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Kewanee has quietly become part of our late-summer routine, mostly because of one backyard on West Central where David Guzzardo keeps inviting us back. This will be our third time setting up in his yard before the parade rolls through, and at this point it feels less like a “gig” and more like dropping back into a tradition he’s built with his friends.

We’re playing midday again, two hours before the parade starts. It’s that window where people are drifting in with lawn chairs, someone’s checking the time for the parade lineup, and the excitement is brewing all through the neighborhood. By the time the sirens and marching bands kick in, we’re usually packing up cables and finishing the last bit of coffee or whatever’s in our cups by then.

One thing that always stands out about David’s place is how thought-through he is as a host. The first few years he surprised us with a bottles of wine. This year he mentioned he’s got a shade canopy ready for us, which tells you he understands what it’s like to play two hours in the September sun.  Hopefully the weather will be great that day!

Musically, these yard shows always tend to be a blast.  A bunch of friends together enjoying each others company, good weather and the parade. It never feels like we need to “put on a big show”; it’s more about keeping the afternoon moving and giving everyone a soundtrack while they get ready for the rest of the day.

The Basics

• When: Saturday, September 5, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM
• Where: Private event at David Guzzardo’s place in Kewanee, IL
• Who: Bell & Field (piano, guitar, and two voices)
• What to expect: A two-hour backyard set before the parade, with a mix of familiar covers and Bell & Field originals, shaded under David’s new canopy and folded into his annual gathering of friends.

About Bell & Field

We’re a piano-and-guitar duo that builds each set around the room we’re in, or in this case, the yard we’re in. For David’s party, that usually means keeping things tuneful and easy to follow: some classic songs people know the words to, some newer ones people recognize from the radio, and a handful of our own that fit that same lane. If the group leans in and starts calling out requests, we’ll chase those down too, as long as they’re somewhere in our mental songbook.

The Room & The Neighborhood

David’s yard sits right along the path of the Kewanee parade, which gives the afternoon a built-in timeline. When we start, the street is usually already filled up with people finding spots along the curb. The yard itself has become familiar to us: same patch of grass for the speakers, usually the same group of friends who remember at least one song from last year, and now a new shade canopy that should make the midday stretch a little easier on everyone.

It’s always good to be invited back to the same yard. We’ll do our part to make these two hours before the parade feel easy, tuneful, and worth showing up a little early for.

We don’t play a lot of museums, so getting asked to be part of the Kewanee Historical Society’s 50th birthday party already felt a little different in the best way. Instead of a stage or a corner of a bar, we were set up on the mezzanine, looking down over the main floor while people came in, grabbed food, and found old friends.

Playing from the mezzanine “kitchen”

The spot they put us in usually holds a recreated early-1900s kitchen, so our piano, guitar, and PA ended up right where the stove and table usually live. From up there, we could see the whole room—people being greeted at the door, laughing at the first display that caught their eye, lining up for food. It felt like we were half band, half extra set of eyes on the party.

Tom’s been to the museum a bunch with his family, but this was my (Greg’s) first real wander through. There’s a lot to take in—old storefront signs, photos, tools, and a bunch of 70s-era stuff that made us both say, “Wait, we had that exact thing!”

The orange couch and the Hawaiian painting

The star of our setup area, though, was this bright orange vintage sofa under a painting of a Hawaiian woman who is… let’s just say, not overdressed. The painting used to hang at the old Waunee Farms restaurant, and once we saw it, we knew there was no way we were getting through the night without a photo or two.

Tom immediately went into Seinfeld mode and started telling the story about the episode where Elaine accidentally sends out Christmas cards with a nip slip. He’s halfway down the stairs re-enacting it when we both realize everyone on the main floor has gone quiet and is listening, so he kind of trails off mid-sentence. We told them we were talking about a Seinfeld episode but didn’t have the courage to speak of it aloud, and we all had a laugh.

The funny part: a few minutes after we come back up with more gear, we hear people downstairs talking about Seinfeld. So in a way, Seinfeld ended up being the unofficial third member of Bell & Field for the night. Greg even tried his best George Costanza pose on that orange couch under the painting. Not sure he nailed it, but the intention was there.

