Lovers of Southern gospel music are in for a rare treat on Saturday, Jan. 27.

The nationally known gospel group, The Arenos, are coming to Many and will be at the Many Community Center for a Southern gospel music concert starting at 7 p.m.

Admission to their music show is completely free. However a love offering will be taken up during the show.

Concessions will also be available for only $1 for popcorn and $1.00 for soft drinks. No outside food or drinks are allowed. No large bags, purses or backpacks are allowed in the theater either. Storage for backpacks/purses and large bags will be provided or concert guests are welcome to leave them in their cars.

The Arenos are comprised of Jonathan Areno, Penny Areno Wade and Nathan Areno. They have diverse musical backgrounds and have been influenced by many people and artists through the years.
Jonathan Areno has been singing and playing music for many years. He was the lead singer and mandolin player of a group called the Areno Boys. They traveled for over twenty years spreading God’s love through song. He has had the honor of sharing the stage with the likes of Bill Monroe, Lester Flatt, Marty Stuart and others. Jonathan currently sings lead and harmony vocals. He also plays the mandolin and the banjo for the Arenos. Jonathan states “It is my desire to be a light in a dark world and offer a message of hope to someone who is lost”

Penny Wade is the daughter of Jonathan and Becky Areno. Penny began singing and playing the piano at five years old. She is a very talented musician, vocalist and has a warm personality. Her musical influences include Kim Hopper, the Martins, and the Crabb Family. She is the mother of two boys Brylin Wade and Kollison Wade. Penny and husband Rev. Marcus Wade work in full-time ministry. Her story of God’s healing power is amazing and she is always willing to give her testimony of how he can make the impossible possible. She plays piano and sings lead and harmony parts with the Arenos. Penny says “God is my strength and I want to show others how he is faithful through the good times and bad.”
Nathan Areno is the son of Jonathan and Becky Areno, He began traveling to music venues with his dad and grandfather at a young age. His musical influences include Jerry Sullivan, Jason Crabb, John Rowsey, Bobby Bowen, D’Ryan Green and many others. He is the father of two great daughters Katie and Allie. Nathan and his wife Nettie have been married for fifteen years. He sings lead, harmony and plays guitar, fiddle and mandolin for the Arenos. In addition to these things, he also writes many of the songs for the Arenos. He has been blessed to play music and write with many great musicians and song writers. Nathan says” I am thankful God has given me the ability to share a message of life and faith through song.”

Penny Wade sings lead and harmony vocals and plays the piano. Jonathan Areno sings lead and harmany vocals, plays the mandolin, banjo and auto harp. Nathan Areno sings lead and harmony vocals, plays guitar, fiddle mandolin and writes many of the Arenos’ songs.

Band member Dustin Bushnell plays the drums and Jarren Cornner plays bass.

In a time when singing to pre-recorded tracks is prevalent, all of the Arenos’ music is performed live.

All three Arenos agree that ““Our main objective is to share the love of Jesus through our music and lives.”

The Arenos have had six songs on the national Singing News charts and are winners of the prestigious Eagle Award from the International Association of Music Ministries.

The Arenos are hosted by the Town of Many Cultural District Advisory Committee, Mayor Ken Freeman, and music lovers and promoters Robert and Laurie Gentry.