Buttonwood Tree Welcomes Nefesh Mountain

There was a time not too long ago that Doni Zazloff (pictured left) was known as Mama Doni, touring synagogues and Jewish Community Centers throughout the United States (and beyond) playing music that would get children ages five through 11 up on their feet and singing along.  One of the musicians in her band was guitarist-mandolin player-banjo picker Eric Lindberg (on the right side of the picture).  The band played a style of music one could easily call "Jewish kids rock" with albums based around the Sabbath, Hanukkah, and food!

Today, Doni and Eric front a quintet known as Nefesh Mountain ("nefesh" being the Hebrew word for "spirit") – the five now tour the world playing concert halls, performance spaces, festivals, camps, and, yes, synagogues and Jewish Community Centers.  They  have been playing this music for the past four years and have recorded two albums. 2018's "Beneath the Open Sky", featured several guest artists including guitarist Sam Bush, dobro master Jerry Douglas (longtime member of Alison Krauss's Union Station), and banjo guru Tony Trischka.

This delightful ensemble – vocalist Doni and vocalist/guitarist/ banjo player Eric plus violinist Alan Grubner, mandolin player David Goldenberg, and bassist Max Johnson (the latter two joined the band earlier this year) – are performing on Friday at 8 p.m. in The Buttonwood Tree, 605 Main Street in Middletown.  NM's repertoire often includes traditional folk and country tunes mixed with Jewish folk songs as well as prayers.  The music really has a fire to it, the musicianship excellent, and Doni's vocals are heartfelt.  Nefesh Mountain doesn't get to this neck of the woods often and I recommend a trip to Middletown's North End should be on your schedule for August 9.

For more information, go to buttonwood.org/event/nefesh-mountain-bluegrass-2/.

To learn more about the band, go to www.nefeshmountain.com.

Give a look and listen:

Mario Pavone's Dialect Trio at The Buttonwood 6/30

I've been listening to, talking to, watching, and enjoying the music of Mario Pavone for over four decades.  His percussive yet melodic bass playing both anchored and freed up the music of the Thomas Chapin Trio. Before his 18 year run in the late saxophonist's ensemble (1980-97), he worked with pianist Paul Bley and trumpeter/ conceptualist Bill Dixon. Pavone has also led or co-led groups with Wadada Leo Smith, pianist Peter Madsen, guitarist Michael Musillami, and saxophonist Marty Ehrlich - his bands have featured drummer Michael Sarin, trumpeter Steven Bernstein, pianist Craig Taborn, and drummer Matt Wilson (among many others).  I have always admired how Pavone builds his music up from the rhythm section, his muscular playing and elongated melodies giving the musicians so much to work with.

Mr. Pavone, who turns 78 in November, remains active throughout the United States and Europe.  His latest album, "Chrome" (Playscape Recordings) features the Dialect Trio of pianist Matt Mitchell and drummer/Wesleyan Professor Tyshawn Sorey - they did a short tour around the release of the new album in May. The songs on the album are all originals, nine of the 10 composed solely by the bassist and one group improvisation.  As he has done in the past, Pavone reimagines pieces he wrote for larger ensembles to fit the dynamics, style, and creativity of his musical partners.  Not only did he produce the album (recorded at Firehouse 12 in New Haven) but also contributed the cover art.

The bassist is coming to The Buttonwood Tree, 605 Main Street in Middletown, on Saturday June 30.  He'll have his partner from the Chapin Trio, Michael Sarin, at the drum kit and a relative newcomer to his groups, pianist Angelica Sanchez, one of the finest interpreters of creative contemporary music.  They'll perform music from the new album as well as pieces from previous Trio albums.

For more information, go to buttonwood.org/event/dialect-trio-feat-mario-pavone/.

Here's an older piece by the Pavone-Mitchell-Sorey trio:

Danny Green 3 at The Buttonwood

The Buttonwood Tree, 605 Main Street in Middletown, presents the Danny Green Trio in concert at 8 p.m.  The Trio - Green (piano, compositions), Justin Grinnell (bass), and Julien Cantelm (drums) - began their musical journey together in 2010 (the association of Grinnell and Green started three years before that) and has released four albums together. The Trio was signed to OA2 Records in 2014 and, with the recent arrival of "One Day It Will", now have issued three CDs on the Seattle-based label.

