The Rhythms and Grits of Mahtowa's Rugged Spruce Golf Club
In the small town of Mahtowa, Colleen Myhre and her husband Jim have created a bustling hub for local music at the Rugged Spruce Golf Club. Especially during the summer months, this place comes alive with the sounds of various musical genres. Myhre herself is a music enthusiast and performs as Boss Mama, infusing her performances with "soul, rhythm and grit" as she sings blues, country, and folk.
Myhre's Musical Journey
As a mother of two, Colleen Myhre taught herself to play the guitar in her 20s. It wasn't until she was 30 years old that she took the leap and started performing professionally. Her inspiration came from seeing Parr play in Duluth. Today, she is a regular on the local music scene, playing 3 to 5 shows a week and participating in several festivals each year. She often collaborates with northern Minnesota musicians, adding to the rich tapestry of the Duluth music scene.She believes that the music scene in Minnesota is on the rise. "From Grand Marais down to Winona, there are so many places to play and people are coming," she said. "We live in a place with just 80 people, but on Saturday nights, we get 250 people. When you have good bands at your place, people will come. They want it."
The Impact of COVID on Arts Venues
Last August, MinnPost conducted a survey of arts venues across the state. The results showed that most arts venues reported smaller audiences since the lifting of COVID restrictions. However, both Hanson and Myhre have noticed a different trend. They believe that audiences have returned to rural Minnesota music venues and may even be larger than before.Myhre shared her optimism, saying, "Maybe I'm just hopeful, but I think it's growing. People are craving live music and they are coming out to support local artists. It's a great time for the music scene in Minnesota."
The Local Music Scene in Detail
The Rugged Spruce Golf Club is not just a place for golf but also a haven for local musicians. The music here is a reflection of the community and the talent that exists within it. Myhre's performances are a testament to the power of music to bring people together.She often performs with a band that consists of local musicians. Each member brings their own unique style and talent to the table, creating a sound that is truly special. The collaboration between these musicians is what makes the music scene in Mahtowa so vibrant.Moreover, the local music scene is not limited to the Rugged Spruce Golf Club. There are many other venues across Minnesota where musicians can showcase their talent. From small cafes to large concert halls, there is a place for everyone.In conclusion, the music scene in Minnesota is alive and well. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, local musicians like Colleen Myhre are continuing to perform and bring joy to their communities. With the return of audiences and the growth of the scene, it's an exciting time for music lovers in Minnesota.
