Country gospel concert is free

A free country gospel concert featuring award-winning country music artists will be presented by Newbury Park First Christian Church from 7 to 9 p.m. Sat., Sept. 23 at 801 Knollwood Drive, Newbury Park.

The event is open to the community. For information, call (805) 498-2129.

Many of the artists appearing at the concert have worked with the biggest names in country music. Collectively, they have earned more than 25 Academy of Country Music awards, including "Guitar Player of the Year," "Drummer of the Year," "Steel Guitar Player of the Year," and other honors. "This will be a fabulous con

cert," said Tom Atwater, church member and concert spokesperson. "We've gathered a wonderful group of artists for this very special evening. These folks were instrumental in defining 'The Bakersfield Sound,' a major West Coast country music genre made famous by Merle Haggard and Buck Owens.

"Our pianist toured with Merle Haggard for 19 years. Our drummer toured with Buck Owens for 17 years. Our guitar player has worked with Willie Nelson and many other major stars, and our steel guitar player plays with Vince Gill at all his West Coast concerts.

"When you listen to Merle Haggard, Buck Owens, Conway Twitty, Willy Nelson, George Jones and other country music legends, you are frequently hearing these musicians."

Atwater and his wife, Joan Harris Atwater, are also awardwinning artists. In 2004, the Country Gospel Music Association chose Tom Atwater as its western region instrumentalist of the year (fiddle) and selected Joan Atwater as its western region female vocalist of the year.

Tom Atwater has played with Ray Price, Hank Thompson and Cliffie Stone, all members of the Country Music Hall of Fame. Joan Atwater has performed at the Grand Ole Opry.

In addition to spirit-lifting music, the evening will include refreshments and personal tales from some of the artists.

Although not required for attendance, non-perishable dona

tions for the local food pantry, Manna Conejo Valley Food Bank, will be accepted at the door.