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The rain arrived about 45 minutes before our 1 pm start at Edison’s Gastropub, which is excellent timing if you are a cloud and less useful if you are carrying instruments.

Fortunately, the spacious canopy was already in place. Edison’s open doors and wide flip-up bar window also gave this outdoor show an indoor route, with the live mix carried into the building. The weather kept switching between rain and less rain, but the tent did its job and we started on schedule.

Our voices took a little time to warm up. That happens sometimes, especially during an afternoon set when the vocal cords apparently expect a written invitation. Once they were fully clocked in, we brought back Bittersweet, a song that had been away from the set for a while.

Three Stops Across America

The middle of the show included an unusual three-song America run: Lonely People, A Horse With No Name and Ventura Highway. Most trips across America require fuel, snacks and several arguments with a navigation app. Ours required a guitar, piano and a careful count-in.

We also debuted the Statler Brothers song Flowers on the Wall. Add Margaritaville, which has been turning up more often in our summertime sets, and the afternoon covered a fair amount of musical geography without either of us leaving the canopy.

The intermittent rain continued through much of the set. By the final notes of Tiny Dancer, the weather had supplied nearly every variation available between damp and slightly less damp.

Karaage!

The day also had a strong food subplot. Before the show, karaage from Edison’s new menu handled the pre-performance meal. Greg ate plenty of Lawson’s karaage-kun during his 10 years in Japan, and was happy to see a similar item on the menu here.

Back at Edison’s, the post-show stretch included a quick conversation with manager Jewel and owner Paul about dates for next year. That brought the afternoon neatly back to where it began: under a well-planned canopy at a venue built to keep the music going when August weather ignores the forecast.

We finished packing up the last or our items, and Tom set off for his immediate next gig.  That’s true endurance!

If you are planning an event and could use a piano-and-guitar duo with songs, stories and weather-tested equipment, take a look at our booking page. We would be glad to hear what you have in mind.

We’ve played Market Alley Wines a few times now, but this May 23rd show in Monmouth felt different the second we turned the corner onto the square. The city’s facelift on Market Alley, plus everything Abner’s and Market Alley Wines have done with the space, really shows. Curtains over the tables, people already settled in, glasses clinking—it actually made us say, “Whoa, this is the same alley?”

Dodging Rain and Trusting the Forecast

On the drive in, a light rain started hitting the windshield and we both had that, “uh oh…” feeling. By the time we got to Market Alley Wines, it was still a little iffy. Sarah, who always takes such good care of us, immediately offered a tent or the option to move inside. We checked the radar, looked at the sky, and decided to gamble on the outdoor setup. “We’ll trust it,” Tom said, probably more confidently than he felt.

The gamble paid off. The clouds hung around just enough to keep it in the mid-70s, and the rain stayed away. Every table was full before we started and stayed that way pretty much the whole show. For a live acoustic duo performance, that’s exactly what you want to see when you hit the first chord.

Requests, Near-Misses, and Desert Delirium

Even before we played a note, a guy came up and said if we could play “Take On Me,” he’d happily sing it. We honestly would have loved to hear that, but we had to admit we don’t know how to play it – at least not in a way that wouldn’t completely fall apart in front of a full alley.

Later in the night, someone asked for “A Horse With No Name” by America. Tom always thinks he knows that one. It’s just a handful of chords, but somehow they never land quite where they’re supposed to. By the time we got to the end, he said he felt like he’d actually been riding through the desert and was a little delirious. Fortunately, we followed it up with “Ventura Highway,” which is one of his absolute favorites and much more in our wheelhouse.

There was also a Pink Floyd request for “Wish You Were Here” in there somewhere. We’re still trying to remember who requested it, but whoever asked clearly had good taste.

New Songs, Sore Fingers, and Sticking to the Favorites

Leading up to this show, we’d been woodshedding a few new tunes we thought we might debut. Tom spent so long on one new chord shape that his pinky was actually sore going into the gig. I’d been hammering an organ part with my left hand way up the keyboard in an awkward position, and my wrist was feeling it too. We both rolled into Monmouth a little pre-injured, musician-style.

