Sally Potter, a new teacher at Williamston High School, has been renowned for her talents in manipulating the banjo, and even recently had a venue at the Boarshead Theatre in Lansing. She didn’t do it alone though, with her she had a small group of musicians, many we might remember and others we see everyday. Pat Madden, John Bragle, Ed Fedewa, and Ron Newman.
  Pat Madden contributed by harmonizing her angelic voice with Bragle’s and Potter’s, while also strumming on her guitar. Bragle’s stage presence didn’t go unnoticed; his hilarity was comforting among the crowd, while his violin playing was captivating and soothing. Not one person who attended their performance could forget their “cell phone tuning,” a session in which they recorded their voices in a certain key on Bragle’s cell phone and listen to it so as to remember the right key.
  When the whole group joined together as one and performed Moon River I was surprised to witness many people in the audience singing along. Most happened to be familiar faces including Mrs. Cockerill, Mrs. Wade and Ms. Shelley. I do admit even I joined in. Potter has a truly amazing voice and accompanied with Madden and Bragle they harmonize divinely to form a very refreshing sound.
  “it’s about time” is Potter and Maddens latest CD, it’s available at Elderly Instruments in Lansing or excerpts can be heared at their websites. Their CD includes many of the gems they performed, but simply listening to their songs does them no justice I found. When the group is on stage and flowing all together they’re really a sight to behold.
  “Most musicians need day jobs they love.” Potter says. Playing the banjo is just one of her many hobbies which include baseball and tennis, but teaching by far is her greatest passion.

www.patmadden.net

www.sally-potter.com