The second of the five themed music nights at IllumiZoo Wild Hues is set for this Wednesday, Oct. 20, with Here Come the Beatles!
Twist and shout your way through IllumiZoo Wild Hues to the famous beats of the Beatles that will bring a heightened experience as you make your way through an illuminated landscape of nature drenched with rich lighting and sounds. Vibrant hues and a selection of the Beatles’ greatest hits will transform the Zoo while enriching the appreciation of wildlife and wild places found all around us.
Come together to experience Here Come the Beatles as these timeless tunes guide you through IllumiZoo Wild Hues for one night only.
Along with the themed music, IllumiZoo Wild Hues will continue to tell a conservation story by creating illuminating connections between wildlife and wild places. Showcasing how we are all connected to each other, to the land, the water, the air, the trees, and all animals, big and small, with the power to make a positive change in our world.
IllumiZoo Wild Hues tickets, including the themed music nights, are $20 for adults, $13 for children ages 3-12, and free for children 2 and under with Zoo members receiving a discount on admission.
IllumiZoo Wild Hues at John Ball Zoo is announcing five themed music evenings on Wednesdays to mix up the fun for this popular illuminating event.
The first of the five music themed evenings begins with We Love the ‘80s on Wednesday, Oct. 13. Guests can take a totally rad step back as the top music of the 80s guides guests through IllumiZoo Wild Hues.
Set for Wednesday, Oct. 20 is the second music event with Here Comes the Beatles. Guests can twist and shout their way through IllumiZoo Wild Hues to the famous beats of the Beatles!
Grab a seat as we time travel back to the 1970s with a 70s Flashback set for Wednesday, Oct. 27. An evening of rock to disco and punk to funk, where the groovy music of the 1970s will transform IllumiZoo Wild Hues.
The fourth music theme takes a classical turn with It’s All Classical on Wednesday, Nov. 3. This evening of captivating selections of classical music will create a unique visual and auditory experience as guests make their way through an illuminated landscape of nature drenched with rich lighting and sounds.
The final music themed evening is Wednesday, Nov. 10 with Boy Bands Unite!. This fun night will get guests movin’ and groovin’ to the iconic music of boy bands. Sharing the “stage” for this evening will be BTS, NKOTB, NSYNC, The Jackson 5 and more!
Along with the themed music, IllumiZoo Wild Hues will continue to tell a conservation story by creating illuminating connections between wildlife and wild places. Showcasing how we are all connected to each other, to the land, the water, the air, the trees, and all animals, big and small, with the power to make a positive change in our world.
IllumiZoo Wild Hues tickets are $20 for adults, $13 for children ages 3-12, and free for children 2 and under with Zoo members receiving a discount on admission. The themed music nights are the same admission price.
Guests are encouraged to reserve tickets in advance to guarantee their preferred date and time to experience these music nights at IllumiZoo Wild Hues. Tickets are available at www.jbzoo.org/tickets.
John Ball Zoo is located on Fulton Ave., one mile west of downtown Grand Rapids. For questions or for more information, visit www.jbzoo.org, call 616-336-4301, or email info@jbzoo.org.
That’s part of the message of “Created by Circumstance,” a collaboration between the Grand Rapids Ballet Company and Dégagé Ministries as part of ArtPrize 2021, which continues through Oct. 3 in downtown Grand Rapids.
Three performances of the six-minute show — created by GRB professional dancer Gretchen Steimle — are planned beginning at 5:30 tonight (Sept. 22), with additional shows Sept. 24 and 26.
The goal of the show, and collaboration, is to share a message of hope, help and awareness, said Thelma Ensink, executive director at Dégagé Ministries.
She said more than 800 people a night experience homelessness in Grand Rapids.
“It’s such a variety of circumstances that places someone in that position,” Ensink said. “I am constantly amazed at the stories I hear from the people we serve; some have Masters Degrees and above, and then experience a traumatic event in their life or struggle with mental health or whatever it may be… All of us are vulnerable to being in this position.”
“Created by Circumstance” offers a glimpse into the lives of those experiencing homelessness in the Heartside neighborhood.
Steimle, a member of the Grand Rapids Ballet, began the project last winter, where she communicated with staff, as well as musicians Thomas and Isaac, who knew first-hand of the resources that Dégagé provides the community.
She was at first “overwhelmed with the idea” of creating an artistic piece of work from their struggles.
Gretchen Steimle, a member of the Grand Rapids Ballet, was the creative force behind “Created by Circumstance.” (Supplied)
“I can only create from my perspective,” Steimle said, “so I really tried to find the ways we were connecting, and the commonality we were finding together in what we shared.”
And what they shared was “hope, and dance, and music, and art, and all of those things that all humans experience,” she said.
The six-minute, music and movement piece includes four dancers from the Grand Rapids Ballet Company, as well as saxophone and vocals from patrons Isaac and Thomas, who have been served by Dégagé.
Words in the piece are actual testimonials and quotes from patrons, as well as songs and rhythms.
“It’s really this big, community movement piece,” she said.
It’s a testimony of an organization that strives to keep up with the demand, especially after being hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition to ongoing services, Dégagé added new services such as job creation for patrons, hotel stays, extended shelter hours and PPE, according to reps.
In 2020, Dégagé served more than 60,000 meals, provided more than 7,200 loads of laundry, nearly 6,000 showers, and helped 52 women move into housing.
To see their community work turned into art is an awesome experience, Ensink said.
“I love that ballet and homelessness came together,” she said.
“That isn’t something you often think about as coming together…. Dance is an ancient art form, and I love that dance is expressing homelessness, It’s raw, it’s human. And that’s what homelessness is, it’s raw and it’s human.
Grand Rapids Ballet dancers and musicians Thomas and Isaac will perform “Created by Circumstance,” an ArtPrize 2021 entry. (Supplied)
“I love that dance is expressing this in such a beautiful way. I think people will be truly moved by this performance.”
As for ArtPrize, “Created by Circumstance” is included among other artist entries as a recipient of one of ArtPrize’s curatorial grants.
