Festival Artists & Events
(in order or appearance)
Mount Vernon Youth Showcase Mount Vernon Players Youth Showcase is comprised of talented high school and middle school aged young people from around Knox County. |
Legacy Video: Our Story: 200 Years! Frontier Schools Meet the Future See Our Story: 200 Years! Frontier Schools Meet the Future, the next in the series of Mount Vernon’s legacy video project. Frontier Schools Meet the Future explores the issues that Mount Vernon has faced in the area of education through the past 200 years. Many of these issues have changed in the details, but the issues are as challenging in 2007 as they were in 1805: school funding, new construction, the importance of technology in learning, the importance and purposes of schools in the community, alternative schools, teachers, curriculum changes, education for all age levels and special needs, the impact of education on the community and on individuals, and preparations for the future of education. In this video, hear from students, teachers, school leaders, community leaders, and former students. See images from the past, and remember your own experiences in education. Spend an hour and a half in air conditioned comfort as Frontier Schools Meet the Future helps you consider school issues in depth, enjoy the rich heritage of the Mount Vernon schools, and think about the choices we need to make in our communities to provide education that will benefit our youth and our communities in the future. |
Carole Dance Studio
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The Caffiends
Dennis Eggerton - Singer, songwriter, guitarist, and mandolinist. He is the former lead guitarist and vocalist for the rock band "Justus" and the contemporary Christian rock bands "Back in the Saddle" and “Just Passin’ Thru”. He is a multi‑instrumentalist with over thirty-five years experience as a professional musician. Dean Kastran - Singer, songwriter, and bassist. He is a gold record recipient for his work with the 1960’s band “The Ohio Express”. He has performed with bands such as “The Who”, “The Beach Boys”, “Herman's Hermits” and many other classic rock bands, and has appeared on Dick Clark’s “American Bandstand” and at New York's famed “Carnegie Hall”. Dean is also a former member of “Flite”, “Back in the Saddle” and “Just Passin’ Thru”. Bob Cox - Singer, virtuoso fingerstyle guitarist, and music instructor. He has been performing with various bands throughout Ohio, as well as neighboring states for over forty years. Bob is an adjunct music professor at Kenyon College. He is also a music instructor and faculty member at the “Richland Academy of the Arts”, and has written method books. Sam Beatty - Singer, violinist, mandolinist, drummer, percussionist, guitarist, and trombonist. He graduated from “Ohio Wesleyan University” with a major in violin and minor in trombone. He currently serves as the Director of Worship and Technology at Grace Church in Middleburg Heights, Ohio. |
Rendition
Rendition, which now includes five members, has been entertaining audiences since 2001. They’ve shared their music at a variety of events in central Ohio and surrounding areas, including weddings, reunions, charity fundraisers, and church functions. For the past seven years, they’ve been annually featured at the Gahanna Creekside Jazz and Blues Festival. Band members include: Carl Schmueckle- lead singer, percussion and harmonica; Tim McCauley- guitar and vocals; Tom McCartnery- saxophone, flute, harmonica and vocals; Tom Kingery- bass guitar; and Mark Cordle- drums, percussion and vocals. For more information about Rendition, contact the band manager at lynda@renditiononline.com or visit the official Rendition website: www.renditiononline.com. |
Right Brain Productions
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Apple Valley Singers
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Jessi Clinger
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Jamee Gresley
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BreAyne Groom
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Contra Dancing
So what is contra dancing? If you think contra dancing has something to do with Oliver North, you would be wrong. Literally, a contra dance is a dance of opposition, a dance performed by many couples face to face, line facing line. The word contra means ‘longways”, as in, couples lining up in a straight line as opposed to a circle or square. If you can count to eight and follow instructions, you can contra dance. Mike Petee indicated that he has three left feet when it comes to dancing (that’s worse then having two left feet as the old saying goes) and even he can do it and enjoy it. Contra dancing came to our country from the British Isles; every one of the original thirteen colonies knew them; they were danced, by people from all walks of life, and, especially by the ordinary, country people. Far from being an antiquated relic of the past, used to rescue tourist trade, contra dancing has made resurgence in the last decade, from coast to coast. The state of Ohio has a statewide organization devoted to the art form and many communities around the state are finding it a fun and wholesome way to re-connect with their friends and neighbors. So, how do you contra dance? As mentioned earlier, a contra is a long line with as few as four and as many as there are couples to dance. Musicians will play the music and a called will announce the moves. The “cast off” is a method of progression up and down the set of couples. There is a “cast off” in each dance, so as to change partners and it adds to the fun of the dance. Over two thousand different contra dances have been recorded in dance books in America alone. Besides the “cast off”, the caller will include various forms of crossover and interweaving of couples. Sound difficult? Not really, 30 minutes before each dance a caller with go through the rudiments of the