Music for a museum birthday

From a music standpoint, this was one of those “background, but not really background” shows. People were eating, talking, and checking out exhibits, but we could feel a lot of ears tuned in. Every time we finished a song, we’d catch clapping from different pockets of the room.

Tom’s voice was a little tight for the first 20–30 minutes, but it loosened up as we went and from there it was smooth sailing.

We leaned into the storytelling side of our set list—songs that feel like they belong in a room full of photos and old documents. Our take on “Borderline” keeps evolving every time we play it, and this one felt especially dialed in. The big standout for both of us, though, was “Slip Slidin’ Away.” As soon as we hit the last chord, we looked at each other and said the same thing: “That’s the best we’ve ever played that one.” It’s a good feeling when you both know it without having to say anything first.

Giveaways, history nerds, and a tip jar downstairs

Throughout the night, Mike—who was juggling host, MC, and museum ambassador duties—would hop on the mic between a couple of songs to announce raffle winners. So the flow kind of became: two or three tunes from us, a cheer from the crowd, then someone heading up to grab a prize. It kept things loose and made it feel very much like a community birthday party, not just a concert dropped into a museum.

The board members and volunteers—Mike, Marci, LeeAnn, Marianne, and others—could not have been more welcoming. The food table stayed busy, people lingered at the displays, and we got to talk to a few folks who clearly love Kewanee history as much as Tom does. (He’s actually certified to teach social studies, so this kind of gig is right in his wheelhouse.)

At one point Mike also reminded everyone that there was a tip jar downstairs for the “live acoustic duo performance” happening above their heads, which was very kind of him. From our balcony perch, we could see people wander over, drop something in, and then tilt their heads up to see where the music was coming from.

Why this one stuck with us

We say this a lot, but it’s true: no two Bell & Field gigs are the same. This one really played to what we do best—mixing familiar covers and a few deeper cuts that reward people who are really listening. Being up on that mezzanine, surrounded by old kitchenware, an orange couch, and that infamous painting, made it feel like we were part of the exhibit for a night.

For Tom, it was also a reminder to get back to the museum more often just as a visitor. The place is packed with the kind of hands-on details that help you understand what it was like to live in Kewanee decades ago, and it was cool to be the soundtrack for people reconnecting with those stories.

Huge thanks again to everyone at the Kewanee Historical Society for having us, feeding us, and trusting us not to knock anything over with a guitar case or piano shell. If you’re looking for Kewanee Historical Society entertainment ideas or just want live music in Kewanee that can fit around conversations and celebrations like this, we’d love to chat about it.

Curious what Bell & Field could bring to your event, party, or gathering? You can reach us through this page.

Kewanee has one of those downtowns where you can still picture what it looked like a few decades ago just by walking a block or two. The Historical Society sits right in the middle of that, with the murals and old storefronts close by and the museum quietly holding all the details the sidewalks don’t show anymore.

We’re playing there on Saturday, June 27, from 5:00–7:00 PM, and this one feels a little different from a usual show. Playing in a place that’s literally built to keep stories and photos and old documents safe makes you think a bit more about what you choose to sing.

The museum is usually open earlier in the afternoon, so if you’re the type who actually reads the plaques and stares at old photos for too long, this is a good excuse to come downtown a little early. Then we’ll plug in among all that history and do our best not to knock anything over with the guitar case.

We’re planning on a mix of familiar covers, a few originals, and probably a couple of songs we don’t pull out as often—things that lean a little more storytelling than “sing-along chorus.” It just feels like the right setting for that.

If You Are Planning To Come Out

• When: Saturday, June 27, 2026, 5:00–7:00 PM
• Where: Kewanee Historical Society, 125 N Tremont St, Kewanee, Illinois 61443
• Who: Bell & Field (piano, guitar, and two voices)
• What to expect: A two-hour set with a mix of piano-driven songs, guitar tunes, and harmonies—some newer Bell & Field originals, some reworked versions of songs you probably know, and a few picks that fit a museum setting a little more than a bar setting.
• Venue website: kewanee-history.com

About Bell & Field

We’re a piano–guitar duo that likes to keep things pretty simple: one of us at the keys, one on acoustic, both of us singing. For a place like the Historical Society, we’ll probably start a bit quieter, feel out who’s there, and then decide how far to lean into the sing-along covers versus the slower, story-heavy songs.

