At KWED, our purpose has always been clear, serve this community with the news and information that matters most to the people of Seguin and Guadalupe County. That’s why we exist, and it’s a responsibility we take seriously.
But since 1948, music has played an important role in how we carry out that mission. It’s helped us stay connected, keep listeners engaged, and create a daily experience that brings people back, allowing us to do the work of gathering and sharing the local stories that matter.
There was a time when radio sounded different throughout the day. Mornings might bring oldies, afternoons could feature Oom Pah or Tejano music, and nights belonged to rock and roll. That variety reflected the character of Seguin and made music a shared part of community life.
Today, KWED is proud to be a country music station, rooted in Texas tradition. That connection is one of the reasons we’re highlighting the local music scene in this issue.
Seguin has a strong history of producing talented artists like Dottsy Dwyer and Tierra Tejana—and that tradition continues today.
Darren Dunn General Manager
COVERSHOT
Photo by Lizz Daniels
Darren
Lizz Daniels
ADVERTISING MANAGER
Nick Spence WRITERS
Cindy Aguirre-Herrera
Lizz Daniels
Eric Lara
ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS
Laurie Ann Heideke
Linda Duncan
The SOUNDS of DOWNTOWN SEGUIN SEGUIN
From breweries to saloons, Seguin’s music scene hits all the right notes
Column & Photos by Eric Lara
As someone who isn’t familiar with Seguin, I was tasked as a KWED/Seguin Daily News and SeguinToday Magazine intern to explore the city’s live music scene. With a history of live music performance and close to my graduation from the University of Texas- San Antonio with a bachelor’s in music business, this project was right up my alley.
I approached this from the perspective of someone unfamiliar with life in Seguin—someone trying to figure out what’s happening in town and what events a visitor might realistically find on any given weekend. With that in mind, I focused on three downtown Seguin venues and explored the methods I used to locate live music events and entertainment options.
First, I’d like to discuss how I went about finding these events, as it proved a little tedious at first.
Google is always my first resort for finding out what is happening. Websites like bandsintown.com and Yelp do not have a lot of
information on Seguin and will refer you to taking a trip to New Braunfels, Austin, and San Antonio, meaning that Seguin business owners are potentially losing out on clientele planning a visit here in town -- as they might switch their destination to a different town for closer activities.
Seguintexas.gov has a calendar with options that point you to larger community events, such as Central Park Summer Concerts, which will take place on Main Street in June and July.
What proved most useful in my search was a Facebook group called Seguin Music Scene. The group offered one of the clearest snapshots of what is happening regularly in Seguin and the surrounding area. One account in particular, Terry Freeman Music, stood out for posting the most frequent and detailed updates, including a running schedule of events already booked from April 9 through May 3. That page ultimately served as my starting point and led me to the first venues I visited.
When planning my night of exploring, I went primarily off the schedule I found on the Seguin Music Scene Facebook page – starting off my Friday night off at the Seguin Brewing Company, which was hosting the 3 Man Front band.
This trio had a great sound, good feel, and wonderful vibes playing a mixture of classic and southern rock. The location was nice, with a mix of food and drinks (and a bonus of game selections). I arrived about 10 minutes before the band started performing. There were not many open seats in the main room. However, the side room still had seating. The venue was clearly a popular location with a line forming shortly after the show started, and had people still rolling in as the evening progressed. The clientele ranged from teenagers to an older crowd, probably late 50s to early 60s. The drink prices were a little on the high end, with two beers running around $13 dollars.
The Schultz Saloon was my next stop,, as I noticed online that it was established in 1900 and had live music on weekends. I showed up at 8 p.m. after a short walk from the Seguin Brewing Company. The crowd was more established, and the house was full. The group playing was Sam Platts Western Swing band. This band consisted of a 6-piece group with a lead singer on guitar, a second guitarist, bass player, drummer, fiddle, and a lap steel player.
The group was tight, and their sound filled the saloon without overpowering the atmosphere. When imagining what a Texas bar looks and feels like, this is what I imagine people not from Texas come up with. Having a historic downtown Texas feel with hardwood floors, pressed metal ceilings, and rustic décor, Schultz Saloon was a warm and welcoming environment that even included a few dancing couples.
