In the summer of 2004, Lacey was playing the piano at the Grand Imperial Saloon in Silverton, CO every single day.  Running the risk of burning out at the tender age of 19, she sought the help of a substitute.  Although she did not know it at the time, Dale Elliott, fifty years her senior, would become not only her right-hand-man at the piano, but also a dear friend and mentor.  Dale also didn’t know what he was in for at the time; Lacey “auditioned” him, advised him on proper piano-player saloon attire, and became part of his role at the piano in the historic saloon in the Grand Imperial.

 

 

Dale’s musical roots started in childhood, singing church songs and American favorites with his family.  As one of four “P.K.’s” (preacher’s kids), he grew up learning old gospel favorites, along with show tunes and American folk songs.  Flash forward forty years, and Dale had returned to his love of piano playing, and began playing for fun, at nursing homes, and in churches.  Flash forward another thirty years, and Lacey recruited him to help her with her schedule, allowing her days off on occasion.  That partnership has continued to present day, with Dale continuing to assist Lacey with her hectic schedule while making people from near and far smile and sing along to Dale’s clever medleys and old-time favorites.

 

Check out Dale’s albums!