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Last Friday at Treehouse Pub & Eatery in Bettendorf, IA felt less like a brand-new gig and more like walking back into a room we already knew how to play. We rolled our cases onto the back patio, did the usual cable tangle and tuning tweaks, and by the time we looked up, the place had filled in with conversation, clinking glasses, and people settling in to hang out with us for the night.

The “Backyard” Stage Out Back

If you haven’t been to Treehouse Pub & Eatery, the name isn’t just clever branding. The back patio really does feel like someone built a multi-level wooden treehouse, then decided it needed a bar, a kitchen, and a lot of railings. There are string lights overhead, solid tables, and just enough elevation changes to make it feel like a backyard someone kept adding onto.

From the first tune, people felt close in—not just physically, but in the way they were actually paying attention. Heads turned when we hit the first chord. Folks were humming and singing along on the choruses, tossing us requests and comments between sets. We never feel like background noise at Treehouse; the patio leans into the show with us.

Starting Big, Then Sneaking In the New Stuff

We opened with a more upbeat first set to match the early dinner rush—songs with hooks people recognize, steady grooves, and plenty of toes tapping under the tables. Once that first wave finished their food and started heading out, the patio thinned a bit, and we took that as our chance to get a little braver with the set list.

“South City Midnight Lady” by The Doobie Brothers has been living on our music stands for a while, so finally playing it in front of actual humans felt like checking off a quiet little goal. It’s a layered, slow-burn song, and we honestly weren’t sure how it would feel outside the practice room. The applause came quickly and felt genuinely warm—one of those exhale moments that makes you think, “Okay, we can keep going down this road.”

We also brought out “Walk On the Ocean” by Toad the Wet Sprocket and “Round Here” by Counting Crows for their first public spin. Both of those live in that moody, storytelling lane we love—less about huge singalong choruses and more about letting the lyrics and dynamics carry things. You could feel the patio quiet down a notch as people tuned in, which is exactly what we hope happens with songs like that.

Cranking It Back Up With Old-School Rock & Roll

As the night went on, more people drifted back onto the patio, and the volume of the room climbed right along with them. We shifted gears and reached for the old rock & roll anchors: “Be-Bop-a-Lula” and “Great Balls of Fire.” Those two refuse to sit quietly in the background.

There was clapping on the backbeats, some full-on chair-dancing, and a lot of big grins aimed our way. Those piano parts move fast enough that there’s not much time to think about anything except keeping your hands where they’re supposed to be, but hearing people singing over the top of it makes the juggling act worth it.

Craig, Jana, and Familiar Family Faces

One of the highlights of the night was meeting Craig and Jana, who stayed with us all the way through the last song. After we wrapped up and started the slow process of coiling cables and packing up, we caught them on their way out and had a quick conversation and thank-you. Those end-of-the-night chats are short, but they’re the ones that replay in your head on the drive home.

We also had some very familiar faces in the crowd: Tom’s parents came out to the show. Having family in the audience adds a strange mix of comfort and pressure—you know at least two people out there have heard you practice these songs when they were a lot rougher, so you’re hoping they notice the progress.

Patio Weather That Actually Behaved

The weather did us a favor and hovered right around 75°. No jackets, no shivering, and we weren’t chasing guitars or piano tuning all night. For an outdoor show, that’s about as low-maintenance as it gets.

We’re not counting on that kind of luck once the temperatures drop, which is why we’re actually looking forward to our next Treehouse date being indoors—our first time playing the inside space there. Same crowd, same staff, just a new corner of the building for us to figure out.

Next Treehouse Date & How to Bring Us to Your Event

We’ll be back at Treehouse Pub & Eatery on Saturday, November 1. Whether you’ve seen us a bunch of times or you’re just curious what a piano–guitar duo sounds like in that room, we’d love to have you there.

If you’d like Bell & Field to bring this mix of new tunes, familiar classics, and plenty of interaction to your own event, you can book us for your next event. We’re always glad to add another party, wedding, or gathering to the growing list of nights we get to play.

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.

On Saturday, December 6, we’re loading up the guitar and piano and heading into downtown Lincoln for a three-hour acoustic hang at Copper & Oak Bourbon and Craft Beer Bar. If your idea of a solid Saturday is live music, good people, and a serious bourbon and craft beer lineup, this one’s for you.

We’ll be playing as Bell & Field from 5:00-8:00 PM while you explore their bourbons, whiskeys, and rotating craft beers. Expect classic songs from the ’60s through the ’90s, stripped down to guitar, piano, and two voices, in a bar that clearly cares about what’s in your glass.

