Looking Forward came into focus to celebrate the musical genius of Crosby, Stills, Nash, and Young. Never with the intent of playing their songs “note for note,” rather the concept is to share the music in concert with the audience–their music, our way. Sing along, you know these songs!

A trio of veteran NW Michigan musicians – Chris Skellenger (Vox, Guitars), John Kumjian (Vox, Guitars), and Patrick Niemisto (Vox, Bass) – they began to imagine ways to arrange CSNY songs in an approachable and engaging manner with three voices and minimal instrumentation, and it worked.

In the last few years, the group has expanded their sound to include drummer Roger Tarczon (who actually played with David Crosby), and more recently, Tim Sparling on keys. Each of these musicians have a vast array of experience in all aspects of the industry including playing, writing, producing, and teaching all around the state and beyond.

With performances at various local and regional venues, Looking Forward inspires to keep this incredible and unequalled music in the ears and voices of past and future generations.

Meet the Musicians

Patrick Niemisto: Hailing from Pelkie near Baraga in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, Patrick is the patriarch of New Third Coast. A Northern Michigan University graduate, he moved to Leelanau County in the early 1980s and has been a cornerstone of the local music scene ever since. Patrick plays a variety of instruments and has shared the stage with some of music's finest talents. Besides performing with N3C, he is part of Luunappi, a children's and family music duo, and teaches at Northwestern Michigan College. Patrick also runs the Holy Wah! Recording Studio and Brewery in Maple City. His instrumental prowess includes bass, fiddle, mandolin, guitar, percussion, piano, and more.

John Kumjian: With roots in southeast Michigan, John graduated from Northern Michigan University with degrees in Music Education and Educational Leadership. A retired band director from Glen Lake Community Schools, John now offers private lessons and is a sought-after session percussionist and drummer. He has toured regionally and nationally and plays numerous instruments, including guitar, electric guitar, drums, percussion, bass, harmonica, accordion, piano, and vocals. John is also part of The Dune Brothers and performs solo.

Chris Skellenger: Chris has a lifetime of performing music, with nearly 2,500 gigs under his belt. His old Martin guitar boasts about 75,000 songs, and both Chris and his guitar are still going strong.

Roger Tarczon: With over 40 years of performing and recording experience, Roger's career includes time in Los Angeles and collaborations with legends like David Crosby, Tim Drummond, J.J. Cale, Drew Abbott, Taylor Hicks, and Kid Rock. Originally from Manistee, Michigan, Roger has also been a drum technician at the Interlochen Center for the Arts and has taught percussion at Northern Michigan College. He is passionate about teaching drumming technique and group musicianship.

---

The 2026 'Music in the Air' Summer Concert Series

Relax and enjoy free live music all summer long on the lawn of the Old Art Building. Our sixth season of Music in the Air summer concert series will consist of 8 bands, all with different music styles and moods.

Don't forget to pack a picnic dinner and bring your lawn chairs or blankets!