On Friday, July 3, music lovers gathered on porches all around Edgewater to hear Columbia Valley artists present their favourite tunes, in friendly, neighbourly settings.

At this, the 6:30 soiree, hosts Kelly and Char Beingessner lent their garage as stage for Combo Akimbo (pictured below). Thanks to all the hosts who welcomed the performers and audiences and made space for all the magic to happen.

Versus the World performed at Mike Gray’s porch party at 8:45. (Photo by Rose Daugherty)

Last year, Steamboat Festival intended to present The Intended, a big brassy band from Cranbrook, but their set was just starting when they were interrupted by a thunderstorm and brief power outage. This year they played as intended – under their own considerable power. The audience applauded thunderously.

Columbia Valley band Shades of Blue played their favourite blues classics on the Saturday Main Stage. Guitar riffs were swapped back and forth elegantly.

This young Vancouver band called Chase the Bear delighted the audience on the Saturday Main Stage, but they were not sure what they would do to the bear if they ever caught it.

In a short set on the Tweener Stage, was joined by Edgewater cellist Ursula MacIntosh to present some striking new original compositions.

Twelve-year-old Invermere singer-songwriter Emma Miller sang her original heartfelt songs in a Tweener set that left fans calling for more.

To open the Steamboat Sunday Morning Workshops, which have always been held in the All Saints Churchyard, this year retired reverends Kevin Olson and Murray Wittke and a few local musician friends, led a traditional gospel singing workshop. It drew over 60 participants!

Sunday Drum Circle with Pat Carrick was a joyous way to end the Steamboat Mountain Music Fest.

The 15th annual Steamboat Mountain Music Festival ran July 3 – 5 in Edgewater.

Lead image: Festival volunteers gathered on Thursday before the festival got started.  Photos submitted

Article Share