When, Where, and What We’re Doing

• When: Saturday, December 6, 5:00-8:00 PM
• Where: Copper & Oak Bourbon and Craft Beer Bar – 227 N Kickapoo St, Lincoln, IL 62656 (right in the heart of historic downtown and the Route 66 Plaza)
• Who: Live acoustic set by Bell & Field
• What to Expect: Classic melodies from the ’60s-’90s, a deep bourbon and whiskey list, and plenty of distinctive craft beers to ease you into the weekend.
• Website: Copper & Oak Bourbon and Craft Beer Bar

What Bell & Field Sounds Like in a Room Like This

We’re an acoustic duo that plays the songs we grew up on: ’60s, ’70s, ’80s, and ’90s favorites that people actually know the words to. We keep the setup simple-guitar, piano, and two voices-and let the songs carry the weight.

Our sets are built for spots like Copper & Oak. You can still hear the lyrics, you don’t have to shout across the table, and when your favorite chorus hits, you’ll feel it even if you’re mid-conversation. We like to read the room as we go: easing in with slower tunes while everyone gets their first drink, then nudging the tempo up as the night rolls on and the bar fills out.

Bourbon Shelves, Craft Taps, and Route 66

Copper & Oak sits in the new Route 66 Plaza in historic downtown Lincoln, and it feels like it was put together by people who really care about what they pour. There are shelves of bourbon and whiskey behind the bar, over 21 craft beers on tap, and a speakeasy-style room that makes you want to stay for “just one more.”

It’s the kind of place where one table might be comparing tasting notes on a new whiskey flight while the next is just clocking out from the week with a cold craft beer. We’ll be playing to both: songs you can tap your foot to while you talk, and a few that might make you stop mid-sip because you haven’t heard them in a while.

Come Spend a Saturday With Us in Lincoln

If you’ve seen Bell & Field before, come check us out in a new room. If you haven’t caught a show yet, this is an easy first time-no tickets, no big production, just live music, good drinks, and a Saturday evening in downtown Lincoln.

If hearing us at Copper & Oak gets you thinking about live music for your own thing-a small wedding, a private party, or a night at your bar-you can find details about booking us here: https://www.bellandfieldmusic.com/book-acoustic-duo/.

Planning to come out to Copper & Oak? Drop a comment and let us know: which classic track are you hoping we sneak into the set, and which bourbon, whiskey, or craft beer are you starting with?

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.

Ready to enhance your weekend with a memorable evening? On October 11, immerse yourself in the rich ambiance of the copper and oak bourbon and craft beer bar in Lincoln, IL, as you join us for an exhilarating night of live music and exquisite drinks, including selections of copper and oak bourbon and craft beer. The event kicks off at 5:00 PM and winds down by 7:00 PM, offering a perfect blend of charm and palate-pleasing experiences.

Event Details

• When: Saturday, October 11, 5:00–7:00 PM
• Where: Copper & Oak Bourbon and Craft Beer Bar – 227 N Kickapoo St, Lincoln, IL 62656
• Who: Solo performance by Greg Percifield (piano/vocals)
• What to Expect: A repertoire of soothing melodies, expertly crafted bourbons, and an impressive selection of craft beers to complement your evening.
• Website: Copper & Oak Bourbon and Craft Beer Bar

About Greg Percifield:

Greg has been performing piano and vocals for decades, drawing on a wide range of influences — from classic rock and jazz to easy-listening favorites. His solo shows are designed to create an inviting atmosphere where music feels both personal and timeless.

The Venue: Copper & Oak & Lincoln, IL Charm

Nestled in the historic town of Lincoln, Copper & Oak is known for its wide array of bourbons and craft beers, boasting a selection that entices both connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike. With its warm, rustic decor and welcoming staff, the bar reflects the community’s friendly vibe. The town itself, named after Abraham Lincoln before he became President, is steeped in history and small-town charm, making your visit a culturally rich experience.

Make It A Night To Remember

Bring a friend, sip something new, and settle in for two hours of live music that pairs perfectly with Copper & Oak’s offerings. Whether you’re a bourbon enthusiast, a craft beer fan, or simply looking for a relaxing evening, this event promises to hit all the right notes.

What’s your go-to bourbon or favorite classic song? Share it below — I’d love to hear!

Raise a glass and join me for an unforgettable evening at Copper & Oak!

Raise a glass to an extraordinary night of live music and splendid pours at Copper & Oak Bourbon and Craft Beer Bar!

Our recent live acoustic duo performance at the Loyal Order of Moose in Joliet, IL was a night to remember. Despite the unexpected cancellation of the dinner event, the evening transformed into an intimate gathering filled with enthusiastic music lovers kicking back to enjoy live music and beer.

