PHOTO PROVIDED Twisted Racquet-Tears are pictured while dressed for Halloween for their Oct. 31 concert at STEP, Inc. in Lock Haven.

LOCK HAVEN — It’s fun, it’s free and it’s playing at the STEP Inc. building twice a month. The “Twisted Racquet-Tears” bring together a talented group of local musicians who share one simple mission: to spread the joy of music.

The band, led by founding members Bruce Wooley and Jim Gregory were quickly joined by George Stefanski, making a trio of accomplished guitarists. They needed a bass player, so Rose Reeder became the fourth member, learning to play the stand-up bass under the guidance of Bruce and George. Diana Andrus, an experienced mandolin player, completes the group’s sound with Diane Wooley, Bruce’s wife, acting as “band mom,” provides refreshments and support.

Together, the five members love to sing, play and invite others to share in the fun. Their repertoire includes over 600 songs spanning Gospel, Country, Appalachian, 1940s-50s classics, patriotic favorites, rock and roll from the 1960s to today, humorous tunes, children’s songs, traditional instrumentals, acapella pieces and even original works.

During performances, audience members call out requests from the song list, and Bruce projects the lyrics and chords on a big screen so everyone can sing along–or even play along if they’ve brought an instrument! The band welcomes participation and encourages others to join the music-making spirit.

Recently, the group was honored to perform a three-hour Gospel sing-along at the Clinton County Fair, where audience participation and enthusiasm were outstanding.

The band is available to perform on Fridays and Sundays, and all appearances are free of charge. Their schedule at STEP Inc. (124 E. Walnut St) is the first and third Fridays of the month, Nov. 7 and 21, Dec. 5 and 19 from 1 p.m.-3 p.m. For more information, or to invite the group for a community performance, please contact Bruce Wooley at bwooley1994@gmail.com.