Onan is a musician, pastor, father, and video and sound wizard based in Houston, TX. He and his wife Bavarly are leaders in the Evangelical Garifuna Church with communities in Houston, Manhattan, New Orleans, and Miami. Onan’s touring credentials and background in music are impressive, but it is his sincere faith and deep desire to serve God and uplift those around him that makes a lasting impression.

“I've always had a childlike fascination with music and the myriad of facets that make up a sonically transcendent experience. I currently create, produce, track, mix, and master out of my room at In Your Ear Studios in the Shockoe Bottom area of Richmond, VA. I enjoy constantly learning the language of sound, and working with others to create a space that ushers in joy, sadness, curiosity, and all of the colors in between.”

Valerie Bess is a nature lover, photographer, stargazer, songwriter, and graphic designer based in Richmond, VA. She and husband Taylor make up the Shenandoah Valley-inspired indie folk duo, Juniper Tree. When not making things look beautiful, Valerie loves spending time at home with a cup of hot coffee and their beloved pet dog, Sage.

“I am a biracial Afro-Latino and purveyor of high-fantasy novels, sci-fi video games and baked goods. I currently teach General Elementary Music in Augusta County, as well as How Not To Break Stuff to my cats. I find my human students much more malleable. I am married to the incomparable Rose, and we are so excited to welcome Violeta Maria to our family in May.”

Rachel loves to sing and make music leading worship at church and with the Walking Roots Band. She also loves baking and reading, and for new friends looking for a good book, I am currently recommending ‘Winter Garden’ by Kristin Hannah or ‘The Alice Network’ by Kate Quinn. And while she is based out of Martinsburg, WV at present, her favorite place to be is by the waters of Little Eden Camp in Onekama, MI surrounded by family.

Truly a Jack of all trades, and a master of many. Jackson Maust wears many hats well in service of his family and community: devoted husband and father, duty officer of the local rescue squad, physical therapist, wood-worker, music leader and volunteer tech support at his church, and singer and bassist and songwriter with the Walking Roots Band.

Ebony Nicole is an east coast singer songwriter that resides in Harrisonburg, VA. She was born in Tacoma, WA and has lived in NJ, NYC, Seattle, WA, and spent a summer studying worship music in Australia. All of those many places have influenced her musical taste and sonic vibe. She has been writing music since age 12 and was recognized for an original song titled “show me” at a Richmond, VA talent showcase. She has released three EP projects and is currently working on a full length album. She plays keyboard and acoustic guitar, but she considers her best and most skilled instrument to be her voice.

Leah Wenger is a musician, poet and adventurer based in Harrisonburg, VA. Earning duel degrees in vocal performance and psychology from Eastern Mennonite University, Leah spent time working in adult mental health care, and is expecting to pursue a graduate degree in music this fall. Currently, Leah is a pour-over coffee fiend, putting her skills to use at Chestnut Ridge Coffee Roasters. Leah spends her free time exploring the world by bike or on foot, always with a notebook in hand to collect new ideas. She is passionate about sharing the love that is found in God through music and collective worship.

“I grew up with lots of music in my home, and have been a student of music since age 5, but I fell in love with music in high school choir when I experienced firsthand the power of music to create and shape a community, and I discovered that it is through music that I have my most palpable sensations of God’s love for us. I love singing with my wife Kristina and our three kids, and I continue to be blessed by the music and friendship of our community in the Walking Roots Band.”

“Mitch and I are foster parents. Together we enjoy making music, working in our garden and flowerbeds, serving in our church, and teaching children. We have two biological children, and we are just beginning to share our home with children in foster care. Right now we have a total of four children, ages five and under, so our home is full of life!

“I love worship music, and my current recommendation for new friends is Red Rocks worship. Mitch's favorite artist/podcaster right now is KB - quite a departure from the style of The Soil and the Seed, but speaking Kingdom truths in his own space!”