“The 12 Strings of Christmas”

2665 4th Avenue,Anoka MN 55303

17 December, 2022

Description

The music of 3rd Elephant is a rich blend of traditions. Classical works, hymns, and ethnic folk melodies, share the stage with jazz standards, soundtracks, and original music. Violin and cello find themselves sitting comfortably alongside banjo, guitar, mandolin, and even baritone ukulele. The trio’s unique sound reflects the diverse musical backgrounds of its members. Nathan Wilson began playing violin when he was 8 years old, at the encouragement of his grandfather. He now holds a master’s degree in violin performance from the University of Minnesota, and continues to study and perform in a broad range of styles. Nathan’s easygoing manner, and his instrumental skills on both violin and mandolin, have made him a favorite guest of tap-style guitarist Billy McLaughlin, with whom he has made countless live and recorded appearances since 2006. Charles Asch received his master’s degree in classical cello from Juilliard in 2011, and completed his Doctorate of Musical Arts at the University of Minnesota in the spring of 2017. He has performed, as a cellist, with high-level classical ensembles such as Lyra Baroque Orchestra, Bach Society of MN, and MN Opera, and is also a highly proficient pianist. Benji Flaming is a veteran of the acoustic string music scene. His full-time touring career, first as a member of the bluegrass band Monroe Crossing, and later as a member of the folk band Good Morning Bedlam, spanned over 1,000 shows throughout the U.S., Canada, and Europe. His debut album, a collection of original compositions entitled Solo Banjo, was nominated in 2 categories at the 2010 International Bluegrass Music Awards. Each 3rd Elephant concert is a special journey, inviting the audience to join the musicians as they explore boundaries and find new harmony between musical territories. Tickets are $25.00 in advance and $30.00 at the door. Seating is general admission and doors open at 6:30 PM. Concessions will be available for sale during the concert. The Music Factory is located on the 2nd floor of the WWI era Old Milk Factory on the Rum River in Anoka. It is not a wheelchair accessible building and there are some stairs to climb. *For attendees in groups of eight or more who want to sit together, please feel free to contact us in advance and we are willing to set aside a group of chairs in the back seating section of the main room floor for your group. We don’t do group discounts.