Blog Archives

Hey folks, we’re looking forward to playing at Crescent City Tap in Galva on April 3, 2026. We’ll be there from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM, and it’s always great to see familiar faces while sharing some music.

Crescent City Tap has a welcoming vibe with its outdoor dining area and a fine selection of craft beers and signature drinks. It’s the perfect spot to relax with some friends.

The Basics

• Date and Time: April 3, 2026, from 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
• Where: Crescent City Tap, 336 Front St, Galva, IL 61434
• Who: Bell & Field
• What to Expect: An acoustic set in a relaxed atmosphere, with food and drinks available.
• Website: Crescent City Tap

About Bell & Field

We are an acoustic duo specializing in smooth harmonies and a mix of tunes from the 60s to the 90s. We enjoy creating a laid-back environment that feels welcoming to anyone.

The Room & The Neighborhood

Crescent City Tap is located in the heart of Galva, IL. It features a nice outdoor seating area where you can enjoy good food and drinks. The bar offers a rotating selection of craft beers and unique cocktails, making it a lovely place for an evening out.

We’d love for you to join us at this show, and song requests are always welcome! Please share your thoughts in the comments below; we appreciate hearing from you.

Galva had its priorities straight on Friday night: the high school boys were playing the regional championship game, and the Wildcats were in it. That was great news for the town… and it meant the first two hours of our show at Crescent City Tap felt more like a private concert than a typical Friday night.

A slow start, four people, and a lot of freedom

When we kicked off at 6:00, there were maybe four people in the room. We’ve seen Crescent City Tap packed shoulder-to-shoulder, and we’ve seen it like this. Either way, we’re grateful to plug in (or in our case, plug mostly in) and play for whoever shows up.

The quiet start gave us room to stretch out and dust off some songs that hadn’t seen the light of day in a while. We pulled out “You Don’t Mess Around With Jim,” “Can’t Buy Me Love,” and “Don’t Worry, Be Happy.” Some of them were a little rough around the edges, but that was part of the fun.

We also leaned into some slower tunes that fit the low-key vibe: “And I Love Her,” “Wildfire,” and a very tender “This Guy’s in Love With You.” It felt more like we were playing in a living room than doing a typical live acoustic duo performance at a bar.

Guest sax, sticky keys, and a John Denver request

We were a trio for this one, with Paul Weddle on saxophone. His horn was basically singing all night. “Ophelia” by The Band was a standout — that tune already has a built-in looseness, and with sax lines weaving around the guitar and piano, it turned into this joyful little circus of sound.

Earlier in the day, though, Greg had a mishap and spilled some wine on his keys. Oops! Throughout the night, a few notes would suddenly jump out louder than they should, and some chords just… weren’t the chords they were supposed to be. We joked about it on the mic, because what else can you do? No problems, that’s just music served with a side of real life.

We got a request for “Take Me Home, Country Roads,” which is always a treat to play — John Denver is one of Tom’s heroes — so we were happy to lean into that one. Later on, someone called out “Careless Whisper.” With Paul there, it was tempting, but we knew we didn’t have that one ready. Instead, we pivoted to “Faith.” It worked, but it had been a while, making it jokingly seem like some of the tunes were being held together with duct tape and optimism.  Everyone laughed and rolled with it.

Take the Long Way Home and the crowd finally arrives

One of the musical highlights for us was “Take the Long Way Home.” With Paul on sax and Tom on harmonica, we stretched the middle out into a call-and-response section that went a few extra measures longer than usual. It felt like we were just entertaining ourselves for a minute there, and the folks who were in the room were right there with us.

Then the basketball game ended.

All of a sudden, the door started opening more often, and the last hour turned into the kind of Crescent City Tap entertainment we’re used to: tables filling up, conversations getting louder, and people clapping loudly between songs. We got to ride that wave for the final stretch of the night, and it felt good to land some of those last tunes with a fuller room.

Family in the room and a post-show slot machine “encore”

On top of everything else, Greg’s dad came out for the show, and his daughter happened to be in town too. Having them both there was a rare moment that made it feel quietly important.  But if sticky keys isn’t an icebreaker, then what is?