Each of the three performance locations also will include a QR code for visitors to scan with a chance of finding cash prizes ranging from $250 to $1,500 each to award to any participating artist which would directly impact Dégagé by supporting its mission.
In addition, Ensink said Dégagé is expanding and is in the middle of a $7.3 million capital campaign. Each performance will have information about the campaign available via QR codes.
Ensink hopes ArtPrize attendees will see all the good things they do for the community through their ministry.
“We are all people created in God’s image, and we are all connected,” she said. “We all have the potential of being friends, of being neighbors and of being a community that supports one another.”
John D. Gonzalez is a digital journalist with 30-plus years of experience as a food, travel, craft beer and arts & entertainment reporter based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He’s an early adopter of Social Media and SEO expert. Follow him on his journey to discover what’s next. You can find him on Twitter as @MichiganGonzo, on Instagram @MichiganGonzo and Facebook at @GRGonzo. He also relaunched his YouTube Channel. Email him story ideas and tips at michigangonzo@gmail.com.
The six-minute performance will be done at three different locations in the city on Sept. 22, 24, and 26. (Supplied)
Calling all local musicians! Kent District Library is now accepting submissions to KDL Vibes, our upcoming streaming platform that features music from West Michigan musicians.
Vibes will offer an online collection that showcases and shares current local music for free. Musicians who would like to have their music selected to be featured in the collection are invited to submit a sample track from their album using the online form. After submitting the form, a jury consisting of members of West Michigan’s local music community and library staff with music backgrounds will review and select 40-50 albums per submission round. These musicians will be paid an honorarium for their contribution which is a way for the library to support our vibrant arts community.
“The Vibes platform is a great way to celebrate our local music scene,” said Stacy Schuster, Collection Development Librarian for KDL. “Musicians will have the opportunity to share their songs and music lovers will have access to the amazing talents of musicians in the West Michigan area.”
KDL Vibes streaming platform is set to launch to the public later this year for patrons to listen to music from their favorite West Michigan musicians.
Musicians looking for more information or who have any questions can visit vibes.kdl.org/faq or email the team at vibes@kdl.org.
Audie Blaylock & Redline perform at the Sounds of Summer
Audie Blaylock
Audie Blaylock on guitar and Reed Jones on bass
Evan Ward, from California, on banjo
Mason Wright on fiddle
Reed Jones on bass
Plenty of dancing at the last concert
They were even dancing on the playground.
By Patty Williams P. Williams Productions
It was a bluegrass ending to the Sounds of Summer as headliner Audie Blaylock & Redline closed out the music series on July 29.
Cutler Park was filled with bluegrass fans ad local musicians from all over Michigan and the surrounding states. They were not disappointed as the consensus of the audience was that the last concert was a tremendous show.
The Redline musicians traveled from California, West Virginia, and Indiana to perform at the Cutlerville Sounds of Summer. The band features Reed Jones on bass, Evan Ward on banjo, Mason Wright on fiddle and Audie Blaylock on guitar. Audie opened with “Hello Michigan good to be back.”
This past year halted many touring musicians/bands including Redline. So, the group had a blast playing music to the packed park and live audience.
Audie opened with “Hello Michigan good to be back.” (Photos by Patty Williams
From start to finish, Audie performed bluegrass music from its roots. Mason Wright kicked off a hot fiddle tune and the audience knew this was going to be some “good ole” toe tapping bluegrass and the excitement resonated all evening.
The group played and sang many Bill Monroe and Ralph Stanley songs and featured several requests including Audie Blaylock’s No. 1 song recorded on The 615 Hideaway Records, “Love’s Fleeting Fire.”
The music was exceptional and the bands tight harmonies were flawless. The concert ended with an encore standing ovation.
All the Sounds of Summer concerts are recorded and can be watched on WKTV Channel 25. Check listings for times. The concerts are produced by P. Williams Productions and sponsored by Byron Township. To follow the Sounds of Summer, visit the Facebook page. Note that the series will be back in 2022 with the same schedule, every Thursday in July at 7 p.m. at Cutler Park.
In the 1990s, country music was changing to a more modern sound with such songs as “Achy Breaky Heart” leading the way. Coupled with the start of country station B-93 in Grand Rapids and local venues started looking for bands who could perform the new country style.
Already on the scene was Grand Rapids Mustang Band, which had been performing country classics since 1994.
“It was not difficult to change gears and move toward the modern sound,” said band founder Eric Vander Stel. From there, the Mustang Band carved out a niche in offering country music from the classics of Johnny Cash to the current artists such as Jason Alden.
“We play some rock ‘n’ roll,” Vander Stel said, “but mostly it is country, just about anything from now to the past.”
It will be mostly country music Tuesday, Aug. 3, as the Mustang Band wraps up the Wyoming Concerts in the Park series. The performance is at 7 p.m. at Lamar Park, 2561 Porter St. SW.
Like many local bands, Mustang Band has been performing regulary since the start of summer when many of the COVID restrictions were relaxed.
“We are very responsive to our audience and people have just been very happy to have music,” Vander Stel said.
The band members, which are Wendy Allen on lead vocals, Steve Bouchard on bass, Stacy Hill on drums and Vander Stel on vocals and guitar, work hard to incorporate the audience in the show. Vander Stel mentioned at a recent show they had an audience member playing spoons with the group.
“With everything that has happened over the last summer, I think people are just making up and enjoying this summer,” Vander Stel said, adding the Mustang Band is happy to be part of the fun.
All of the Wyoming Concerts in Park are recorded by WKTV and rebroadcasted on Comcast Channel 25 at 5 p.m. Wednesday and 11 a.m. and 10 p.m. Saturday.
Organizer Patty Williams hangs with the Jaded 8 band members.
Jaded 8 provided the music as many enjoyed picnics during the show.
Organizer Patty Williams helps record the show.
Having a swinging good time at last Thursday’s Jaded 8 concert.
Lots of dancing and fun taking place.
Mark Pawlak on lead vocals and guitar
Jeffrey Post on bass and vocals
Jeffrey Post on bass and vocals
The crowd was dancing up a storm last Thursday.
