This is a unique opportunity to catch 3 nationally acclaimed songwriters together in a fantastic evening of songs in The Sanctuary at West Art. Joe Crookston, Grace Pettis, and Robby Hecht, all stellar songwriters, will be presenting their songs "in the round" format (don't miss their full bios below!).  We can't wait to welcome them to Lancaster as part of their We Shall Be Released tour. Grab a friend, pick up some tickets (HERE), and come join us for another evening of finely-crafted music beneath the stained glass.

Doors open at 7, music starts at 7:30. We will have Our Town Beer available for purchase.

Tickets are $25 GA, and $12 for students. Pick them up here!

Joe Crookston

Joe is a force of nature on stage. He is in his power AND he communes with his audience and welcomes them into the magic. From touring with Gordon Lightfoot, headlining major US festivals, receiving Folk Alliance International “Album of the Year,” releasing NINE BECOMES ONE (2023) to being named Folk Alliance International Artist-in- Resident, Joe is on fire. He’s played with Suzanne Vega, Dar Williams, David Francey, John McCutcheon, John Gorka, Judy Collins and 100’s more. His songs are are being made into award winning films. Watch this trailer for Brooklyn in July He’ll surprise you. He awakens the cynics. He’s plumbing for lyrical gold. His rhythm is infectious. In concert, he is funny as hell one moment and transcendent the next.

Come to a show. Visual, artful and surprising. Brooklyn in July, Oklahoma towns, rattlesnake tails, turbary thieves, meter maids and drunk roosters. At the end of the night, you’ll leave inspired. “The Long Note” is a phrase in Irish culture. “The Long Note” is that place of resonance and transcendence where the music, the voices, the instruments, and the community ALL come together and unite.

THERE IS A LONG NOTE & JOE IS REACHING FOR IT

Whether he’s weaving through lap slide songs or fiddling an American Southern tune, he’ll draw you in. It happens every time. Watch a YouTube video…it’s fine, but it’s not the same. You gotta come to a show. With unwavering courage to be himself, he is literate, poignant and funny as hell.

Grace Pettis

Grace is the winner of many of the nation’s most prestigious songwriting contests, including NPR’s Mountain Stage New Song Contest, and has received grants from the Buddy Holly Educational Foundation. Grace’s songs have been recorded by other esteemed artists, including Sara Hickman and Ruthie Foster. Her highly acclaimed independently released records, Grace Pettis (2009), Two Birds (2012), and the acoustic EP, Blue Star in a Red Sky (2018), have garnered praise from top-notch magazines, newspapers, and radio. She also holds down duties as a member (along with Rebecca Loebe and BettySoo) of the Americana/folk-pop trio Nobody’s Girl.

Robby Hecht 

has been captivating audiences as a touring singer-songwriter for over two decades, combining quietly impactful songwriting reminiscent of Tom Waits or Jim Croce with the graceful vocal resonance of James Taylor. With a remarkable blend of insightful lyricism, memorable melodies, and a voice that carries both strength and tenderness, his music resonates with audiences from all walks of life.

Robby’s dedication to the craft and collaborative spirit have solidified his reputation as a versatile and respected artist within the industry. He garnered recognition as a songwriter’s songwriter early in his career, winning a number of revered performing songwriter contests and touring across the US and Europe. His music has been the soundtrack for countless journeys, amassing over 25 million streams to date. And with more than 60 songs recorded by other artists, as well as numerous contributions as a featured vocalist, Robby has added his distinct touch to the work of fellow musicians, reaching music lovers through the voices of others.

Beyond his musical endeavors, Robby is a passionate advocate for mental health awareness. Openly discussing his own journey with bipolar disorder, he shines a light on these issues, breaking the stigma and offering support and inspiration to those who may be facing similar struggles.

Robby's highly anticipated album, Not a Number, is a powerful reflection on the evocative and turbulent journey of the past few years. Featuring twelve introspective tracks, each with the potential to become a personal favorite, the album weaves together themes of divorce, emotional recovery, nostalgia, the unity of humanity, and the profound significance of individual experiences. It is a musical tapestry that resonates deeply with listeners, meeting them wherever they may be on their own life's path.

Not a Number was produced by veteran singer-songwriter and sought after guitarist Anthony da Costa, who also contributed much of the arranging and instrumentation on the album. The recording process spanned nearly two years, initially involving remote performances exchanged during isolation until Anthony and Robby were able to complete the project together in person. The album features notable guest vocal performances by acclaimed artists from Nashville and beyond including Caroline Spence, Jess Nolan, Jill Andrews, Katie Pruitt, Lydia Luce, The Sea The Sea, Ruth Moody, and Trousdale.

Robby Hecht's music is a testament to the power of storytelling and the ability of songs to touch our souls. His insights and captivating melodies create a truly unforgettable musical experience, inviting you to embark on a contemplative journey through the landscapes of the heart and mind.