The new album is what brings the San Diego, CA resident and his band to the East Coast.  The recording features a string quartet, an idea that Green brought to his previous album for three songs. The reception was so positive that the composer and arranger created a full program for the his band and the strings. And, this is not just a piano trio with strings for sweetening.  Green has created melodies especially for the two violins, viola, and cello in which the Trio supports, interacts, and creates new harmonic possibilities.  Also, Green's music has moved away from the strong Brazilian influence that one could hear on the first two recordings.  Now, one can hear hints of Chick Corea, Keith Jarrett, Bill Evans - nothing overt, mind you but truly a sign of growth, maturity, and curiosity.

Photo: Sasha Israel

The Buttonwood date is one of several on this East Cast swing without the strings. Nevertheless, the music should be listened to for the melodic content and the intuitive interactions of the rhythm section.  What is great about the performance space is that you can really pay how the Trio creates its sounds, the communication taking place, and how they respond to the audience.

Danny Green is conducting a Master Class at 6:30 p.m. (with a separate admission charge).  The Danny Green Trio takes the stage at 8 p.m.  For tickets and more information, go to buttonwood.org/event/the-danny-green-trio/ or call 860-347-4957.

To learn more about the pianist, the Trio, and the music, go to dannygreen.net.

Here's an engaging piece from the new album:



(A slightly different version of this post appeared on steptempest.blogspot.com).

Music at The Mansion Rain Date

You may remember the buckets of rain that fell the night that Doo-Wop DeVille started to play on the back patio of The Wadsworth Mansion (July 12, I believe).  The Music at The Mansion series rain date is usually the week after the final concert and should have been August 2.  But the band, based in Massachusetts, could not return until the second Wednesday in August, which is tomorrow August 9.  Actually, that's good because last Wednesday, the Middletown area had quite a storm. But it is also kind-of-bad because tomorrow is Motorcycle Mania on Main Street Middletown.

courtesy of Doo-Wop DeVille

So, you have a choice on what looks will be a beautiful afternoon and evening in Central Connecticut.  You can go downtown and ogle all the fine motorcycles that make the trek to town or head to the Mansion for some sweet music.  Chances are, you can do both.  Motorcycle Mania runs from 4:30 - 8:30 p.m. while Doo-Wop DeVille hits the patio stage around 6:30 p.m.  Both events are free and open to the public.  Have fun, on matter what you choose to do!

Take a listen:

Concert on the Farm This Weekend (Updated)

Seats are still available this Friday, Saturday, or Sunday at the Gastler Farm (on the Durham/Middlefield borderline) for the Kalmia Garden Farmhouse Concert. 

The series is in its fourth season and features young musicians, all of whom recently graduated from prestigious music programs at schools such as Yale, Rice, and Juilliard.  They have been in residency on the farm for the past few months and finish their stay with two weekends of concerts, two different programs. This weekend, various combinations of the resident ensemble will perform music composed by Schubert, Schumann, Shostakovich, and Xenakis.  These musicians include Tim Krippner (piano), Max Geissler (cello), Will Overcash (violin), Dian Zhanf (violin), and Kalmia Foundation originator and artistic director Leah Gastler (viola, pictured below).

Concerts are Friday and Saturday at 7 p.m. as well as Sunday at 3 p.m.  If you arrive at least an hour before the concert, you will get a guided tour of the delightful gardens. To purchase tickets, you can call 860-349-8415 or email farmhouseconcerts@gmail.com. To find out more about the farm, the concert series, and the Kalmia Foundation, go to www.farmhouseconcerts.com.  

(UPDATE Friday):

We just arrived home from the concert. The music was delightful, the musicians engaging, and the surroundings comfortable and quite impressive.  Due to the absence of violinist Dian Zhanf, the program for the weekend ha been altered.  The three string players opened the concert with "Serenade (Trio) in C major, Opus 10" by Ernst von Dohnanyi (1877-1960), the Hungarian-born composer who spent the last 11 years of life living and teaching in the United States.  Next up was "Trio No. 1 in C minor, Opus 8" for violin, cello, and piano composed by Dmitri Shostakovich (1906-1975) when he was 17 years old.  After a short break, all four musicians returned to perform the "Piano Quartet in E-flat major, K.493" by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756-1791).  A joyous piece of music, the musicians had a delightful time negotiating the occasional flurry of notes, especially the knuckle-busting phrases pianist Krippner had to play - he did so with aplomb!

Tickets are still available for Saturday evening and Sunday afternoon.  Classical music comes alive in this lovely setting and the musicians not only love to perform, they also love to inform so that the music is not as mysterious.

