Dylan Salfer live at The Grand Oak Opry last Saturday night. Photo by Jeremy

Last Saturday night, I had the great fortune to see Dylan Salfer (holy cow, this man and his band can play. Do not miss the next opportunity to see them) at The Grand Oak Opry (also follow on Instagram.) It was a thing of beauty. Live music under the branches of a 235 year old oak tree. In the heart of St Paul. In my brothers’ Sean and Tim’s backyard. It’s an amazing experience.

Sean and his husband Tim started The Grand Oak Opry in their backyard in 2014. The guiding principles have remained unchanged. The asked $15 donation goes straight to the performing artists (with the typical audience of 250-400 friends, that’s a pretty good night’s take for the performers.) Local artists are preferred. All expenses are covered by generous donations from community sponsors. And the house bathroom is THE bathroom. All of this plus fireflies, a true sense of community connection and sultry St Paul Summer nights.

The Grand Oak Opry paralleled the rise of gravel cycling. Unbeknownst to the two of us, we were simultaneously attempting to create more community via activities we were passionate about. Sean and Tim’s connection to talented Minnesota and regional up and coming acts is impressive. And their commitment to providing a unique venue for not only the community but also the artists is second to none.

You have one more chance to be part of this ephemeral Summer experience. Saturday, August 23 at 7:30, they present TABAH. Bone Saw Cycling Collective I’m looking at you. What a perfect destination for a cycling date. It really is something special and you’d be foolish to miss this last show of the season.

The world needs more connections like this. Thanks Sean and Tim and your amazingly dedicated team of volunteers for opening up your home to share live music under an oak tree. (And make sure to wear your finest Heck wears!)