Up with People founders performing

The musical founders of the Up with People program will give performances in Spokane and Coeur d’Alene this weekend.

The Colwell Brothers and Herb Allen are touring in support of the new book “A Song for the World,” by Frank McGee, which chronicles their 50-year mission of artistic diplomacy across six continents.

The Colwells, who got their start as a bluegrass group in the late 1940s, met the Seattle-born Allen in Switzerland in 1953.

In 1965, the foursome created the format and music for Up with People, which grew into an international program that has attracted more than 20,000 student volunteers.

They will give a mini-show and do a book signing with McGee on Saturday at 7 p.m. at Auntie’s Bookstore, 402 W. Main Ave. Admission is free.

On Sunday, the Colwells and Allen will be joined by The Rainbow Fiddle Kids and violinist Arvid Lundin for a 4 p.m. benefit concert at Woodlands Middle School, 2101 W. St. Michelle in Coeur d’Alene.

Tickets are $15 in advance through the school (208-667-5996), $18 at the door. Proceeds will support the Striders community walking and exercise program.