The Sounds of Music at Adath Israel

The poster above says most of what you need to know; this coming Saturday evening, Congregation Adath Israel, 8 Broad Street in Middletown, is hosting concert featuring Cantor Isaac Yager and his wife Meredith.  Cantor Yager is in the midst of a six-month assignment serving as the Interim Rabbi while Rabbi Seth Haaz is on sabbatical.  Cantor Yager is a graduating senior at the Jewish Theological Seminary in New York City where he is not only part of the Cantorial program but also studying Jewish education.  A graduate of Bard College, where he majored in theater, and Boston University, where he earned his Master's Degree in vocal performance, Cantor Yager has sung in the Jerusalem Great Synagogue Choir and has also been a member of the chorus of the Boston Lyric Opera.

His wife Meredeth also graduated from Boston University, is a soprano with a love of "art song" and opera.  Those of us in the Congregation who regularly attend services on the weekends the Cantor who possesses a handsome tenor voice, is in town really enjoy listening to both of them singing and, especially for me, their lovely harmonies.  

The concert is open to the public. Call 860-346-4709 to make reservations. If you are attending, remember that there is no parking directly behind the synagogue but plenty of spaces nearby.  

Jazz Up Close "Spanning Generations"

Pianist, composer, educator, and author Noah Baerman hosts the Jazz Up Close series at the Russell Library in Middletown approximately four times a year.  This Thursday (June 16) as part of the "Spanning Generations Up Close", Noah and bassist Henry Lugo will perform with guest artist guitarist  Monnette Sudler, the Philadelphia, PA native and still a resident.

Here's how the pianist described his guest in his promotional material. "Forty years after recording "Time for a Change", her debut as a bandleader for SteepleChase Records, Monnette Sudler is still a potent force in music. Adept at straight-ahead jazz, avant-garde music and R&B, she has collaborated with a comparably diverse cast of musicians, including Grover Washington, Jr., Hugh Masekela, Sam Rivers, 'Philly” Joe Jones, Kenny Barron, Khan Jamal, Cedar Walton, Shirley Scott, Byard Lancaster, Steve Turre, Sunny Murray, and rapper Erik Honesty (Ms. Sudler’s son). Her current projects include Sisters in Poetry (in collaboration with poet Trapeta B. Mason), the Ladies Night Out quartet, and the Monnette Sudler World Music Ensemble featuring Liberian vocalist Fatu Gayflor, as well as serving as the organizer of the annual Philadelphia Guitar Summit. Ms. Sudler is a graduate of Temple University and is active as an educator, having recently authored the instructional book "Motif Mojo Jazz Guitar."

Ms. Sudler has issued six CDs since her debut, the latest being 2012's collaboration with Ladies Night Out titled "First Born."  The album is a delightful blend of vocals and instrumentals, with a clean sound  all around and several gospel-flavored tracks.  

If you are a regular attendee of these concerts, you know that the artists take time to answer questions from the audience.  It's .amazing what one can learn and how the artists give a glimpse into the creative process.

The concert begins at 7 p.m. and takes place in the Hubbard Room.  As always at the Library, the show is free and open to the public. For more information, go to resonantmotion.org/jazz-up-close/. 

To learn more about the guitarist, go to www.monnettesudlermusic.com. 

Here's a view of the guitarist at play from 2010:

(This post also appears on steptempest.blogspot.com.

Indra Rios-Moore at Russell Library Thursday

This Thursday (1/14), the Russell Library, 123 Broad Street in Middletown welcomes the fine vocalist Indra Rios-Moore and her band for a 7 p.m. concert in the Hubbard Room. Indra, a long-time friend of Middletown resident Rani Arbo, issued her 3rd CD in 2015, the lovely "Homeland" - produced by Larry Klein (Joni Mitchell, Melody Gardot), the CD came out in August and is filled with fascinating tunes, including great covers of songs by Dock Boggs (see below), David Ruffin ("What Becomes of the Broken-hearted"), Pink Floyd ("Money") and David Bowie ("Heroes").  The album includes stunning versions of Duke Ellington's "Azure" (lyrics by Irving Mills and "Solitude" (the words were composed by Eddie De Lange).

The concert will feature her "working band" (all of whom appear on the CD) - they include Benjamin Traerup (saxophones), Uffe Steen (guitars) and Indra's husband Thomas Sejthen (bass). Anyone who attended her previous shows know how powerful a singer/interpreter Indra is and how well the band's sounds complements her vocals. Also, the intimacy of the Hubbard Room is a perfect fit for the intimacy of the music. The show is free and open to the public.

For more information about the concert, call 860-347-2528 ext 171.  To learn more about the singer and her music, go to www.indrariosmoore.com.  