After we packed up the gear, the three of us (plus family) wandered over to the slots. Greg tossed in $20 and said, “If I win, I’m splitting it with everybody.” The machine was hot — little wins kept popping up — and it felt like it was just about to really hit if we fed it another $20. But the night already felt like a win, so we cashed out and called it.

Meanwhile, the cautious optimism continues for the keyboard. A lot of times, liquid residue dries out and things go back to normal. Since the weird notes were only happening sometimes, we’re hoping there wasn’t an electrical short. We have Hidden Hills Winery in Galesburg on the calendar for Sunday, so fingers crossed that the keys decided to behave.

Thanks, Galva

To everyone who chose live music over or after the basketball game, and to everyone who came in after the final buzzer — thanks for listening, requesting songs, and laughing with us when the gear didn’t quite cooperate. Nights like this are why we keep coming back to Crescent City Tap.

If you’re looking for live music in Galva (or anywhere nearby) and want a piano–guitar acoustic duo with the option of some saxophone on top, we’d love to talk. You can reach us about your own event here: https://www.bellandfieldmusic.com/book-acoustic-duo/.

About Bell & Field:

Bell & Field captivate audiences with their seamless harmonies and a collection of classic hits from the ’60s to the ’90s. Their acoustic performances foster a close-knit vibe, perfect for enjoying both the music and the exquisite wine selection available.

Bell & Field will be joined by renowned saxophonist Paul Weddle for select events. You won’t want to miss it!

We rolled back into Crescent City Tap on one of those bitter cold January nights where you question all your life choices while you’re loading gear. We’ve played this room a bunch of times now. It wasn’t packed like some of the past shows, but we also knew the folks who did come out would really be there to listen and have a good time with us.

Seven people, three hours, and a lot of conversation

I think we played to basically the same seven people for most of the night, which ended up being kind of great. They settled in, ordered their drinks, and just stayed with us. It felt less like a show and more like we’d been hired to play someone’s living room, only with way better whiskey options.

Before the gig, we met at my home, working on “Draggin’ the Line.” We usually do 3-part harmonies with our buddy Paul Weddle on sax, and we were trying to see if we could make it work as just the two of us. Harmonies felt solid, we were ready to go… and then we proceeded to completely forget to play it. Never even called it. Classic.

Instead, we ended up dusting off some songs we hadn’t touched in a while: “Bittersweet,” “And She Was,” “Leader of the Band,” and a few others that had been sitting on the bench. It was one of those nights where the set list kept changing based on whatever conversation we were having with the room.

Requests we’d never played (and one we half-played)

By mid-show we had clearly drifted into a ’70s groove, and the crowd picked up on it. Requests started coming in: “Sunshine on My Shoulders,” some John Prine, “I Fought the Law,” “Take Me Home, Country Roads,” and then teased a verse with the curveball request: “Without You” by Harry Nilsson.

We had never played any of those before. We decided to just go for it and see what happened. “Sunshine on My Shoulders” and the Prine tune came together better than we had any right to expect, and it actually felt pretty good leaning into that era for a while.

“Without You” only went as far as the first verse. Greg really likes that song but has never practiced it, so he previewed it just to see where it sat. He bailed out before it jumped up that octave.  With a little practice, that song might make it into our upcoming Valentine’s Day show at Copper & Oak.

Moms, Walken impressions, and that small-room feeling

One of Greg’s favorite moments of the night had nothing to do with the set list. Between songs he turned to me and asked, “So what are you feeling?” meaning, what should we play next. My mom was in the audience and immediately perked up: “Did you just ask him how he’s feeling? Why, is he sick?”

We had to explain that Greg was asking about the next song, not my health. Greg then joked that I had “a fever for music,” which of course led me straight into a Christopher Walken impression: “I got a fever, and the only prescription… is more cowbell.” I’ll be honest, whatever voice came out of my mouth was not Christopher Walken. Greg said it sounded more like Louis Armstrong. Either way, the whole exchange had the room cracking up.

Mom-level concern in the middle of a live acoustic duo performance is hard to beat. It’s those little unscripted things that make a quiet night feel full.

