---

   World-class bluegrass entertainers Monroe Crossing returns to appear in concert Sunday, June 29, 5 p.m., as part of the Music in the Park summer concert series. The group will perform at the gazebo park area at Salem Lutheran Church. This is a free two-hour concert; donations are appreciated.

   Monroe Crossing performs an electrifying blend of classic bluegrass, bluegrass gospel, original bluegrass and some surprising selections outside the bluegrass genre. Named in honor of Bill Monroe, the Father of Bluegrass Music, Monroe Crossing’s superb musicianship and on-stage rapport have entertained audiences throughout the United States, Canada and Europe.

   On average, the band performs over 100 shows a year performing in intimate rooms, community theaters, major venues and outdoor festivals. They are favorites among bluegrass connoisseurs and non-bluegrass audiences alike. They love introducing newcomers to bluegrass music!

   This fall will mark will be Monroe Crossing’s 25th Anniversary. They have released 17 albums. They tour throughout the United States, Canada and will be doing their sixth tour of Europe in the fall.

   Monroe Crossing has been showered with awards, including Best Female Vocalist, Guitar, Mandolin and Banjo at the Minnesota Bluegrass & Old-Time Music Association’s 25th Anniversary Awards Banquet. Monroe Crossing is the only Bluegrass band ever nominated as the Minnesota Music Academy “Artist of the Year,” which also recognized the band with an award for “Bluegrass Album of the Year.”

   Bring lawn chairs, blankets and a picnic lunch to enjoy. Popcorn and lemonade will be available. In case of rain, the concert will take place inside the church located at 1340 County Road 5, Longville.

   Upcoming concerts in the summer concert series are Pat Surface from Ely, MN on July 20 and Ryan and Joanne Pels local musicians from Walker. Music in the Park is a community outreach activity of Salem Lutheran Church and supported by the Longville Area Community Choir. It is supported in part with grants from Longville Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce, Longville Area Foundation, and Thrivent.

---