ByPatty Williams P. Williams Production
P. Williams Productions featured rock night at the Thursday evening free concert series Sounds of Summer held in Cutler Park last Thursday.
Picnic baskets lined the park tables as fans awaited the 7 p.m. show. The playground was filled with children and laughter with their front row swing seats enjoying the classic rock tunes.
Jaded 8 band had the audience singing and dancing along to the timeless hits by Kiss, Journey, Bon Jovi and Bryan Adams just to name a few. The three-piece band rocking the park was lead by singer/guitarist Mark Pawlak with Lee Nelson on drums/vocals and Jeffrey Post Bass/vocals.
The July 29 Sounds of Summer Cutlerville grand finale show features national headliner Audie Blaylock and Redline bluegrass band. Show time is at 7 p.m. A food truck and beverages will be available at this week grand finale concert.
According to organizers, it has been such a great season with exceptional bands and large crowds in the park this year. The familiar faces at each week’s concert feels like family.
The Sounds of Summer is produced by P. Williams Productions and sponsored by Byron Township.
Hip-hop, rap, reggae, contemporary R&B, teen pop, and dance-pop — there is no denying that the music of the nineties was eclectic.
And while categorizing the era may be nearly impossible, it’s cross-pollination of sounds left a boundary-break legacy that remains today. One of which was grunge music, an alternative forum of rock music that bands such as Nirvana, Pearl Jam, and Alice in Chains were most known for.
It was, according to West Michigan band PROJECT 90, “the last golden decade of guitar-driven rock” which is the reason the five residents came together in 2016 to form the West Michigan-based group.
The nineties rock tribute band performs at Lamar Park Tuesday, July 27, as part of the Wyoming Concerts in the Park series. The concert is at 7 p.m.
PROJECT 90 comes to Lamar Park on Tuesday, July 27. (PROJECT 90)
“I thought it was an amazing crowd for the first night out there and in fact, I think it is the biggest opening crowd that I have seen,” said Mayor Jack Poll as he commented to the council at its Monday night council meeting about the Wyoming Concerts in the Park series. “It seemed to kick off really well.
“They are only doing four or five of them this summer…I always wander before time and talk to a lot of the folks that were there and there was just real enthusiasm to have it back and some of it may be due to COVID, but everyone wants to be outside and communicating with other people. So I thought the attitude and the response there for (the first week) was wonderful.”
Part of the goal of the Wyomig Community Enrichment Committee, which hosts the concerts for the city, is to offer a variety of music, according to LeighAnn TeBos, chair of the Wyoming Community Enrichment Commission. The second week featured the Yellow Brick Road Dueling Pianos with members performing an array of cover songs from such performers as Journey, Queen, Lady Gaga, and Elton John. This week is nineties music and the last concert, Aug. 3, will be country as local group Mustang Band performs.
In its five years, PROJECT 90s has racked up a number of awards including being named as best cover band in 2018 by “Revue” magazine. The group’s catalog includes an array of music from some of the leading nineties performers such as blink-182, Green Day, Bon Jovi, Radiohead, Smash Mouth, Cracker, Alice in Chains and 3 Doors Down. The five-piece rock band features lead vocals and corny jokes by Mark Gardner, guitars by Nolan Romzek and Brian Zeemering, bass and vocals by Matt Vail, and Stephen Legg on drums.
Lamar Park is located at 2561 Porter ST. SW. The concerts are recorded by WKTV and rebroadcasted on Comcast Channel 25 at 5 p.m. Wednesday and 11 a.m. and 10 p.m. Saturday.
Crowds continue to pack Cutler Park as the third Sounds of Summer concert series took place July 15 and featured country music with the Bootstrap Boys.
Line dancing and singing along with some old country favorites delighted the audience throughout the night.
Lead singer Jason Stilson (Big Jake Bootstrap) showcased many original songs along with the country classics. Round out the band was Nick Alexander lead guitar and vocals; Jeff Knol on drum and vocals; Jon Bruha on bass; and lead singer songwriter on rhythm guitar Jason Stilson.
The Bootstrap Boys put on a highly professional show and have been traveling the music scene nationwide. The group has several CDs available and a classic record album. To learn more about The Bootstrap Boys, visit the group’s Facebook page.
There are two more Sounds of Summer concerts left. This Thursday, July 22, is the rock band Jaded 8. The July 29 grand finale will feature national headliner Audie Blyalock and Redline bluegrass.
Sponsored by the Byron Township and a nested by P. Williams Productions, all the concerts are free. Concerts are at 7 p.m. at Cutler Park, 6701 Cutler Park Dr. SW.
Justin Audeh on bass and vocals and Ezekiel Kinny on fiddle
Scott Nesbit on mandolin and vocals and Justin Audeh on bass and vocals
Tommie Foster on lead guitar and vocals.
Ezekiel Kinny on fiddle
By Patty Williams P. Williams Productions
The threat of rain did not keep the Sounds of Summer fans from filling Cutler Park last Thursday to see the Americana/folk band Tommie and his FAN Club from the North Muskegon/Whitehall area.
The band members are Ezekiel Kinny on fiddle and vocals, Scott Nesbit mandolin and vocals, Justin Audeh bass and vocals, and Tommie Foster lead guitar and vocals.
Tommie and his FAN Club band had the crowd singing along and goofing around all night with an exceptional entertaining show. Setting aside the comedy, there is no doubt that these guys are well seasoned musicians.
The author with the Tommie and his FAN Club. (Photos by Patty Williams)
Zeke and Scott played and sang several bluegrass favorites on fiddle and mandolin.
Applause from all angles of the park erupted as the members played solo breaks on their instruments. Justin, dressed in his colorful clothing and glasses, played and sang old-time country favorites like Eddy Arnold’s “Make the World Go Away.”
Band leader Tommy Foster has a lifetime of music in his background as a singer, songwriter, and entertainer. Tommy has no fear on stage when it came to being crazy with the crowd. The spontaneous one-liners and dancing had the people laughing all evening, making it a great show and fun night.