A Night of Classic Hits and New Discoveries

The evening started off with a lineup of beloved classics and some fresh additions to our repertoire. Each song, from Billy Joel’s “She’s Always a Woman” to Steely Dan’s “Rikki Don’t Lose That Number,” resonated with the audience, who responded with requests that kept the night lively and connected. Here are some highlights from our set:

• “Hungry Heart”
• “Lonely People”
• “Ain’t Even Done with the Night”
• “Southern Nights”
• “It’s Still Rock ‘n’ Roll to Me”
• Requests: “Forever in Blue Jeans,” “Mary Jane’s Last Dance,” and “She’s Always a Woman”

Personal Touches and Family Ties

One of the evening’s personal highlights was the presence of Greg’s dad, Steve, who was instrumental in ensuring everything ran smoothly. Steve, a steadfast supporter, contributed to the familial feel of the show, creating posters, assisting with setup and teardown, and announcing Bell & Field on stage.  “I always like seeing him,” Greg shared with a smile, “and I know when he’s back there sitting at the bar listening to the music that he’s our biggest fan there.”

Setting the Stage with Style

To enhance the ambiance, we set up a backdrop curtain, adding a touch of polish that complemented the venue’s vintage charm.

Even with a smaller audience, the energy was palpable, and the new setup allowed us to explore both familiar tunes and fresh tracks, like “Let Me Love You Tonight” by Pure Prairie League. This setting allowed us to practice and refine our performance, ensuring each song resonated better than before.

As the night wrapped up, we left with a sense of fulfillment, knowing that music had once again brought people together. The drive home, as always, was filled with stories and reflections—a cherished part of our journey as Bell & Field.

Join Us for Future Performances

If you missed this night of live music in Joliet, don’t worry! We’re always eager to bring our music to new audiences. Book us for your next event and experience the magic of Bell & Field live.

Looking to ring in the New Year with style? On December 31, join us at Pour Bros. Craft Taproom in Moline, IL, for a night filled with live music, craft spirits, and joyful celebrations! The festivities begin at 9:00 PM and continue through to midnight, culminating in a memorable start to the New Year.

Event Details

• When: Wednesday, December 31, 9:00 PM–12:00 AM
• Where: Pour Bros. Craft Taproom – 1209 4th Ave Suite 2, Moline, IL 61265
• Who: Live acoustic performance by the acclaimed duo, Bell & Field
• What to Expect: An evening of classic tunes, handcrafted beers, and a vibrant countdown to the New Year.
• Website: Pour Bros. Craft Taproom

About Bell & Field:

Bell & Field are celebrated for their smooth harmonies and a wide-ranging repertoire spanning the ’60s to the ’90s. Their acoustic performances are designed to create a warm, intimate atmosphere—perfect for savoring both the music and the exceptional brews on offer.

The Venue: Pour Bros. Craft Taproom & Moline Vibes

Nestled in the heart of Moline, Pour Bros. Craft Taproom is known for its welcoming ambiance and extensive selection of regional craft beers. With its innovative self-pour tap wall and inviting atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to gather friends and celebrate. Moline’s rich history and vibrant community spirit make this venue an exciting spot to usher in the New Year, where every pint poured is part of a unique celebration.

Join Us for a New Year’s Eve to Remember

Bring your friends and experience an unforgettable night where live music meets craft libations. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Bell & Field or are curious about exploring local brews, this evening promises a perfect blend of music, drink, and camaraderie. Which classic song or brew are you excited to try? Let us know in the comments below!

Here’s to a magical night of live music, delicious drinks, and unforgettable New Year celebrations at Pour Bros. Craft Taproom!

Ready for an enchanting autumn evening? On November 1, step into the Treehouse Pub & Eatery in Bettendorf, IA, for a memorable night that fuses Bell & Field’s soulful melodies with an exquisite dining experience! Revel in a cozy setting from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM, as we kick off this unique event.

Event Details

• When: Saturday, November 1, 6:00–9:00 PM
• Where: Treehouse Pub & Eatery – 2239 Kimberly Rd, Bettendorf, IA 52722
• Who: Live acoustic performance by the renowned duo, Bell & Field
• What to Expect: A cozy ambiance paired with delectable dishes, specialty cocktails, and the harmonious acoustic blends of Bell & Field.
• Website: Treehouse Pub & Eatery

About Bell & Field:

Bell & Field are celebrated for their seamless harmonies and classic setlist that transcends the ’60s through the ’90s. Our acoustic session aims to cultivate a warm and intimate atmosphere—perfect for enjoying the music along with Treehouse Pub’s mouth-watering fare.