About The Venue

The Kewanee Historical Society is a volunteer-run museum on North Tremont that keeps track of the town’s past—photos, documents, old news clippings, and the kind of local stories you don’t find anywhere else. They’re usually open on Thursdays and Saturdays in the warmer months, so this show falls right in their regular season. If you haven’t been in before, this is a pretty low-pressure way to finally see the inside instead of just walking past the sign.

If you’re around Kewanee that Saturday and feel like pairing some local history with live music, this is your night. We’ll bring the piano, the guitar, and a stack of songs that fit the room.

Some shows feel like gigs, and some feel like you just plugged in the PA at a family reunion. Tom’s parents’ 52nd anniversary at Cerno’s definitely landed in that second category.

Three Anniversaries, One Room at Cerno’s

This was our third time doing this anniversary party at Cerno’s in downtown Kewanee, and it’s officially a tradition now. Tom’s parents were celebrating 52 years, but they weren’t the only ones being toasted. Tom’s cousin Mark and his wife Maria were at 28 years, Tom’s sister Katie and her husband Dan were at 25, and Tom and Malissa hit 25 too. The dates don’t all line up on the calendar, but that’s where everyone stands, and it felt right to lump it all into one big “we’re still here” celebration.

Between Tom’s parents, Tom and Malissa’s six kids, Aunt Nancy and Uncle Howard, nephews Caleb and Andrew, and Annie’s boyfriend Garrett, the back room at Cerno’s felt like a living room with a Belgian back bar and 30 taps. There were sing-alongs, requests, and the kind of side conversations you only get when half the room shares a last name.

Why This One Hits Different

Tom here: I’ve been lucky to grow up with parents who have quietly modeled what love and support look like. Playing their 50th anniversary at Cerno’s a couple years back was a big deal for me. At the end of that night my mom half-joked, “We should just do this next year because you never know.” That line stuck. We really don’t know when life is going to shift, so coming back for 51 and now 52 has felt like saying, “We’re still together, let’s keep celebrating while we can.”

Greg here: I want to back up to something small but important. When I go to Tom and Malissa’s house to practice, their place is always moving. Kids in and out, friends dropping by, sometimes not even ringing the doorbell—just walking in with cookies or something for the table. There’s a strong sense of trust and inclusion that you can feel. I’m pretty sure a lot of that comes from Jim and Cheri. Over the years, they’ve pulled me into that circle, and honestly, the music almost feels like the side story to the relationships at this point.

First Dances, Old Songs, and New Additions

Of course, we had to play “The Wedding Song (There Is Love)” by Paul Noel Stookey. That was Jim and Cheri’s wedding song, and seeing them step out and dance to it again—52 years later—pretty much stopped the room. It’s one of those songs that’s simple on paper but heavy with history when you know what it means to the people in front of you.

We also used this night to finally roll out some songs that had been sitting on the practice list for too long. We opened with “Because” by The Dave Clark Five, then finally took “Run for the Roses” (Dan Fogelberg) out for its first real spin. We debuted “Walk of Life” (Dire Straits), “No Matter What” (Bad Company), and “Sundown” (Gordon Lightfoot). “Sundown” was especially fun.”

We also dusted off some tunes we hadn’t touched in a while: “Round Here” for Tom’s sister, who is a big Counting Crows fan, plus “Margaritaville,” “Take the Long Way Home,” “Don’t Worry, Be Happy,” “Southern Nights” (Glen Campbell), and “Hungry Heart.”.

James on Keys and Panthers on the Screen

One of the best parts of this live acoustic duo performance was getting Tom’s son James to play some songs. He jumped on piano for “Sweet Home Chicago” and “Hey Jude,” playing and singing with Tom. James has always been strong with sheet music, but this time he wasn’t reading at all—just playing from memory and feel. Watching him lean into improvising more each year has been its own quiet subplot in these Cerno’s shows.