All of the Sounds of Summer concerts are sponsored by The Byron Township. The concerts are every Thursday evening in July. This week, Thursday, July 15, features The Bootstrap Boys Country. On July 22 will be rock group Jaded 8 and the grand finale on July 29 will feature national headliner Audie Blaylock and Redline bluegrass band. All concerts are at 7 p.m. at Cutler Park, 6701 Cutler Park Dr. SW.
More than 400 people attended the first Sounds of Summer concert. Supplied)
Kimmy Martens on lead gu The 6 Pak was (Supplied)
Mary Arbranas on guitar for The 6 Pak (Supplied)
Ruthann Scott on lead vocals for The 6 Pak (Supplied)
Kristen Hartnagel welcomes everyone to the Sounds of Summer concert series (Supplied)
Denise Pietri on bass for The 6 Pak
Barb Bean on piano for The 6 Pak (Supplied)
Cindy Obetts on drums for The 6 Pak
It was a hot night with cool music as the The 6 Pak kicked off the first Sounds of Summer concert last week. More than 400 people came to Cutler Park in Byron Township to hear the popular girl group perform hits from the sixties. Performing this Thursday will be Muskegon’s Tommie Foster and The FAN Club, which will be performing Americana music. The free concert is at 7 p.m. Participants are encouraged to bring a chair or blanket and a picnic. Beverages and an ice cream truck will be at the park.
The rest of the series includes popular local country western group Bootstrap Boys, July 15; rock and roll band The Jaded 8, July 22; and national headliner, bluegrass artist Audie Blaylock and Redline, July 29. Cutler Park is located at 6701 Cutler Park Dr. SW.
Cutler Park will be rocking Thursday night as the Sounds of Summer returns for its 13th year.
The 6 Pak, which opens the five-concert series, has a strong following with Sounds of Summer organizer Patti Williams expecting a good turnout for the first concert.
“What’s the buzz?” Williams said. “Well, The 6 Pak has a big following so we are expecting a large crowd, probably around 400 people.”
The 6 Pak is an all-girl group that performed in the 1960s in and around Grand Rapids. Some years later, the band got back together and have continued performing an array of sixties classics. The group is set to perform at 7 p.m. at Cutler Park, 6701 Cutler Park Dr. SW.
“I just enjoy getting bands that maybe people haven’t heard before,” Williams said as her reason behind putting together the annual Sounds of Summer. “I also like doing things for the community.”
The goal always is to bring a large range of musical genres to the series in an effort to exposure residents to the different types of music that is available, she said.
Along with the sixties tunes from The 6 Pak, July 8’s concert will be Muskegon’s The FAN Club, featuring Americana music and fun, according to Williams. July 15 will be the popular local country western group Bootstrap Boys. The Jaded 8, which was supposed to perform last year but got rained out, will bring some rock and roll to Cutler Park on July 22.
Audie Blaylock and Redline perform July 29. (Supplied)
To wrap up the series, Williams dipped into her own bluegrass experience and was able to have nationally recognized Audie Blaylock and Redline perform on July 29. Blaylock has played with Harley Allen, of the Allen Brothers and who also was a country music songwriter for Garth Brooks and John Michael Montgomery.
“I just thought it would be really great to have Audie come to Michigan,” Williams said. “While he is a national headliner, not many people may be familiar with him so it is a chance to for him to broaden his audience and expose residents to Audie’s music.”
All the concerts, which are sponsored by Byron Township, are free to the public. Williams said she encourages those who are attending to bring a chair or blanket and picnic food. Beverages and an ice cream truck will be at the park as well.
LowellArts announces the debut of a new music program for 2021 – Featured Artist Series: Connecting You with the People Behind the Music – that offers audiences a personal, insider’s view into the current music scene from the perspective of West Michigan’s talented performers. The new program features one artist each month on the LowellArts website. Each Featured Artist of the Month consists of an in depth live-recorded video interview with the artist, an artist profile, and links to past performances. The program series will launch its first feature on Monday, Feb. 1, with Ryne Clarke of The Ryne Experience, who just released a new album called “The Onion Tree.”
The LowellArts Music Committee created this program as a way to support the local music community during the pandemic and beyond. Designed to further the LowellArts mission of connecting artists and audiences, this new series will give West Michigan listeners a chance to meet the people behind the music who have performed at LowellArts events.
Criteria for selecting performers for the series is that the artists must have previously entertained audiences at a past LowellArts event such as a LowellArts Gallery Concert, a Lowell Showboat Sizzlin’ Summer Concert, or at the LowellArts Fallasburg Arts Festival. Artists that participate in the program will be eligible to sell CD’s, albums, and digital downloads in the LowellArts gallery as part of a soon-to-be established Gallery Music Store and On-line Store.
The interviewer will ask the artist to talk about a variety of topics such as: how the break from performing due to the pandemic has affected them; how music has changed since they first started performing or recording; and/or how they feel the relationship between artist and listener is evolving in the age of digital streaming services. The interviewer will also invite the artist to perform a song, live for the video interview.
In addition to the Featured Artist of the Month being highlighted on the LowellArts website and social media outlets, the vision is to reach a wider audience by collaborating with media partners. LowellArts is seeking media partners who, upon making a formal commitment, will have the rights to re-publish the content of the feature including; the video interview, article text, photos, pre-pandemic performance video links, and links to the artist website and merchandise. Please contact LowellArts at 616-897-8545 or lorain@lowellartsmi.org if you are interested in becoming a media partner.
Carillonneur, Julianne Vanden Wyngaard (Photo courtesy of GVSU)
Do you hear what I hear?
The annual GVSU Christmas Eve Carillon Concert will take place at 9:30 p.m. at the Pew Campus, 401 W. Fulton St., downtown Grand Rapids. Patrons are invited to drive-up and park in one of the lots near the carillon and listen to the performance by Carillonneur Julianne Vanden Wyngaard. The concert is free.