In the end, we decided not to roll out the new songs just yet. Honestly, they probably needed a bit more time in the oven. Instead, we leaned into our go-tos—the songs we know we can deliver even when fingers and wrists are complaining. We’ll probably break those new ones out at Tom’s parents’ anniversary show, where we can afford a wrong note or two in front of a very forgiving crowd.

Keith, His Mom, and “Piano Man”

The part of the night that stuck with us the most happened near the end of the show. We closed with “Piano Man,” and there was a man named Keith there with his mom. She’s a pianist who studied classical music but hasn’t been able to play as much lately, still dealing with some lingering COVID effects.

She was really moved by the song, and while we were talking afterward, Keith pulled out his phone, got on Amazon, and bought her the sheet music for “Piano Man” right there. He handed it to her (digitally, anyway) and said, “You can play this!”

We ended up talking about piano music, classical pieces, and even floated the idea of her joining us sometime on Eric Carmen’s “All By Myself,” which quotes Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 2. She mentioned she struggles with piano because her hands are so small. I laughed and said, “Mine are small too,” and she didn’t really buy it until we literally held our hands up to compare. Turns out, our hands were the exact same size. I can’t remember the last time I measured hand size with someone, but it was pretty funny—and somehow a perfect way to end that conversation.

Keytars, TV Themes, and Taco Bell

As we were packing up, I picked up my 88-key keyboard to carry it out, and two young women walked by. Like a complete dad-joke machine, I pretended it was a keytar and started “shredding” on it as I walked. They were not impressed in the slightest, which honestly made it even better. I’ll be honest, at this point I’ve fully embraced being the old guy with zero shame.

Tom’s wife, Malissa (with an “a”), came along for this one, which made it feel more like a proper little road trip. On the way to Monmouth, we stopped in Galesburg so Tom could pick up his guitar from the music store after getting it repaired, then poked around at all the gear like we always do. By the time the show started, Malissa—who said she doesn’t drink wine that often—already had a glass in hand, which is exactly how to do a night at Market Alley Wines.

After the last chord rang out and the gear was loaded, we hit Taco Bell, as is tradition, and then spent the drive home listening to TV theme songs: “The A-Team,” “MacGyver,” “The Facts of Life,” and even “Manimal.” Don’t ask why we remember “Manimal.” We just do.

About Bell & Field:

We’re a piano-and-guitar acoustic duo that loves nights like this—where live music in Monmouth isn’t just background noise, but a reason for people to fill an alley, sing along, and maybe get inspired to dust off their own instruments again. Huge thanks to Sarah and everyone at Market Alley Wines, and to the city of Monmouth and Abner’s for turning that alley into a place where a crowd actually wants to hang out.

If you’re planning something and want this kind of live acoustic duo performance at your place or event, you can get in touch with us here: https://www.bellandfieldmusic.com/book-acoustic-duo/.

If you’re looking for a Friday where you can hear the people you’re with, finish a story, and still have great live music going in the background, this one might fit your night.

We’re heading back to Edison’s Gastropub in Bettendorf on Friday, June 5, and we’ve been quietly looking forward to this one for a while. Our last show there was in 2025, and it honestly stuck with us more than most places do.

Paul and the staff were kind to us from the moment we walked in. The place was clean and dialed-in without feeling stiff, and everything just worked the way you hope it will when you’re hauling in a keyboard and guitar. We played outside on their patio, which is a really comfortable spot to settle into for a few hours.

One detail that really stood out: they had a camera feed running during the show, and Paul took the time afterward to send us some of the video. One of those clips ended up at the top of our homepage, so if you saw the Edison’s footage there, that’s from that night! It’s rare that a venue goes that extra step for the band, and it made us want to come back.

This time around, we’re leaning into what worked there before: songs you’ll recognize mixed in with some deeper cuts, arranged so they sit well with conversation and dinner. We’ll probably stretch out a little more on a few piano intros and guitar textures too, since well… that’s just what we love to do!

