Unity of Kanawha Valley
Bridge
Road and Myrtle
Charleston, West Virginia
25314
304-345-0021
The Unity Concert Series
first began in 1996 when Unity of Kanawha Valley
minister, Rev. Woody Hawley joined up with Ron Sowell to develop a way to
showcase superlative singer-songwriters and musicians in an intimate house
concert setting. Ron Sowell is probably
best known for his role as the musical director of the internationally acclaimed
public radio show, Mountain Stage. Ron has been the Director of Music at Unity of
Kanawha Valley since 1996.
In
May of 2000, Woody made his transition, and
Ron wanted a way to honor Woody by producing the
concert series in his name. Ron's intention is to be doing his part to keep the
enduring legacy of music alive for the area.
Woody Hawley was
Unity of
Kanawha Valley's pastor
from August, 1995
until his passing in May, 2000.
Sunday appearances
In addition to the full
Saturday coffee-house concert, many of the performers make guest appearances at
Unity of Kanawha Valley the next day for the Sunday Service at 11am. Everyone is
welcome to both events! For directions to
Unity of Kanawha Valley,
click here. UKV is setting a standard of
excellence
in coffee-house intimate performances! For a sample of recent Series performers, recorded live at
Unity of Kanawha Valley,
click here.
Pan Hawley Grady describes the
start of the music series
during a tribute to producer
Ron Sowell, May 3, 2008
About the Woody Hawley Concert Series This
popular series has outgrown its original home at the Unity of
Kanawha Valley, where it has been held for the past several years. Woody Hawley
was instrumental in starting this concert series that features some of the most
renowned artists in music today. Ron Sowell, artistic director, wanted a way to
honor this phenomenal individual and by producing a music series in Hawley's
name, Ron hopes he is doing his part to keep the enduring legacy of music alive
for the area.
As for Ron
Sowell, he is probably best known for his role as the musical director of the
internationally acclaimed public radio show, Mountain Stage. He has traveled all
over the country and the world playing with many well-known performers, such as
Lyle Lovett, Kathy Mattea, Sarah McLachian and more. Ron, an accomplished
entertainer, is a master at engaging audiences with his harmonica and guitar
playing.
RON
SOWELL
A master entertainer and the Artistic Director of the Woody Hawley Concert
Series, Ron Sowell performs a special show for this final performance of the
2007-2008 series. As a performer, he has the gift to make a thousand people in a
concert hall feel like they are sitting in his living room. He's engaging and
funny and plays great guitar and harmonica. Whether making you laugh or cry,
sing or dance, Ron Sowell exudes sincerity and grace rarely found in such an
accomplished entertainer.
Great Sound, Great Atmosphere, Great Music!
Each month from September to May, some of the country's best singers/songwriters will perform at
the Clay Center. Enjoy the intimate setting of Walker Theater and immerse
yourself in the music of the featured artist. As a bonus, one of the region's
best artists will begin each performance by playing a short set. Concerts start
at 7:30 p.m. Experience an evening of unparalleled entertainment and talent!
All shows start at 7:30 Prices are $12, $7 (seniors), and $2
for children under 2. General seating. SAVE when you purchase tickets for the entire series, call 304-561-3570 for
more details.