Here are some comments from a few of our satisfied clients...

Steel Magnolias' music captivates the audience and draws them in to listen and have fun. Everyone – from kids to adults -- enjoyed the band's performance, and your presence is so lively and energetic! Your colorful "set" creates an atmosphere that is so cute and engaging .
- Carolezoom Patterson, Program Manager, Downtown Initiative for the Visual Arts

"The music was GREAT. I truly believed it got everyone in a festive fun mood for the evening. Thanks for being part of a record breaking event."
- Heidi Albertson, U. of Oregon Club, Board of Directors

"I have had the opportunity to hear this great group play a number of times and have continually been impressed with their performance. The music is upbeat, great to listen to and does not prevent guests from conversing with each other. To hear them makes one want to hear them again."
- Jean Phelps, Executive Dir., Relief Nursery

"I wanted express my extreme thanks for the Steel Magnolia's concert you held at our Training and Support Center. What a great afternoon we had together! The band was very professional in handling the business and set-up side of the transaction and then incredibly fun in supporting our event."
- Gary Gray, EVP, Umpqua Bank

"We loved your music!! it was so festive and we had lots of people tell us how uplifting and great your music was. Thank you again for playing for us.....you were truly a great addition to our party!"
- Mary Lou Finigan, Event Committee Chair

"Your entire band looked like they were having so much fun! Your music put everyone in a festive mood. It was great to see so many people with smiles on their faces and a large party of that had to do with feeling like they were on vacation with your island music. Thank you."
- Molly England, 2005 Rotary Club Auction Chair

About the band:

Susan Minor, Director, divides her time between family, friends, and music. Her passion is writing and teaching curriculum-based musicals in elementary schools, where she also shares her many smaller steel pans, providing hands-on workshops for students of all ages. A native of sunny Florida, island music brings sunshine to her heart.

Tama Rowan has spent her life contributing musically to her community as a performer, school fine arts director and music teacher. In addition, she has conducted several choirs, including the Junior Boychoir of the Oregon Children’s Choir, and has served as Vocal Director for the Rose Children's Theater. When she’s not making music, Tama can be found with her family participating in one of many activities they are all enjoy.

Liz Diehl is a whirlwind of creativity, and is internationally known for her unique and beautiful needlework designs. Her musical path began as a child in Kansas, and included 10 years with a symphony orchestra before moving to the Northwest to start her family. We feel very fortunate to have this talented and busy woman make time to play with us!

Kelly Reid has a very busy career in the sign business, yet she still makes time to spend with her extended family, and to play with her friends, whether it’s snow skiing, jet skiing, golfing, or playing in the rhythm section of our band! Percussionists since childhood, both Kelly and Sally form the heartbeat of the Steel Magnolias.

Sally Cowan dedicated herself to percussion early and continues to expand her abilities today. Trained in school bands, private studies, and workshops with world-renowned musicians, Sally also plays with Kudana Marimba Ensemble, and other area bands. She enjoys renovating an old homestead, where she lives with her partner Steve, and dog Hannibal.