The Berge Family

In Bemidji, Minnesota, there is a family by the name of Berge who are known by their gospel bluegrass band. Ken and Rebecca Berge and their two daughters, Melanie and Mindy, perform traditional and old-time gospel, and vocal harmonies that include four-part acappella. They also write their own songs and play instruments such as the mandolin, fiddle, guitar, and an upright bass. All of these instruments are traditional bluegrass instruments. When they play, they bring comfort and encouragement to their audience.

The bluegrass music that has brought fame to the Berge family is a form of country music. Bluegrass is often considered to be the American roots of music. It was brought to the United States and was well-formed as bluegrass in the mid 1940s. Its roots originally come from Irish, Scottish, and even Welsh immigrants who came from England and Ireland. During the 1950s and 60s, bluegrass music saw a huge boom in popularity. It has lingered ever since, but is again growing into popularity by bluegrass artists hitting the mainstream today.

The Berge family has performed at several different venues such as churches, fairs, and festivals. Their travels have taken them to Texas, Arkansas, Missouri, and even Canada and South America. Many awards have been presented to the family, including the prestigious Midwest Fan Choice Award/Bluegrass Gospel Band of the Year by the Society for the Preservation of Bluegrass Music of America. The Berge Family takes pleasure in making music that inspires their audience.