Here's the Dock Boggs tune to whet your appetite:

Celebrate New Year's Day at The Mansion

There are so many ways and reasons to celebrate the coming of 2016 but not much for the entire family.  However, pack everyone in the car and head over to the annual Open House & Concert at the Wadsworth Mansion at Long Hill Estate in Middletown. From 1 - 4 p.m., one gets to tour the building with one of the Mansion's knowledgable docents, enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride and take hikes through the grounds (weather permitting).

And, there's live music!  At 2 p.m. the Lost Acres String Band will play its enjoyable repertoire of fiddle tunes old and new, blues, swing, and so much more.  Featuring the talents of Gordon Swift (fiddle), his brother Jon (standup bass) and Paul Howard (acoustic guitar), LASB knows how to move and entertain a crowd of all ages.

Thanks to the Friends of the Wadsworth Mansion (the group that also sponsors the July Concert series), the event, rides and music are free and open to the public.  For more information, go to www.wadsworthmansion.com.

Watcher of the Skies (Wadsworth Mansion)

The picture on the left shows just part of the contingent that the U.S. Coast Guard Band (the nonet in the photo is known as the Masters of Swing) will bring to the Wadsworth Mansion tonight (7/08) for the 6:30 p.m. concert on the back lawn of the Estate.

As a member of the Mansion Music Committee, I am of the people who decide "yea" or "nay" if the weather is threatening (decided wrong last week).  Therefore, I fret about the atmospheric conditions most of the day and, judging by what WFSB is saying (as of 6:30 a.m.) -

"A cold front will push into this humid air mass today and the result will be more showers and thunderstorms.  Once again, heavy downpours will be a problem in parts of the state.  Like yesterday, some towns could receive a few inches of rain in a short period of time.  If some thunderstorms get stronger, we may have to deal with gusty winds as well.  High temperatures will be in the 80s as sky conditions vary from partly to mostly cloudy." - I have reason to fret.

Stay tuned (as they say).  In the meantime, here's the USCGB at work performing a piece by its saxophonist Cedric Mayfield (that's him paying the fine soprano sax solo at the 8-minute mark).

Music at The Mansion 2015

Summer's here and Middletown jumps to a different beat - there are concerts by the River, concerts on the Wesleyan campus and there's Music at The Mansion.

As you see by the picture, the back lawn of The Wadsworth Mansion is lush and green. For the next 4 Wednesdays (7/01, 08, 15, and 22 - in case of rain, 7/29 is a makeup date), the Lawn will covered by blankets and chairs, filled with people listening to music that, in its own ways, covers a lot of territory.

The series, sponsored this year by the Friends of the Long Hill Estate along with a generous donation from Middlesex Hospital,  commences this Wednesday evening at 6:30 p.m. with the funky sounds of Avenue Groove. The sextet, in existence since 2007, plays rhythm 'n' blues, funk, soul music and more in a show that makes one want to dance.

The following Wednesday, the US Coast Guard Band, 50 persons strong, return to The Mansion.  Based at the Coast Guard Academy in New London, the Band was formed in 1925 and, in its 90-year existence, has performed throughout the United States and around the world.  Many of the musicians who perform go on to play in symphony orchestras and big bands.  The ensemble has recorded a number of CDs, the latest released in 2014 and featuring the movie music and more of John Williams.

The Latin jazz sounds of Goza also makes a return appearance in the Series, this time on July 15.  Led by guitarist David Giardina, the sextet plays a repertoire from Central and South America, from Spain and, on occasion - if you ask - will play spirited Gypsy Swing.  They also add Latin rhythms to songs by Stevie Wonder, Paul McCartney and others.

Greg Fahey photo

The final show in the series also features an artist returning to town.  Jeff Pitchell & Texas Flood with the Jeffettes is one to the area's premier blues bands. The guitarist is getting rave reviews around the country for his spirited playing and singing with a repertoire that pays tribute to blues greats such as Stevie Ray Vaughan and Otis Rush. Pitchell is also getting notice for his songwriting abilities. Texas Flood is as solid a band as you'll hear anywhere and The Jeffettes add soulful harmonies to the proceedings.

The Wadsworth grounds open at 5:30 p.m. for the who wish to bring picnic suppers and close 30 minutes after the last notes fade away.  Parking is available at Snow School and in the lot at Mercy High School.  These concerts are free and open to the public - The Friends will solicit donations at all shows save for the Coast Guard Band.  For weather updates on the afternoon of the shows and more information, go to www.wadsworthmansion.com/events.php.

Wadsworth Mansion Concerts: Goza Goes On

The final concert in the 2014 Wadsworth Mansion "Music at the Mansion" series is, actually, the first concert.  Well, the July 2 concert featuring guitarist David Giardina's fine Latin music band Goza was rained out - the skies opened at the close of the second song and lightning was streaking in the distance and the Music Committee  cancelled the rest of the show.

