>La Grande Observer | Union and Wallowa Counties' News Leader

Saturday Sam Vore will perform songs of his own composition in "Quarter-life Crisis," accompanied in part by Todd Tschida. (Submitted photo).

Looking for something to do this weekend?

Some of the most talented performers at Eastern Oregon University will be on stage at McKenzie Theatre both Saturday and Sunday.

At 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Sam Vore will perform songs of his own composition in "Quarter-life Crisis," accompanied in part by Todd Tschida.

Vore will play all the favorites like "Meet the Burro" and "Charlie Brown," and his recordings will be on sale for the first time.

Peter Wordelman, EOU Chamber Choir director, says of Vore: "He is one of the few students I have ever had who told me during his freshman year that what he really wanted to do in life is be an entertainer. His music is very funny and reflective.

"Last year, the EOU Chamber Choir returned to Portland's Westview High School, which is Sam's alma mater. He performed for the students there, and I have never seen a more captivated audience. From making them laugh with his "Bear Song" to making them cry with "I'm A Real Life Charlie Brown," the students' every day feelings and observations were reflected in Sam and his music."

The second concert will begin at 6 p.m. Sunday, also in McKenzie, and will feature two terrific singers and an explosive pianist.

Harold Poeling has been singing in church and on stage for many years. He loves to present some of the older hymns such as "How Great Thou Art" and "Amazing Grace."

This is a performer who wants to communicate with the audience.

Meegan Andersen has been singing in front of audiences since age 3. She enjoys all styles, but gospel is dominant.

Wordelman says of Poeling and Andersen: "Harold and Meegan are two of the finest and most experienced church singers in the region, and hearing them together will be a pleasure beyond words."

Robert Power-Drutis is a young pianist who recently moved to La Grande. He plays all styles of music, but accompanying and improvisation really inspire his playing. While in La Grande this past fall he accompanied the EOU Chamber Choir, played in the EOU Jazz Ensemble, played for numerous performances around La Grande and continues to search for the next opportunity to make music.

Both events are benefit concerts for the EOU Chamber Choir tour to Ecuador.