Grassroots Brings Music to the Square

Marietta Square was host to the third annual Saturday, featuring local bands of every genre.

"We want to celebrate local music," Suzanne Murphy said. "Everybody in the community adds something special that's them, and that's why we're here."

Les Saunders and Suzanne Murphy created Marietta Grassroots in 2009 as an outreach program to provide family friendly events and activities while showcasing local talent.

Marietta Grassroots held a contest for its t-shirt design. Riki Kujanpaa of won the contest.

"Everybody has their own goals or things they really enjoy in life, and we feel it's important to celebrate what each individual brings to the community because Marietta is a great community with a lot to offer," Murphy said.

"The city was missing a music festival on the square," Saunders added. "And people connect through music. We needed this event."

Marietta Grassroots is made up of volunteers and is in the process of getting nonprofit status.

Bands who performed at the 2011 Marietta Grassroots Music Festival include: The Ali Doodle Band, Bob "Stitch" Stewart, Vacant House Band, Ali Bartlett, Catherine Kimbro & Shoal Creek, Tim Walker, No Parachute, Jessica Fine and Acorn Ridge.