I began music lessons in 3rd grade continuing to 7th grade in 1966. In 7th grade I formed a combo at St. Cecilia’s in Hastings, NE, covering popular 1960s rock. Adding a horn section we morphed in The Fabulous Suns performing throughout Nebraska and Kansas and continued playing while at Kearney State College.

New members were added and we formed Blackberry Winter. That band ebbed and flowed, changing musicians and music genres. The band faded a bit as live music became less popular with DJs and techno music. But in 1996, I received a call to start up the band again. Then a 10-piece band included musicians who were in other bands and involved in 1960s and 1970s Nebraska music scene. Another band developed as Brahms Howl that I worked in with my son Ryan.

In 2008 Blackberry Winter reformed with a total of 7 seven members. Me – Hammond B3, keyboards, vocals. Terry Sinnard – bass, vocals. Craig Link – drums, vocals. Mick Johnson – guitar, percussion, vocals. Greg Tesdall – alto sax, soprano sax, and various other instruments. Terry Speed – baritone sax. Terry Ryan –  baritone and tenor sax.

Throughout the 40 years of live music, I have worked in interior settings, designing and installing flooring, carpet, tile and stone. This business was handed down from my father, Jacobi Carpet One.  But probably my greatest joy is playing a vintage Hammond B3 organ in Blackberry Winter and other bands since the late 1960s. I continue to work on these organs, rebuilding and repairing them–Midwest Mountain Inc. – Midwest Mountain Keys.