As there was not much seating available, we moved to the back of the saloon, where this couple welcomed us to join them. They were very friendly, and towards the end of our time at the saloon, I talked with them -- discovering that they were the owners of the saloon. Terry and Velma Smith took on the saloon with their son Terry back in 2018 when they purchased the building.
Friday night is the primary night for live music at the Saloon, with country music and classic rock being the main selection for live music. A jukebox is available throughout the week, and karaoke is frequently available, sometimes on Tuesday or Thursday. Drink prices here were perfect,, with a beer and a shot costing less than $10, allowing patrons to take care of their bartenders while enjoying the atmosphere and music.
Our last stop was at the 1908 bar right next door to the Schultz Saloon. Here, we experienced the most modern vibe, appealing to a younger crowd, with a DJ. The DJ was playing 2000s hip-hop and R&B, and the venue offered larger indoor party seating, while the outdoor area had a more standing-room-only environment with smaller tables. It was a more modern feel, and the crowd mostly congregated outside as well. 1908 has a lot of potential, and from my research, it is very popular in Seguin. I believe this venue is perfect for younger crowds looking for a night out on the town.
Overall, Seguin has an active music scene with local groups and the potential to grow into a larger scene that can fill the nightlife throughout the week. I had the opportunity to speak with the Smiths, the owners of the Schultz Saloon, about the music scene here in Seguin to get a business perspective on the music scene, the struggles, and how it could grow.
One of the biggest issues I do not think is unique to Seguin or the Saloon is the cost of bringing in bands. Venues pay the performers and cover royalty costs for the music they play. This then leaves venues struggling to manage overhead costs. It’s up to them to find ways to make it reasonable for owners, employees, and patrons, so everyone can get the most out of these experiences.
Another thing that the owners alluded to was working alongside other venues to find out when they are playing live music so that each venue can gain the most from bringing in talent on different days of the week, showing that there is a sense of camaraderie between the businesses in downtown Seguin – that way, everyone can prosper.
I believe the one area where most of these venues can improve is their online presence, with more frequent, consistent promotion of their events and offerings. This will allow locals and outsiders to see that there is activity and that there is definitely plenty of live music here in Seguin.
WOMEN in the SCENE MUSIC
4 Artists to listen for in Guadalupe County
Story by Lizz Daniels with Courtesy Photos
Music has been a part of my life as long as I can remember. From my dad singing old country when I was a child to picking up a clarinet in sixth grade and starting a lifelong musical journey; music has shaped me. Now, while I certainly didn’t become a professional musician from my experiences, music still impacts my day to day life as I shuffle playlists and make it through my days. But for some people, picking up a guitar, or other instrument begins an adventure of musical exploration that lasts a lifetime.
Here in Guadalupe County we have many talented musicians, so we reached out to our Facebook community to find out their favorite female artists. They mentioned many musicians within the community, but four names kept coming up over and over again: Madelyn Abrameit, Brianna Martinez, Amy Contreras, and Ora Cevallos (and her band). So, I reached out to them, with some questions about their love for music, and how they are creating it in Guadalupe County.
In the following pages you’ll read in their words about their love for music and how it has impacted their lives. Each artist, journey and genre are unique, but one thing unites them...a love for music.
COUNTRY>>> with a SIDE OF STORYTELLING
Madelyn Abrameit
QFirst, tell me a little about your musical background. What kind of music do you enjoy making and why?
AI grew up surrounded by country music, and some of my earliest influences were Loretta Lynn and Miranda Lambert. Their storytelling and strong, unapologetic style really stuck with me. Before I even realized I could sing (before I was nine) I was completely obsessed with Shania Twain. She was one of the first artists who made me feel connected to music in a deeper way, and I didn’t realize it at that time. As I’ve grown, I’ve been especially drawn to artists like Morgan Wade, whose writing feels raw, honest, and emotionally real. That kind of authenticity is something I really try to bring into my own music.
When it comes to my sound, I don’t like to box myself into just one lane. I create a mix of styles, some songs lean more traditional country, some blend traditional and modern country, and others pull in elements of classic rock. At the core of it all, though, is storytelling and emotion. That is what drives everything I make. 17
QWhere does your passion come from and how did you get started?
