Orcas songstresses Carolyn Cruso and Grace McCune will celebrate the lengthening of days with a show this week at The Madrona Bar and Grill, at 8 p.m. on April 16.

Cruso and McCune weave a web with their fine musicianship, expressive vocals, poetic writing and soaring harmonies. Call 376-7171 for more info.

Grace McCune

Coming from a family of musicians and entertainers, McCune has been steeped in the world of theater and art since she was a child. She played French horn in the school band, of which her mother was the director, and studied voice and piano as well as honing her songwriting skills throughout high school. Upon graduating she took her music on the road to experience the life of a wandering minstrel.

McCune’s songwriting is deeply personal and explores her life’s journey with its triumphs, undoings and quest for meaning. An extremely expressive performer with a wide vocal range, she has been dubbed by some as a “Banshee Torch Singer.” In addition to teaching private voice lessons, she directs two popular choirs here on Orcas Island: Rock the Rock for adults and the Orcas Children’s Choir.  She has recorded several CDs: two solo projects and two with her brother in their duo Twirl. Her newest project, a solo singer/songwriter CD, called “From the Direct Box of the Soul,” is expected to be out some time this year.  Visit her web site at www.gracemccune.com.

Carolyn Cruso

For over two decades Cruso has been making a name for herself as a multi-instrumentalist, writing for and performing on the hammered dulcimer and various flutes. In the last decade she’s expanded her musical attention to include singing and songwriting and has been delighting audiences around the nation with her elegant melodies, intricate guitar playing and insightful lyrics.

Cruso will be performing primarily as a singer/songwriter at this show and in addition will lend instrumental back up on flute, guitar and harmonies. As a performer Cruso casts a spell with diverse styles, subtle nuances and vivid images. Seattle’s Victory Music describes her music as “a hypnotic and alluring blend of folk, pop and jazz.” Adding to Cruso’s substantial discography is her latest songwriter CD, “Have You Ever” (recorded here on Orcas Island) which has been lauded as “sophisticated, intimate, rich and intelligent”.  Visit her web site at www.carolyncruso.com.