Then Simeon, another of Tom’s sons, decided to raise the bar on the tribute side of the night. He dug up game footage from Jim’s college football days with the UNI Panthers and got it playing for everyone. Suddenly the anniversary party turned into a Saturday night watch party, with the whole room locked in on the screen, cheering like the game was live. When the reel ended, we launched straight into “You Don’t Mess Around with Jim” by Jim Croce. Given how tough Jim looked in those clips, nobody in the room was planning to mess with him, but the guy we know is the one who’ll tear up with gratitude when he talks about family.

Cerno’s Crew, Cerno’s Burgers, and a Detour from Taco Bell

We’ve got to give a special shoutout to Ciara at Cerno’s. She’s taken care of this party three years in a row now—food, drinks, the whole thing—and somewhere along the way we also found out she can really sing. As we were packing up, we heard her belting a tune and just looked at each other like, “Okay, that’s not fair.” We asked if she’d ever want to come by a practice and work up a song or two with us. She said she’d think about it. We’re hoping that “maybe” turns into a “yes.”

Greg’s post-show tradition is usually a quick Taco Bell stop on the short drive home from Kewanee. This time, he pulled up and realized the place was closed for renovations. So it turned into a Burger King run instead. The spicy chicken sandwich did the job, but eating it in the car left sauce all over his jeans. Not exactly glamorous [Kewanee entertainment] life, but that’s the real version.

Looking Ahead (Because You Never Know)

Somewhere in the middle of the night, that line from Tom’s mom—“we should just do this next year because you never know”—came back around in our heads. As long as Jim and Cheri keep wanting to gather everyone at Cerno’s, we’ll keep bringing the guitars, keys, and whatever new songs we’ve been kicking around in Tom’s living room.

If you’re putting together a family celebration or private party and want a live acoustic duo performance that can handle everything from “Hey Jude” sing-alongs to quiet first dances, you can reach us through this page. We’d be glad to be part of your story too.

We’ve eaten at Fernando’s Place in Kewanee plenty of times with our families, but playing there for their 11th anniversary was a whole different thing. Fernando has never had live music in the restaurant before, so when he asked us to come in as the first live acoustic duo performance, we both felt a mix of “honored” and “please-don’t-let-us-be-too-loud-for-the-taco crowd.”

Setting up in the window and shaking off the nerves

Fernando cleared out a corner by the front window for us, and it turned out to be the perfect little stage. Cables, mic stands, guitar case, keyboard – all tucked in behind us while people were digging into enchiladas and chimichangas. It felt a bit like we’d just moved into someone’s dining room with a small music store.

I’ll be honest, we were a little nervous at first. New room, first time they’ve ever done live music, and it was a Sunday night. Not exactly a built-in “live music in Kewanee” crowd. But once we got rolling, the room settled into a nice groove with us.

New songs, old favorites, and a few curveballs

We used the night to stretch a bit musically. We pulled out some songs we haven’t played much in public yet, like “Borderline” and “Old Time Rock and Roll.” That Bob Seger tune is one we’re trying to keep sharp for when we play with Paul Weddle, so it was good to run it in a real setting instead of just in the practice room.

Requests started coming in, which always keeps us on our toes. We got to dig into “Everything I Own” by Bread and “Time in a Bottle” by Jim Croce – both songs that fit really well with the feel of the room. People were talking quietly, forks clinking, kids sharing plates with parents, and then you’d see someone pause mid-bite because a lyric hit them just right. That’s the kind of Fernando’s Place entertainment we were hoping to add to the night.

The “Cats in the Cradle” laughing fit

One of the standout moments wasn’t about nailing a song – it was about almost losing it. Someone requested “Cats in the Cradle,” and as we started, Tom let out this little laugh right at the top of the song. We’re not totally sure why. Nerves, a random thought, who knows.

Of course, laughter is contagious. Greg started laughing, then told Tom, “Don’t laugh,” which made it worse. It felt like being back in 6th grade science class trying not to crack up while the teacher is looking right at you. Somehow we pulled it together and made it through the song, but that moment of almost falling apart on a serious tune is going to stick with us for a while.