AMy passion for music really started when I was about nine years old. I was in the car with my older sister, Katie, singing along to a song by Martina McBride. We were just jamming like we always did. Out of nowhere, she asked me to sing it again because she said I “didn’t sound that bad,” which honestly stuck with me. I sang it again. Shortly after we went to my grandparents’ house, and I sang for them too. My grandparents agreed with the consensus that “I didn’t sound that bad” and they gave me a CD of Loretta Lynn. I remember listening to her for the first time and just falling in love with music on a deeper level. There was something about her storytelling and authenticity that really pulled me in, and that moment played a huge role in shaping my passion. A big part of why I do what I do comes from my grandparents. They helped shape me into the person I am today and encouraged me to pursue something I truly love. On my first EP, I included a song my sister Katie and I wrote just for them called “12 Acres.” I think about them every time I sing, and I’m endlessly grateful for the love and support they gave me.
I started playing guitar when I was 12 years old, and not long after that I began performing at small oprys in surrounding towns. Music quickly became something I wanted to pursue seriously. My dad later opened a restaurant called Belmont Social Club and built a stage inside, which gave me a place to perform regularly and really grow as an artist. After graduating high school in 2018, I moved to Nashville to study music business. Being there and surrounded by people in the industry was such a valuable experience. It pushed me creatively and helped me understand the business side of music. While I was there, I recorded my first EP, Whiskey Wonders, which was a huge milestone for me. Since moving back home, I’ve put together my full band and have been playing shows almost every week. I’m constantly writing and recording, and right now I’m working on three new songs that I’m really excited about. I can’t wait to get them finished and share them.
QWhatare your musical goals? Where do you hope to be in the future with your art?
AMy goal is to keep growing as a live performer and getting in front of as many people as I can. I want to be playing more shows and connecting with bigger audiences, while still keeping that genuine, personal feel in my performances. As I continue to grow, I’d love to shift my sets to where I’m playing mostly original music with fewer covers. Writing and sharing my own songs is the most important part of what I do, so being able to build a crowd that connects with that is a big goal of mine. I also want to expand into more cities and keep building my presence beyond my hometown. Ultimately, I just want to keep creating, keep performing, and see how far I can take my music while staying true to who I am as an artist.
After graduating high school in 2018, I moved to Nashville to study music business. Being there and surrounded by people in the industry was such a valuable experience. It pushed me creatively and helped me understand the business side of music.
QWhat do you think makes your music special or unique? Why do you stand out in Guadalupe county?
AI think what makes my music special is the honesty behind it. I write from real experiences and emotions, and I don’t try to fit into just one specific sound. Some of my songs lean more traditional country, some blend modern country, and others have a bit of a classic rock edge, but no matter the style, the heart of it is always real. I also think my storytelling is a big part of what sets me apart. I want people to hear my songs and feel like they can see themselves in them or connect them to something in their own lives. In Guadalupe County, I think what helps me stand out is the combination of that authenticity and the variety in my sound, along with how often I’m out playing live. I’ve really focused on building a strong connection with people through my performances, and I think audiences can feel that I genuinely love what I do every time I’m on stage.
QWhat about your journey is unique to your experience?
AI think one thing that’s really unique about my journey is how rooted it is in where I come from and the people who supported me along the way. From playing small oprys, to performing at my dad’s restaurant, to taking that leap and moving to Nashville, every step has been very personal and hands-on. I’ve built this from the ground up, and I’m still out there every week playing shows, writing, and growing. I’ve also been lucky to have such a strong family influence behind me; from my sister encouraging me early on to my grandparents inspiring my love for storytelling through music. That foundation is something I carry into everything I create. Right now, I’m in a really exciting place where I’m consistently performing, building my audience, and working on new music that I truly believe in. I’m always looking for opportunities to share my songs with more people. My songs are available on digital platforms like Apple, Spotify, Pandora, etc, and I can’t wait to add more to my repertoire.
Brianna Martinez THE VOICE>>> of SEGUIN HERITAGE
QTell me a little about your musical background. What kind of music do you enjoy making and why?
