Family, faith, and friends marked the annual Kalona Bluegrass Festival

KALONA — True Bluegrass music fans were not deterred by the scorching heat over the weekend as they attended the annual Bluegrass Festival in Kalona.

Friday, Saturday, and Sunday “Bluegrassers” set up camp figuratively and literally at Windmill Ridge Campground to play music, enjoy one another’s company, and listen to the beautiful harmonies of Bluegrass.

The feeling of familiarity between strangers was a beautiful sight to see.

Many walked down the gravel lane of the campground with stand-up basses, fiddles, and banjos only to stop along the path to pick up a tune with another set of musicians.

A group played “Grandpa,” by the Judds near the concessions building as they practiced to take the stage for the guest opportunities section of Saturday’s entertainment.

“Ya’ll ready for some Bluegrass music,” musician and event co-organizer asked as the stage came to life for the second set Saturday evening.

People responded despite the heat.

“Hardcore people come to this no matter the weather,” co-organizer and musician Paul Roberts said.

Bob Black, who once toured with the “Father of Bluegrass Music” Bill Monroe, skillfully played with Kristie Black and Banjoy.

The fiddle, banjos, and Dobros filled the campground.

“Almost every band here does Gospel stuff,” Bob Black said. “For me, it’s because I believe it.”

As Banjoy played their second to last song, Bob and Kristie Black sang a peaceful tune.

“I’m gonna lay my head on Jesus breast, when my time comes to go,” they sang.

Other acts for the weekend included, The Anderegg Family, Bluegrass Express, The Sodbusters, The McPunk Brothers, New Legacy, and The Great Bluegrass Herons.

The event created a welcoming atmosphere for Bluegrass lovers of all ages, as the commonly draws families in as performers.

The Anderegg family is a perfect example.

According to mother Susan Anderegg, the family began playing together around 2010 because the children saw other children in groups with their families performing at different Bluegrass concerts.

The group did not begin playing publicly together until 2017.

The four children decided to learn their instruments, practice the songs, and take to the stage themselves with their parents in tow.

While they grew up seeing their dad perform special music in church consistently, Susan was new to her role as stand-up bassist.

“They [the children] taught me how to play the bass,” she said.

Fifteen-year-old Jillian played the fiddle and showed off her beautiful harmonizing skills as the group serenaded the campground full of people.

Family and faith took center stage with New Legacy, as well.

A grandfather and his clan took the stage with smiles as they played.

“Sometimes we just gotta say God is good, and we gotta believe he’s gonna send help in His time,” Grandpa introduced one of their songs.

“Before even asking Him, help is on the way,” they sang. “Just hold on a littler longer.”

The sweet moments continued throughout the weekend and culminated in a church service.

Comments: AnnaMarie.Ward@southeastiowaunion.com