dances and before each dance, discusses the moves and demonstrates as needed. Just follow the instructions and you’ll be fine. Mistakes add to the enjoyment and after getting the hang of it, you’ll find it getting easier and easier and actually wish the songs would last longer. The English, Scottish, Irish and French-Canadians all contributed to the growth and development of contra dancing in the United States. Reels, jigs, swings, squares, fiddles, harps, flutes and tambourines, all added to the dances. Many of the dances enjoyed during the American Civil War included this style of dancing. Songs such as “Irish Washerwoman,” “Blackberry Blossom,” “ The Girl I Left Behind Me,” and “Turkey in the Straw” to name a few, infused the dances of the young America. The Dan Emmett Music & Arts Festival welcomes the group, Pocketful o’ Gimmick and caller Carol Kopp. Carol, in her third decade of calling dances, is northeast Ohio’s premiere dance caller. More than any other single individual, Carol, who shares all she knows to help others develop their skills, is responsible for the wealth of good callers and thriving dances in that part of the state. Pocketful o’ Gimmick is a six member band with a repertoire of Celtic, New England and Old-Time (Appalachian) music. The group consists of Cid Cayhoe (Shreve, Ohio) on button box accordion, banjo and pennywhistle, Meg Litteral (Fredericktown, Ohio) on fiddle, Stephanie Musselman (Apple Creek, Ohio) on piano, Mike Lagana (Marian, Ohio) on guitar and mandolin, Kelly Skulca (Wooster, Ohio) on flute and Dennis Kempthorn (Homeworth, Ohio) on bass. The group will play at each of the monthly contra dances at ThePlace@TheWoodward, starting in September with various callers – Susan English (Ph.D. in Education) will call in September and October, Kate Power (Columbus, Ohio) will call November and Carol Kopp will return to Mount Vernon in December. |
Elizabeth Vining
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Autumn Daze
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Ball & Stahl Ball is a resident of Columbus and met Stahl at a Martin guitar seminar in 1985. During the course of a jam session at the seminar, the duo realized they shared the same esoteric interested in American music. Before long, they were working together at the local Roscoe festivals, as well as at the homecomings in the area. During the early 1990s, Stahl and Ball started playing a few American Civil War songs to show the audience a sort of prelude to what later became "western" music and slowly evolved into country-western music. The Civil War music was always very well received by the public, and the people enjoyed hearing the origins and stories behind the songs. As time went on, Ball and Stahl developed enough material to give a complete presentation on Civil War-era music. Ball plays guitar and fiddle and sings most of the lead vocals. He is an authority on American guitars, including the Martin line, which he has collected for over 20 years. The guitar used by Ball for the Civil War performances is an 1885 2-21 Martin guitar that he found in a vintage guitar shop many years ago in need of repair. Ball completed the repairs and returned the instrument to playing condition. It is used exclusively for the Civil War performances. |
Saxton’s Cornet Band
The modern day Saxton’s Cornet Band is named for one of the most popular and long-lived ensembles that performed in Kentucky for over sixty years from before the Civil War period into the early twentieth century. The original band’s founder was Henry Saxton of Lexington, Kentucky who organized the band and kept it performing in Lexington playing concerts, dances, parades and funerals. Saxton was a pro-union man himself, but the band had to be versatile in border-state Kentucky and thus the band was popular at postwar Confederate memorial occasions. Reorganized in 1989, the Saxton’s Cornet Band of today strives to maintain the spirit and high standards set by the original ensemble. Saxton’s Cornet Band is a Kentucky and National treasure. They have performed for the inauguration of President George W. Bush and for the National Park Service at sites around the country including Gettysburg National Military Park. They have played aboard the steamboats Delta Queen and Belle of Louisville, and in historic performing arts centers from Keokuk, Iowa to Chillicothe, Ohio—and in bandstands as far a field as Glen Falls, NY and Sutton, MA. Saxton’s performs regularly at the Great American Brass Band Festival in Danville, KY and is visiting artist at the Conner Prairie Museum and at the Ohio Historical Society. Saxton’s has been featured on the silver screen as well, in the Turner films “Gettysburg” and “The Day Lincoln Was Shot.” Saxton’s Cornet Band has also toured internationally with concerts throughout Taiwan including a performance at The National Concert Hall in Taipei. |
TaVaci School of Performing Arts
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Panther Kenpo Karate
In addition to Kenpo Karate, Mr. Hatfield has received specialized training in numerous other Martial Arts disciplines including Philippine stick and knife training, Russian martial Arts, Kickboxing, Tai Chi Chuan, and Chi Gong. He travels extensively throughout the United States for martial arts seminars. He has completed advanced training and certification in Cardio Kick Boxing instruction, and currently receives advanced instruction with Lee Wedlake, 8th Degree Black Belt of Fort Meyers FL; Huk Planas, 10th Degree Black Belt, New Orleans, LA; Al Mcluckie, Fort Wayne, IN, and Debra Weisenburger Liptez, Columbus, Ohio. Past and present professional affiliations include the Chinese Karate Federation, International Kenpo Karate Association, and the national Association of Professional Martial Artistes. Mr. Hatfield volunteers many hours in the Knox County community doing workshops, demonstrations, and programs in the area of Martial Arts, Self-Defense, Stress management, Movement, and Relaxation. He has done programs for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Knox County, Mount Vernon City Schools, Fredericktown High School, Family Fun Day, Dan Emmett Music & Arts Festival, Knox County Alternative School, and Freedom Center. He volunteers weekly at the Knox County Adult Day Care Center. In 2003, Panther Kenpo Karate Studio received the Child Advocate Business of the Year Award from though Children and Family First Council of Knox County. |
