Two acclaimed musicians will kick off the 2024-25 Esbenshade Series. Contemporary Blues and Folk musicians Sunny War and Chris Pierce will headline a concert in The Gathering Place on September 19. The 8:00 p.m. concert will not require tickets for admission and will be open to the public.
The series is made possible through funding by the Frederica G. Esbenshade Memorial Fund, which provides annual income for the purpose of bringing lectures, performing artists, and programs of diverse nature to the campus and community at large. The endowed fund was established in 1980 by Harry H. Esbenshade Sr., and Harry H. Esbenshade Jr., husband and son, respectively, of the late Mrs. Esbenshade of Uniontown, Pennsylvania.
Sunny War, hailed by Rolling Stone, SPIN, and The Bluegrass Situation as one of the best artists of 2023, has captivated audiences with her innovative approach to traditional folk and blues. Born Sydney Lyndella Ward, War’s journey from a tumultuous youth in Nashville and Rochester to the vibrant music scene of Venice Beach has shaped her unique sound. Her breakthrough album With the Sun (2018) and her critically acclaimed EP Can I Sit With You (2020) have solidified her place in the music world. Her evocative lyrics and genre-blending style are set to bring a fresh and soulful energy to the Esbenshade Series.
Chris Pierce, renowned for his dynamic performances and impactful songwriting, gained widespread acclaim with his hit single, We Can Always Come Back to This, which topped the Billboard Blues Chart and featured prominently on NBC’s This Is Us. With an impressive résumé that includes tours with Neil Young and collaborations with legends such as B.B. King and Seal, Pierce’s music resonates with emotional depth and artistry. His recent album LET ALL WHO WILL, released on September 1, 2023, further cements his reputation as a leading voice in Americana and folk music.
The concert will offer an opportunity for the Marietta community and visitors to experience these extraordinary artists in an intimate setting. Both Sunny War and Chris Pierce will perform their distinctive blends of folk, blues, and soul, creating an unforgettable evening of music.
Todd Burge, Director of The Esbenshade Series, said the full season will be announced later this month and noted that two of the five performances will take place on campus and will not require tickets. The three off-campus acts will take place in the Peoples Bank Theatre and will require tickets, which will be released one week prior to the event. All performances are free and open to the public.