The student news site of Marquette University

Marquette Wire

The student news site of Marquette University

Marquette Wire

The student news site of Marquette University

Marquette Wire

Winstons find musical refuge in living rooms

By Matthew T. Olson

The husband and wife, who together are the Winstons, bring 20 years of marriage, two guitars and a love for getting out and performing music to each of their shows, no matter where that show may be.

"I've gotten to see parts of the country I wouldn't have been able to see otherwise," Andy says. "And it's great getting out there winning those fans over, one fan at a time."

The road has also produced a kitten named Pomp, a car accident and a few scary moments with tornadoes. The Winstons' show on Sunday brings their music inside. As part of the Endangered Folk Singer House Concert Series, the Winstons are playing inside of a living room. And it's not that unusual of an occurrence.

"House concerts have been around for a number of years," Andy says. "It's one of the last bastions for a singer-songwriter to get their work out to people."

The pair met while attending the State University New York-Fredonia. Andy was part of a folk trio and Cheryl was doing solo performances — they got their first break wtih their first show together.

"A friend of mine came up to me in class and said, 'How would you like to open up for Little Feat?'" Andy says. "Cheryl and I opened and it was our first show together. "

Andy describes their style as having "musical attention deficit disorder" and as the Winstons are continuing to adjust their sound, they are cutting back from their touring schedule to write songs. If nothing else, Andy believes the life of a touring musician could be beneficial for others.

"Life on the road is great training for public office. They should all tour as an acoustic musician."

The Winstons perform at 4 p.m. Sunday at 1221 E. Morgan Ave. The suggested donation is $12 in advance or $15 at the door. Call 744-9913 for more information.

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