AMy passion for mariachi comes from the deep cultural connection and the feeling it gives me when I perform. When I first joined mariachi in seventh grade, I quickly realized how much I loved not just the music, but everything it represents. That’s when I knew this was something I wanted to pursue seriously. From that moment on, I continued to grow as both a singer and a musician, and my love for it has only gotten stronger.
QHow does music impact your day to day life?
AMusic is a part of my everyday life—it’s something I carry with me all the time. Whether I’m practicing, performing, or just singing for myself, it gives me a sense of purpose and energy. Performing for people especially makes me feel alive. It’s one of the most rewarding parts of what I do, being able to connect with others and share that emotion through music.
QWhat are your musical goals? Where do you hope to be in the future with your art?
AMy goal is to continue growing as a mariachi performer and take my music as far as I can. I want to keep improving my voice and skills, perform at bigger events, and gain more recognition for my work. Being part of Mariachi Renacer as one of the original members—and the only female in the group—is something I’m very proud of, and I hope to continue building that group and its impact. In the future, I want to be known for my dedication, passion, and the emotion I bring to every performance.
QWhat do you think makes your music special or unique? Why do you stand out in Guadalupe county?
AWhat makes my music special is the heart and passion I put into it. Every time I sing, I give it everything I have. I think that authenticity is what makes me stand out, especially in Guadalupe County. Being the only female in my mariachi group also gives me a unique perspective and presence. I bring both strength and emotion to my performances, and I’m proud to represent that.
QHow has your musical journey shaped you in ways you didn’t expect?
AStarting mariachi in seventh grade, I didn’t fully realize how much it would shape me, but over time it has become a huge part of my identity. From performing in competitions to singing in front of large crowds, each experience has helped me become more confident and passionate about continuing this tradition. Recently, I had the opportunity to perform for comedian Gabriel Iglesias, which reminded me how far I’ve come from when I first picked up the violin. Moments like that show me that my journey is not only about music, but about representing dedication, growth, and breaking expectations.
Amy Contreras ROCKIN’ it OUT>>> MUSIC WITH an EDGE
QFirst, tell me a little about your musical background. What kind of music do you enjoy making and why?
AI did my first performance at a fourth-grade talent show with a child-sized electric guitar and got a standing ovation. I’ve loved that feeling since. That evolved into starting a hardcore band at thirteen and playing all around South Texas through my late high school years. People loved it, but most venues made us leave after we played because we were still kids. I’ve played and performed in bands since then, and I still do so. Metal and alternative rock are what I enjoy playing most. The sound of an electric guitar with distortion somehow brings me peace and happiness. I’m also a metal vocalist, and THAT is the absolute best form of therapy for me. Screaming in controlled ways is kind of a powerful feeling, especially on stage.
QWhere does your passion come from and how did you get started?
AMy family is my biggest influence, and my biggest fans. I’m a third-generation guitarist. My grandfather played Spanish music on his acoustic, and my uncles played tejano, blues, jazz and rock on both acoustic and electric. One weekend when I was 5, my parents took me with them to my uncle’s, where they were having a jam session in the garage. Being a kid, I was in the living room watching cartoons when I found a toy guitar. One of my uncles came over when he heard me strumming the strings, and that’s when he showed me a small riff from a Santana song. He was amazed at how quickly I caught on and at my real interest in it. All my uncles taught me the ropes from then on.
QHow does music impact your day to day life?
AMusic has always been an outlet for me. Either making it or listening to it, it’s helped me power through adolescence and heartache. It’s been a healthy coping mechanism to calm me when my emotions become intense.
QWhat are your musical goals? Where do you hope to be in the future with your art?
AI have so many original recordings that I would love to share and release someday. Not to chase fame, fortune, or numbers, but to have chapters of my life to go back and listen to. To have a little something that will hopefully outlive me or even help or inspire others, like music has for me.
QWhat do you think makes your music special or unique? Why do you stand out in Guadalupe county?
