This interview originally aired on "In the Moment" on SDPB Radio.
Once a month, a big red barn in southeastern South Dakota becomes a concert hall. The Menno Pioneer Opry is an evening of old-time country and gospel music. Neighbors mingle and enjoy live music as well as a potluck.
The monthly jamboree usually features a fiddle and guitar. Maybe a vocalist or two. And there's always an accordion.
One thing the evening doesn't feature is professional musicians. Everyone who heads to the front of the barn with an instrument in hand is a hobbyist.
According to Dan Flyger, it's a special thing to hear the talents of your neighbors.
Flyger is a local pastor and historian and organizer of this event.
