The Nest is Music to Her Ears

 Local Musician Susan Landers Kolb is a busy woman. Whether playing at weddings,country clubs or local restaurants, she clocks in countless hours on the microphone and keyboard.

Kolb sets Sundays aside for rest and worship. “But sometimes the opportunity todo something good comes up and it overrides my need to rest and relax,” saysKolb.

Last Sunday, Kolb was asked to perform at a Mother’s Day Brunch in Alto. “I don’t desire to do any paid work on Sundays. However, I’m always looking for a way to give back to the community,” she said.  Her solution?  She performed at the event and donated her entire salary and tips to the Nest Domestic Violence Shelter in Ruidoso Downs.

“The Nest seemed the ideal place to donate the money, in recognition of the womenout there. People underestimate the job of being a mother and I wanted to showmy appreciation to the Mothers at the Nest,” explains Kolb.

Kolb plays keyboard and sings anything from country music to Irish and Spanish.Her goal is to learn three new songs a week to keep her music fresh. Kolb has previously performed at a summer celebration for the ladies of the Nest and recalls that occasion fondly.

“I had a comical little boy come up to me and tell me, “You have to do Metallica.”  I told him, “I don’t do Metallica,” she sayswith a smile.

Kolb hopes to encourage fellow musicians to find ways to give back to the community. Kolb can be seen at Grace O’Malley’s on Thursday nights and weekends at Tina’s Café. For more information, find her on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/sulanders.

The Nest Domestic Violence Shelter provides a full range of services to domestic violence victims, including free and confidential shelter, counseling,legal advocacy and resource development in the community. Professional Advocates are available 24 hours a day by calling toll-free, 866-378-6378.

Pictured is Ruidoso musician, Susan Landers Kolb.