Heavily influenced by the likes of Etta James, Billie Holiday, Abbey Lincoln, Aretha Franklin, Carolyn Lochert’s career has taken her from singing lead in rock, country and funk bands to playing in the “horn” sections of jazz ensembles. Studying composition at OSU started her on the path to writing her own music. Her first album, She’s Lookin’ Back, features Lochert’s smooth, sultry sound and some of Portand’s and Wallowa County’s finest musicians.

A winner in the 2015 Indie International Songwriting Contest, Janis Carper is a songwriter, singer, and guitarist who has nine recordings to her credit. Her soulful vocals, masterful guitar playing, and well-crafted songs have been heard at festivals, concert halls and radio programs nationwide. Her skills as accompanist, producer and teacher broaden the scope of her musical endeavors. She is also founder and director of the Wallowa Valley Music Alliance.