09/18/12 Residents and guests got a head start on celebrating National Assisted Living Week when Andru Bemis of New Haven, Michiagn appeared in concert Friday, September 7th. Bemis is known as “Michigan’s traveling, train-hopping, banjo slinging troubadour. He performs on the banjo, violin, guitar and banjo-ukulele (which he calls a “banjolele”). Bemis lives a minimalist lifestyle, and is known for his engaging live shows throughout the United States. He tours primarily by train, public transportation, and hitchhiking. It was through his hitchhiking that Bemis was invited to appear at Miller’s.
A staff person of Miller’s was driving to South Bend one day when she and her friends stopped to pick up a hitch-hiker along the way. Through conversation she found out that Bemis was a performer and shared his information with Cindy Flagg, Miller’s Activity Director. The rest as they say is history.
Bemis arrived at Miller’s fresh from his travels ready to share his talents with a new fan base. He sang traditional songs as well as original music he has written. His songs are folks-y and tell fun stories.
As Bemis explains, “You may call me a folk musician, but I really just play music for folks!”
The Miller’s residents enjoyed his music and his humble, fun-loving personality. Although they scolded the staff person for picking up a hitch-hiker they had to admit, she couldn’t have picked up a nicer or more talented one!
Photo: Andru Bemis of New Haven, Michigan shares his talent on the banjo.
