Soo Line: Making Music, Building Community: A Hudson Library Tradition Lives On

by Soo Greiman

It was around 25 years ago when a small group of Hudson residents learned the place  they were using to sing and play their instruments would begin charging a fee. Disappointed,  the group began looking around the community for a new place to gather and socialize —  preferably one that didn’t cost anything.  

One member approached Library Director Mary Bucy, asking if she had any ideas. Mary  didn’t have to think long. In fact, she was intrigued by the idea and what it could become.  “Come to the library,” she told him. “You can play and sing here several mornings every  week. We’ll even make coffee. People who come in to use the library will enjoy the  entertainment.”  

That’s how it started.  

Pleased with the welcoming new location, the small group of musicians began  gathering on Tuesday and Friday mornings in Hudson’s library, built in 1999.  Also adding to the experience was the earlier donation of a baby grand piano.  Unforgettable musicians from that first group included Betty Rausch, who brought a  galvanized wash tub she played using a stick and string. Others included Kenny Schlicht and  Ted Bowersox, who kept things lively with their harmonicas. The group — along with those  who came to listen and socialize — appreciated the opportunity to continue making music in  such a comfortable setting.  

As time went on, members of the original group passed away. But others stepped in,  ready to carry on the tradition. Among them were Jim and Marilyn Gallery, Frank Zoz, Merelyn  Harberts, a couple from Plainfield, Iowa, and Sven Pedersen.  

Like the first group, they gathered for years on Tuesday and Friday mornings.  Eventually, that group came to an end following the passing of their leader, Jim Gallery.  But the music didn’t stop.  

Soon, a new group of musicians formed, continuing the tradition with weekly  performances at the library. Guitarist Sven Pedersen, who had also played with the earlier  group, remained part of the gathering.  

“This musical tradition has endured,” Library Director Mary Bucy said. “We’ve had three  different groups. The current group — along with their audience — comes in on Tuesday  mornings at 9 and wraps up at 11.”  

Today’s musicians, depending on availability, usually include three to five performers.  Along with Pedersen, regular guitarists include Cliff Birdsong and Steve Klingaman.  Occasionally they are joined by Vicki Clinton on banjo and Jan Moore on guitar.  

When the musicians take their 10 a.m. break, audience members often bring out plates  of cookies or brownies while library staff brew another fresh pot of coffee.  “This is why Tuesday morning is my favorite day of the week,” audience member Darrell  Pedersen said with a chuckle. “It’s all about coffee and music.”  

Last Tuesday at 9 a.m., the trio began performing — Sven and Cliff on electric guitars  and Steve on acoustic. Slinging their instruments over their shoulders, they launched into  selections of country-western, old-time, pop, rock and roll, and jazz.  

At 10, the musicians paused to visit with the dozen or so listeners and enjoy coffee and  chocolate brownies brought by Pam Mitchell.  

When asked about favorite songs, Birdsong named “Chattahoochee,” Pedersen chose “Elvira,”  and “greenhand” Klingaman picked “Six Pack to Go.” 

Each shared how their musical journeys began.  

Pedersen said he started singing in the choir at Blessing Church and later played with his friend  Willie Fairbank at the Triangle Tap.  

Birdsong grew up in a musical family in Oklahoma. “We didn’t have a TV,” he said. “So my  brothers, sisters and I would sit on the porch in the evenings, play instruments and sing.” After  being told by his older brother that he should “just keep playing,” Birdsong focused on guitar,  later playing bass and singing in college bands.  

Klingaman’s introduction to music came after saving enough S&H Green Stamps to buy his  first guitar at a Waterloo redemption store. Later, after hearing UNI students perform at a “hootenanny” at Orange School, he went on to take guitar lessons.  

At 10:30, it was back to making music, with the audience listening quietly until 11. The trio wrapped up by softly strumming and singing “Blue Bayou.”  

As Pedersen waved goodbye, he shared sentiment others likely feel as well:  

“We’re fortunate to have a place like this to play. It keeps us off the streets. See you all next week.”  

“OK,” a library staff member called out. “We’ll have coffee ready.”