Mary Kitchen

Mary Kitchen and her husband Allen are founders and directors of the Butler New Horizons Folk and Gospel Band in Butler, Pennsylvania. Mary has played guitar since her teen years, but missed her chance to learn violin in school when her family relocated. In her 50s she decided it was never too late, and started violin lessons at her local music store. She loved playing, and soon learned that what she enjoyed most was bluegrass fiddling. Now she takes part in many jams, both locally and at Chautauqua Institution, where she and her husband spend time during the summer. Mary and Allen started a New Horizons group in Butler because they wanted to share the joy of music with other adults.

Mary grew up in Pittsburgh, and attended Duquesne University and Pittsburgh Theological Seminary. She has served several congregations as a Presbyterian ...