Familiar faces in Galva on a freezing night

Even with the small crowd, it was really good to see some people we hadn’t caught up with in a while: Teri Pankau, Annette Smith, Alan Anderson, Mike Martin, and a few others who’ve been cheering us on for a long time. My parents were there, as always, quietly anchoring a table and clapping for every song like it was the first one they’d ever heard us play.

Mike grabbed some video near the end of the night, so we’re curious to see what that looks and sounds like from the other side of the speakers. From our side, it felt like one of those Crescent City Tap entertainment nights where the room is small, the conversations are easy, and you actually have time to talk with everyone who came out.

Already looking ahead to the next Crescent City Tap show

We’re back at Crescent City Tap on Friday, February 27, this time with Paul Weddle on sax. If you’ve heard us do “Take the Long Way Home” as a duo, you know it’s fun—but when Paul comes in on that sax line, it turns into a whole different animal. We’re also determined to remember “Draggin’ the Line” before we leave the stage this time.  But we might just stick to the love songs for that day.

About Bell & Field:

We’re a piano–guitar duo that loves taking familiar songs from the ’60s through the ’90s and putting our own spin on them with harmonies and stripped-down arrangements. Nights like this one in Galva are exactly why we do it: a handful of people, some honest requests, a few surprises, and plenty of time to actually talk in between.

If you’re looking for live music in Galva or beyond and want a low-key, conversational kind of show like this, you can reach out to us here: https://www.bellandfieldmusic.com/book-acoustic-duo/.

Are you ready for an evening of music and camaraderie? Mark your calendar for February 27, 2026, as Crescent City Tap in Galva, IL, hosts an enchanting night filled with the magical melodies of Bell & Field! This special evening starts at 6:00 PM and continues through to 9:00 PM, offering an auditory journey that you won’t want to miss.

Event Details

• When: Friday, February 27, 6:00–9:00 PM
• Where: Crescent City Tap – 336 Front St, Galva, IL 61434
• Who: Live performance by the talented duo, Bell & Field
• What to Expect: An atmosphere of timeless tunes and delightful beverages, creating a perfect backdrop for a memorable night.
• Website: Crescent City Tap

About Bell & Field:

Bell & Field captivate audiences with their seamless harmonies and a collection of classic hits from the ’60s to the ’90s. Their acoustic performances foster a close-knit vibe, perfect for enjoying both the music and the exquisite wine selection available.

Bell & Field will be joined by renowned saxophonist Paul Weddle for this event.  You won’t want to miss it!

The Venue: Crescent City Tap & Galva Charm

Nestled in the quaint town of Galva, Crescent City Tap offers more than just drinks; it provides a transportive experience. Inspired by the vibrant spirit of the French Quarter, this venue features cozy outdoor seating where guests can savor craft beers, specialty whiskeys, and a unique selection of wines. Galva’s welcoming community and scenic charm make every visit feel like a celebratory escape. Crescent City Tap is not just a bar; it’s a cornerstone of local culture and entertainment—making every night there a delightful adventure.

Join Us for an Unforgettable Evening

Gather your friends for a night that blends the joy of live music with the finesse of fine wines. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of Bell & Field or simply discovering their enchanting repertoire, this evening is set to be a special mix of melodies and tastes that craft beautiful memories. What classic song or wine are you anticipating? We invite you to share your thoughts in the comments below!

Raise a glass to an unforgettable night of music, beverages, and joy at Crescent City Tap!

Looking for a way to spice up your winter with some incredible music? Join us on January 30 at Crescent City Tap in Galva, IL, for a night filled with enchanting melodies and delicious drinks! With Bell & Field performing live from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM, it’s a perfect evening to shake off the January chill and enjoy some warm company.

Event Details

• When: Sunday, January 30, 6:00–9:00 PM
• Where: Crescent City Tap – 336 Front St, Galva, IL 61434
• Who: Live acoustic performance by the renowned duo, Bell & Field
• What to Expect: An evening with soothing music, specialty cocktails, and an inviting atmosphere that’s uniquely Crescent City.
• Website: Crescent City Tap

About Bell & Field:

Bell & Field bring an impressive set that spans decades, from the ’60s through the ’90s, all wrapped in heartfelt harmonies and acoustic charm. Their music is the perfect accompaniment for the ambiance at Crescent City Tap, allowing you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the cozy winter vibes.