The Basics

• When: Friday, June 5, 2026, from 4:00pm to 7:00pm
• Where: Edison’s Gastropub, 3579 Tanglefoot Ln, Bettendorf, IA 52722
• Who: Bell & Field (piano, guitar, and two voices)
• What to expect: An early evening set you can bring friends or family to, with familiar songs, a few rearranged favorites, and some quieter moments that won’t drown out your conversation.
• Venue website: edisonsgastropub.com

About Bell & Field

We’re a piano-and-guitar duo that builds sets around the room we’re in. At a place like Edison’s, that usually means mixing in thoughtful covers, some stripped-down takes on bigger songs, and a few quieter choices so people can enjoy the music without having to shout across the table.

The Room & The Neighborhood

Edison’s sits over on Tanglefoot Lane in Bettendorf, and they’ve clearly put care into how the place is run. Last time we were there, everything from the stage setup to the patio layout made it easy for people to settle in for the evening. The outdoor area in particular felt like a natural spot for a 4–7pm show as the day winds down.

From a musician’s point of view, it’s the kind of place where the staff is on top of things and you can focus on playing instead of troubleshooting. That tends to make the music better, and it’s just one of the reasons we were hoping to get back on their calendar.

If you end up at Edison’s that Friday, we’ll do our best to give you a solid soundtrack for the early part of your night.

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.

What a wonderful day we spent kicking off summer at the Summertime Market at Songbird Lane Antiques in Cambridge, IL! From the moment we arrived, the picturesque setting captivated us—rolling hills, tranquil pond, charming timber groves, and smiling faces everywhere. Despite forecasts of intense heat and strong winds, hosts Nancy and Rick anticipated every detail, providing us with a spacious, anchored canopy that kept us cool and comfortable throughout our set.

Performance Highlights & Special Moments

• We couldn’t resist performing “Summer Breeze” to match the perfect summer atmosphere and gentle wind drifting through the market.
• A special request, Gordon Lightfoot’s “Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald,” was enjoyed by one of the antique dealers nearby, adding a thoughtful touch to our set.
• Perhaps our most touching moment came when we dedicated “Wildfire” to our dear friend Yvonne, who recently lost her beloved horse, Trigger. Seeing the emotion in her eyes reminded us how meaningful music can truly be.

Friendly Faces & Community Connections

It’s always delightful to reconnect with familiar faces, and this event was no exception. We ran into our friend Adam Kaul, talented musician and member of Subatlantic. Moments like these remind us why we love performing—it’s about the camaraderie, reunions, and shared memories.

Setlist Favorites

• Summer Breeze
• Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald
• Wildfire
• And plenty more soulful acoustic tunes…

As we played, it was a joy watching guests explore the antiques, treasures, and collectibles throughout the market. The blend of music, community warmth, and timeless treasures created a summer day we won’t soon forget.

At the end of the day, despite the summer heat, we left with full hearts and fond memories. Tom even got to debut his brand-new guitar strap engraved with “Bell & Field,” adding a personal touch to our performance. We’re already looking forward to our next show in Moline this weekend—hope to see you there!

Ready to create lasting memories through music?

Book us for your next event and let Bell & Field bring warmth and harmony to your special occasion.

Ready to elevate your weekend vibes? On Saturday, June 28, get ready for an evening of craft brews, eclectic tunes, and a one-of-a-kind atmosphere at Pour Bros. Craft Taproom in Moline, IL! The festivities begin at 7:30 PM and continue until 10:00 PM—an ideal window to relax, sip on exceptional beverages, and enjoy the local music scene.

Event Details

• When: Saturday, June 28, 7:30–10:00 PM
• Where: Pour Bros. Craft Taproom – 1209 4th Ave Suite 2, Moline, IL 61265
• What to Expect: A vibrant blend of live music, artisan craft beers, and an inviting ambiance that captures the urban spirit of Moline.
• Website: Pour Bros. Craft Taproom

About Bell & Field:

While the image above remains a nod to our classic style, let’s shift the spotlight to Pour Bros. Craft Taproom. Known for its modern industrial charm and welcoming ambiance, this venue has quickly become a local favorite. With an ever-evolving selection of craft beers, artisanal cocktails, and a lineup of live local acts, Pour Bros. is the perfect setting for those looking to unwind and mingle in Moline’s vibrant downtown.

