For the last few years, after the crops have been taken off, local farmer and musician Gerry Lund has held a music in the field at his farm where he has built a rustic stage out in his ‘back 40’, with a seating area and small dance floor.
The event is open to all musicians in the area whatever their skill level and age. Usually there are people from the Westman area and Saskatchewan, while from time to time someone from south of the border will show up.
At the back of the stage there is a local back-up drum kit, bass and guitar, and after that anything can show up front, but so far no one has come out with their bagpipes!
The performers come and go all day, playing mostly Country and Western or early ‘70s R & R. While there are always a few dancers out there, back stage there is a lot of exchanging of ideas, chord patterns and checking out each other’s gear - all in good fun.
It was a warm afternoon with a slight breeze as the music continued, while down at the nearby, manmade beach children swim and play and a few brave souls try out kayaks, that come with life jackets. Even a few adults tried the swings out on that beautiful day.
In back of the stage, a few hundred feet away, the electric power generator chugs away, with checks every now and then on the gas level.
Around 5:00 p.m. a field supper is set up, catered by the Elkhorn Creamee and everyone gets to eat, due to the generosity of Gerry.
After supper, the crowd of visitors and musicians thins out a bit, but the music continues until darkness shuts it down.
Music in the Field is a fun family event that marks the end of summer, but the music and fun of the day will live on the whole winter through.
Gerry Lund making music with friends (l-r) Angela Touround, Gerry Lund and Lyle Rowan performing at the Music in the Field event at Gerry Lund's farm, near Elkhorn.
