Monroe Crossing at the Otter Opry

MONROE CROSSING WITH OTTER OPRY

AT MONTEREY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

Heads up, California! On Thursday, March 12th, Minnesota-based Monroe Crossing will grace the Otter Opry stage with 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.

Monroe Crossing consists of four distinct personalities with differing musical backgrounds: Mark Anderson (bass), Lisa Fuglie (fiddle & lead vocals), Matt Thompson (mandolin & harmony vocals) and Derek Johnson (guitar & lead vocals). The band also utilizes a cadre of talented banjo players – Benji Flaming, David Robinson and Graham Sones – all of whom are alumni of the group. When combined, the individual histories of these outstanding musicians make for a truly unique sound.

In 2007, Monroe Crossing was inducted into the Minnesota Music Hall of Fame. They have twice been selected to showcase at the annual World of Bluegrass convention hosted by the International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA). They have also appeared twice at Carnegie Hall in New York City. In 2016, Monroe Crossing had the honor of being the first Minnesota bluegrass band to perform in South Korea. This is a bluegrass experience you won’t want to miss, and you can make it even more special with a delicious roasted chicken dinner before the show ($15 in advance, $20 after March 7th). Online sales will end at 11am the day of the performance.

7pm. Monterey United Methodist Church, 1 Soledad Drive, Monterey. $35/show (CBA members $30; 15 and under free). www.otteropry.org