Northeastern Arts Network announces '17-'18 schedule

The Northeastern Arts Network is pleased to present the 2017-18 Big Sky Concert Series to our community. This year's series features a kaleidoscope of musical entertainment as part of this art organization's ongoing commitment to provide quality entertainment to the community with a variety of shows that will appeal to every age and interest.

Join us on Monday, October 2nd for an awesome duo and high energy performance. Twin Kennedy, comprised of Canadian twin sisters Carli and Julie Kennedy, have been making music together since they could talk. Two-time Canadian Country Music Award Nominee, Winner of two 2016 VIMA Awards, 2016 BCCMA Nominee for Roots/Canadian Group of the Year and Grand Prize Winner in the John Lennon Songwriting Contest, Twin Kennedy is known for their sibling harmonies, high energy show and heartfelt songwriting. Recently relocated to Nashville, TN, these twins have toured extensively throughout Canada and the US, With years of classical training and Degrees in Music Performance from the University of Victoria, the sisters have found their home in country music. With Carli on guitar and vocals, and Julie on fiddle and vocals, these twins have been described as "Nothing Short of Awesome!" (Cashbox Magazine).

On October 30th we proudly present Montana artists Cascade Quartet. For over three decades, the Cascade Quartet has inspired audiences with their depth of sound and insightful interpretations. With an incredible level of artistry and an irresistible energy, the quartet draws in new and seasoned listeners through creative programming, informative and engaging interactions from the stage, education, and communicating a passion for music in all that they do. The Cascade Quartet is a primary player in the Great Falls Symphony.

East West International Project joins the series on February 12th. From different parts of the world, each member's instrumental and vocal contribution derives from unique traditions, musical backgrounds, and talents. Exemplified throughout a variety of styles, such as classical/ jazz/ tango/ folk/ pop, these nuances are emoted beautifully and with finesse. Melody is buoyed with lush harmonies, and rhythm is awash with wide chordal counterpoint.

Singer/Songwriter Lauren Sheehan closes the series on Thursday, March 19th. This "one-woman Americana jukebox" celebrates America with music from the 1850's through modern times. Lauren plays banjo and guitar to accompany her rich and powerful voice, singing blues, ballads, Stephen Foster, Hank Williams, bawdy and silly songs, as well as serious poetic and deeply humanistic ones. Lauren received a Portland Music Award for achievement in folk and has appeared on BBC, NPR with an inclusion into the Library of Congress.

All concerts are held at Malta High School auditorium beginning 7:00 p.m. Season tickets can be purchased at the door: adults $45, senior $40, and students $35. Individual tickets can also be purchased at the door. For additional concert information contact Erik Engebretson 301 – 1258 or Anna LaBrie 654 – 2002

The Big Sky Series is made possible in part by the Montana Performing Arts Consortium Presenter Development Program which is supported by grants from the National Endowment for the Arts,Montana Arts Council, a legislative grant from Montana's Cultural Trust and the Western States Arts Federation (WESTAF).