Music Recital Turns Into
Front Porch Hoedown

L-R:  Front row, Jacob Briscoe, Livie Thomas, Abrey Norman, and Jessi Wilks.  Second row, Meredith Johnson and Leilani Hayes.  Third row, Kristen Wilks and Julie Ming.  Back row, Ernie Ming, Tina Miller and Toby Moore.                                                                        Photo By: Dwight Hayes

October 29, 2007
Country and bluegrass music can trace much of it's roots back to front porch picking and singing.  When Tina Miller decided to have a recital for her music students, the idea of an old fashioned front porch hoedown seemed to fit nicely with the music that her students love instead of a more formal recital.  The students readily agreed and the plans and practice began.  Tina, along with her husband John Miller decided to host the recital, turned hoedown, on the front porch of their home and to open their home to the relatives and friends of the students.  Anyone interested in the music was invited to bring a lawn chair and enjoy the entertainment along with a kitchen full of food and refreshment.

Musical selections for each student ranged from traditional bluegrass and country tunes to an original song written for the occasion by Leilani Hayes.  The entire group of students gathered on the porch stage for a special performance of Amazing Grace.

Tina, who plays fiddle and is a lead vocalist for Canaan's Crossing, teaches fiddle, guitar and bass guitar from her home.  Bluegrass music comes natural to Tina.  Her grandfather was a master fiddler and her parents performed for years as the Dixie Bluegrass Band.  Her love and enthusiasm for the music, and her special connection with each student from the youngest to the oldest is evident.

Click here to view individual photos of the students during their performance..