Steel Guitars in Concert to Benefit Shriners Hospitals
Presented by Southern Illinois Productions – a 501c3 non-Profit Organization
For the 16th year, the 2016 Southern Illinois Steel Guitar Show will feature some of the finest Steel Guitarists in the world. April 14-16 at the Holiday Inn in Mt. Vernon, IL you can hear fabulous music and contribute to an extremely worthy cause, the Shriners Hospitals for Children. Dow Smith, board member for Southern Illinois Productions commented, “Last year we were able to donate nearly $7000 to the Shriners Hospital. Each year it has been a little more. We hope this year it will be even more.”
The musicians scheduled to attend have performed on the recordings of some of the greatest country music hits of all time. They are coming from all over to be at this year’s show, including Tommy Dodd who has recorded with Travis Tritt, Doug Stone, The Supremes and shared a stage with Elvis, Mike Sigler who performed with Holly Dunn, Mike McGee plays the Branson Opry Shows, Mike Jones travelled with the Barbara Mandrell Show and Corky Owens was on the road many years with Gene Watson.
The recordings of these and other artists were created by the musicians as much as by those artists. These “sidemen” were the steel, bass, fiddle, guitar and keyboard players and drummers who toured with the artists. In the studio these players created the memorable intros, turnarounds and licks that characterized your favorite country songs.
Accompanying them on stage during this magnificent show is a group of equally talented musicians. The public is invited to attend any or all of the three day event at the Mt. Vernon Holiday Inn April 14-16, 20 16 to hear again those tunes that made country music great, performed by some of the original musicians. Come check out the many vendors, visit with the players, talk shop, get autographs or just listen and enjoy!
As a special treat, returning this year by popular demand are the renowned Leona Williams and Ron Williams. For the first time at our show, we have singing sensation Teea Goans. You can check out her music on YouTube. “Southern Illinois Productions has also invited many local and regional steel players to come and perform. We are again having our Singin’ Contest for local and regional singers and cash prizes are awarded for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd places.” Smith continued. “Come cheer on your favorite singer. You will be humming tunes, tapping your toes and smiling all three days.”
For more information contact Cord Fitch at 618-927-3158 or visit www.southernillinoisproductions.org. Tickets are $12 (Thurs), $25 (Fri) and $25 (Sat) or a 3-day pass for $50. Advance tickets at discounted prices.