The Venue: Crescent City Tap & Galva Charm

Nestled on the quaint streets of Galva, IL, Crescent City Tap exudes a warm welcome reminiscent of New Orleans. This French Quarter-inspired bar offers a plethora of beverages including craft beers and exotic whiskeys. The venue’s charm is not only in its menu but also in its atmosphere—a blend of local hospitality and vibrant culture that makes every visit a celebration. Enjoy their lovely outdoor space, even in the cooler months, as they create an inviting space that’s second to none.

Join Us for a Night to Remember

Prepare for an evening of musical magic and exceptional spirits at Crescent City Tap. Whether you’re coming to relive classics with Bell & Field or eager to explore the venue’s exciting drink selection, your night is bound to be memorable. Which song or craft cocktail are you most excited to experience? Share with us in the comments below!

Here’s to a blissful evening of live music, incredible drinks, and joyful connections at Crescent City Tap!

Some gigs are a blast, but every now and then you get a night you’ll never forget. Our show at Crescent City Tap in Galva, IL was one of those. From the moment we walked in, Jason, the manager, made us feel right at home. The room already had that spark in the air, and once the music started—with the incredible Paul Weddle on sax—it turned into something truly special.

Setting the Stage at Crescent City Tap

As a live acoustic duo, Bell & Field thrives on intimate settings like Crescent City Tap, where the charm of Galva meets the vibrancy of a French Quarter-inspired venue. The room was packed, a testament to the extra promotion efforts by both us and Jason. Familiar faces filled the crowd, making it feel like a family reunion.

Unforgettable Musical Moments

We were thrilled to share the stage with old friends and musical partners Mark Schueneman and David Sherrard, whose camaraderie added a nostalgic touch to the event. Special guest performances included Tom’s son, James, who joined his dad for heartfelt renditions of “Jealous Guy” and “Thunder Road.” His return to college made this a poignant send-off.

• James on Piano: “Jealous Guy” and “Thunder Road”
• Marshall Jones: “It’s Probably Me” and “Time After Time”
• Request from Paul: “Magic Carpet Ride” by Steppenwolf
• Highlight of the Night: “Spooky” by Classics IV, featuring Paul Weddle
• Encore Performance: “American Girl” by Tom Petty

Celebrating with Friends and Family

The support from family and friends was overwhelming. It was wonderful to see familiar faces like Megan Sloan, Kate Cromien, and Chris Stevens amongst others. Even more special was seeing Paul’s old friends, who surprised him by attending the show and shared incredible stories of past performances, including one with Sinatra!

A Toast to the Night

Jason outdid himself by reintroducing Bell & Field-themed drinks, and adding the “Weddle Woo Woo” to the menu. It was a delightful touch that made the night even more memorable. Although Kevin, the owner of Crescent City Tap, couldn’t attend, his presence was felt through the meticulous care and preparation that went into the evening.

As we wrapped up with a powerful rendition of “Piano Man,” the audience and band became one, proving once again the unifying power of live music in Galva. We rarely do encores, but when Paul suggested rocking out to “American Girl,” we knew we had to give the crowd one last memory to cherish.

We’re already looking forward to our next gig at Edison’s Gastropub in Bettendorf next Saturday, and can’t wait for another chance to play with Paul. It was truly a night to remember!

If you’re looking to create unforgettable memories at your next event, book us for your next event and let Bell & Field bring the magic to you.

Ready for an unforgettable summer evening featuring one of the music industry’s remarkable talents? On August 15, 2025, Crescent City Tap in Galva, IL proudly welcomes legendary saxophonist Paul Weddle alongside acoustic duo, Bell & Field. From 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM, you’ll experience an extraordinary blend of musical brilliance and soulful vibes.

