Information on Guest Performers/Teachers

Karen Mueller Minneapolis, MN (mountain dulcimer, autoharp, mandolin)

Karen Mueller is one of the top autoharp and mountain dulcimer players and instructor today. Her exciting and innovative performing style has been applauded by critics and audiences from LA to Boston. Karen won the 1986 International Autoharp Championship and was a National Dulcimer finalist in 1985. Karen was part of the first Dulcimer Day in Duluth.

Kendra Ward & Bob Bence Bidwell, Ohio (hammered dulcimer, guitar, jams)

Every Saturday night, music could be heard coming from a little log cabin deep in the hills of Appalachia. Every Saturday night, Kendra Ward then just a child, could be found there, along with a host of relatives, friends, and neighbors, all making music with banjos, fiddles, guitars and dulcimers. From beginnings such as these, it is no surprise that Kendra has emerged as one of our most respected and loved Appalachian musicians. She is recognized as a true master of the hammered dulcimer, and has even been likened to the legendary guitarist Chet Atkins. Kendra's eight recordings have been hailed by fans and critics alike, while her instruction books and videos have introduced a new generation of dulcimer players to the joys of making their own music. Kendra's potent commitment to sharing her Appalachian culture has helped to keep a vital part of America's traditional heritage alive and vigorous.
When Bob Bence met Kendra back in 1983, he had no idea that his life was about to make a hard left turn. In those days, Bob was entertaining audiences as a member of an improvisational comedy group and performing stand-up on the side. Guitar playing was just a hobby. However, after hearing Kendra play, Bob was completely captivated, both by Kendra, and her amazing hammered dulcimer! Before he even knew it, Bob had put his comedy career on the shelf, and made "making music" his new full time gig. Nowadays, Bob's offbeat sense of humor helps to keep his concert appearances with Kendra unpredictable and uproariously funny.

Mark Tindle Tulsa, Oklahoma (mountain dulcimer)

Mark has played music most of his life and has been a professional musician for over 20 years. He is an accomplished player and teacher of the mountain dulcimer, acoustic guitar, and bluegrass banjo. He began playing the guitar at age 11 and the banjo at age 16.
He first picked up the mountain dulcimer in 1982 and is regarded today as one of the finest and most innovative dulcimer players around. His music includes traditional American and Irish tunes, classical and contemporary pieces, as well as church hymns and his own original works.
Mark has won several mountain dulcimer playing competitions including two National Mountain Dulcimer Championships. He has performed at many major dulcimer events throughout the country and is a highly respected instructor and contest judge. His concerts are always well received and often include guitar and vocal. His latest creative energies have been focusing on writing Christian music for worship and edification.

Mark's unique music seems to reach people of all ages and walks of life by reflecting the sensitive, personal touch inherent in the mountain dulcimer. Through his effective teaching methods, many students have also grasped new playing skills to further enhance their fulfillment and enjoyment with the dulcimer.
Mark lives in Tulsa, OK with his wife and best friend Melissa and their six wonderful children - James, John, Andrew, Benjamin, Mary, and Hannah. Perhaps there are more musicians in the Tindle family yet to blossom!

Greg Hodapp Ashland, WI (mountain dulcimers, harmonica, kids’ classes)

Greg Hodapp is a Northland college graduate and lives in Ashland, WI. He is an entertaining folk musician who is also great with kids. He plays mountain dulcimer and as well as many other folk instruments. Greg will teach kids how to make their own mouth bow instrument and will teach additional kids’ workshops.

Pam Portz Stacy, MN (clogging)

Pam began dancing when she was 3 years old and has been passionate about it ever since.  After seeing a local clogging group perform in her home town of Lindstrom, MN, she was immediately hooked.  She started clogging with her mom at the age of 8 and has been teaching & choreographing since the age of 15.  She has belonged to a totally of 3 MN clogging groups and has traveled all around the U.S. doing clogging workshops, performances, & competitions.  She is one of the instructors of the Pleasant Valley Cloggers and also the director of The Smashin' Toe Kid's Clogging Competition Team. She recently became nationally Certified as a clogging instructor- through the National Clogging organization know as C.L.O.G.  and enjoys clogging with a passion. She is always eager to share my love for this exciting form of dance!