CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
(Left to right) Harpist Maria Wiarda, violinist Mary Giese, and guest percussion player and singer Billy Wilson shared music from several countries at the March 24 Tuesday Musical Club meeting.
Tuesday Musical Club member Maria Wiarda, opened the March 24 club meeting program by playing musical pieces from Spain, Venezuela and Argentina on her harp.
Next, Mary Giese and guest Billy Wilson shared several traditional Irish jigs, reels and hornpipes with the group. Wilson played his authentic Irish bodhran drum and two different tin whistles while accompanying Giese on the fiddle. He also sprinkled in interesting information about the history of St. Patrick’s Day, the meaning of the colors of Irish flag and led the audience in sing-alongs of famous songs from Ireland. Wilson added some levity to the program by sharing a few Irish jokes.
During the meeting following the program, Scholarship Chair Colette Benge reported that applications for club-sponsored student scholarships to summer music camps are now open. The scholarships are designed to help defray costs for room, board and tuition for 2026 summer music camp. Piano, vocal, orchestra and instrumental students presently in grades 7-12 attending a Marshall County School, or students of Marshall County area private music teachers, or students and children of active Tuesday Musical Club members are eligible to apply.
Marshall County music teachers have the application forms and link to apply online. Applications are due April 18, and auditions for scholarships will be held at 12:30 p.m. on April 28 at Marshalltown High School. For additional information, contact Benge at 641-753-3502.
The meeting was held at Hope United Methodist Church, and Mary Cowdrey and Giese served as hostesses, with thanks to Cindy Mack for arrangements.