The Venue & Moline Vibe

Step into Pour Bros. Craft Taproom and experience the taste of Moline’s creative spirit. Located in the heart of downtown, the venue’s sleek yet relaxed decor creates a welcoming atmosphere where contemporary design meets a storied Midwest tradition. Whether you’re here for the craft brews or the live music, you’re in for an experience that resonates with the city’s unique urban vibe.

Join Us for a Night to Unwind

Bring your friends and get set for an unforgettable evening that celebrates local flavors and sounds. Whether you’re a longtime fan of craft beer or new to the scene, this night promises a perfect balance of music, taste, and community. What’s your go-to brew or cocktail when you’re out on the town? Let us know in the comments below!

Cheers to a night filled with great drinks, live tunes, and lasting memories at Pour Bros. Craft Taproom!

Ready to experience an unforgettable evening? On April 4, 2025, join us at Rams Riverhouse in Port Byron for a special night that pairs the signature sounds of Bell & Field with a refined wine tasting experience. The night’s performance begins at 7:00 PM and wraps up by 10:00 PM, ensuring an immersive and stylish affair that blends music with the scenic charm of Port Byron.

Event Details

• When: Friday, April 4, 2025, 7:00–10:00 PM
• Where: Rams Riverhouse – Port Byron, NY
• Who: Live acoustic performance by the acclaimed duo, Bell & Field
• What to Expect: An enchanting fusion of soulful tunes, expertly paired wines, and a delightful ambiance set against the backdrop of Port Byron’s waterfront charm.
• Website: Rams Riverhouse

About Bell & Field:

Bell & Field are celebrated for their intimate acoustic sessions that meld timeless melodies with modern artistry. Their refined sound and heartfelt vocals create an inviting atmosphere, making every note resonate with the passion and craftsmanship that defines their performances.

The Venue: Rams Riverhouse & Port Byron Charm

Set along the picturesque riverfront, Rams Riverhouse offers a sophisticated yet relaxed setting that mirrors the natural beauty of Port Byron. With a tasteful blend of rustic decor and contemporary comforts, the venue boasts both intimate indoor spaces and scenic outdoor views. Nestled in a town known for its friendly community and captivating vistas, this venue is the perfect backdrop for an evening of enchanting music and curated wine experiences.

Join Us for a Night to Remember

Gather your friends and immerse yourself in an evening where artful music meets carefully selected wines. Whether you’re a longtime admirer of Bell & Field or curious about the exceptional vibes at Rams Riverhouse, this event promises a delightful fusion of entertainment and elegance. What aspect excites you the most – the live tunes, the serene river views, or the exquisite wine tasting? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Cheers to a night filled with soulful melodies, scenic charm, and cherished memories at Rams Riverhouse!

Celebrate Father’s Day with a relaxing afternoon filled with great food, heartfelt melodies, and cherished moments! Join us on Sunday, June 15, 2025, at Tuggers in Port Byron, IL, from Noon to 3:00 PM, for a special Father’s Day event featuring the soulful acoustic sounds of Bell & Field.

Event Details

• When: Sunday, June 15, Noon–3:00 PM
• Where: Tuggers – 201 N Main St, Port Byron, IL 61275
• Who: Live acoustic performance by the acclaimed duo, Bell & Field
• What to Expect: Celebrate Dad with classic hits, smooth harmonies, and a delicious seasonal lunch menu in a relaxed and inviting atmosphere.
• Website: Tuggers

About Bell & Field:

Bell & Field are celebrated for their smooth harmonies and an impressive repertoire that spans decades, creating an intimate and inviting atmosphere. Their performance is designed to complement the easygoing charm of Tuggers, offering an acoustic set that enhances your midday dining experience.

The Venue: Celebrate Father’s Day at Tuggers

Make Father’s Day memorable at Tuggers, Port Byron’s favorite gathering spot. Known for its inviting atmosphere, delicious seasonal dishes, and warm hospitality, Tuggers perfectly captures the spirit of community and celebration. Choose indoor seating for a cozy meal or relax outdoors while enjoying vibrant tunes—whichever you choose, it’s sure to be a Father’s Day to remember!

Join Us for a Father’s Day Celebration

Bring Dad, family, and friends together for an afternoon filled with live acoustic music, fantastic food, and the warmth of community spirit. Share this special occasion with Bell & Field at Tuggers—a Father’s Day experience he’ll cherish.

