New Tunes will accompany a New Brew. Rachel White and Matt Plessner to Play Thursday, April 6th at New Union Brewery
Standing front and center on stage of the Grand Ole Opry, Rachel White knew she wanted to perform there one day. She and her family had stopped to see the historical Opry House while traveling to Florida on a family vacation. Rachel was able to stand on stage for a quick photo, adding to the memory book. A photo she hopes to repeat one day when she reaches her dream of singing on that very stage.
Rachel has fond memories of Lowell, where she attended Lowell Area Schools, as well as being home schooled. Home schooling was an enjoyable experience for her. She dabbled a bit in acting at the Civic Theatre but decided about two years ago that she would focus on her music.
Playing since the age of eleven, Rachel learned the acoustic guitar by watching online instructional videos of Justin Sandercoe. Sandercoe does not charge for his videos, he only asks for donations from those who can afford and who enjoy his work. This would turn out to be the most formal training she would receive. Her lyric based style is unique. Artists she likes to do covers for include Echosmith, Kelsea Ballerini and her favorite Hunter Hayes. She writes many of the songs she performs and has completed her first CD “Destination Sunday”. “Criminal”, one of the tracks on her CD, proved to be the most difficult to write. The song was meant to be a tribute to Hunter Hayes. Titles of Hunter’s songs were carefully woven into her lyrics.
A Facebook group turned out to be a great place for Rachel to hang out. This is where she met Matt Plessner, her new partner on stage. After chatting in a music group for a few months, they decided to meet. Matt then accompanied Rachel on her new CD. Although his style is a bit more structured with a bit of rock influence, the two harmonize well. Currently, the duet are looking towards a new vision. And though they don’t currently have a name for the newly formed duet, they are sure to have a following.
Matt had a bit more formal training starting with the violin, cello and some trumpet lessons. Growing up he listened to a lot of folk music and was influenced by artist ranging from Bob Dylan to John Denver. Feeding off the energy of the crowd, he shifts into autopilot performing with ease.
Hosting Matt and Rachel on Thursday, April 6th will be New Union Brewery in Lowell. Adding music on Thursday nights has been a great addition for the Lowell, things to do list. Along with the new talent duo, New Union also has a new brew. “Farmers Ale”, a Belgian that is slightly sweet, ending with some earthy spice notes. Enjoy the music, sample the brews and forget about the snow. Relax and enjoy, spring is on the way!
I just think this is an awesome duo and I think you’ll be seeing their names pop up in more and more venues in SW Michigan. They put on a great show. Everyone who was at this show got to hear Rachel’s brand new song (Love In Your Eyes), and it was a huge hit with the crowd. Rachel and Matt are both extremely talented songwriters and musicians and I can’t wait for their first duet CD to come out! They will be playing at the New Union Brewery again soon!
This will be a great show!!! Stop by New Union Brewery and give Matt & Rachel a listen!!!
Looking forward to see Rachel tonight at New Union!
Very cool.