Chaffee Planetarium will present “Let It Snow” through Jan. 3, 2021. (Photo Courtesy of Grand Rapids Public Museum)
Look to the stars
The Roger B. Chaffee Planetarium at the Grand Rapids Public Museum has reopened and is featuring three different shows: “Let It Snow,” “Under Starlit Skies,” “Ice World,” and “Incoming!” which is narrated by “Star Trek’s” George Takei. For a full Chaffee Planetarium show schedule, visit grpm.org/planetarium. Also, the Public Museum will be open throughout the holidays. Visit grpm.org for the museum’s holiday schedule.
Bah-Humbug!
Get into the holiday spirit with the classic Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” currently being presented by the Grand Rapids Civic Theatre. The company is live streaming the performance through Broadway On Demand through Dec. 31. Tickets are $9.99 for individuals and $24.99 for families. For more information, visit grct.org.
Fun Fact: Bells in Space
In 1965, “Jingle Bells” became the first song broadcast from space when the astronauts aboard Gemini 6 decided to play a prank on Mission Control and performed the song on a harmonica and actual jingle bells they had smuggled on board. Another fun fact about the song is that was originally composed as a Thanksgiving song by James Lord Pierport who premiered the piece as “One Horse Sleigh” at his church’s Thanksgiving performance.
Carillonneur, Julianne Vanden Wyngaard, poses for a portrait after practicing songs on the Beckering Family Carillon Tower on Grand Valley State University’s Pew Campus in downtown Grand Rapids Dec. 14. Vanden Wyngaard will perform a Christmas Eve concert where guests can drive up and “crack their windows just a little” to hear the music. (Photo courtesy of GVSU)
For the past 19 years, retired GVSU carillonneur Julianne Vanden Wyngaard has climbed the 112 steps of the Beckering Family Carillon Tower for a special Christmas performance — a performance that cannot be stopped by the current COVID pandemic.
Since it has always been a drive-up concert, the program does not have to make any changes to meet the 2020 gathering guidelines. So the free Christmas Eve Carillon Concert will take place at 9:30 p.m. on the Grand Valley State University’s Pew Grand Rapids Campus, 401 W. Fulton St.
Vanden Wyngaard said it was important to her to continue the tradition, which is celebrating a 20th anniversary. She performs from the playing cabin of the carillon, with the windows of the bell tower’s belfry open on all sides, knowing an audience that she doesn’t see has gathered in vehicles parked nearby. “Silent Night” always closes the concert.
“Then they just toot their horns and drift off into the darkness,” Vanden Wyngaard said.
She said the 9:30 p.m. concert is timed so that people with either evening or midnight services can still stop by to enjoy the music.
The concert is free and open to the public. Find more information here.
Constructed in 2000, the Beckering Family Carillon Tower is 151-foot carillon-clock tower that features 48 bronze-casted carillon bells by famed French foundry Fonderie Paccard, which has casted more than 120,000 bells that are throughout the world.
At an early age, singer/songwriter Netty Bruce Manga, stage name Ney-T, discovered he had a knack for music as he was able to distinguish the different parts of harmony.
From the West African nation of Senegal (bordered by Guinea-Bissau, Guinea, Gambia, and Mauritania), Manga recently sat down with Feel Like You Belong host to talk about his home country and his “passion for the rhythms of life.”
Netty Bruce Manga (WKTV)
Manga said that his mother was directing him more to what people call “respected jobs” such as a lawyer or engineer.
“But when I discovered my passion for music, it was a very big discussion,” Manga said during the interview.
Manga continued to head down a different career path until he bought himself his first guitar while in college. It was with that guitar that he discovered just how much music meant to him and that he needed to follow the calling.
From creative writing about apples to making music with ukuleles, area schools are offering innovative programming during the pandemic. Speaking of succeeding, if you were an essential worker from April 1 to June 30, you may qualify for the Future for Frontliners program. Scroll to the bottom for more information.
For more stories on local schools, visit the School News Network website, schoolnewsnetwork.org.
There wasn’t much recognizable about Symone Gray’s apple, Martin Van Buren, after he got hit by a car in the Big Apple (School News Network)
Wyoming: Babysitting an apple
Ninth grade students at Wyoming High School get creative in their writing by telling the woes and tragedies of the apples they babysit. Want to get all the juicy sauce on this? Click here.
TEAM 21 Coordinator Ellen Veenkant tackled the change of coordinating the West Godwin Elementary’s drop-off and pick-up schedule (School News Network)
Godwin Heights: A real team player
With no parents allowed in its buildings due to COVID, West Godwin needed help coming up with a plan for pick up and drop off. TEAM 21 member Ellen Veenkant stepped up to the challenge, showing how much of a team player she is. For more, click here.
Kelloggsville music teacher Susan Iacovoni had to figure out a way to get her ukuleles to her students when COVID-19 restrictions meant they couldn’t come to the music room (Dianne Carroll Burdick)
Kelloggsville: Have cart, will travel
Some 140 years after the ukulele was introduced to Hawaii, in Kelloggsville schools, music teacher Susan Iacovoni is introducing her students to the “jumping flea” and watching with glee as their fingers make music, albeit haltingly at first. To learn more about the musical fun, click here.
Brookwood Elementary School Principal Lorenzo Bradshaw is the recipient of the 2020 NAACP Role Model Education Award
Kentwood: Prinicpal earns role model award from NAACP
This past October Kentwood’s Brookwood Elementary School Principal Lorenzo Bradshaw was virtually honored as the 2020 NAACP Role Model Education Award from the local Grand Rapids chapter of the association. Learn why Bradshaw tried to decline the honor and what he finds most rewarding about being in education by clicking here.
Adults attend a Kent ISD GED class (courtesy)
All Districts: Essential workers get high school diplomas thanks to state program
If you served as an essential employee between April 1 to June 30, you may qualify for Futures for Frontliners program. Through the program, eligible participants can earn a GED and/or job training or study at a community college such as Grand Rapids Community College. To be eligible, you must have worked at least 11 of the 13 weeks from April 1 to June 30. For more about the program, click here.
The Grand Rapids Public Museum (GRPM) continues its 2020 Mighty Wurlitzer Organ Concerts with a Classic Melodies concert performed by Brett Valiant, on Friday, Nov. 20, at 7 p.m.