A
In this county, my style of music isn’t so common. Especially for females. It’s definitely not for everyone, but that goes for all art. I make original music, often blending styles. Not everything is screams and metal tho. I love making my own recordings at home, creating everything from guitar, bass, and screaming and soft vocals to keyboard, drums, and more. Sometimes I blend rock with orchestra-like sounds, sometimes I blend it with trap-like beats. Just depends on the vibes and emotions at the time.
QWhat is it that you think makes musicians special?
A
I’ve played shows in front of big crowds and I’ve played in shows where only our moms and girlfriends were there. Great or small, I’ll give it my all. Musicians are a special breed. We understand an unspoken language that’s universal. I’ve met some of the most amazing people through the shared love of music.
QGiven your genre in a country county how is it your think music connects people?
AKnowing they still put in hours upon hours perfecting their craft, countless practices, that alone deserves respect. A good musician is a good musician regardless of genre. It’s the heart and passion that push us. It takes guts to get on a stage no matter what you play. We all face some measure of nervousness, we all thrive to see smiles and engagement in the crowd. I’m everyone’s hype-man. I’m cheering for everyone when I’m in the crowd.
I’m a third generation guitarist. My grandfather played Spanish music on his acoustic, and my uncles played tejano, blues, jazz and rock on both acoustic and electric. One weekend when I was 5, my parents took me with them to my uncle’s where they were having a jam session in the garage. Being a kid, I was in the living room watching cartoons when I found a toy guitar. One
of my uncles came over when he heard me strumming the strings and that’s when he showed me a small riff from a Santana song.
LA MUSICA is made of of five key members. Ora Cevallos supplies the powerhouse vocals while band members provide the backing that keeps the band rocking. Pictured are band members after a gig. Left to right, Bobby(keys), Ora(vocals) Gibby(bass guitar), Jeff(drums), Steve(guitar)
FRONT WOMAN>>> with MUSIC for EVERYONE
Ora Cevallos & La Musica
QFirst, tell me a little about your musical background. What kind of music do you enjoy making and why?
Ora: I’ve loved music, I think, since birth, both my parents had music playing in the background or foreground in some way or another. My dad will tell you I get my singing ability from him (not quite true), and my mom will tell you I get my singing ability from her (more so true). They definitely set the foundation for growing up on classics and appreciating music for what it is. However, one of the biggest influences in my love of music and singing specifically is my oldest sister, Marie. She was definitely the first singer in the family before her louder, younger counterpart(me) sprouted up. I have always been self-taught when it comes to music.
I learn by ear, so matching pitch always came naturally to me, and if you give me a couple of minutes alone with about any instrument, I can play at least something by the end of it. My favorite moments growing up were watching my older sister sing(constantly in our home videos) and trying to emulate her, so much so that I carry her singing patterns in my singing today(not sure if she knows that). Over the years, I have definitely developed my own sound, though, and I had once been referred to as the “Mexican Adele.” I like to think my voice is unique enough to be recognized on its own, though I do love a good power ballad. Singing is my primary mode of expression, though I did play the alto sax in school, and I know a couple of chords on the guitar and keyboards enough to write my own songs.
Jeff: Since I was a kid, I was always around music. Runs in my family. It’s in my blood, and I kept an interest in it and pursued it. Background: I’ve had a few projects with Seguin musicians, including weddings, birthday parties, and various celebrations. Types of music I enjoy playing are not one in particular, but if I had to choose, it’s Rock!!! It relieves tension and helps relieve stress in general.
QWhere
does your passion come from and how did you get started?
Ora: I think my soul speaks in music, and the passion just comes naturally. I’m usually up for learning and singing in any type of music. For La Musica specifically, my dad introduced me to the guys, and in our jam session, we just clicked on the music level. Oftentimes, a practice will be goofing off, but the moment the music hits, we match wavelengths, and there isn’t anything we can’t play, and I feel that’s how we came up with our name and style. We are music, any type, any genre, as long as it’s meaningful. And I love that no matter our ages (I’m the youngest member of course), we all feel the passion for music as intensely.
Bobby: My Dad Rudy Serna Was A Musician (Sax), and My Uncle Louie Salinas (Former Trumpet Player Tierra Tejana), and when I was just a baby, my mom would play classical music, and now I love music and play everything from the heart.
