Blue Heaven

In the Spring of 1999, Sue Stude, Joyce Copenhaver and Beth Hamilton formed a guitar & vocal trio named "Three For One".   For about two years, the group played mostly locally in Cecil County, Maryland.

In early 2002, following a short hiatus, the group reformed under the name "The Gospel Vixens."  Joyce had switched to electric bass and Beth added fiddle to her lead guitar work.  Sue continued to play rhythm guitar.  Michelle Green joined for a short time on banjo.

In August, 2002, Sue asked Sharon O’Connor to join the group on mandolin.  Michelle left to pursue other interests, and longtime friend and former neighbor Aideen Hession joined the group on banjo.

Under Sue’s leadership, the blend of bluegrass instruments and five voices in different combinations produced a unique sound that has touched many hearts.  The Gospel Vixens enjoyed playing to their fellow brothers and sisters, being particularly fond of outreach work to the unsaved.  Much more a ministry than a band, The Gospel Vixens’ music contained a strong message about Jesus and the price He paid for us all.

In 2004, the The Gospel Vixens disbanded. Sharon and Aideen continued to play together, and extended their repertoire to include country as well.  Sharon's friend Jackie joined on rhythm guitar. Wishing to recreate the full band & vocal sound that was a trademark of the Gospel Vixens, Sharon extended an invitation to former Gospel Vixens Beth Hamilton. She accepted, and Blue Heaven was born.