Our earliest memories of Gabe Tonon came all rushing back during the Opera House “Cattle Call” show last week. Gabe has been “on stage,” in one way or another, for a long time. His performances are well documented – early years at local talent gigs and as a train agent at Boothbay's Railway Village. Once focused on something, it’s Katie bar the door – Gabe's on it! Besides music and trains, he can rebuild pickups and build houses. Even drive an oil delivery truck in the dead of winter. All these skills have accumulated and informed, directly and indirectly, a talent of substantial note, no pun intended.

At a very early age, Gabe's dad suggested that Gabe not become a Karaoke star. If he were to pursue a music “career” he should have a proper instrument. And a star was born!

Gabe's love of music (and trains) started as a young child, during visits with his wonderful grandparents, Ron and Grace Calhoun. There was always music – “A Trip in the Country” by Roger Miller captivated Gabe. As he listened and absorbed songs, his interest grew. He wanted to be able to do that kind of music, too. His journey began.

In later years Gabe connected with Merle Record who played lots at the “Silver Spur” dance hall in Mechanic Falls. Gabe credits Mr. Record for time well spent and lessons well learned, especially, as Gabe puts its, “working in and out with others.” I have come to learn from both Gabe and his pedal steel Nashville (pictured) buddy, Leo Grassl, the importance, for them, of making music more listenable through the blending of instruments and voice. It's an acquired skill which de-emphasizes the standout individual. The goal is to fit in and support the overall sound. According to Gabe and Leo, this is a process they seek to employ as they become more organized musically in Nashville. And, ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, that is well under way. Progress is being made.

Many along the way have helped to nurture Gabe's talents. He credits the very successful Maine singer-songwriter Debbie Myers who helped introduce Gabe to the Nashville scene. Mark Stover and Arthur Webster were very accommodating. Mark Farrington of “Cattle Call,” recently at the Opera House, is a favorite singer-songwritier. Gabe slides in with the Boneheads for a gig now and then.

In Nashville, Gabe's favorite place to play is “Roberts Western World,” the undisputed home of tradional country music. And tours on the road have taken him from Nashville to Wyoming and back, playing all along the way. Gabe said he would like to refine that process. “Too much driving, not enough time.” But plenty of opportunity to expand his playing abilities.

Gabe will likely pop back and forth between Maine and Nashville, but for the most part, right now, Nashville works. It was fun to see him and to catch up a bit. He and Leo very well could be the core of a group that Gabe will grow, as long as he can find people who understand how he likes music to be done. I know that Grandma and Grandpa Calhoun have front row seats for every show. They certainly deserve the best seats in the house. Play on, G-Man!