Although the sky is filled with puffy clouds this afternoon, today is the "rain date" for the concert series so it's really the final show of this season. Grounds open at 5:30 and the music should start at 6:30.

Check www.wadsworthmansion.com for more information.  

The Buttonwood Tree Sizzles Saturday Night with La Hot Jazz

 

 

Last night at TBT the room was filled with music and words of healing energy and vibrations of love, Led by the passionate Margaux Modimo Hayes,  the audience and performers collectively exclaimed, "From your chakra to your mantra, we want the world to heal".  Intentions were of unity for our world, our community and even for this very event. And so it was that Margaux, together with partner Rich McGee III, invited to join them Mixashawn Rozie, Peter Onofrio and from the audience, Abu - Alvin Carter Sr. It was amazing to hear all these talented musicians bringing forth their years of experience in the spirit of unity and love. 

 

We never know what will happen at The Buttonwood Tree shows - often musicians will join us unexpectedly who add to the wonder of the evening. Ah, to be open to the spontaneity of Life - is pure Joy!

Tonight we open our doors to a richly talented group who plays music we are familiar with from the Great American Songbook and other tunes we love. Drop in for a sound bite or stay the evening! Wine, beer, Slambovian coffee, natural soft drinks and snacks are available. Bonus tonight: "Don't whine, do wine"!

La Hot Jazz

Saturday, July 26     8:00 pm - 10:00 pm  ($10 cash or check at the door)

The Buttonwood Tree will be sizzlin’ on July 26, when La Hot Jazz performs with sophistication and style. These seasoned musicians will add a unique flavor and charisma to The Buttonwood Tree’s jazz event. The band performs the Great American Songbook with a lineup of voice, upright bass, saxophone, drums, and piano.  Read more here:  http://www.buttonwood.org/event/la-hot-jazz/

The Buttonwood Tree is located at 605 Main Street, next to It's Only Natural market. www.buttonwood.org 860-347-4957  Doors open at 6:30 to reserve your seat.

Passionate Performers and Wesleyan Alumni Make The Buttonwood Tree Their Destination of Choice

We often hear of what's coming up at The Buttonwood Tree Performing Arts & Cultural Center, (TBT), but what actually happened is often a mystery. Even its location seems to be a mystery, as countless folks come in saying they've "passed by this place for years and didn't know it was here". Trees hide the sign over the door of the small space which is located in the former Arriwani Hotel, next to It's Only Natural market. Once inside, a whole new world opens up to those who dare to enter. Between the eclectic books, local art, inviting atmosphere and exposed brick walls, Buttonwood has repeatedly been called a "hidden gem" in the heart of downtown Middletown.

Earlier this month an Italian beauty made her debut performance and she won the hearts of all in attendance. Sissy Castrogiovanni hails from Sicily and has been living in Boston for the past few years. She brought her band and added Evan Waaramaa on piano, a West Hartford native, whose family was delighted to see him perform with the dynamic group. Also in attendance was the new director of the Downtown Business District, Nicole Castrogiovanni. Maybe not related directly, they do share their family name and their first visit to TBT. Over a dozen people experienced TBT for the first time that night and at least one gentleman spoke to her in their native tongue, a bonus for them both. Singing in her Sicilian dialect didn't deter from the enjoyment of the music, but rather added to the flair of the jazzy tunes. Her voice too an instrument, was used expertly and expressively.

Owen McNally kindly interviewed the Italian songstress, but words can hardly capture the passion that was felt in the cozy space at TBT. She moved on stage using her whole body like an instrument, rising and falling in rhythm, floating and soaring with notes that tantalized and captured listeners' attention and hearts. Playing to the sax, their eyes locked, her voice matched its notes with perfect pitch and if you closed your eyes you might have thought there were two saxes in the room. One number she sang just to the piano, a love song that was a lovely as a flower blossoming and brought tears to more than one listener. When a performer with passion plays TBT, it is felt by all those who tune in and in that moment, we're all One. Those times are something special to be experienced, something so wonderful that people who can get quiet and into the moment, can treasure forever. Folks return from near and far to feel the magic that happens between performer and audience at The Buttonwood Tree, like in no other place.  

One pair of patrons knows the value of the irreplaceable, treasurable moments available at The Buttonwood Tree, and they traveled to Middletown from their home on Long Island, NY simply to spend the weekend at TBT. Wesleyan alumni, Dick Einhorn, and his lovely wife, Susan, have been regular attendees at TBT for a couple of years. They enjoyed the classical guitar music of the students from the Hartt School of Music as well as the jazz guitar of Sinan Bakir. It's a family affair at TBT, that night Bakir's son came along as he often does for his dad's regular appearances.