Teleport back in time with the GRPM to pay tribute to the Roaring 20s, during a lively concert performed by Brett Valliant. Enjoy listening to classics such as Ding Dong Ding, Dream Lover, Bye Bye. Valliant is a popular American organist with the ability to perform different genres of music on the dynamic instrument. Critics across the world have defined his performances as “exciting,” “refreshing”, “unorthodox”, and “astonishing.”
Valliant is currently the main organist at the famous Organ Stop Pizza in Mesa, Arizona, where he’s been for several years, playing the world’s largest Wurlitzer on a weekly basis. Valliant has played nationwide and at concert venues ranging from Australia to Russia.
Organ concerts are offered virtually and in person. Virtual organ concerts will be brought into the homes of ticket holders, with a fantastic screen presentation highlighting organists playing the 1928 Mighty Wurlitzer Theater Organ, with various views including an up-close view of the organist playing the keys. The in person concert experience allows attendees to immerse themselves in the dynamic sounds and acoustics of the Mighty Wurlitzer Theater Organ. Limited capacity; masks required for in person concerts.
The Classic Melodies Mighty Wurlitzer Organ Concert will be live streamed from the GRPM’s Meijer Theater and will be available to watch via a Zoom link. Virtual tickets are $5 per member, $10 for the public. Special group rates available. Only one ticket link needed per household or group. In person tickets are $10 per member, $15 for the public. Tickets are available by visiting www.grpm.org/Organ or by calling 616-929-1700.
Additional Mighty Wurlitzer Theater Organ Concerts – Virtual and In person!
The third and final artist in the 2020 series will be Lance Luce performing a collection of seasonal favorites in a Holiday Classics concert on Friday, Dec. 18, at 7 p.m.
The Livery presents its 6th Annual Funk Fest – a celebration of wild & sour ales – on Oct. 20 to 25. The week will have specialty beer tappings, specialty firkins, a bottle release, and some funky food.
The Livery will be taking the entire week to celebrate their wild/funky/sours brews in lieu of the typical weekend blowout. There is something special lined up for each day starting Tuesday, Oct 20, and ending on Sunday, Oct. 25.
So make plans to stop by and get your funk on!
Tuesday: “Verchuosity 2020” tapping (Sour/Oak Aged Belgian Amber with Cherries) (+ “Mueuze”, “Maillot Noir”, “Black Lily” hit the beer board)
Wednesday: “Sour Sop Spontaneous Combustion” tapping (Sour/Oak Aged Dark Wheat with Sour Sop addition)
Thursday: “Golden Caruba” tapping (Sour/Oak Aged Golden Ale with Caruba addition)
Dusty Chaps from Buffalo, New York will take over the Sounds of Summer Concert series this Thursday, July 23.
The concert will be held in Cutler Park, 6701 Cutler Park Dr. SW, just west of the Division Avenue and 68th Street intersection at 7 p.m.
The band consists of four members: Dale Thomas on vocals and lead guitar, Tommy Davis on vocals and drums, Ron Williams on vocals and bass guitar, and Nelson Wood on the pedal steel guitar.
They will fill the evenings atmosphere with classic country tunes, Western swing, comedy, sing-a-longs and oldies tracks.
The bands influencers include Bob Williams, Les Paul, The Ventures, Joe Maphis, Dwayne Eddy and many other artists and bands as listed on the group’s Facebook page.
Don’t miss a chance to be outdoors this summer while enjoying good music in one of the few outdoor activities still happening this summer. This concert series is sponsored by the Byron Township. The last performance in this series will be by LWND on July 30.
Trumpeter extraordinaire Max Colley III will kick off the 2020 Sounds of Summer concert series tomorrow at Cutler Park.
The popular concert series is one of the few free concert series that will take place this summer. The concert is set for 7 p.m. and organizer Patty Williams said there will be social distancing guidelines including groups sitting at least six feet a part.
Colley has earned many honors over the years including being named the 2014 Musician of the Year by the West Michigan Jazz Society. He has performed with several area groups such as the Grand Rapids Jazz Orchestra, The Truth in Jazz Orchestra and Gumbo Nuveau, as well as his own Max Colley III Quartet.
Through his Facebook, Colley has stated he is excited about being able to performing considering so many summer concerts have been cancelled.
“I always look forward to this and try and keep it fresh and new each year,” Colley wrote on his Facebook page. He has been part of the Sounds of Summer concert series for about 20 years. “It will be hot, but I guarantee it won’t be snowing!”
Joining Colley on stage is Jordan VanHemert on sax, Kazuki Takemura on bass, Elijah Cosby on drums, and Colley will be trumpet and drums.
The Sounds of Summer includes family friendly activities. All performers start at 7 p.m. The shows are sponsored by Byron Township.
“We know that people really look forward to this,” said Byron Township Supervisor Tom Hooker about the annual Sounds of Summer concert series. “We just felt this was an opportunity for people to get out and look forward to something that was different.”
Upcoming performances include Jaded July 9, Oat Bran Boys July 16, Dusty Chaps July 23 and LWND July 30. For more information about the Sounds of Summer, click here.
Grand Valley State University’s 17th annual Fall Arts Celebration features dance that combines movement and technology; art that challenges perceptions; music that captures the power and mystery of the sea; and more — this year’s events at Grand Valley State University are set to bring out ‘all the feels’.
Zapatos Rojos | Red Shoes, an installation by Elina Chauvet
When: Nov. 1, 2019-Feb. 28, 2020
Where: Kirkhof Center Gallery, Allendale Campus
Zapatos Rojos | Red Shoes is an itinerant installation originally organized in 2009 by artist and architect Elina Chauvet in Ciudad Juárez, Mexico. Comprising 33 pairs of red shoes donated by the women of Ciudad Juárez — each pair representing a woman who had disappeared in that community — the piece is designed to draw attention to the fact that women were being killed without any consequences.
A bit of back story on the artist’s use of red shoes as the focus of her work: Chauvet researched the disappearances extensively; in the course of her fact-finding, she discovered that many of the women who vanished had worked in shoe stores, had been buying shoes at the time they disappeared, or were looking for a job in a shoe shop.
