Acclaimed autoharpist returns to Elgin's Highland Ave. Coffeehouse Jan. 13

The Highland Avenue Coffeehouse will welcome autoharpist Bryan Bowers at 7 p.m. Friday, Jan. 13.

Bowers was mesmerized as a child by the old call-and-answer songs of the field workers and gandy dancers (railroad laborers) near his home in Virginia. Then he encountered the uniquely American instrument the autoharp and began to play. When he moved to Seattle in 1971 he played for coins on the street and in bars. Coming back East, he performed in bluegrass festivals and began touring. Soon he was taking his place among great and beloved folk musicians as one of the best.

In the process Bowers has redefined the autoharp and become a fine singer-songwriter. He stands over 6 feet tall and deeply engages audiences with his charisma and storytelling. The Washington Times wrote, "This man makes more music from an autoharp than you can imagine from a 12-string guitar and a harpsichord combined."

In 1993, Bowers was inducted into the Autoharp Hall of Fame where he finds himself with such renowned artists as Maybelle Carter. FRETS Magazine listed him in its First Gallery of Greats alongside luminaries Chet Atkins and Itzhak Perlman.

Bowers has made many recordings. Of his 2006 CD, "Bristlecone Pine," Dirty Linen magazine wrote, "Like the venerable pine of the title track, autoharp virtuoso Bran Bowers' vocal style and instrumental prowess have grown in depth and genius over the decades. Each of these 18 tracks shines like a jewel, cut and polished by a master."

Bower's appearance at the Highland Avenue Coffeehouse is actually a return performance. More than 40 years ago, in 1972 or 1973, Bowers performed at the Colloquy Coffeehouse, also on Highland Avenue, a drop-in center and performance venue for young adults created as a joint venture of several Elgin churches. Lovers of the joys and humanity of folk music will be delighted to welcome back this gifted man whom People Magazine called, "the leading virtuoso on the autoharp."

The Highland Avenue Coffeehouse offers folk music, light refreshments, and friendly people. Located in the fellowship hall of the Highland Avenue Church of the Brethren, 783 W. Highland Ave. on Elgin's west side, it is open to the community. There is no cover charge; donations are appreciated. For information call (847) 741-5124 or go to www.hacob.org or www.facebook.com/HighlandAvenueCOB.