ACMA Songwriters on the Plaza Jan. 14

The first Songwriters on the Plaza of 2020 will be Tuesday, Jan. 14. This is the ACMA’s popular songwriters showcase on Cornog Plaza at the Fort Myers Regional Library on First Street. This free show runs the second Tuesday of the month now through April.
The Lee County Library has joined with the ACMA to offer free acoustic concerts of all original music. Concerts will take place in the amphitheater, which is located on South Cornog Plaza. Bring a chair or a blanket, shows will be moved indoors depending on weather. If needed, the show will be indoor in the South Building that is attached to Talking Books Library. The address is 1651 Lee St.
Come hear great original music and the stories behind the songs in an intimate songwriters showcase. The Jan. 14 event features Robert Bidney, Annie Wenz and Mary Dahl.
Robert Bidney is a singer-songwriter whose messages are as strong as his melodies. His music is relatable and has a strong commercial sensibility. His songs have been covered by an eclectic group of recording artists around the world, plus his work has been on several national radio and TV commercials. Bidney’s second album “Rush of Hope,” released in May 2019, addresses universal themes through a lens of optimism. With its message of love instead of hate, the music resonates in today’s social climate.
A seasoned performer, Bidney connects with his audiences through his infectious energy and emotional performances. He is an active member of the Americana Community Music Association and lives in Southwest Florida.
Annie Wenz has shared her songs and stomped her dusty musical ankle shakers through 25 countries around the world … from some of the most known festivals in the US, to rallys, street corners, schools & arts centers, refugee camps in Pakistan, spas in Malaysia, ESPN videos, Independent Film & theater scores, & blaring speakers at Major League Ballparks, Sirius XM & radio stations internationally.
She has collaborated musically with Dr. Jerri Nielsen of the “Icebound” book, Author Robert Macomber , baseball legend Bill Spaceman Lee, & Roy “Futureman” Wooten of Bela Fleck & the Flecktones!
Annie is known for her Kerouac-ish magnifying glass-ified lyrical portrait story songs & her unique way of blending roots, multi-cultural influences & funky rhythms…
She has eight recordings on her own indie label “Island Gypsy” including her all instrumental CD “Rain on Bare Skin” used by yoga & wellness practitioners around the world, & her buzzed about, played on SiriusXM radio CD, “Ride The Sky” penned at stoplights while twirling about dusty back Americana roads on her Harley.
Mary Dahl has performed throughout MD, PA, and DC for 20 years with a quartet known as The Lite Side.
Bragging rights include performing at the White House on six separate occasions, for two different administrations. Her favorite experience, was a Christmas candlelight reception for visiting dignitaries which included a private tour of the White House.
They performed for 10 years at Hershey Park Chocolate World opening the Christmas season festivities.
However, she is particularly proud to boast that they opened for a sold out concert by the Kingston Trio and were permitted to accompany the Trio in their performance .
Carolyn Stanley will be accompanying Mary with her sharp harmonies and proficient playing style on guitar.
For more information, visit online at www.americanacma.org