Gilbert: I came from a family that plays music. My talent came naturally. I love all kinds of music, and I enjoy playing music that touches the souls of others and makes them happy.
Steve: I got my passion from my parents. Before I was born my mom would play classical music through headphones for me to hear. My father was a musician during his younger years and he was a huge influence on me.
Jeff: Passion attributes to when I use to sneak out of grandma’s house on Milam St. and run to a back garage where my uncle Ruben Casarez would be playing and the sound and the booming of the drums would crash into my body and soul and so I knew that that is what I wanted to make... that sound!
QHow
does music impact your day to day life?
Ora: I don’t think I go a day without music being played or sung in some form of fashion. I use it to regulate my moods and express myself at any given time. Even at work, you can hear me singing or humming something. And if you catch me at a stoplight, I will definitely be belting. I love anything from classic rock and roll to musicals. From Motown to classic country to cumbias. I consider music to be its own separate language to express how you feel or to process experiences, and I think it is a gift for anyone who partakes in it. Music is for everyone, and I feel incredibly grateful when people love to hear me sing. Singing and music in general have gotten me through the hardest things in life, and I don’t know where I’d be if I didn’t have them. It’s as much a part of me as my name.
Bobby: Music is my medicine, and having 3 of my kids (Geo,Geneva, Ricky) all play instruments from drums to piano, and also my youngest son Ricky, who is just 14 years old, started with La Musica when he was like 12 years old as a backup singer/percussionist/drummer.
Steve: Music is my therapy. All of the worries of my day disappear when I’m listening or playing music.
QWhat
are your musical goals? Where do you hope to be in the future with your art?
Ora: Although I adore doing covers, I would love to get to write more and put together the symphonies I hear in my head, and have an impact on people in a similar way. I have a dream where I’m at a concert, and I turn the mic, and the crowd sings my words back to me. I just want to make something that impacts the world positively and brings joy and continues to do so long after I’m gone. Music is a saving grace, and everyone should know that.
Jeff: Musical goals. Well, at one time I didn’t have them, and kinda still don’t, but at my age I love to do it for hobby purposes, and it keeps me out of the abnormalities I once had. As for the future, I’m just happy I’m still able to do this with my bandmates and if or when something more happens, well, I’ll be glad to give it a shot. I’m from Seguin, TX and lots of musicians have made it to the spotlight from Seguin!
QWhatdo you think makes your music special or unique? Why do you stand out in Guadalupe county?
Ora: I think we stand out because we are a melting pot. Anyone can see us perform and find something they like. We also give a special take on the music where you can zone out to a just vibe on the same wavelength with us. Also, I haven’t heard a voice like mine anywhere here. There are some great performers in the area, of course, but you haven’t heard a voice like mine, and I think and hope it’ll stick with you when you do. And the guys? They are about the best at their instruments that I’ve ever heard, and we support each other so well.
Bobby: I don’t see myself standing out. I’m no superstar or anything like that, I’m just a regular human being who loves to play music, especially in my free time, playing piano at all the nursing homes. I love seeing all their smiles, which makes my day. My Talent is from God, and I play from the heart. I have never gotten lessons or anything like that. I can’t read music; I play by ear.
Gilbert: What makes our music special is that we all put our talent into the music. We play what our hearts feel, and that’s teamwork at its best, and that’s why our music stands out.
QWhat is something people may not know about your band that makes you special or unique?
Ora: Something that makes me laugh is, I think our name at times may let people believe we only do Spanish songs, but it’s really everything under the sun, and I hope anyone who thinks that will always give us a chance, you’re bound to hear something you like. Something that makes me smile is that our band gives me the same vibes as The Electric Mayhem, a little silly in our personalities, but all passion for the music.
To promote your event on this page contact advertising at 830-379-2234 or email communitycalendar@kwed1580.com
Events
Featured Events
Badges, Bikes & Tykes
The Seguin Police Department and Seguin Fire Department will host the annual Badges, Bikes & Tykes event from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, May 16 at Max Starcke Park East. The free, family-friendly event includes lunch, games, prizes, and chances for kids 16 and under to win a bicycle or skateboard, while meeting local first responders. For more information or to donate, call 830-386-2582.
