It is generally believed that there is a "Midwestern" sensibility that permeates residents of the nation's midsection. Much like being "Southern" or a "New Yorker," it's a stereotypical attitude, warmly embraced by many who live in the particular area. But what does it mean to be Midwestern?

Wheat farming may have something to do with it. Ditto with ice fishing. A general stoic attitude is a plus, as is a peculiar social naivete, coupled with heightened practical intelligence. A dry sense of humor is a must.

Where do we get these ideas about the residents of our nation's heartland? Garrison Keillor, probably. The humorist and storyteller has made a career out of toying with preconceived personalities in the flyover states. His "Prairie Home Companion" radio show is a weekly dose of everything Midwestern, and his focus on music has shed a spotlight on a number of relatively unknown folk artists. Perhaps the most "Midwestern" of these are Lou and Peter Berryman, a Madison, Wis., duo that has been featured on the show a number of times.

Lou (Louise) and Peter Berryman--playing the accordion and guitar, respectively--will be performing for the Fredericksburg Songwriter's Showcase at the Picker's Supply Concert Hall tomorrow evening at 8 p.m. The concert is being billed as "The big show of the year," for good reason. The Berrymans seldom tour in this part of the country, and their song craft is the epitome of "Midwestern" humor.

"Garrison Keillor has popularized the Midwestern attitude, and he's kind of explained us to a lot of people," Lou Berryman said.

"The dry, self-deprecating humor we have, as well as a level of goofiness that comes from our northern European roots. Getting drunk and dancing the polka."

Roots are certainly part of that attitude, as is polka, but weather is probably the main ingredient.

"We live in the climate from hell, but we love it," Berryman said. "We have lots of songs about Wisconsin winters. I think some of our best evenings of music take place in the middle of March in Wisconsin or Minnesota. People are yearning to laugh. They will take a fresh look at things with only the smallest suggestion."