Family tables and familiar faces

The turnout wasn’t as big as we’d all hoped for Fernando’s anniversary. Sunday nights can be tricky, and for a place that doesn’t usually have live music, it was probably a surprise for some regulars. But the folks who did come out made it worth every note.

Our families showed up in force – Tom’s parents and Malissa, plus Greg’s wife, daughter, and her boyfriend. Having them there, eating dinner and listening, made the night feel more like a family gathering with a built-in soundtrack than a formal show. We also spotted a few friends and familiar faces who came specifically for the music and the great food, which always means a lot.

We always say it’s not about the number of people in the room, it’s about the connection you make with the ones who are there. This night was a good reminder of that.

Walking out with full hearts

By the end of the night, we’d run through a wide mix of songs – newer ones for us, classic requests, and the tunes we know by heart. There were little pockets of conversation with people between songs, a few “Hey, what was that one you just played?” comments, and plenty of smiles on the way out.

We left Fernando’s Place feeling grateful: for the invite, for the trust of being their first live music experiment, for the families who showed up, and even for the mid-song laughing fit that reminded us not to take ourselves too seriously.

Thinking about live music at your place?

If you like the idea of a live acoustic duo performance tucked into the corner of your restaurant, patio, or private party – the way we did it at Fernando’s – we’d be glad to talk. You can reach us here to start the conversation: https://www.bellandfieldmusic.com/book-acoustic-duo/.

We’re excited to play at Fernando’s Place in Kewanee on Sunday, April 26, 2026, from 5 to 8 PM. This spot in the heart of Kewanee offers a taste of authentic Mexican cuisine that locals really appreciate. Whether you’re in the mood for tacos, burritos, or anything else, it’s a comforting place to relax and enjoy.

We love playing in settings like this, where the atmosphere is welcoming and has a deep appreciation for family gatherings. There’s something special about sharing our music in a diner that’s known for its friendly service and hearty meals. We hope to see some familiar faces! Join us! Join Fernando!

If You Are Planning To Come Out

• Date and Time: April 26, 2026, from 5 – 8 PM
• Venue: Fernando’s Place, 226 N Tremont St, Kewanee, IL 61443
• Who is Playing: Bell & Field
• What to Expect: A relaxed acoustic set in a cozy dining atmosphere
• For more about the venue, visit: Fernando’s Place

About Bell & Field

We are an acoustic duo that enjoys sharing smooth harmonies and classic songs from the 60s to 90s. Our goal is to create a laid-back vibe that makes everyone feel at home while they listen.

About The Venue

Fernando’s Place is located in the heart of Kewanee, and it has become quite a favorite among locals. Known for its authentic Mexican dishes and welcoming atmosphere, the diner features a cozy, retro-style interior that feels friendly and familiar. There’s a wide range of menu items.

It’s a great spot for families and those looking for a casual meal, and we’ve always found the staff to be attentive and warm. Kewanee itself is known for its strong sense of community, and spots like Fernando’s play a big part in that.

We hope you can join us at Fernando’s Place for some good music, delicious food, and perhaps a couple of tasty beverages. Thank you for your support, and we look forward to seeing you there!

We’re happy to share that we’ll be performing at Cerno’s in downtown Kewanee on Thursday, May 29, 2025. The warm atmosphere is just right for an evening like this, especially with the splendid back bar imported from Belgium and the inviting vibe that comes with it.

This will be a private event for an anniversary party for Tom’s parents and we’re looking forward to making it a special time for everyone involved

Show Details

• Date and Time: May 29, 2025, from 7 PM to 9 PM
• Where: Cerno’s, 213 W 3rd St, Kewanee, IL 61443
• Who: Bell & Field
• What to Expect: Acoustic set with a relaxed atmosphere; great food and drinks available.
• Venue Website: Cerno’s Bar & Grill

About Bell & Field

We are an acoustic duo featuring smooth vocal harmonies and a range of songs that will take you from the 60s to the 90s. Our aim is to create a welcoming environment where you can sit back and enjoy the music as we share some of our favorite tunes.

About the Venue

Cerno’s is located in historic downtown Kewanee, Illinois, featuring a beautiful back bar from Belgium that adds character to the space. The venue offers an extensive menu with classic grill fare and 30 beers on tap. It’s a great spot for both casual nights and special occasions.

