have attracted many fans and friends. We look forward to their return on another occasion in the near future.

Perogies and Jam is well known for “embracing local musical talent” and we were very pleased to have piano teacher Irene Bowen bring 9 of her students to entertain the restaurant patrons over supper. The “Open Mike” session was also a great way to close off with local musicans adding to the evening fun.