Gerry Payn “Abraham Lincoln”
He is a retired science teacher and guidance counselor, a former dairy farm owner-operator, and is active with the Congress Community Church, Northwestern Ruritan Club and Wayne County Historical Society. Payn graduated from The Ohio State University College of Agriculture, where he played tuba in the OSU marching band. He is married to Marilyn and has three children and six grandchildren. |
The Stockdale Family Band |
Knox Choraliers
Singers who wish to participate get a recommendation from the music teacher in their school, which indicates that they can sing in tune, and then audition for the director of the Choraliers. Auditions are held on the first Monday after Labor Day each year. Questions about the Choraliers may be directed to Diane Dingler, the director at Pleasant Street Elementary School, 393-5990. |
Briar Studio
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Danville Jazz Band
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Hollie Stone
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Mike & Chris Petee
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Allison Patterson  Allison was in the American premier of the opera Apollo and Daphne and
in the fall part of another world premier of La Virtu de Stralli d'Amore and many more operas and plays. She was the winner of Knox Idol at the 2006 Dan Emmett Music & Arts Festival. Allison graduated from East Knox High School and now attends Bowling Green majoring in Vocal Performance with a minor in Arts Management. Singing has always been a part of her life with career goals to sing with opera companies and share her love of music with others. She has been performing many years, with this year being her 3rd at the Dan Emmett Music & Arts Festival. She is the daughter of David and Leslie Patterson. |
Brittany Roberts
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Dance Revolution
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Lowell Borchers
Lowell specializes in the sounds of the 40s, 50s, and 60s with the sounds of a complete band and backup singers. All done live, playing a Yamaha 9000 keyboard, this music is sure to bring back memories. |
Cynthia Mannessen
Cynthia has sung at conventions, churches, weddings, and many vocal and talent competitions in America as well as abroad. She has been a camp counselor and on the music staff of three camps. Currently, she is on the worship and praise team of Colonial City Baptist Church. Cynthia loves to use her voice to share her faith in Christ, through both music and poetry she has written. Some of her compositions have been published. Mannessen looks forward to receiving her American Citizenship, as this is her adopted homeland. She is the daughter of Marcel Mannessen of Arnhem, The Netherlands and Heidi Van Hoof of Zevenaar, The Netherlands. Currently she is residing in Mount Vernon. |
Dogwood Blossoms
The Dogwood Blossoms Chorus has entertained audiences throughout central Ohio. They perform annually at Ye Olde Mill and The Dan Emmett Music and Arts Festival. The chorus also sings at area nursing homes, churches, banquets, reunions and other meetings. Their repertoire includes old standards, pop, country, gospel and Broadway. To contact them to schedule a performance, please call 740-397-7954 or 740-398-8712. This year’s annual show will be held December 8, 2007 at the Memorial Theater in Mount Vernon. Entitled I’ll Be Home Out For Christmas, the show will feature the chorus members in prison. Returning as the guest quartet is The Hot Air Buffoons. This comedy quartet promises to entertain the audience to a point just short of hyperventilation! They were the 2001 Comedy Quartet Champions and 2006 International Quartet Semifinalists. The Dogwood Blossoms Chorus meets every Tuesday evening at ThePlace@TheWoodward at 111 South Main Street, Mount Vernon, OH. Rehearsals begin at 7:30. All women who enjoy singing are invited to attend a rehearsal. For more information, contact 740-668-7222. |
Lew Sleeman
Lew does his solo act at various clubs and festivals in the area, as well as guesting with prominent local bands. In March he appeared with "Sweet Revenge" at the Memorial Theater before a packed house, and most recently with "The Nomads" at the Kenyon Inn. His recent performances at Loretta Lynn's Ranch near Nashville can be viewed on line at www.lewsleeman.com along with his appearance on "Good Day Columbus". As for the Dan Emmett Festival, Lew hopes to add a learning experience to the entertainment with a "surprise" song from his new "Blues Stew" cd. |
Elixir Elixir is based out of Mount Vernon and has performed for many community concerts, museums, schools, libraries, and festivals. Thousands of Ohio school children are now hooked on Goober Peas and know twelve important facts about Ohio from singing Elixir’s own “12 Days of Ohio Bicentennial” sung to the “12 Days of Christmas” of course, written by Mike Petee, founder of Elixir. Elixir is known for their tight harmonies, interesting instrumentations, and the fun that they bring to their performances. It’s hard to find a group that can bring kindergarteners to giggles in the morning, win over middle schoolers in the afternoon, and impress a group of retirees in the evening. They are a group for all ages. Elixir is comprised of Mike Petee, playing guitar and electric bass, Chris Petee on guitar, guitjo, and funky percussion instruments, and Gerry Rensel burning up the strings on guitar, mandolin, and fiddle. Elixir is a fee supported group through the Ohio Arts Council. |
