The Michael Murphey Western Institute continued with our mission of education, preservation & perpetuation of the arts, culture, history and legacy of the American West throughout 2023.   MWI sponsored or co-sponsored numerous Murphey concerts, public appearances, and media interviews.  All or a portion of each event was devoted to fulfilling MWI's mission.  Many of Murph's songs are about the history or lore of the American West.  Current topics are also covered, such as preserving the grasslands thorough holistic grazing practices, celebrating our cultural diversity, and promoting opportunities for urban families to learn about rural America .  We fans appreciate learning about the stories, legends, or issues that inspire the lyrics of both old and contemporary songs and poems.  Attendees often stop by after the shows to ask questions or relate personal stories or memories of their own triggered by a particular song or poem.  These visits validate and continue to inspire the institute's mission.