The monthly music sessions presented in the Indiana Dunes Visitors Center auditorium have been called a number of things — a hoe-down, toe-tappin’ fun and a folk music show, to name a few.
But to fans of the Music Heritage Series, performed by the Save the Tunes council of local musicians, it all means the same thing — a laid back time, with a variety of songs and audience participation.
“We’ve been coming to these performances for many years,” said Ann Ruggaber of Valparaiso, as she and her husband Dan settled in for a recent show. “To me, this is like an old-fashioned hootenanny. We know all the songs and many of the musicians.”
Sharing various songs utilizing a variety of traditional instruments is what the night is all about.
There is no formal agenda, no rehearsals and each member brings their own selection to the foray, reflecting a monthly theme. Spontaneity is the keyword for each event.
“We meet once a month to discuss that month’s theme,” said group founder Marti Pizzini of Chesterton. “But we don’t rehearse.”
More than 50 area residents were in attendance during a recent performance that found audience members singing or humming along.
As each musician takes the microphone at the front of the stage to sing their song choice, the others play along — or not.
“I noticed that not everyone plays for all songs,” Lonnie Rainford of Valparaiso said. “I guess that’s because they don’t know what’s coming up until each one starts their song. But it all still comes together. They sound great.”
Ron Prusinski of Plymouth started with the group when it first began in 1990.
“When I first decided to join, I didn’t know what to expect. But it’s exceeded my expectations,” he said. “I don’t mind making the drive here each month, it’s well worth it.”
Covering many types of music is the name of the game, and audience participation is encouraged.
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Monthly shows will find anywhere from 8 to 18 members of Save the Tunes performing.
“It’s not always the same people, but everyone is talented,” said audience member Barbara Franklin of Chesterton, who attends on a regular basis. “It’s amazing that they all fall into place — especially since they don’t practice together.”
All members perform on a volunteer basis, with their mission as supporting the interpretive music of the lakeshore. Since most members do some research on the songs they will perform, history lessons are also included in their presentation. Admission to the Save the Tunes shows is free and the public is encouraged to attend.
“You never know what you’re going to hear – or learn,” said Peter Young of Valparaiso, who was one of the toe-tappers during the recent show. “But that’s the beauty of it. Unplanned and unstructured end up being some of the most fun.”
The monthly Music Heritage Series is usually held on the third Friday of each month. For more information, call the Indiana Dunes Visitors Center at (219) 395-1882.