Music is not the only gift that flows from TBT, as the Einhorns know. They attended a show last October featuring members of Cotton Hollow Rising where Cece Borgenson told the audience how they got their band's name, and talked about the treasure of Cotton Hollow Preserve in South Glastonbury. In between shows at TBT, the Einhorns enjoyed the natural beauty of the Preserve, satisfying their curiosity born of that October concert. Often coming to Middletown for Wesleyan events and catching one show at TBT, this weekend they came mainly "to experience The Buttonwood Tree". Smart folks those Wesleyan folks, and talented too as this Saturday's concert with the Mattabessett String Collective will reveal.

See Owen's story here: http://wnpr.org/topic/jazz-corridor

This weekend TBT hosts five events: 
Friday,     8 pm, Orice Jenkins Jazz http://www.buttonwood.org/event/orice-jenkins/
Saturday, 10:30 am, Aligned with Source workshop: http://www.buttonwood.org/event/aligned-with-source-19/
                8 pm, Mattabessett String Collective: http://www.buttonwood.org/event/mattabesett-string-collective/   (Reservations suggested)
Sunday,   1-2 pm Food not Bombs (Free vegetarian community lunch)
                4-7 pm Celebrating Tommy Moses: http://www.buttonwood.org/event/celebrating-tommy-jakula-moses/    (Call us to participate)

CANCELED: Tonight's film and Saturday's Yoga and Qigong classes are all canceled

The Buttonwood Tree Performing Arts & Cultural Center is run by North End Arts Rising, Inc., a nonprofit organization located at 605 Main Street. www.buttonwood.org   860.347.4957
Volunteer opportunities are available. 

Tuesdays in June, Experience the Rumpus

DJ Lord Lewis the Velvet Knight, longstanding host of the legendary Rumpus Room radio show on WESU 88.1 FM, presents a month long Tuesday night DJ residency in June at the Canoe Club in Middletown CT.

Expect all vinyl sets of the best in contemporary and vintage heavy funk, soul, afrobeat, rare groove and more from one of CT’s most heavyweight collectors and taste-makers. Showcasing the burgeoning international funk underground and revival this will be a unique night with a deep music selection that will be sure to impress.

Come for the music, stay for the awesome riverfront view and drink specials. A rare treat not to be missed every Tuesday night in June from 6 pm onwards.

You can get a preview of the type of sounds you will hear by listening to archives of the Rumpus Room radio show on Mixcloud

www.mixcloud.com/lordlewis

DJ profile here: www.facebook.com/djlordlewis

Contact: rumpusroom@wesufm.org

Tom Callinan Comes Home to Sing War Songs

The Middlesex County Historical Society presents the CD-release concert for Middletown native Tom Callinan’s latest recording entitled “We Owe Allegiance To No Crown” on Tuesday, April 1, at 7:00 pm in the Hubbard Room at Russell Library, 123 Broad Street in Middletown.  The recordings contains seventeen songs from and about the War of 1812, along with contemporary compositions (mostly original), based on facts, legend, and lore and will be available for purchase at the conclusion of the concert. 

Viewed by many as "America's Second War of Independence," the War of 1812 is often overlooked or overshadowed by the American Revolution and the Civil War.  But many events of that conflict are burned into the American consciousness such as the burning of the Capitol and White House in Washington, D.C. and the failed bombardment by the British of Fort McHenry that inspired Francis Scott Key to pen the words of the "The Star-Spangled Banner." A little known fact of the war was that Federalist opposition to "Mr. Madison's War," particularly in New England, almost caused Northern states to secede from the union … nearly 40 years before the Civil War.

1814 was the year that most impacted Connecticut during the War of 1812, and of the seventeen songs on the CD six relate to people and events in Middlesex County during this bicentennial year.  In honor of the April 8^th raid and burning of the fleet in Essex, Tom has penned a trilogy: the lively "Save The Sloops, Brigs & Schooners"; the lament "Pine, Oak, & Tar"; and an attempt to address the many still-unanswered "Burning Questions At Potapaug".  "Enough!" recounts the valiant resistance of the Clinton militia, while "Irish Luck & Pluck" chronicles the naval journey of Captain Thomas Macdonough, who chose Middletown as his adopted home.  The period piece "The Constitution And The Guerriere" touts the victory of Captain Isaac Hull, who spent time in Middletown before taking command of "Old Ironsides".