We appreciate everyone who’s able to join us. It’s going to be a nice evening with good music and good company. Happy Anniversary Jim & Cheri!

This past Saturday, I (Tom) loaded up my guitar and drove over to the Midland Golf Club in Kewanee, IL, where the Kewanee High School Class of 1975 was gathering for their 50th reunion. By the time I walked in, people were already calling out names across the room and finishing stories that clearly started a long time ago.

50 Years of Stories, 3 Hours of Songs

From 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM, I played solo acoustic guitar and sang while classmates caught up, swapped old stories, and passed phones around with grandkid photos. I set up off to the side of the room—close enough to be heard, but far enough that people didn’t have to shout over the music.

I told a few folks that I honestly couldn’t have asked for a better way to spend a Saturday night. Watching friendships that have stretched over 50 years fall right back into place is pretty grounding. Between songs, the room was loud with laughter and “Do you remember when…?”—exactly what you hope for at a reunion.

Songs That Took the Class of ’75 Back

We leaned hard into the music this class grew up with—the 1960s and 1970s songs that were probably on their car radios and record players back then. A few that clearly hit a nerve:

• “We May Never Pass This Way (Again)” by Seals and Crofts
• “Sunshine” by Jonathan Edwards
• “Stand By Me” by Ben E. King
• Encore: “I Saw Her Standing There” by The Beatles

“We May Never Pass This Way (Again)” felt almost too on-the-nose for a 50th reunion, but in the best way. I could see people quietly mouthing the words at their tables, some staring off for a second before snapping back into conversation.

By the time I got to “Stand By Me,” a few couples had decided that sitting down was overrated and made their way to the dance floor. It wasn’t a huge crowd out there, but the ones who danced really leaned into it.

The surprise of the night came at the very end. The room called out for “I Saw Her Standing There” as an encore, and that turned into a full-on dance break. About 20 determined classmates stayed on their feet, dancing and singing like it was the KHS gym floor back in the 70s instead of a golf club in 2025.

How Midland Golf Club Fit the Reunion

Midland Golf Club turned out to be a solid home base for this kind of gathering. There was enough space for people to wander from table to table, give long overdue hugs, and still carve out a little dance floor when the songs called for it.

From my spot with the guitar, I could see clusters of classmates all over the room—people leaning in, pointing across the way, and laughing at something only the KHS Class of ’75 would really understand. The staff kept things quietly on track in the background so everyone could stay focused on catching up instead of worrying about logistics.

Closing Out With the Class of 1975

At the end of the night, I told them, “Hats off to the KHS Class of 1975!” and I meant it. It was a genuine pleasure being the background (and every now and then the foreground) soundtrack for a group that still clearly loves its classic rock and pop.

Those three hours went by quickly: familiar songs, old friends reconnecting, and a handful of brave dancers who refused to let the night end quietly.

Need Live Acoustic Music for Your Reunion or Event?

If you’re planning a reunion, wedding, or any kind of celebration and you’d like live acoustic music—guitar, piano, and vocals—my duo partner Greg and I would be glad to be part of it. You can find details here: Book us for your next event.

Whether you want us tucked into the background while people catch up, or leading a singalong at the end of the night, we’re all in on helping your group reconnect over the songs they know by heart.

This past Saturday we hauled the piano, guitar, and sax down to Central Blvd in Kewanee, IL, for a Hog Days Pre-Parade Celebration at a private home right on the route. It was one of those late-summer afternoons where the sun is warm but not punishing, and you can hear the buzz of the parade crowd starting to build in the distance.

Hog Days from the Front Yard

The house sat just off the street, so we were basically playing from someone’s yard straight out to the parade crowd. Once the clouds finally moved out, we had a clear blue sky, kids running around, lawn chairs lined up, and people drifting in and out to listen between parade prep.

We kicked things off with some familiar tunes to pull people in. Starting with “Mrs. Robinson” and “I Feel Fine” felt just right for a sunny afternoon in Kewanee. With Paul Weddle on sax, the trio sound came together quickly—he has a way of sliding into a song like he’s been in the band for years.

