Chris Vallillo and Roots Music

MACOMB -- A Macomb audience gave singersongwriter Chris Vallillo a standing ovation for a fabulous performance on Oct. 23 that opened a new exhibition at the Western Illinois Museum, New Harmonies, Celebrating American Roots Music.

Vallillo and a percussionist discussed then played authentic folk music from Illinois' past, in a concert at the West Central Illinois Arts Center.  Then everyone went to the museum to view the new exhibit, New Harmonies, a Smithsonian traveling exhibit that runs until Dec. 4.

The museum exhibit is beautifully done, featuring antique radios and musical instruments and displays on early musicians. 

Vallillo, an Illinois State Scholar and folklorist, is a superb musician and storyteller.

The event was filmed, and may be played on a Macomb cable TV channel. 

You can listen to Vallillo on various websites.

-- Elaine Hopkins