Event Details

• When: Friday, August 15, 2025, 6:00–9:00 PM
• Where: Crescent City Tap – 336 Front St, Galva, IL 61434
• Who: Bell & Field Acoustic Duo featuring special guest, renowned saxophonist Paul Weddle
• What to Expect: A mesmerizing evening of timeless hits, enhanced by Paul Weddle’s incredible saxophone artistry, paired perfectly with Crescent City Tap’s expertly crafted cocktails and select craft beers in a unique, French Quarter–inspired setting.
• Website: Crescent City Tap

Special Guest: Paul Weddle – A Legend on Saxophone

Paul Weddle is an extraordinary musician with an impressive history. Currently a touring member of the legendary Classics IV, known for iconic hits like “Spooky” and “Stormy,” Paul has graced stages worldwide alongside musical giants such as The Doobie Brothers, Kenny Loggins, BB King, Dr. John, and Elton John, among many others. We’re incredibly honored and excited to have Paul join us once again, bringing his unparalleled musical talent to Galva for an unforgettable night.

About Bell & Field:

Bell & Field are known for their authentic acoustic performances, blending classic favorites with heartfelt musicianship. Their collaboration with Paul Weddle creates a truly special musical experience you won’t want to miss.

The Venue: Crescent City Tap & Galva’s Charm

Nestled in the heart of Galva, Crescent City Tap uniquely blends the vibrancy of New Orleans’ French Quarter with the inviting atmosphere of a hometown favorite. With its eclectic décor, outstanding drink selection, and welcoming outdoor seating, it offers the perfect ambiance to complement a memorable evening of music and friendship.

An Evening You Can’t Miss

Join us to witness the magic when Bell & Field’s soothing acoustic melodies meet Paul Weddle’s extraordinary saxophone artistry. This rare musical gathering promises excitement, nostalgia, and a night filled with unforgettable moments. Mark your calendars, and let us know in the comments which classic tune or cocktail you’re most eager to enjoy!

Cheers to extraordinary talent, captivating music, and another amazing evening at Crescent City Tap!

A Stellar Summer Evening with Bell & Field

What a fantastic evening we had at Crescent City Tap on July 5th! Every return to Galva feels like coming home, and this past show raised the bar even higher. Jason and his crew’s warm hospitality was second to none—they always go above and beyond to make us and our audience feel welcome. Special shout-out to Jason for adding that cool neon sign to the piano—it truly elevated our stage vibe!

Highlights of the Night

• Debuting our fresh take on John Mellencamp’s “Ain’t Even Done With the Night.”
• The Vogels, who made the trek from Bloomington, IL, sharing a magical moment by dancing to Eric Clapton’s “Wonderful Tonight” (one of our favorites to perform!).
• The Beatles’ classic “The Word” and Dan Fogelberg’s “Part of the Plan” were received warmly with lots of positive energy!
• Our signature drinks—the “Bell” Cosmopolitan and “Field” Lemon Drop—were as smooth and delicious as ever. Thanks again, Crescent City Tap, for the honor!

A Special Thanks to Family and Friends

We’re so grateful for our friends and family who came out to support us. It was wonderful seeing Frank & Betsy Tocha, Mike & Jane Martin, Marshall & Catherine Jones, as well as Jim & Cheri, Malissa, James, and everyone who made the night extra memorable.

A Humorous Twist: The Case of the Missing Wallet!

On a lighter (and somewhat embarrassing!) note, one of us woke up the next morning to a mini-mystery: the case of the missing wallet. After retracing steps, checking security footage, and even momentarily suspecting foul play, it turned out the wallet had simply fallen out of the pant’s pocket in the closet. Clearly, three signature cocktails can make for a very memorable night—or perhaps a slightly forgettable ending! Lesson learned: sometimes the simplest explanation is the best one (and the funniest!).

Looking Forward to Next Time

We’re already counting down until our next Crescent City Tap performance on August 23rd. If you missed this show, mark your calendars now—you won’t regret it!

Bring Bell & Field to Your Next Event

Planning a special gathering or event? Nothing pairs better with fine dining and good conversation than live acoustic music. Discover how Bell & Field can elevate your fine dining experience.

Book us for your next event and let’s make musical memories together!

Ready to embrace a sizzling summer evening? On July 5, 2025, join us at Crescent City Tap in Galva, IL for a dynamic night where great music meets an enticing atmosphere. The festivities begin at 6:00 PM and wind down by 9:00 PM, promising a perfect blend of live tunes, tasteful drinks, and a cozy summer vibe.