A highly regarded folksinger, songwriter, storyteller, sea-chanteyman, and multi-instrumentalist, Mr. Callinan is now in his 37^th year as a full-time creative and performing artist.  During that time, he has cultivated a reputation as a collector and presenter of songs from America's past, as well as a creator of songs in the styles reminiscent of historical periods.  In recognition of his talent and achievements, Tom was named Connecticut’s first Official State Troubadour.  He and his wife, Ann Shapiro, founded CRACKERBARREL ENTERTAINMENTS, an agency that provides enrichment and family programming, primarily in the Eastern United States.

Russell Library is handicap accessible and this program is free and open to the public.  For further information, contact the Historical Society at 860-346-0746.  

Experimental Music Weekend at Wesleyan

Soprano saxophonist/composerJasmine Lovell-Smith came to study at Wesleyan University in the Fall of 2012. A native of New Zealand, Ms. Lovell-Smith has lived in the United States since 2010 and released her initial Stateside CD with her Towering Poppies quintet, "Fortune Songs", before undertaking her studies.  Over the past 15 months, she's been studying, composing and being part of the extensive University music community.  I met Ms. Lovell-Smith at the Middlesex Fruitery and she informed me of the following event.

This weekend (Saturday 11/23-Monday 11/25), the Wesleyan Experimental Music Group presents a 3-night Festival dedicated to "Dualities", musical conversations for 2 instrumentalists or voice atThe Russell House, located at the corner of Washington and High Streets in Middletown.  Saturday's sets will commence at 9 p.m. with operatic vocalist Stephanie Lavon-Trotter with pianist Ben Zucker performing the songs of Wesleyan composer Nathan Friedman.  They'll be followed at 9:30 by Menschenduett, the duo of composer/clarinetist Sean Sonderegger and Nathan Friedman (here on clarinet) playing a blend of original compositions and improvisations.  At 10 p.m., Jasmine Lovell-Smith joins forces with pianist Cat Toren (who is also a member of Towering Poppies) to create their own blend of lyrical improvisations.

Sunday evening will belong to the duo of Christopher Otto (violin, left) and Kevin McFarland (cello), members of JACK, a rising contemporary string quartet.  The duo will play a set of music by the weekend's featured composers. The music begins at 9 p.m.

Monday evening, there are 2 sets opening at 9 p.m with the combination of Daniel Fishkin (daxophone?) and Matt Chilton (woodwinds, voice).  The Festival closes with Sam Pluta (electronics) and Peter Evans (trumpet), creating a whirlwind of sounds.  Evans, whose Zebulon Trio joins forces with Dave Leibman (saxophones) and Ron Stabinsky (piano) to perform at Firehouse 12 on Friday November 29, is one of the more interesting brass players on the contemporary music scene.  He's also a member of Moppa Elliott's Mostly Other People Do The Killing, a pre-emminent jazz quartet.

The Wesleyan Experimental Festival is free and open to the public.  If you need directions, call The Russell House at 860-685-2000.

Music at the Mansion Postponed

The second concert in the "Music at the Mansion - 5 in July" series, scheduled for tonight at 6:30 p.m., has been postponed until Wednesday August 7. Jeff Pitchell & Texas Flood + the Jeffettes will now bring their energetic blend of blues, soul, r'n'b and rock to the back lawn of the Mansion as the final show of the 2013 season.

Next week (7/17), Rani Arbo & daisy mayhem return to the Long Hill Estate, 421 Wadsworth Street - that should be a fun evening with Rani, Andrew Kinsey, Anand Nayak and Scott Kessel with the "Drumship Enterprise!"

Filling out the month of Wednesdays will be Gail Wade & Turning Point (7/24) and Quartetto Vivo (July 31).  For more information, go to www.wadsworthmansion.com.

Wadsworth Mansion: 5 in July!

Summer is upon and it's time to party with Mother Nature.  Over the course of the next 9-11 weeks, there will be a slew of outdoors concerts in the Middletown area and one knows how fickle the Goddess of Weather can be.

Nevertheless, the Wadsworth Mansion at Long Hill Estate, Wadsworth Street in Middletown, will presents its annual July Concert series aka Music at the Mansion.  And, this year, the Music Committee (note: I am a member of that august group) has chosen to present 5 concerts, one on each Wednesday of the month.  In case of rain, there will be 1 make-up concert on August 7.  As has been the tradition over the years, the concerts are free, the grounds are open for picnics 60 minutes before each 6:30 show, and the line-up is a creative blend of styles and sounds.

