Mark Lavengood Band takes stage at Old Art Building

From staff reports

The Leelanau Community Cultural Center will host the performance of the Mark Lavengood Band at the Old Art Building in Leland on May 31 at 8 pm. Lavengood will be joined by Justin Wierenga on Guitars, Justin Avdek on bass, and Dutcher Snedeker on Keys. With his resonant energy and sparkling smile, Lavengood a singer/songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, is sure to bring the house to their dancing feet! Tickets for this concert are $15/non members $17 and are available at MyNorthTickets.com or call 231-256-2131.

Mark Lavengood is a walking, talking ray of sunshine. A talented multi-instrumentalist, Lavengood specializes in dobro & steel guitar, both of which he’s played for over a decade. He is also well- versed in guitar, bass, mandolin, banjo, ukulele, drums, and a variety of percussion instruments. In 2012, Mark was named winner of the acclaimed Rockygrass Dobro Competition hosted at Planet Bluegrass’ headquarters in Lyons, CO. Lavengood toured world-wide for 7 years with the award-winning Michigan-now-Nashville-based Americana outfit Lindsay Lou (formerly, & the Flatbellys). He’s also shared the stage performing with or sitting in with Seth Bernard, Amy Helm, the Infamous Stringdusters, Greensky Bluegrass, Billy Strings, Johnny Irion, Gregory Stovetop, and Trout Steak Revival, amongst others. At each stop along the way, Mark’s positivity and genuine warmth is an immediate captivator.

Joining Lavengood are Justin Wierenga, Justin Avdek and Dutcher Snedeker

Justin Wierenga is a multi-instrumentalist, composer, band leader and session musician with a primary focus in guitar and bass. He is also experienced with pedal steel, lap steel, mandolin, keyboard and percussion. After playing professionally for over a decade in many styles of music, Wierenga has forged a unique, singular voice for himself on the guitar.

Justin Avdek is a West Michigan bass player with years of experience performing with a variety of Michigan acts. While he can often be seen on bass guitar and upright bass, you can find Avdek providing backing vocals as well as playing guitar.

Dutcher Snedeker is a Grand Rapids pianist with a long history of performance. Coming from a musical family, he has grown up surrounded by different music styles that continue to inspire his multi-faceted interest in music.

The Old Art Building is located at 111 S. Main St. For more information visit oldartbuilding.com or call 231-256-2131