Matt Velline to perform free concert Thursday

Matt Velline will perform at the Red Willow Arts Coalition free concert on Thursday, July 19 at 7 p.m. on the lawn at the Douglas County Courthouse in Alexandria.

Velline began his musical journey at age 10 when his father, Bill Velline, handed him his 1959 Fender Jazzmaster guitar and taught him a G chord. He was hooked.

On February 2, 1959, when Buddy Holly was killed in a plane crash on his way to a performance in Moorhead, Velline's father and uncle filled in as "The Shadows" with Bobby Vee on that fateful day.

Throughout the years, Matt has performed as lead guitarist and vocalist with many national and regional artists. Thirteen years were spent on the road full time with Midwest phenom, Johnny Holm, and later he was reunited with Bobby Vee to tour the United Kingdom and numerous dates around the U.S. from 2003 to 2004.

Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets. In the event of inclement weather, listen to KXRA 1400 AM for cancellation information.

The series is sponsored by Anderson Funeral Home and Elden's Fresh Foods. This concert is sponsored by Integrity Title.

The Red Willow Arts Coalition is a nonprofit organization with a mission to provide the community with access to more musical experiences.

UPCOMING CONCERTS

July 26: Skilly and Duff Trio - Irish

August 2: The Rockats - classic rock

August 9: BZ Girls - pop standards

August 16: Tickwood Stringband - old time/fiddle

August 23: Jimmy Jenson - vocal/accordion

August 30: Pure Country - country

Tags: red willow arts coalition, variety, events, entertainment, concert, music, musicians