The fun starts of Wednesday July 3 when the Hartford Jazz Orchestra, Donn Trenner, Music Director, makes a return visit. The HJO has been in existence since 1965 when Bill Stanley (at that time, band director at Hall High School in West Hartford) convened the musicians for its first of its Monday night rehearsals.  The ensemble went through a number of music directors and venues until Chic Chicetti took over in the early 1980s and settled the HJO into the famous but now defunct 880 Club in Hartford.  Over the years, the ensemble built quite a following for its Monday night shows plus the occasional gigs away from the venue, often with vocalist Bobbi Rogers as a guest (then becoming a permanent member.) Saxophonist/flutist Seb Giacco, a fixture on the local music and former co-owner of National Paint & Wallpaper, has been in the group since its inception. On the night of this concert, Mr. Giacco will be honored by the Wadsworth Mansion, not only for his long career as a great musician but also as the "father" of the Music at the Mansion series.

The following week (7/10) marks the Mansion debut of guitarist Jeff Pitchell & Texas Flood. Pitchell, a fixture on the Connecticut and New England blues scene, has been playing guitar since he was 15 and is considered one of the best blues players around.  Joining his 5-piece band will be the Jeffettes, 4 singers with a background in gospel music.  Should be a rocking night on the back lawn.

On July 17, Rani Arbo & daisy mayhem returns to the Mansion playing their joyful program of "agnostic gospel music", folk, swing, and blues.  Ms. Arbo, who sings and plays fiddle, lives in Middletown with her husband and percussionist Scott Kessel (who plays the home-made "Drumship Enterprise).  Guitarist/vocalist Anand Nayak and bassist/vocalist Andrew Kinsey (who also plays a "mean" ukulele and banjo) round out the quartet.

The Quartet has released 3 CDs, including 2012's "Some Bright Morning" and 2010's "Ranky Tanky", the latter a rollicking collection of songs for the younger set (but everyone can sing along.)
Their live shows are certainly fun for the whole family and this show, like the others, will draw quite a crowd of fans from all over the region.

On July 24, the series continues in the "folk" mode when Gail Wade & Turning Point makes its Mansion debut.  Singer/songwriter/ guitarist/banjo picker Wade has been making music for 3 decades throughout the Northeast. Turning Point is 4 fine musicians - Peggy Ann Harvey (fiddle, saxophone, harmonica, vocals), Dan Manzone (banjo), Rob Rainwater (acoustic bass) and Tim St. Jean (mandolin) -  all of whom pour their hearts and souls into this music.

The concerts come to a close on July 31 when Quartetto Vivo becomes the first string quartet to play in the series. Based in the Hartford area, the chamber ensemble plays a repertoire that spans centuries, from Bach to The Beatles and beyond.

As stated above, all concerts start at 6:30 p.m. Limited parking is available on the Estate's grounds, at Wilbur Snow School, 299 Wadsworth Street and at Mercy High School, 1740 Randolph Road. Concerts will go on even in light rain but, if there is more electricity in the sky than on the bandstand, the show will be cancelled.  If there is a threat of bad weather, check the Mansion's website - www.wadsworthmansion.com - or call 860-347-1064.  You can check the EYE as well.

The Israelis are Coming! The Israelis Are Coming!

Yes, this coming weekend the Israelis indeed are coming to Middletown.  On Saturday, The Buttonwood Tree, 605 Main Street, presents pianist Alon Nechustan and his Trio.  The first time that the pianist was scheduled to come to town, the City and the rest of the state was covered in several feet of snow.  Joining him will be Shareef Taher (drums) and Javier Moreno Sanchez (acoustic bass) and they'll be playing a program of the Israeli-born musician's original music with a few standards.  Nechustan's music is a smart blend of mainstream jazz, Middle-Eastern influences, classical music and more.  He's also a fine pianist whose solo work is rhythmically forceful while also quite melodic.

All goes well, the 8 p.m. performance will not be canceled due to inclement weather.  For more information, go to www.buttonwood.org or call 860-347-4957.

Congregation Adath Israel, 8 Broad Street, presents the duo Isra-Alien in concert at 2 pm on Sunday, May 5.


Powered by the masterful technique and close friendship of jazz guitarist Oren Neiman and rock guitarist Gilad Ben-Zvi, the duo's acoustic music moves effortlessly from rootsy to refined on their second album, "Somewhere is Here!", released in late 2012.

Meeting on a remote base during military service and then reuniting years later in New York, Ben-Zvi and Neiman found an unexpected common ground in music that grew from the complexities of their shared heritage. By finding new sounds and settings for old forms and melodies, they hint at the diverse facets of Israeli music.

The concert takes place in the large Social Hall - the suggested donation is $10 per person and $18 per family, children 13 and under can attend for free. For reservations, please call the Synagogue office at 860-346-4709.