This month’s spotlight is on Leo Sidman, Banjo player in the God’s Country Rambler’s (GCR) Band.

GCR: You’re relatively new to Cicero Untied Methodist Church, how did you get here?

Leo: I’m the retired Pastor of the Dugway, Altmar and Fernwood Churches. After I retired my wife Cathy and I purchased a home in the Cicero area. We started attending CUMC because I knew Pastor Bassett from high school. Everett invited my to play with GCR when it started last fall and I’ve been hooked ever since 

GCR: For God’s Country you play the guitar and the banjo which everyone really enjoys. Do you play any other instruments?

Leo: I have also played drums, piano and the stand-up bass. I majored in music in high school. 

GCR: How long have you been playing all these instruments?

Leo: I started playing the guitar about 50 years ago. My older brother was learning how to play the guitar and I really wanted to play too. My father played the guitar and he figured the best way for me to learn was on my own. So I picked it up and taught myself how to play. 

GCR: What’s been your favorite song that’s been played in the God’s Country Service?

Leo: My favorite current songs that we have played are “Three Wooden Crosses” and the GCR version of “I’m from the Country” by Tracy Byrd. We haven’t yet played my favorite oldie which is “Wabash Cannonball”. This is one of the songs my dad always sang and I have fond memories of listening to Roy Acuff singing it at the Grand Ole Opry on the radio. 

GCR: What would you tell a person about the God’s Country Service if they have not yet had a chance to attend?

Leo: God gave us music and the ability to be creative. The music speaks to us and doesn’t necessarily need to be a Christian song for it to have meaning and a spiritual influence. Another important part of a Church is the Church family. I really enjoy the other members of GCR and all the people I have met that attend.