Lip Sync Contest
In order to encourage creativity, solo and duet performances will compete in the same category. Duet entries will be placed in the age category of the older duet member. Scoring will be based on a scale of 40 points: creativity/originality (20 points); appearance (10 points), and lip sync (10 points). Division entries will be as follows: Solo/duet and group (age category based on oldest performer in duet or group)
Please limit performance to a maximum of three minutes. Contestants must provide music on cassette, ready to play. A tape player will be provided. Please provide your own props. The committee reserves the right to split or combine classes according to the number of entries. Groups may go before solo/duet entries. The order of performances is up the committee. However, the youngest ages will perform first. The judges' decisions will be final. Prizes will be awarded for the first three places in each class. |
Appalachian Eucharist In conjunction with the Dan Emmett Music & Arts Festival, St. Paul's Episcopal Church, located at 100 East High Street, will offer an Appalachian Eucharist on Sunday, August 12th. The service will feature Appalachian and Bluegrass hymnody with authentic Appalachian instruments. All are welcome to attend this joyful beginning at 9:30 am. |
Line Drive
The Line Drive members are John Guisinger - bass guitar & vocals, Roger Westfield - lead guitar & vocals, Brad Bogner- keyboards & vocals, Jeff Schillinger - drums & vocals. Lind Drive plays 50’s thru 70’s top 40- pop/rock and roll!! “We don’t BLAST you off your feet with hard and heavy rock, yet we certainly don’t put you to sleep with elevator-type music.” We recreate the oldies (all Top 40 hits) as you remember them. For much of the year, Line Drive is busy playing a lot of the area’s private clubs and lodges, along with the usual wedding receptions, private parties and class reunions. When the warm weather arrives, Line Drive can be found playing in town festivals, car shows, fair and various other events. For bookings, call or email John at (419) 347-6568 or jgoosemusic@aol.com. |
New Covenant
Mount Vernon Nazarene University is a private, four-year, intentionally Christian teaching university for traditional age students, graduate students and working adults. U.S. News & World Report ranks MVNU in the Top 50 Best in the Midwest (Bachelor’s). With a 400-acre main campus in Mount Vernon, Ohio and satellite Adult and Graduate Studies campuses in Columbus, Cincinnati, Lima and Newark, MVNU emphasizes academic excellence, spiritual growth and service to community and church. MVNU offers an affordable education to more than 2,450 students from 24 states and 11 countries. |
The Shumans
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The Nomads
BiographiesSteve Frye: Steve plays guitar, harmonica, flute and vocals with “The Nomads”. He joined “The Nomads” in the late ‘80s and handles the lion’s share of lead vocals. He is also called upon for the high harmony. Steve is a veteran of various rock and roll bands since high school, such as Power Plant. His greatest musical influences are the Beatles, Rolling Stones, Led Zepplin and Joe Walsh. Jerry Kies: Jerry plays bass guitar and vocals with “The Nomads”. He has been playing in the central Ohio area of the last 15 years in the bands Slippin’ Around, The Dave Hall Group, and Cryin’ Out Loud. He has an extensive travel package which has included Georgia, Alabama and New Jersey. Jerry played for Southeast Entertainment and opened for Roddie McDowell, George Jones, and a little known band called Messenger, who was the first garage band winner on MTV. He has been playing for 29 years starting in the usual fashion of the garage band. Jerry plays the 5 string electric bass, he has several four string basses and a double bass. He plays some guitar, piano, harmonica and trumpet. Kevin (KR) Mishey: KR plays guitar and sings lead and backup vocals in “The Nomads”. KR joined his first rock and roll band, Rock Dimension, at the tender age of 13. Since then, he has played with various local groups such as Apricot Brandy, Darke Horse, and T.J. Lewis and the Bluestones. KR's early influences were The Jimi Hendrix Experience, The Rolling Stones, Creedence Clearwater Revival as well as the late ‘60s Chicago blues scenes. KR joined “The Nomads’ in the early ‘90s and has had the opportunity to perform with some of the founding members. Rusty Shinabery: Rusty plays drums for “The Nomads”. Rusty started his musical career 25 years ago in his native Indiana playing drums with the band Country Cadillac’s. He also opened for country artists Ronnie Milsap. Since moving to Ohio, he has played with the groups Slippin’ Around, Against The Grain, J.T. Lewis and the Bluestones. Rusty is also a member of the Morrow County Pot Holes. Robert (Doc) Shipley: Robert plays keyboard, and sings lead and backup vocals for “The Nomads”. He inherited his name “Doc” while playing professionally throughout the ‘70s and ‘80s in the southern California music scene. He has played with Cryin’ Out Loud, Slippin’ Around, Shaun Booker Blues Review and T.J. Lewis and the Bluestones. Doc joined “The Nomads” in 2005. His piano and organ expertise adds a new musical dimension to “The Nomads’ song list. Doc prefers to refer to his musical style as AARP rock. For booking information contact KR Mishey at 740-397-5272, ext 101, or email midohio@ecr.net. |
The McManaways
The McManaways will be performing Southern Gospel Music on Sunday, August 12, at 2 p.m. on the Gambier Street Stage. The McManaways are members of the Centerburg Church of Christ. They have also been seen locally at the Danville-Howard Turkey Festival and will perform at the Centerburg Oldtime Farming Festival. The group has also performed at the Ohio State Fair many times as well as other area festivals. |