Bulk Clean Up
Guadalupe County invites residents to take part in the County’s Bulk Clean-up Event scheduled for Saturday, May 16, from 7:30 to 11:30 AM at the Road & Bridge Department. The event entrance is at 3100 N. Austin St., at the intersection of Austin and North Guadalupe Street in Seguin. This is a free opportunity for residents to dispose of waste and help create a safer, healthier environment. Residents are asked to bring a photo ID or utility bill.
Foster Care Month
May is National Foster Care Month, and SJRC Texas | Belong is recognizing the vital role foster caregivers play in the lives of children who have experienced abuse or neglect. Foster families provide more than just safety and stability — they offer nurturing homes, healthy family dynamics, and support that can leave a lasting impact well into adulthood. The organization says there is a significant need right now for foster families. Learn more at sjrctexas.org.
Free Mulch
Free wood chip mulch is available to residents within the Seguin city limits through the City of Seguin Public Works Department while supplies last. Mulch may be picked up from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Mondays through Fridays at 634 Fred Byrd Drive. Residents must bring shovels, gloves and containers if self-loading. Staff will assist with loading large trailers or dump trucks only. For information, call 830-401-2416.
Energy Assistance Available
The Community Council of South Central Texas is accepting applications for utility bill assistance through the Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP). Funding is limited and available in select counties, including Guadalupe County. Apply online at ccsct.org/utility-assistance-apply-for-services/ and schedule an appointment with your county office. An appointment does not guarantee assistance.
Starcke Golf Course
Starcke Park Golf Course will celebrate its grand reopening with a tournament weekend on Saturday, May 30 and Sunday, May 31 in Seguin.
The Sunday event will feature a four-person scramble with lunch at 11 a.m.and a shotgun start at 12:45 p.m. Entry is free, with concessions and beverages available for purchase. Cart path only will be in effect. The reopening also marks the return of regular play, with online tee times available beginning May 22 for rounds starting in June. Phone reservations will open May 25at 830-401-2490. The community is invited to celebrate and get ready for golf in Seguin once again.
RIO GRANDE REVERIES
Taking a musical journey with Howard Hudiburg
Column by Eric Lara
Howard Hudiberg, a familiar name in Seguin, has been busy since retirement both as an educator and minister. In his fourth career, Hudiberg has set off on what many musicians hope to do at one point or another. After a 30-year career at Texas State University and leading worship, Hudiberg has recorded an album titled Rio Grande Reveries, in which he hopes to bring the sounds and ideas of the southwestern United States to your ears.
Working in collaboration with guitarist Ryan Murphey and drummer Paul Piper, this nine-track jazz trio album is unique in its sound. Although being a jazz album, its uniqueness comes from its niche style of jazz being oriented in the New Mexico and El Paso area, where Hudiberg and Murphy drew most of their inspiration from, as Hudiberg states, “The
Desert, the mountains, the people, the sky, the spirit of the place. God in that place.”
The opening track of the album, titled Rio Grande Reveries expresses all these things greatly. The brisk guitar playing, coupled with Hudiberg’s smooth and balanced bass lines, opens the door for the listener to escape into a different world. This escape is exactly one of the things that Hudiberg hopes the listener can achieve.
“It’s a place to go and retreat from what’s going on in their mind, that’s causing them anxiety or pain,” he said. “It’s a retreat from the world. It’s a retreat from what’s going on right now.”
As the album progresses, we hear a track titled ‘Coyotl,’ which is the Mayan spelling for what we know as Coyote.
This track has a Spanish guitar taking the melody with a more Latin rhythm on both the drums and bass - which leads perfectly into the next track ‘Danza del Dragon Barbudo’ (Dance of the Bearded Dragon) which is a very active track where the listener can imagine a bearded dragon moving slowly with sudden bursts of speed as it tracks its prey or is escaping the talons of a hawk.
Hudiberg drew inspiration for this track from the bearded dragon of his granddaughter’s lizard. However, perfectly appropriate for Hudiberg’s life and the time he spent growing up in El Paso catching lizards, it was fitting that we encountered a lizard as we parted ways after our talk about his life, multiple careers, and this album. ‘Danza’ is truly a dance track for those who like to move to groovy bass and a very active drum track that holds the pocket with extreme precision.
