By Michael Henningsen

July 14, 1997:  For multi-instrumentalist Patty Stevenson and her husband, guitarist Craig Siemsen, marriage is more than simply making a commitment to and living with your lover. Their connection, although all of the traditional aspects of marriage are certainly present, is a much deeper one. The assimilation of the creative realms of one's personality with those of another results in a love deeper than most of us are lucky enough to experience within our lifetimes. For Stevenson and Siemsen, though, it's simply their way of life.

And such a deeply spiritual connection pays off, too, for those fortunate enough to experience the artistry that is created of the union. Although Stevenson and Siemsen rarely perform music together, the solid foundation they have poured with each other shines through in both their solo and ensemble work.

Based in Milwaukee, the husband and wife team share rich histories filled with the music of many genres. Both acclaimed performers on the Midwest's burgeoning acoustic folk scene, Siemsen is well-recognized as a leading guitarist whose sound is defined by his unique, perfectly honed flat-picking style. That, combined with his wide vocal range, makes Siemsen a uniquely well-rounded performer.

Stevenson began studying music at age four, eventually becoming a proficient singer, guitarist, harpist and songwriter. She is also an accomplished concert pianist. Gifted with a beautiful voice and a talent for expressing herself though vivid lyrical storytelling and a learned command of melody, Stevenson has established herself as a major talent in the Midwest. She has toured extensively throughout the United States, bringing her inspirational performances to thousands of audiences coast to coast.

The rare opportunity exists for Albuquerque audiences to experience Stevenson and Siemsen performing as a duo, within the intimacy of the Outpost Performance Space. And it's an opportunity that should be taken, absorbed and remembered for a very long time.

--Michael Henningsen

Patty Stevenson and Craig Siemsen will perform a rare duet concert at the Outpost Performance Space (112 Morningside SE, one block south of Central, three blocks east of Carlisle) Saturday, July 19 at 8 p.m. Stevenson will also perform the solo piano music of New Mexico composer Gretchen Van Auken. Tickets for this very special evening are $5. Call 268-0044 for more information.