What We Played While the Parade Got Closer

We mixed in a bunch of songs that fit the weather and the mood—some lighter, some a little more driving as the street got busier:

• Setlist highlights:
• Mrs. Robinson
• I Feel Fine
• Summer Breeze
• My Life
• Baker Street
• Spooky
• Piano Man
• American Girl

“Baker Street” with Paul on sax was an obvious crowd-pleaser—any time that riff shows up, heads turn. “Piano Man” had a few people quietly singing along from their lawn chairs, and “American Girl” gave us a nice little push of energy as the parade time got closer.

Guest Vocals, Cabernet, and a Sting Tune

One of the best surprises of the day was when local musician Marshall Jones jumped in with us. He came up to sing “It’s Probably Me” by Sting, and it instantly felt like we’d rehearsed it, even though we absolutely hadn’t. That’s the fun part of these neighborhood-style shows—someone you know from around town steps up and suddenly you’ve got a new version of the band for a song.

As the sun climbed and the shade started to disappear, our host, David Guzzardo, kept us in good spirits with a couple of bottles of Cabernet. Not exactly traditional “hydration,” but it definitely helped keep the mood loose and the between-song banter honest.

Hog Days, Home Turf, and Familiar Faces

Hog Days is a big deal in Kewanee, and even though this was technically a private party, it felt very much like being in the middle of the whole thing. The parade route was just a few steps away, and you could feel the build-up as floats and groups started lining up down the street.

For Tom, who lives just a block away, playing this show is basically like hosting a backyard jam for the whole town—only with more people walking by and more pork-related decorations.

Having family around made it even better. Greg’s daughter came by with her boyfriend, Jake, and Greg’s wife showed up too, along with their high-energy dog, Leo, who did laps around the yard like he’d been hired as our unofficial hype man. It’s always easier to relax into a set when you can look out and see people you know mixed in with the crowd.

As the Parade Turned the Corner

Eventually the parade made its way to our stretch of Central Blvd, and we paused the music so everyone could watch. The sound of drums, engines, and cheering rolled past, and just like that, our little front-yard stage became part of the background of Hog Days instead of the main event.

We wrapped up with that nice, tired-but-happy feeling you get after playing outside all afternoon. If you’d like this kind of live acoustic duo setup—piano, guitar, harmonies, and the occasional guest sax—for your own gathering, you can book Bell & Field for your next event.

Celebrate the end of summer at the Hog Days Private Party during the hog days 2025 celebration! Taking place on August 30, 2025, this exclusive event will be hosted at a private residence from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM in Kewanee, IL. The event promises a day filled with music, mingling, and memorable moments set in a charming outdoor locale.

Event Details

• When: Saturday, August 30, 12:00–2:00 PM
• Where: Private Residence – 216 W Central Blvd, Kewanee, IL 61434
• Who: Enjoy a special performance by the acoustic duo, Bell & Field
• What to Expect: Delight in a selection of live music and refreshments amidst a cozy backyard setting unique to this Hog Days celebration.
• Website: Kewanee Hog Days Festival

About Bell & Field:

The duo Bell & Field are renowned for their soulful harmonies and timeless tracks that encapsulate the essence of music from the ’60s onward. Their acoustic melodies will perfectly underscore this afternoon ensemble, offering moments to relish both the song and the summer sun.

The Venue: A Slice of Kewanee’s Private Charm

Nestled in the laid-back atmosphere of Kewanee, Bell & Field will be performing in the front yard of one of the homes along Central Blvd.  The location offers the perfect setting for viewing the parade and enjoying the music before it starts. The lively Kewanee Hog Days celebration blends small-town hospitality with a big-hearted community vibe.

Join Us for an Extraordinary Summer Soiree

Gather your friends and family for an afternoon of acoustic delights wrapped in the warmth of a late summer day. This is more than an event; it’s a chance to share in the joy of music and camaraderie on a day that marks a festive local celebration. Which classic tune will underscore your summer memories? Share your anticipation in the comments below!

Cheers to a splendid afternoon of song, sunshine, and the friendly spirit of Kewanee!