Chestnut Ridge
The all gospel group, Chestnut Ridge, is from the Knox County are and have been playing together for about two years. Its members include: Jeanell Branstool – mandolin and vocals; Tom Branstool – vocals, Jim Dunfee – guitar and vocals; John Elswick – Banjo. They enjoy playing for various churches, nursing facilities, community gatherings, festivals, and family events. They have played at several “First Fridays” events in Mount Vernon, Ohio, and in the local restaurants Sips and Peggy Sue’s. They are excited about their first CD entitled “I Believe”, which is available. A second CD is in progress. For booking information or current schedules, go online to www.chestnutridgemusic.com. Sit back, relax, and put a smile on your face! We look forward to seeing you! |
John Vining, Heather Green & Friends
John is proud to introduce composer/performer Heather Green who provides second Keyboard and vocals. Heather is a recent graduate of Ohio Northern University, with a BFA in Music Theater. She has appeared in many ONU productions; as Little Red in Sondheims “Into the Woods”, Louise in Steve Martin’s “The Underpants”, and created the role of Vivian in “Shattered Stories” under legendary Mexican director Otto Minera during ONU’s International Play Festival. Her international credits include performances in San Luis Potosi, Mexico. She recently appeared as Sister Berta in the Renaissance Theater production of the Sound of Music. |
Inflatable Playland
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Carole Dance Studio has been training and entertaining in Knox County for 54 years! Caring faculty members Emily Thompson (Director), Stephanie Stute (Ballet, Pointe, Gymnastics), Katie Delozier (Tap, Ballet, Jazz) and Tonya Cubbage (Tap, Gymnastics) work closely with students to educate and oversee that proper form and technique is practiced, and that the choreography reflects the current trends in dance styles. Carole Dance Studio produces two dance concerts per year, as well as performs in parades, festivals and assisted living centers. Students, ranging in age from 2-adult, participate recreationally and/or competitively- winning first place creativity, and student recognition awards. Many students haven become career dance professionals. Excited to once again be entertaining during the Dan Emmett Music & Arts Festival, Carole Dance Studio is proud to present “Star Spangled Tribute”, a dance production dedicated to the American Soldiers who volunteer their lives to keep us free.
The Caffiends is a strong, beautiful mix of two to four part harmonies accompanied by intricate acoustic six‑string guitar, twelve‑string guitar, electric nylon string guitar, electric violin, mandolin, electric/acoustic bass and/or percussion. Their songs are an eclectic assortment of rock and roll, country, folk, jazz, and bluegrass featuring hits from the 50's, 60's, 70's, 80's, and 90's. A typical set might include original songs blended in with songs by the Beatles, the Eagles, Crosby, Stills & Nash, the Doobie Brothers, the Everly Brothers, a bluegrass standard, or a new contemporary pop/rock hit. If a particular engagement requires drums a customized complete band can be assembled to fit the occasion. 
Right Brain Productions, (RBP) is a collection of both creative and business minded individuals interested in throwing open the doors of opportunity to creative pursuits. RPB are friends and families who believe that each of us have a muse, an interest, a talent worth sharing and pursuing. Existing for the past four years, RBP has enjoyed developing various cultural art experiences including shows like “Annie Warbucks”, Cotton Patch Gospel”, “Disney Spectacular”, “Snoopy” and a festive Christmas musical “A Holiday to Remember” a review of seasonal favorites. In addition RBP was responsible for a full day of family oriented entertainment presentations for the Mount Vernon Bicentennial Celebrations last summer. Stepping “out of the box”, RBP developed and played host to its first Mass Handbell Festival in North Central Ohio. Thriving on the adage, “Imagine, Create and Enjoy”, all family members are encouraged to participate and “play” in or with any of the activities that we develop. We advocate youth involvement and encourage second thru twelfth graders to get involved in a vast array of cultural art events. Our summer home is located at the Children’s Garden associated with and located behind the Knox County Career Center. We have concluded our third season with the Youth School of Mime with the production of “Peter Pan”. Mark your calendar for our up coming events at various venues throughout the county. They include a youth show “Readers Theater” to be presented in September in association with the Knox County Fun Day. In October, we welcome all family members to the Children’s Garden for our second “Pumpkin Walk" associated with the Knox County Extension Agency. In December, we will develop and present seasonal presentations including a Madrigals and another festive musical review of seasonal favorites. Next year look for another Central Ohio Mass Handbell Festival in April, Bowling Green State University Men’s Chorus Alumni Concert in May and our fourth season of the Youth School of Mime in June. Interested in participating in any of our events? We would love to have you. If you are in charge of planning entertainment for your group, give us a call. We can customize a presentation to suit your needs. Knox County and specifically Mount Vernon is considered one of “Ohio’s Most Livable Communities”. Our community fosters cultural, educational and business opportunities that encourage such a viable notation. We, too wish to foster the growth of this area through enriching activities that accentuate this area. If you would like more information about Right Brain Production please call, Joseph or Marty Bell at 393-2355.
