Gospel Songfest draws over 300 people

By KATIE LEFEBVRE, Globe staff reporter
June 17, 2004

WEST BEND - The 5th Annual Gospel Songfest was held June 13 at the Grotto of the Redemption.

"We had beautiful weather," said Audrey Niemann, director of the grotto. "The music was wonderful. We had the four groups and it was a good blend of contemporary Christian, barbershop. I think it was very well received by everyone there."

Prior to the musical performances, there were hourly guided tours of the grotto that began at 10 a.m. with the last tour at 7 p.m. The museum was open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. The Grotto Restaurant was open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and the gift shop was open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

To open the event, thank yous were extended to the sponsors of the event and the music groups. Father Verne Stapenhorst hosted the opening prayer.

"The event was wonderful," said Niemann. "It was well received by everyone and I think it was thoroughly enjoyed."

The first band of the day, Smooth Water Trio, began playing at 4 p.m. This group performs at a variety of events and churches throughout the area.

"The lead singer of Smooth Water Trio was told about a year and a half ago that because of an operation one of his vocal chords was severed and he wouldn't talk above a whisper again," said Niemann. "In fact, not only does he talk, he continues to sing and to perform."

The Redemption Singers are a local group from West Bend whose performance started at 5 p.m. Women from the community form this group that has been part of the songfest in the past.

"They have beautiful voices," said Niemann. "This is our hometown talent, so we are of course happy to have them with us."

The Kuhlmann Sisters, who performed at 6 p.m., sing patriotic and Christian music. They were recently given an award by the National Guard to recognize their efforts to welcome troops back from the Middle East. The group has a new single that is a salute to the past and present troops of the United States. Their father, Gerald Kuhlmann, was a World War II veteran. He inspired the song.

At 7 p.m., the Harmony Brigade sang to the crowd. They are a barbershop chorus that is in its 58th year of barbershop harmony. They have appeared in churches around the Fort Dodge area and also have a spring concert.

"What I think is attractive about this group, in addition to their music, is that their particular ministry of music plays an important developmental role in the lives of our children," said Niemann.

There were over 300 people who attended the songfest, according to Niemann.

From 5 to 7 p.m. a barbecue was served including hamburgers, baked beans, chips, cookies and lemonade.

"I hope people had an opportunity to refresh their spirit through the music and the setting of the grotto," said Niemann.

A free-will offering was taken for the performances.

"This was the fifth year for it, and we will continue it next year with another event in June," said Niemann.

The Grotto of the Redemption is open year round for the public to go through at anytime. It is lit at night until 10:30 p.m. and has music playing throughout. The Restaurant of the Grotto is open May 1 through Oct. 15. For hours or information, call (800) 868-3641 or go to www.westbendgrotto.com.