The Coffeehouse Series Presents The Pickups

Don Shappelle grew up in Forty Fort, Pennsylvania, and lives on the banks of the Susquehanna River in Wilkes-Barre, so it comes naturally that he wrote many of his original songs about this river in subject and spirit. Don’s musical life has taken him to many places, including time spent living and touring in Europe. Don has also lived and performed in New York City and the Hudson Valley of New York, where he collaborated with folk music legend Pete Seeger and The Clearwater Organization, dedicated to cleaning up the Hudson River. Don’s lifelong commitment and dedication to the environment and nature blossomed at that time. Don’s original tune “The Tugboat Song” was featured on the album “Broad Ole River” released by Pete Seeger and the Hudson River Sloop Singers.  His years of traveling also influenced Don’s music, with trains as a constant theme in his music and writing. His musical influences include Blues, Folk, and Rock traditions mixed with a bit of Jazz and Ragtime. Don has recorded more than 150 original songs with the legendary George Graham for the award-winning radio show “Homegrown Music” on WVIA-FM.  Don and three of his friends have played as The Pickups for decades; enjoy this homegrown group right in our own backyard! Free