The Venue: Treehouse Pub & Eatery & Local Flavors

Located in the heart of Bettendorf, Treehouse Pub & Eatery offers a unique treehouse-themed experience. Enjoy a welcoming ambiance with their extensive menu featuring gourmet burgers, artisan pizzas, and an impressive selection of craft beers. Known for its community-driven spirit, Bettendorf stands out with its lush parks and vibrant local culture, making any visit even more special.

Join Us for a Halloween Weekend Special

Gather your friends for an unforgettable evening packed with live music and gourmet delights at Treehouse Pub & Eatery. Whether you’re a Bell & Field fan or looking to experience the unique blend of dining and entertainment, this night has something for everyone. Excited about a specific tune or dish? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Celebrate an autumn night of live melodies, culinary treats, and fond memories at Treehouse Pub & Eatery!

Cheers to a night filled with music, good food, and great company on this charming Halloween weekend!

Looking for a delightful way to spend your Saturday afternoon? On August 2, join us at Market Alley Wines in Monmouth, IL, for a special evening featuring the enchanting sounds of Bell & Field alongside a unique wine tasting experience! The event begins at 5:00 PM and concludes at 7:00 PM, offering an atmosphere filled with great music and fine indulgence.

Event Details

• When: Saturday, August 2, 5:00–7:00 PM
• Where: Market Alley Wines – 59 Public Square, Monmouth, IL 61462
• Who: Live acoustic performance by the talented duo, Bell & Field
• What to Expect: A fusion of melodious tunes, exceptional wines, and a cozy ambiance that promises a delightful and intimate gathering.
• Website: Market Alley Wines

About Bell & Field:

Bell & Field are celebrated for their smooth harmonies and timeless repertoire from the ’60s to the ’90s. Their acoustic set is crafted to foster a warm, inviting atmosphere—ideal for enjoying the music as well as the exceptional wines available.

The Venue: Market Alley Wines & Monmouth’s Warm Welcome

Situated in the heart of Monmouth’s charming Public Square, Market Alley Wines is known for its inviting space and curated selection of wines. Here, you can savor a relaxed vibe complemented by a community that exudes warmth and hospitality. Monmouth’s rich history and thriving local culture make this venue a perfect backdrop for an intimate evening of music and wine.

Join Us for a Memorable Experience

Gather your friends and join us for a captivating evening where live music meets curated wines. Whether you’re a dedicated fan of Bell & Field or eager to explore new wine flavors, this event promises to offer something special for everyone. Which song or wine are you most looking forward to experiencing? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Raise a glass to an unforgettable night of music, wine, and camaraderie at Market Alley Wines!

A Night to Remember at Pour Bros.

We can’t say enough about what a fantastic evening we had on June 28 at Pour Bros. Craft Taproom in Moline! From start to finish, everything about this year’s Railside Series performance was memorable—from the warm hospitality of Matthew and the Pour Bros. team to the wonderful crowd who arrived early, giving us time to catch up with familiar faces like our dear friend Maureen. Unlike last year’s unexpectedly chilly weather, this year’s warmth was beautifully offset by plenty of shade and a gentle breeze, making it an ideal evening for live music.

Highlights From the Stage

• We debuted our version of Dan Fogelberg’s classic “Part of the Plan”—a bit rough around the edges, but the enthusiastic response was incredibly encouraging!
• A special birthday request had us diving into “Ophelia” by The Band, along with crowd favorites “Summer Breeze” and “Ventura Highway.”
• We had fun dedicating America’s “Lonely People” to a playful single audience member—we love engaging with our crowd.
• The energy culminated in a spirited rendition of “Small Town,” where Tom held the note on that final “yeah-ee-yeah” longer than ever before, earning an unforgettable applause from everyone.

A Little Help From Our Friends

Mid-performance, a swarm of gnats decided to join us on stage. Thankfully, one lovely audience member came to our rescue with her homemade bug spray. It worked wonders (and no glowing skin the next day—promise!).

Lighting Up the Night

Matthew at Pour Bros. provided impressive stage lighting, adding two large four-bars to our own setup of 4 four-bars and additional uplights. As the sun set, the stage transformed into a vibrant spectacle, enhancing the entire experience.

Coming Back for New Year’s Eve!

We were ecstatic to confirm we’ll return to Pour Bros. Craft Taproom for our third consecutive New Year’s Eve performance. It’s always rewarding when a venue invites us back for special occasions like this, and we appreciate the extra hospitality, including hotel accommodations after a late night.

A heartfelt thank you to all who joined us for this incredible Railside evening! Your energy, engagement, and laughter made it one of the highlights of our summer. Special thanks again to Matthew and Pour Bros. Craft Taproom for hosting such a memorable event.

Want Bell & Field to bring the music to your next event? Book us for your next event today!