Chauvet had also used shoes as a metaphor in the past to express her concern for the missing and dead women.
In 2017, Zulema Moret, Grand Valley professor of modern languages, arranged for Chauvet to direct an installation of Zapatos Rojos | Red Shoes in Grand Rapids. This exhibition documents many of the community groups that participated in painting the shoes, as well as the installation at the Richard M. DeVos Center courtyard on the Pew Grand Rapids Campus.
The Fall Arts Celebration shines a spotlight on some of the world’s preeminent artists, poets, musicians, dancers, and scholars. Each fall for the past 17 years, West Michigan audiences have enjoyed a series of six free events that celebrate the positive impact of the arts. For more information, visit gvsu.edu/fallarts.
More art
Art of Today: Contemporary Collections from Chicago
When: Through Nov. 1, 2019
Where: Art Gallery, Haas Center for Performing Arts, Allendale Campus
Working with Chicago-based artists, gallery owners and collectors, Grand Valley has acquired a collection of contemporary art over the last 15 years.
Curated from Grand Valley’s collection and enhanced with additional loans from Chicago, Art of Today comprises more than 40 paintings, prints, drawings, photographs, sculptures and mixed media works — bold and minimalistic works exploring simplicity in design, society’s relationship to the environment, as well as the intersection of pop culture and art by artists Alex Katz, Ellsworth Kelly, David Nash and Takahashi Murakami.
The challenging imagery of other artists — such as Tony Fitzpatrick, Jane Hammond, Erika Rothenberg and Kara Walker — examines the meaning of identity, race, culture and sexuality.
Lecture
Jill Lepore: American History from Beginning to End
When: Nov. 5, 2019; public reception at 5pm and lecture at 6pm
Where: L.V. Eberhard Center, second floor, Pew Grand Rapids Campus
Jill Lepore (Courtesy GVSU)
What do you see when you look at 500 years instead of the last five minutes? Jill Lepore, the leading narrative historian of her generation, offers a different perspective on history. Lepore asserts that the United States is an experiment founded on three ‘truths’: political equality, natural rights, and the sovereignty of the people. Her thesis will challenge your imagination to put yourself in a place in history to help give context to the present.
Lepore is the David Woods Kemper ’41 Professor of American History at Harvard University. She is also a staff writer at The New Yorker. One of her latest books is These Truths: A History of the United States (2018), on TheNew York Times Best Seller list. Her most recent book, This America: The Case for the Nation, was published in May 2019.
GVSU Art Gallery
For more information about Grand Valley State University art exhibits, call 616.331.2563 or visit gvsu.edu/artgallery.
Mathias J. Alten: An Evolving Legacy
When: Exhibition dates are ongoing
Hours: Friday and Saturday, 1-5 p.m.; closed on holiday weekends
Where: George and Barbara Gordon Gallery, DeVos Center, Bldg. E, Room 103 and 202, Pew Grand Rapids Campus
Often referred to as the ‘dean of Michigan painters’, the German-born American artist Mathias Joseph Alten (1871-1938) worked in a traditional representational style, incorporating the aesthetics and techniques of the Impressionist Movement in his paintings. Based in Grand Rapids, Alten created more than 3,800 works over his more-than-40-year career, including landscapes, seascapes, portraits and florals, all infused with light and punctuated with deft brushwork. Grand Valley State University holds the largest public collection of Alten’s work in the world.
Wandering Seeds: Experiencing and Engaging Haiti Through Study Abroad
When: Through Dec. 13, 2019
Where: Blue Wall Gallery, DeVos Center, Bldg. B, Pew Grand Rapids Campus
In 2018, a dozen GVSU students and three faculty members traveled to Haiti as part of a study-abroad program, led by Peter Wampler, associate professor of geology. Designed to provide an opportunity to experience Haitian culture and gain an understanding of daily life in rural Haiti, students from various backgrounds participated in a variety of service-learning and community-based teaching experiences, allowing them to contribute their energy toward real-world problems in Haiti.
Included in this exhibition are narratives and reflections by both faculty members and students who participated in the trip. Additionally, a number of photographs document their encounters, and a variety of original Haitian works of art attest to the vibrant and diverse artistic culture in the country.
Carnivals, Cognac and Cycling: Works of Art from the Robert L. Haskins and Erwin A. Raible Collection of Fin-de-Siécle Prints
When: Through Dec. 13, 2019
Where: Red Wall Gallery, Lake Ontario Hall, Allendale Campus
Courtesy GVSU
At the turn of the century, an explosion in print media occurred in Paris, one of the most vibrant cities in the world. Now-familiar artists — Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, Pierre Bonnard, and others — made names for themselves producing items such as posters, journal illustrations, theater programs and advertisements.
Drawn from the Robert L. Haskins and Erwin A. Raible Collection of Fin-de-Siécle Prints in the GVSU Print and Drawing Cabinet, Carnivals, Cognac and Cycling provides a view into the visual culture of late 19th-century France.
In 2019, 14 GVSU students conducted research for this exhibition for the course Modern Art and Modernity. Each student focused on one work of art for in-depth study, produced original research, and presented findings to classmates and now to a wider audience.
José Guadalupe Posada: Calavera Prints from the GVSU Print and Drawing Cabinet
When: Nov. 1, 2019-Feb. 28, 2020
Where: Eberhard Center, Pew Grand Rapids Campus
Courtesy GVSU
José Guadalupe Posada (1852-1913) — a printmaker and engraver who illustrated historic scenes, board games and commercial items, religious images, various books and newspapers — is most famous for his use of calaveras (depictions of skulls and skeletons) to satirize and mock the corruption of the wealthy and political elite.
He created La Calavera Catrina, his most iconic image, in 1910 at the start of the Mexican Revolution. The image shows a grinning skeleton wearing a women’s feathered hat, pointing out that death comes to everyone, even those in the upper class.
This exhibition includes 20 reproductions of his prints, from the GVSU Print and Drawing Cabinet. The works were purchased in 2002 from the family of Antonio Vanegas Arroyo, who printed them using the original plates and press.
