MASSILLON – Ernie’s Bike Shop introduced a new motto this summer to lift the spirits of those who ride the Towpath Trail and Tuscarawas River on weekends: “Let the Music Play.”
Tim Darnell is part of a local acoustic band called Touch of Spring that plays bluegrass, Celtic and gospel music, as well as Christmas music and classic Billboard hits of yesteryear on Saturday afternoons on the porch of Ernie’s, 135 Lake Ave. NW.
Darnell, 64, has been playing guitar for nearly 40 years and also has the dulcimer on his resume. He said Ernie’s offers a comfortable atmosphere near the Tuscarawas River to play live music.
“They have a big porch, and it’s covered,” Darnell said, pointing out that beginners, amateurs and professionals alike are welcome. “We have a nice, small crowd, and kids come too.”
Acoustic guitarist Joe Carrick of Zoar said a performance at Ernie’s always gives him a reason to smile.
“It’s so relaxing. I love it,” he said.
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Live music usually starts around 3 p.m. and lasts until about 6 p.m., said Darnell of Massillon, adding that show times at Ernie’s should continue at least through the end of August.
Some of the songs played include “Somewhere Over the Rainbow,” “Amazing Grace,” “Water is Wine,” “I’ll Fly Away,” “Drunken Sailor,” and “I Can’t Help Falling in Love (With You),” a popular hit by Elvis Presley.
Ernie Lehman Jr. said the band was popular with the bike shop’s customers.
“We get calls asking if the guys are here (on Saturdays),” Lehman said. “(The music) is a positive thing and so nice to listen to.”
Throughout the year, Touch of Spring also performs at other local venues, such as weddings, birthday parties, anniversary celebrations, church events and fall festivals, including the Atwood Fall Festival, Darnell said.
Starting in September, the band will perform on weekends at Nickajack Farms in Lawrence Township.
Reach Steven at [email protected]. On X: @sgrazierINDE
