Tunesmith Night, Saturday, October 14, 2023, 7pm PST
Odd Fellows Hall, 105 NE First Street, Enterprise, Oregon
The Wallowa Valley Music Alliance launches the 18th season of Tunesmith Night, a showcase of original music. The concert features three songwriters sharing their original work in a round-robin format, at the historic Enterprise Odd Fellows Hall. The unique listening space provides an up-close and intimate experience for both audience and performers.
The Saturday, October 14 concert features Mike Coykendall, Janis Carper and Travis Ward. Doors open at 6:30pm with music starting at 7pm. Admission is $10. Drink service provided.
More on the songwriters below:
Mike Coykendall
Veteran songwriter, producer and multi-instrumentalist Mike Coykendall has been amazingly prolific over the last three decades or so. Currently most well-known for his duties as a sideman, producer, and recordist via his work with M Ward, Blitzen Trapper, She & Him, Sallie Ford, Tommy Alexander, The Minders, & Tin Hat Trio, to name a few, Coykendall has been making his own unique outsider records since the mid 80s. This will be his first appearance at Tunesmith Night.
Janis Carper
Janis Carper has an ability to craft lyrics and melodies that reach into the heart and mind. Her solid guitar playing supports songs that grip the listener—from the somber and reflective to the light and humorous. Carper’s singing style reflects influences like Bonnie Raitt, Rosanne Cash, and Lucinda Williams. She has numerous recordings of original music to her credit, and is also known locally for her work as executive director of the Wallowa Valley Music Alliance.
Travis Ward
Travis Ward is a bare knuckled folk singer, a broke down blues man, a DIY archivalist, producer, retired basketball player, fly fisher, poodle walker, but most importantly, a family man. Travis has toured the US, UK, and Europe. He’s played countless dive bars, festivals, and theaters from near and far, created film, soundtrack and live theater work. He’s been busted, disgusted and mistrusted, yet he continues to make meaning of the world through his favorite medium, the well-crafted and timeless song.