The Apple Valley Singers were established in 1989 and are the unofficial “goodwill ambassadors” from Apple Valley to an ever growing number of Knox County residents and organizations. They sing with one purpose: that is to lift their voices in song and bring joy and happiness to those who hear them. The group welcomes any new singers who are residents of Apple Valley. Their choral performances for this summer season will contain traditional and show tunes, as well as a stirring medley of patriotic tunes for young and old. The Apple Valley Singers perform at retirement and nursing homes by request, as well as the annual fall performance in Apple Valley’s community center. They will be performing a Christmas program at the First Congregational Church and the Living Center during Mount Vernon’s Christmas Walk.
Jessi Clinger attends Mount Vernon High School. She has been singing and performing since she was a small child. This is her 4th year at the Dan Emmett Festival. Jess has performed at the MVHS Forum Show’s and various talent shows. She recently got a call back after performing for the MGM talent search in Columbus, Ohio. With that performance, she has been asked to perform in Orlando, Florida. Jess is hoping to travel to South Carolina in August to audition for American Idol. Along with shopping, singing, and socializing, Jess works in the Mount Vernon Park program and Hiawatha Water Park. 
Jamee Gresley attends at OSU-Newark. She is double majoring in psychology and anthropology. She hopes to obtain a Masters in both subjects and a Doctorate in psychology. She is returning to the Dan Emmett Festival for her 7th performance this year. She sings a variety of music for all listeners, including some of her own from her CD entitled Violets in September. Jamee has been writing songs since age 7 and continues to write in her free time. 
BreAyne Groom is excited to be back at the Dan Emmett Festival for her 3rd year. She is the daughter of Bryan and DeAnne Groom. BreAyne is a cheerleader at East Knox High School. BreAyne has performed in the Christmas Walk, Food for the Hungry, and Knox County Fair where she performs in her own show and sings the National Anthem. She also sings the National Anthem at the East Knox Varsity Football and Basketball games. BreAyne is a member of the Knox County Musicians in Action, and is an assistant with the TaVaci School of performing arts. BreAyne also enjoys singing in her church, going to the beach and being with her friends. After high school she plans to attend Brigham Young University and become a nurse. 
On Friday evening on the First Knox stage, you can see, experience and participate in a contra dance. This is a way of showing you how much fun it is and as an introduction to the new monthly contra dance series at ThePlace@TheWoodward (111 S. Main Street in historic downtown Mount Vernon) on the fourth Sunday of each month from 2:00-5:00 pm.
Liz Vining has been on stage since before she could walk. Traveling with her parents as they performed made music part of her life. Not only does she come from a musical world, but also a theatrical one. She has done much work locally and with the Mount Vernon High School including Crazy for You, Once Upon a Mattress, and most recently Long Live Rock and Roll. In years past, Liz has preformed with her family in the Dan Emmett Festival, and starting in 2004, she began performing for the festival on her own. Liz hopes to take her talents as far as she can, and have a career in the Musical Theater field. She plans to attend Ohio Northern University, majoring in Communication Arts, with a distinction in Musical Theater. "I just live for reaching out to my audience," says Liz, "It’s a way for them to see a little piece of me, one song at a time."
Mount Vernon, Ohio’s own Autumn Daze performs classic rock, country and rhythm and blues. With a total of 150 years performing experience between band members, the group is well experienced at entertaining. They have performed at major fairs and festivals all across Ohio. Autumn Daze consists of Roger Chalfant- keyboards, Dave Metcalf- guitar, John Ellis- Guitar, Jim Bartow- drums, Irina Ellis- keyboards, Lori Metcalf- vocals. With five singers, they have strong vocals and musical abilities. 
Larry Stahl and Steve Ball are musicians from the central Ohio area who have played music of all types in the Coshocton area for over fifteen years. Stahl, a long-time resident, is both a diary farmer and township trustee in Adams Township. Larry is an accomplished musician on many instruments including fiddle, guitar, dobro, and mandolin. He is well known in the area as a champion quality fiddle player, and actively plays several square dances a month in a dance band in Coshocton County. Stahl has an excellent knowledge of American history, Coshocton County history, and American folk and country music. 
Saxton’s Cornet Band recreates the sounds, appearance, and conduct of brass bands during the antebellum and Civil War eras. Their programs are full of energy and are very entertaining both musically and visually. The performance is a complete historically accurate concert experience from the mid-nineteenth century, complete with dramatic readings and period humor in addition to the excellent music. 
TaVaci School of Performing Arts is excited to be performing again at the Dan Emmett Festival. TaVaci is a children/youth singing, performing arts group in Knox County. TaVaci has been in Knox County for 8 years and has taught hundreds of students age 4-13 vocal technique, stage presence, choreography, drama and diction. TaVaci performs in two full concerts (major productions) each year at the Memorial Theatre, as well as the Knox County Fair, Dan Emmett Music & Arts Festival and many other performances. TaVaci is now registering with limited class spaces available for September classes. The lessons and classes are taught at a new great facility—ThePlace@TheWoodward. TaVaci is under the direction of DeAnne Groom. 