Following the album’s narrative, the fourth track, ‘Red Tail,’ eases the listener back into their seat with a nice swing, as you imagine a hawk floating seamlessly through the air. This is where the listener who is acquainted with a more straight-ahead jazz feel will find a familiar resting place on this audible adventure, as Murphey’s guitar playing shines with a very clean tone. At the same time, Hudiberg and Piper’s accompaniment settles into a cozy background. However, what the listener will hear is the wonderful guitar and bass solo halfway through the track, which nestles into your ears perfectly.
Kit Carson was an American frontiersman, fur trapper, and wilderness guide in the 1800s, and is the subject of the 5th track, ‘Carson’s Way,’ a faster chart that at first gave me a familiar feeling to the popular jazz track by the legendary John Coltrane, ‘Giant Steps.’ As a midpoint for the album, it propels the listener forward, offering an exhilaratingly clear journey that complements the previous four tracks perfectly and, in ways, is the antithesis of ‘Red Tail,’ which was much more laid-back. Then we settle into Bent Street in Taos, New Mexico, with the ‘Bent Street Blues’ that allows the listener to sit back and enjoy their time imagining walking around the town as Hudiberg’s walking bass comforts you back into a relaxed state.
‘Lady Sunhawk,’ written by Murphey, was inspired by Native American “Joseph Sunhawk Sandoval” who helped Murphey’s mother. The track follows this easy-listening trend, allowing the listener just to take a deep breath and unwind as they imagine this world of Taos, New Mexico.
Landing on the eighth track of the album, we take a flash trip to Texas, more specifically Seguin, and everywhere along the Guadalupe River with the track ‘Travesty on the Guadalupe.’ Here, Hudiberg, Murphey, and Piper pay homage to those affected by the flooding on the Guadalupe.
Originally written by Hudiberg and premiered by the University of Texas band back in the 1970s, this track has an eerie vibe that forces the listener to spend a moment thinking about the devastation many felt from the floods in 1972 and 1973, as well as the flooding in Kerrville in July 2025. Hudiberg, who spent much of his teenage years along the Guadalupe, both living next to and traveling on, the events and location sit close to his heart. Towards the middle of the song, the vibe changes, almost like a ray of sunshine and hope shining through, offering tranquility to the listener. The bass line gives a feeling of bouncing on a boat or kayak as you float down the river and bask in its glory.
Then the ending appears as you reach the ninth track, ‘Wildfire Dreams,’ where the guitar subtly plays some notes, and the sound of horses galloping across is heard as the rolls of thunder echo through. This last album is the climax of the Reverie.
“It’s an 8-minute chance to just close your eyes, and breathe deeply, and escape” Hudiberg said. “As you find yourself here, you can really imagine the scenic view of New Mexico, from her deserts to the mountains, the birds flying through the sky, and the breeze that blows through the trees.”
This album, created by Hudiberg, driven by a push to do it, is written for his “family, his wife, and those who know it’ll be something they enjoy,” also stating, “is to help give some people a means of escape from everything that may be causing them anxiety.” He hopes the people of Seguin know he is still around, still working, and still creating music, and hopes that they, too, will also be able to enjoy this work that he has created.
After retirement and entering his fourth career, Howard Hudiberg has created a unique album that is listenable to both jazz fans and listeners who need a change of pace. It is digestible for everyone and easy to understand. It tells the story of an area 8 hours away, but easily accessible with a few clicks on your phone or by just putting in a CD and sitting back.
This album will be toured in New Mexico and Texas in the coming months as Hudiberg, Murphy, and Piper venture out to share these stories with everyone. Rio Grande Reveries is also finding airtime on over 30 radio stations nationwide, with listeners tuning in through streaming services worldwide. You can find it at RioGrandeReveries.com, with links to purchase the album and t-shirt, as well as the musicians’ Instagram pages. It can also be streamed on most streaming platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Eric Lara is an intern with KWED and a student at the University of TexasSan Antonio. He will be graduating with his Bachelors in Music Business with a minor in Business Administration with a distinguishment in guitar performance in May.
