Teenagers today, at least the ones who listen to modern music, might realize that many of their favorite pieces are created by electronics: keyboards, guitars, drums, and even vocals can be controlled and nuanced by synthesizers.  There are unusual new instruments too, like the Eigenharp, the Ocarina (app for an iPhone), the Tenori-On, the microtonal guitar, and the fun Otamatone.  With the exception of the Otamatone, most of these depend on electrical power.  If the plug were pulled, the music would stop.

Was there instrument music before electrical power? Of course.  People have always liked to sing, dance, and enjoy the rhythms of music and song.  While senior citizens might not know about synthesizers, it doesn’t mean they don’t understand the enjoyment of making music.

The Daughters of the Utah Pioneers want to help everyone remember how music used to be made.  Their 3rd Weekend Event will feature Keith Behunin on banjo and his bluegrass Fertile Earth Band.  The McQuarrie Memorial Museum will be filled with rollicking fun on March 21 at 10:00 a.m.

Keith will be joined by Keltie Kimball and audience members who want to take part in playing washboards, spoons, cow bells, jugs, washtub bass, and bending saws.  Ask a modern teen if they even know what any of these things are or how they can produce musical fun.  Maybe you could bring a youngster to this presentation. The Fertile Earth Band provides a fun-filled musical educational opportunity for all ages.

The DUP McQuarrie Memorial Museum is located at 145 North 100 East in St. George.  It is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (with the exception of Wednesday and Sunday).  There is handicap access and admission is always free.  For additional information call 435-628-7274 or log on to http://dupstgeorge.org