Steve Hatfield is life long resident to Knox County. He holds the rank of Fifth Degree Black Belt and has studied the martial Arts for over thirty years, specializing in the American Kenpo Karate Parker System for the past twenty. He has been teaching professionally since 1986 as owner, operator, and Head Teacher of the Panther Kenpo Karate Studio in Mount Vernon, Ohio.
Gerald “Gerry” Payn began presenting Abraham Lincoln in 1999 after being inspired by James Getty of Gettysburg, Pa. The Wooster resident has spoken at schools, churches, retirement centers, service clubs, and Civil War re-enactments. 
The Stockdale Family Band performs a combination of Traditional and Gospel Bluegrass and Appalachian music with a touch of comedy for good measure. Father, Tim, and brothers Calvin, Charles, Jacob and James often spend kitchen and farm chore time together singing their favorite songs and honing their harmonies. Their 5 piece band includes guitar, fiddle, mandolin, and banjo and bass. The Stockdale Boys are especially suited for stage performance, as their affection for people and enthusiasm for traditional acoustic music is infectious to audiences. The family has played for Grandma’s Alpine Homestead, Guggisberg Swiss Inn, festivals, parties, state parks, schools and churches. Recently, they have earned first play in 2 band contests. Jacob is the Ohio State Youth Fiddle Champion for 2006. With an entertaining and down-style home stage show, the Stockdales provide an event that the whole family is sure to enjoy. Demo songs can be heard on 
The Knox Choraliers Youth Enrichment Choir, which is offered through the Gifted Education Departments of the Mount Vernon City and Knox County Schools, has been serving musically talented youth for 12 years. Students learn vocal technique as well as musical skills sing in several languages and perform for numerous events. The Choraliers sang with John Denver on his last tour through Columbus. Most students who participate in Knox Choraliers are in grades four through eight, though younger children are accepted if they possess exceptional talent. Students come from public and private schools as well as home schools.
Briar Studio Dance and Gymnastics has been open for the past four years. In June, 2006 it went under new ownership. Since that time we have added new equipment to include vault and bars. We are in the process of building a spring floor. With these new additions, the gymnasts have progressed in their skills and have enjoyed learning new skills. We have three levels of classes for gymnastics that includes beginner, intermediate and advanced. Dance includes ballet and tap. The students perform a winter and spring recital each year. They also perform at a variety of locations throughout the year. Gymnastics is all year long as dance is from September to April. For enrollment or questions, contact Suzanne Boyer at 740-397-7923. 
The Danville High School Jazz Band has been in existence for 52 years. There are currently fifteen members who are lad by band director, Christie Cochran. Their repertoire includes classic jazz, swing, cool jazz, and rock ‘n roll with a jazz flair. The group performs several times a year at a wide variety of venues. They have played at weddings, nursing homes, churches, jazz festivals, Christmas parties, concerts and Food for the Hungry. Each year the band performs at Easton Town Centre and the Danville Lions’ Club Raccoon Dinner. This will be the second time that the jazz band has had the honor of performing at the Dan Emmett Music & Arts Festival. 
Hollie Stone is a recent graduate of Danville High School. She is in the youth choir at the Millwood Church of Christ and also performs special music solos there as well. 
Married for nearly 15 years, singing together for over 17 years, Mike and Chris Petee are familiar to the public as 2/3’s of the group Elixir. As a duo, they perform under the name FolkTails and utilize songs from all genres, new and old, and some of Mike’s originals that do not fit the Elixir format. Mike and Chris are happy to get a chance to showcase songs and harmonies that have their, own unique approach and delivery. They are preparing songs they love, have admired, a couple from out of their treasure chest of songs and, knowing them, some surprises as well. Chris and Mike want the audience to know that they will not be using any canned music, what you hear will be the duo on a variety of REAL instruments, making it a truly live performance. The Dan Emmett Music & Arts Festival are proud to present Mike and Chris Petee, making their first appearance as a duo at the festival. We’re sure you won’t be disappointed.
Brittany Roberts attends Mount Vernon
High School. She loves to sing and has been singing"at the top of her lungs" since she was just a little girl. Brittany
has performed in many different venues including church,
school choir, Nazarene Impact Team, and was also a finalist in the Knox
Idol competition in 2006. She enjoys singing
many styles of music including country, Broadway hits and contemporary
Christian. She hopes to audition for American
Idol next year and maybe someday sing on Broadway. 
Dance Revolution, Ltd., Mount Vernon’s home for quality dance education, offers instruction in tap, jazz, ballet, pointe, and song and dance for students of all ability levels ages two through adult. Located at 113A Howard Street, Mount Vernon, the studio, under the ownership of Therese and Sue Marotte, has flourished since its opening in 2003. Students enjoy many performance opportunities, including annual recitals at the Memorial Theater, regional dance competitions, the Dan Emmett Music & Arts Festival, and local nursing homes. Through this and weekly instruction, students gain self-confidence, pride, poise, teamwork, and physical fitness in a positive and nurturing environment. All classes are open for observation to provide family members an opportunity to witness dance development. Registration for fall classes will be Saturday, August 4 from 2:00 - 4:00 pm and Saturday, August 11 from 2:00 - 4:00 pm as well as by appointment thereafter. For more information, please contact the studio at (740) 392-TAPS. 
