David Broad - Guitar, Mandolin, Buzouki, Vocals
I don't think he would admit it, but David is the clear musical leader of the band, with a lifetime of experience and skill with the guitar and mandolin. His fleet fingers fairly fly across the fret board, whether it's bluegrass, salsa, delta blues, or campfire music. When you blend in his silky vocal offerings, you've got one fine musician, and he has much musical experience, playing and singing in churches his whole life.
David's musical skill and accomplishment is complemented by his winning, positive attitude. He has a fine ear for tight harmonies and nifty chords, and is always willing to lend a hand when others are stuck or not finding their parts. He personifies the concept of the Christian gentleman; kind, supporting, and faithful.
By day David is an accomplished lawyer, currently working for one of London's most prestigious law firms. He is also kind enough to invite us to his home each week where we practice in purpose-built space above his garage.
Marcella DeViet - Vocals
Although she only lived in Alberta until she was about two and a half, that's still 30 months more than the rest of us, so Marcella is our official western component. Marcella provides vocals for A String and a Prayer when she's not saving the world one cat at a time. By day she's a mild-mannered Veterinary Receptionist, but don't let her quiet exterior fool you, she's our unabashed leader of giggles and happiness; she'll jab you with jokes and stun you with puns.
Marcella's rock-solid faith grew from her childhood, raised in the Christian Reformed Church, her passion for Christ and for life is evident and infectious. She cites Allison Kraus and Dolly Parton as two of her influences, but you can catch her listening to all sorts of C&W, bluegrass, choral, and vocal music.
Dan Flaherty - Guitar, Banjo, vocals
With a young family at home, and an extremely busy work life, we don't know exactly where Dan finds the time, but as one of the founding members of A String and a Prayer, we would be lost without him. Dan's broad performance experience, and background in radio and T.V. make him a natural on stage and in public, he is our unofficial spokesman. Nimble fingers and a great ear for rhythm make Dan a great guitarist, but the recent addition of a banjo to his (extensive) instrument collection has also brought additional fullness to our sound.
As communications manager at the health unit, Dan's day job keeps him hopping!
Meaghan Riedl - Vocals
Meaghan is the newest addition to our motley group, and brings with her a great voice that stretches way up into the stratosphere when it needs to. She comes to us from a choral and vocal background, and adds some denominational diversity, having been raised in the Presbyterian Church.
You may have seen and/or heard Meaghan before, she used to sing the national anthem at the old Ice House when the Knights still played there. All this experience still fits into a young soul, Meaghan is the youngest of us chronologically, but the award for youngest mentally (most immature) is a hotly-contested discussion!
Greg Simpson - Fiddle, Dobro, Vocals
It was a chance work-related meeting with Dan that led Greg into A String and a Prayer. We were looking for a fiddler, and he happened to play one. It was a happy coincidence, as he fits quite nicely, and helps especially with silliness at practices. Greg has been on many stages in theatrical and musical productions, and also sings with a vocal quintet, The Five Guys. This ease on stage and his open, friendly personality mean there's no shortage of witty banter, whether at practice or in public. Greg has recently started learning dobro, and adds its mournful tone to a few of our songs.
Greg is a software developer by trade, and his company has been kind enough to provide us with this web site.
Norm Sonnenberg - Bass, Tenor vocals
Norm brings vast musical knowledge and performing experience to the group, having sung all his life. He brings strength at both ends of the register, playing bass and singing tenor. His contagious laugh and easy smile are quick to put people at ease, and he is always willing to share his zeal for Christ and zest for life. Norm lends a Pentecostal bent to the band, and speaks and sings as the spirit moves him.
Norm has performed in many churches and on many stages over the years, from his early days with the Watchmen to many choirs and quartets between then and now. He regularly jams and/or sings with anyone who is willing. Norm's passion and compassion for life define who he is and where he stands. We're so lucky to have a man of his religious fervor to remind us that faith is a journey, and laughter is the best vehicle.