The Arnold Street Band

This is a group of guys who desperately need some women to join them.  For many years, Jim Thomason, Tom McDonnell, and Phil Freeman have formed the heart of the ASB.  A couple of years ago, Robert Marko began adding a bass line providing more depth.  All four have been part of Cursillo music teams and love to make music every chance they get. 

The ASB also features extended guest appearances by Dan Williams, Bill Holcomb (who has published songs and is invited to play occasionally at the Blue Bird in Nashville), and Chuck Sasnette.  Recently, Grady Smith and Greg Arndt have made the move from ASB Wantabes (see below) to ASB Players.

This is a very informal group where members are not “obligated” to play every Sunday.  If someone comes ready to play great.  If not, that’s OK too.  The picture above was taken Sunday, July 20, 2008 which includes (L-R) Grady Smith, Dan Williams, Jim Thomason, Tom McDonnell and Robert Marko.

Thomason recently formed a group of Arnold Street Band Wannabes that meets at 5:30 each Thursday afternoon.  Wannabes are beginners (some are still trying to figure out how to get the strap over their head) so if you would like to learn a few chords and join the band, all you have to do is show up.  Thankfully, there are some women Wannabes who are expected to join the band in the not too distant future. 

The ASB “appears” weekly at Grace Parish Hall from 9:00 a.m. until 9:15 a.m. from Labor Day through Memorial Day, while the rest of us try to sing.  They also play most Sundays during the 10:30 a.m. service (10:00 a.m. during the summer) while the congregation celebrates the Eucharist (Lord’s Supper) and on a variety of other occasions.