What song would your dad love to hear on Father’s Day? Let us know below!

Cheers to making Father’s Day special with great food, unforgettable music, and lasting memories at Tuggers!

Ready to kick off a vibrant summer day! On June 21, join us at Summertime Market at Songbird Lane in Cambridge, IL, for an extraordinary mid-morning to early afternoon event. Experience not only the allure of timeless treasures and local history but also the soulful acoustic sounds of Bell & Field. The overall event runs from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, with Bell & Field captivating the crowd during their performance slot from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM.

Event Details

• When: Saturday, June 21, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM (Performance by Bell & Field: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM)
• Where: Songbird Lane Antiques – 16870 N 1100th Ave, Cambridge, IL 61238-9315
• Who: Enjoy a live acoustic performance by the acclaimed duo, Bell & Field
• What to Expect: A fusion of classic melodies, a relaxed antique browsing experience, and the charm of Cambridge’s local culture amidst beautiful collectible pieces.
• Website: Songbird Lane Antiques

About Bell & Field:

Bell & Field continue to redefine live acoustic performances with their seamless harmonies and genuine stage presence. Their sets, ranging from nostalgic classics to soulful contemporary tunes, provide the perfect soundtrack to a day spent discovering one-of-a-kind antiques and engaging with a community that cherishes history and art.

The Venue: Songbird Lane Antiques & Cambridge Charm

Step into Summertime Market at Songbird Lane, a treasure trove of vintage finds and curated collectibles nestled in the heart of Cambridge, Illinois. With its warm, inviting atmosphere and meticulously arranged exhibits, the venue is celebrated for both its historical significance and its ever-changing array of unique items. Whether you’re an antique enthusiast or a first-time visitor, the venue’s timeless elegance and the surrounding small-town charm promise an enriching experience.

Join Us for a Day to Remember

Gather your friends and family for an event that blends live music with the joy of exploration. Whether you’re eager to revel in Bell & Field’s special acoustic set or to delve into the distinctive collections at Songbird Lane Antiques, this day-long event is set to delight all your senses. Which vintage collectible or classic tune are you excited to discover? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Raise a toast to a memorable day filled with soulful music, antique wonders, and the unique spirit of Cambridge!

Ready to elevate your evening? On Saturday, May 3, 2025, join us at Market Alley Wines in Monmouth, IL, for an unforgettable night that pairs the smooth acoustics of Bell & Field with an exclusive wine tasting experience! The event begins at 6:00 PM and concludes by 9:00 PM, promising a relaxed vibe with exceptional sips and soulful tunes.

Event Details

• When: Saturday, May 3, 2025, 5:00–7:00 PM
• Where: Market Alley Wines – 59 Public Square, Monmouth, IL 61462
• Who: Live acoustic performance by the acclaimed duo, Bell & Field
• What to Expect: An intimate evening featuring classic tunes, handcrafted wines, and an exclusive tasting event that highlights the distinct flavors and charm of Market Alley Wines.
• Website: Market Alley Wines

About Bell & Field:

Bell & Field are celebrated for their warm harmonies and timeless repertoire, spanning the decades from the ’60s to the ’90s. Their live acoustic performance creates an inviting and intimate atmosphere—perfect for savoring the exquisite wines and engaging company at Market Alley Wines.

The Venue: Market Alley Wines & Monmouth Magic

Step into Market Alley Wines, a hub of contemporary charm nestled within historic Monmouth. Known for its curated selection of boutique wines and friendly ambiance, this venue offers both indoor and outdoor seating that captures the small-town spirit with a modern twist. Monmouth’s vibrant community and rich heritage come together at Market Alley Wines, making it the ideal setting for an evening of refined taste and soulful music.

Join Us for a Night to Remember

Bring your friends and immerse yourself in a night where live music meets fine wine. Whether you’re a devoted fan of Bell & Field or eager to explore Market Alley Wines’ exclusive tasting experience, this event promises an impeccable blend of art, flavor, and community. Which wine varietal or classic tune are you most excited to experience? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Cheers to an enchanting night of live music, delightful sips, and memories that will last a lifetime at Market Alley Wines!