Lowell
Borchers, keyboard and vocal artist, has been entertaining professionally
for the past twenty years. He has appeared at convention centers,
restaurants and clubs around central Ohio playing for corporate events,
private parties and festivals.
At her young age, Cynthia Mannessen has experienced much in the world of music. She began her singing career at the age of seven when she sang in her father’s wedding.
The Dogwood Blossoms Chapter of Sweet Adelines International formed in 1980 and officially became a chapter when they received their charter in October 1981. Since that time the chorus has grown in number and most of all musically as they strive to improve those barbershop chords. Currently the chorus has about 30 members, representing six counties and thirteen cities and towns. 
Lew is looking forward to performing on the 1st Knox Main Stage again
this year. Since performing on the first season of "Pepsi's Gimme the Mike" television show, Lew has had an active music career. The exposure has
resulted in several subsequent follow-up appearances on Fox news, as well as
being asked to sing and be interviewed on the "Good Day Columbus" television
show.
Come and hear Elixir re-invent Americana music. They’ve been putting their unique styling to American 1800’s music for 15 years, traveling throughout the great state of Ohio. (They were even allowed into West Virginia a couple of times). Long before Bruce Springsteen thought it might be neat, Elixir had been doing a reggae version of “Down in the Valley” and a rockin’ Beach Boys rendition of “Skip to My Lou.” Don’t let the clothes fool you. Elixir will have you tapping your toes, clapping your hands, and singing along to classic Americana tunes done their way. Elixir celebrates the music of Dan Emmett all year long with Old Dan Tucker, Turkey in the Straw, and Dixie. An Elixir performance is kind of like putting Peter, Paul, and Mary and the Smothers Brothers in a bottle.
The creative Lip Sync will be held on Saturday, August 11. Registration will take place near the stage area, starting at 6:00 p.m. The Lip Sync will begin at 7:00 p.m.
Line Drive is an “oldies band” operating mainly in the North-Central Ohio area. Its members reside in the cities of Mansfield and Shelby, Ohio. Line Drive consists of 4 vocalists/musicians who have been performing and playing music together for over 12 years.
NEW COVENANT is an official traveling music and ministry group from
Mount Vernon Nazarene University, and shares God's message through worship and music throughout Ohio, West Virginia and Eastern Kentucky.
Members include: Preston Flemming (Mount Vernon, Ohio), Matt Henry (Amherst, Ohio), Andrew Scholz (Sunbury, Ohio), Phil Stinson (Maysville, Kentucky), Ryan Stroop (Pottstown, Pennsylvania), and Abe Williams (Teays Valley, West Virginia).
Sam Shuman has been playing music professionally for over 30 years. His son Jesse
has been playing guitar since he was 8 years old. Jesse Shuman has performed at the
Forum Show and has most recently joined his father in performing at The Kenyon Inn
and Ye Olde Mill. Together The Shumans play a variety of original compositions as
well as crowd favorites. Sam Shuman has entertained at dozens of colleges and over
100 festivals including the Ohio State Fair and Jamboree in the Hills. In his
professional career Shuman has also opened shows for Johnny Cash, Merle Haggard,
Loretta Lynn and Charlie Daniels. His album credits include, Fly Like the Wind, LongBlack Train, andmost recently, Bridges. Bridges includes the much requested song “We All Held Hands” which was performed at the Mount Vernon High School
commencement ceremony last year.
“The Nomads” was formed in the mid ‘60s by a group of Knox County musicians who were inspired by rock and roll music of that era. Although, none of the original members remain in the band today, the legacy of early American and British rock music lives on with the current Nomad line up.
The McManaway Family Singers consists of Charlie and Margie McManaway and daughters, Cyndy Bonsignore and Kim Atkinson, all of the Mount Vernon area.
Real. Gospel. Bluegrass. As simply as we can define it, that’s the music of Chestnut Ridge. Our audience? Anyone who enjoys music…from nursing homes to coffeehouses to churches, we just like making music together….so please don’t mind us if we bust out laughing in the middle of a song…and we won’t mind of you decide to sing along. Check us out…live or on our CD…and thanks for listening….
John Vining’s voice has bee praised throughout the country for its beauty, sweetness, and strength. John has appeared in numerous operas and award winning off Broadway shows. His credits include performances at Lincoln Center, The Kennedy Center, The Brooklyn Academy of Music, Wolf Trap and other major theaters throughout the United States. His training includes performance degrees from the Cleveland Institute of Music and Case Western Reserve University, and additional training at the Santa Fe Opera and the Metropolitan Opera. The ensemble, comprised of multi-keyboards, bass and drums, gives John a rich sound and strong backing for the outstanding vocals.
Once again, we will have an inflatable playland with a maze and a slide. Bring the kids down for a good time. Find us on Gambier Street with the Homemades and Trades!
Note: All schedules and events are subject to change without notice. Please continue to check our website for all the latest updates.
For more information, call 740-392-FEST
(3378)
or e-mail:
festival@danemmettfestival.org
or visit the Knox County Convention &
Visitors Bureau at www.VisitKnoxOhio.org
