THE STORY
Grey Sled was originally founded in Front Royal, VA in Fall 2003. Derek Rogers and Bethany Zuniga were attending Christendom College when they started playing music together, writing songs, and performing at events on the small, Catholic campus. They put together a CD of ten tracks (made by recording through a video camera with the lens cap on) and sold them for $5. There seemed to be an unspoken understanding between the two musicians (as well as those around them) that they were brought together for a reason--and by One who had much bigger plans than either of them could have imagined.
After a focused, Courtship process (Derek even made a phone call to Bethany's "Pop" in California to ask if her could date his daughter) the couple found themselves engaged, married in June 2006, and excited to see how God would use them and their music.
They renovated a wing of an old, early-1800's hotel in Forestville, NY and ejoyed finding ways to utilize the space which includes a dance floor, small stage, and even a bar. The sound of music still flowed through them and filled the inn in the shape of Summer open-mic nights (led by Derek's family), youth group concerts, and late-night jam sessions.
The band grew from a duo to a trio when missionary Teresa Mayer joined the group. She played her african drums better than any girl--or guy for that matter--and brought a sincere faith and easy-going attitude that added so much to band's unique, acoustic sound.
In August 2008, Grey Sled was blessed--yet again--to welcome another member. Young, Alyssa Schreiber, came for a Sunday afternoon practice at the hotel after hearing about the band from Teresa. Alyssa played the violin and her natural gift was so impressive that it was unanimiously decided that she just HAD to stay.
Grey Sled (which is a play on words for GRACE LED) continues to write songs and play anywhere they are invited. They feel drawn to youth ministry and are gaining experience each time they play and speak to an audience of any size.
They are a young, energetic, vibrant group and understand that the more they give themselves to God--the more He is able to use them.
Please visit the Contact page for booking.
THE GOALS
Grey Sled wants to finish the recording process for their new album! We are looking for invitations to speak and/or play for donations!!! We need to get our name out there and we need support!!
Derek Rogers - Guitar, Mandolin, Vocals
Born in Buffalo, homeschooled, graduated from college, married and playing in a band with his wife. These travels at a young age have been blessed with many well placed gifts and good times. Music with its unclenching beauty, life with its many thrills, and a heavenly power brave enough to touch a sinner has been an inspiration and a driving force for this band. Derek plays guitar, mandolin, djembe, and piano with an open mind for any music or instrument but loves acoustic driven rhythm. He has a bachelor degree in psychology with a foundation in theology that gives a balance to a crazy, wandering mind. But, as Tolkien said, not all who wander are lost.
Bethany Rogers - Guitar, Bass, Vocals
Bethany is originally a California girl where she was one of eight in a big Catholic, homeschooling family. Just about all of them are musical and some of her best memories involve her dad playing "Boogie-Woogie" on the piano while she and the other kids danced around the living room. She started playing guitar and writing music at about 16 years old. She became involved with youth ministry right around the same time and is amazed that God allows her to combine two things she loves so much. She sings vocals, loves to harmonize, and cares more about the lyrics than anything else.
She is 24 years old and has been married since June 2006. She now lives in an old hotel in Forestville, NY.
(Bethany is also the band photographer/webmaster. Please leave comments/suggestions!)
Teresa Mayer - Djembe, Guitar
Teresa was born and raised in a small town and has always had a deep love for God and music. She has been known to make beats on every household appliance since she was 4!! Shortly after high school she became a missionary, where she traveled to numerous countries around the globe. She also plays guitar, mandolin, and the hammerond dulcimer. At the present time she has decided to come home with family and attend college. Now she lives in the quiet town of Varysburg NY and is very thankful to our Lord for the blessing of this wonderful band! God Bless!
Alyssa Schreiber - Violin
Alyssa is 17 years old and is a Senior at Pioneer High School. She has been playing the Violin for 9 years and loves being a part of any music oriented activity. Some of her favorite things to do include, going to school, practicing her violin, swimming, and driving in the rain! Someday Alyssa hopes to be either a Music Educator or a Music Therapist where she will be able to influence people's lives with the thing she loves the most...MUSIC!