Event Details

• When: Saturday, July 5, 2025, 6:00–9:00 PM
• Where: Crescent City Tap – 336 Front St, Galva, IL 61434
• Who: Live acoustic performance by the acclaimed duo, Bell & Field
• What to Expect: An inviting summer night featuring soulful melodies, innovative cocktails, and a locally-inspired ambiance that sets the stage for memorable mingling.
• Website: Crescent City Tap

About Bell & Field:

Bell & Field continue to mesmerize audiences with their signature smooth harmonies and an eclectic repertoire spanning decades. Their acoustic performance provides the perfect soundtrack for a summer evening—intimate, heartfelt, and impeccably crafted to complement the season’s warmth.

The Venue: Crescent City Tap & Galva’s Summer Charm

Nestled at 336 Front St in the heart of Galva, Crescent City Tap exudes a French Quarter–inspired flair, now enhanced by the vibrant energy of summer. With its artfully designed outdoor seating and an eclectic menu featuring seasonal craft cocktails, specialty whiskeys, and local brews, this venue is the ideal place to relax and celebrate life. Galva’s charming community and warm summer nights create an atmosphere where every visit becomes a mini celebration.

Join Us for a Summer to Remember

Gather your friends and come experience the magic of a summer night where live music merges with the relaxed elegance of Crescent City Tap. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Bell & Field or new to the scene, this July evening promises an unforgettable fusion of sound, taste, and community spirit. Which summer cocktail or classic melody are you most excited to savor? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Cheers to a sparkling night of live tunes, refreshing sips, and lasting memories at Crescent City Tap!

A Night to Remember at Crescent City Tap

What a fantastic night we had at Crescent City Tap! From the moment we set foot in the beautifully revamped “Voodoo Room,” we knew it was going to be a special evening. Jason, Crescent City Tap’s incredibly welcoming manager, made everything smooth from start to finish. His enthusiasm and energy set the tone for the entire event. We truly appreciate everything he did to make the night such a wonderful experience for both performers and guests alike.

Highlights from the Evening

• New Songs Debut: We loved sharing some fresh tunes with you all, notably the Beatles’ classic “Norwegian Wood,” complete with a mesmerizing sitar sound from the keyboard. Another debut was Jim Croce’s “Don’t Mess Around with Jim,” which turned out to be a delightful nod to Tom’s dad, Jim, who was there to enjoy it!
• Crowd Favorites: The audience was absolutely fantastic, singing along enthusiastically to classics like “Bennie and the Jets,” “Sweet Caroline,” and “Brown Eyed Girl.” It was heartwarming to watch Lexi and Brooklyn energize everyone on the dance floor.
• Encore Surprise: The energy surged so high during our usual closing number, “Piano Man,” that we were inspired to deliver a rare encore—Tom Petty’s “American Girl.” Ending the night on such a vibrant note was perfect!

Setlist Highlights

• “Time After Time” – Cyndi Lauper
• “Wildfire” – Michael Martin Murphey
• “Ventura Highway” – America
• “Great Balls of Fire” – Jerry Lee Lewis
• “Norwegian Wood” – The Beatles (new!)
• “Don’t Mess Around with Jim” – Jim Croce (new!)
• “Bennie and the Jets” – Elton John
• “Sweet Caroline” – Neil Diamond (by request)
• “Brown Eyed Girl” – Van Morrison (by request)
• “Piano Man” – Billy Joel
• “American Girl” – Tom Petty (encore)

Community & Connection

One of our favorite things about playing at Crescent City Tap is the warm, friendly atmosphere. We got to reconnect with familiar faces, meet new friends, and even make future plans together. Special thanks to Tom’s family for coming out and supporting us once again. The genuine kindness and joy from everyone present made this night truly memorable.

A huge thank you once again to Jason and the wonderful folks at Crescent City Tap for an unforgettable evening filled with great music, delicious food, and fantastic company. We can’t wait to return and create more cherished memories together!

Want to Bring Bell & Field to Your Next Event?

Book us for your next event and let’s create another incredible night of music and memories!