Connected through music, bound by faith

Music has always had the power to bring people together, crossing the boundaries of time and culture. It speaks a language beyond words and forms connections across generational divides. Within this shared language, faith often finds its voice, expressed through melody, rhythm, and the simple act of playing together with purpose.

For Nate Swenson, Basin Electric manager of Operational Technology, music is more than a hobby; it’s a passion. Swenson plays percussion for Asher, a band of five musicians who play fiddle, banjo, guitar, bass, and drums. They perform a variety of genres, including old and contemporary Irish, British, and American folk and country music. One of their recent performances was at the 2025 Basin Electric Annual Meeting.

Asher’s cooperative debut

“Performing at the annual meeting was a fun and unique opportunity for us,” Swenson says. “We began the evening playing on a smaller stage where the social was held, then we unplugged and set up next door to perform on a full stage during the banquet. It was the first time we’d been asked to play on two stages, but the transition was smooth and seamless.”

While logistics went smoothly, performing in front of an audience of cooperative peers, coworkers, and senior leaders brought a different kind of pressure.

“It’s always more nerve-racking to play when you know the people in the crowd,” Swenson says. “However, I was very humbled by the positive comments I received from coworkers across Basin Electric after our performance. I’m grateful for the opportunity to share our talents and passion with everyone who attended.”

Keeping rhythm in music and life

Swenson’s interest in music started around age three or four when he saw a drummer perform live. “Since that moment, I’ve been hooked,” Swenson says.

He jokes that his first instruments were bowls and spoons, but his percussion collection has grown significantly since then. Currently, Swenson owns a full trap set, a djembe, congas, and a bodhrán, a traditional Irish drum, which he began playing specifically for Asher’s set list.

Perhaps one of the most remarkable aspects of Asher’s story is how its members find time for music while balancing full-time jobs and raising their own families—when combined include a total of 25 children.

“It’s not uncommon to have a kid or two at rehearsals,” Swenson says. “We definitely wouldn’t be able to do this without the encouragement and support of our spouses.”

Swenson has felt this support from Basin Electric, too.

“Basin Electric’s focus on family values is very important to me,” Swenson says. “While there are times we may put in extra hours in the IT department, I’ve always felt very supported with work-life balance.”

Faith that binds

One of Asher’s biggest motivations is to connect with Christian culture and play wholesome music the whole family can enjoy, reflecting their shared values. The band’s name also derives from the Tribe of Asher in the Bible, which is remembered for its blessing, abundance, and quiet faithfulness.

“While we all have a passion for music, it’s our faith that binds us; we are all devout Catholic families with strong family values,” Swenson says. “It is not unusual to see each other at Mass and other faith-based events.”

Swenson’s story is about balancing work, music, faith, and family. Whether he’s managing technical operations by day or sitting behind a trap set by night, he brings the same steady commitment to both. It’s a rhythm that works, and one he’s grateful to keep.