Performances from the Department of Music, Theatre and Dance
For more information about performances from the Department of Music, Theatre and Dance, visit gvsu.edu/mtd.
Faculty recital — Sookkyung Cho, assistant professor of piano, artist performer
When: Nov. 4, 2019, 7:30pm
Where: Sherman Van Solkema Hall, Haas Center for Performing Arts, Allendale Campus
Pianist Sookkyung Cho uses a thoughtful expressionist style in her performances. A founding member of the New York-based Almava Trio, Cho has appeared at venues that include Alice Tully Hall at Lincoln Center, Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall, and Château de Fontainebleau in France.
Additional recital by Sookkyung Cho
When: Nov. 23, 2019, 4-5pm
Where: Sherman Van Solkema Hall, Haas Center for Performing Arts, Allendale Campus
The performance will include a variety of piano solo and ensemble music.
ReACT! presents: Difficult Dialogues
When: Nov. 17, 2019, 8-10pm
Where: Kirkhof Center, Room 2263, Allendale Campus
Grand Valley’s anti-violence peer theater troupe will use low-risk, interactive performance and discussion methods to help participants prepare to better engage someone on difficult dialogues about sexual assault and sexual harassment.
Bard to Go: Tossing on the Ocean public performance
When: Nov. 2, 2019, 1-3pm
Where: Keller Black Box Theatre, Haas Center for Performing Arts, Allendale Campus
A 50-minute program introducing audience members to Shakespeare, Bard to Go takes the audience on a sea-faring journey with Prospero, a powerful magician, and his assistant Ariel, a magical spirit with strange powers. When Prospero and Ariel conjure a storm to shipwreck Prospero’s enemies, their magic spills over from their own play, The Tempest, and causes havoc for many of Shakespeare’s characters. This production includes scenes from The Tempest, Twelfth Night, Pericles, The Comedy of Errors and The Merchant of Venice.
Grand Valley Writers Series
The Grand Valley Writers Series brings in distinguished and emerging writers to read from their work, visit classes, and interact with students. For more information, visit here.
Craft talk and reading with Stephen Mack Jones
Stephen Mack Jones (Courtesy GVSU)
When: Nov. 5, 2019; Craft talk 1-2pm, Reading and book signing 6-7:30pm
Where: Kirkhof Center Room 2270, Allendale Campus
The first adult fiction novel by Stephen Mack Jones, August Snow, has received wide acclaim, including the 2018 Nero Award from the Nero Wolfe Society; it was also named a 2018 Michigan Notable Book by the Library of Michigan. Jones has received the Hammett Prize for literary excellence in the field of crime writing from the International Association of Crime Writers.
A poet, award-winning playwright and winner of the Kresge Arts in Detroit Literary Fellowship, Jones lives in the metro Detroit area.
The Lowell Showboat Sizzlin’ Summer Concerts are presented by LowellArts and the Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce. This outdoor concert series runs June 13 to Aug. 22, 2019. Thursday evening concerts begin at 7pm along the Flat River, 113 Riverwalk Plaza, in downtown Lowell, MI.
Food and spirits are available for purchase. Admission to the concerts and parking are free. The concerts draw upwards of 1,000 visitors each week. The concert venue is wheelchair-accessible. Bleacher seating is available or attendees can bring their own folding chair.
The Mendel Center delivers a new take on the local music festival scene by bringing the party indoors. Indie Fest 18 celebrates original music, local beers, wines, and art on Saturday, Oct. 20, from 4–10pm.
The festival is anchored by three, nationally touring bands – Switchback, The Accidentals, and The Hunts. Each band will perform a full, 90-minute concert. Attendees can also enjoy mouthwatering culinary variety from some of the area’s favorite food trucks, an inviting selection of Michigan craft beers and local wines, and creations on display and for sale from up to 20 local artists!
The schedule includes:
Switchback
Switchback – 4pm
As seen on PBS, SWITCHBACK’s music is energetic, soulful, and versatile, combining elements of Americana, country, rock, and Celtic. Music Connection Magazine said: “The words ‘American Roots & Celtic Soul’ only begin to describe this unusual act, whose vocal prowess is as pure as it is unique. There is no denying the stunning vocal blends that are achieved by this duo.”
The Accidentals
The Accidentals – 6pm
THE ACCIDENTALS have affirmed their place among contemporary music’s most original and adventurous new bands. This Michigan-based band has crafted a genre all their own, fueled by their uniquely limitless approach to musicality and songcraft. “Musically, their songs sift together folk, bluegrass, alt-rock, and even classical music.” 10 Artists to Watch in 2017 – Yahoo Music.
The Hunts
The Hunts – 8pm
Known for their harmony-laced take on alt-folk, THE HUNTS are seven siblings from Chesapeake, Virginia, who’ve been playing music together almost their entire lives. That unified approach infuses their music with an irresistible richness of spirit. Their songs reveal their sophisticated sense of melody and undeniably dreamy innocence while capturing heartache and wonder with a wide-eyed but wistful elegance.
The Mendel Center is located on the Lake Michigan College campus at 2755 E. Napier Avenue, Benton Harbor, Michigan, one mile east of I-94 (Exit 30) and one mile west of the US 31 Bypass (exit 24).
Fall Arts Celebration opens this year when Grand Valley State University’s Art Gallery showcases the historical fascination surrounding the planet Mars during the Mars: Astronomy and Culture exhibit. This exciting exhibit brings together photographs, drawings, movie posters, book covers, and video projections to show the impact of the “Red Planet” on popular culture, even before the 20th century.
Also, the internationally acclaimed Tesla Quartet partners with Grand Valley music faculty to perform a reflection of Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s love of Italy through the composer’s famous String Sextet in D Minor, Op. 70 Souvenir de Florence.
Art–The Mars: Astronomy and Culture Exhibit reception is Thursday, Sept. 13, 5-7pm at the Art Gallery, Thomas J. and Marcia J. Haas Center for Performing Arts on the Allendale Campus. Exhibit dates: Aug. 24-Oct. 31.
Music–An Italian Journey: Tesla Quartet performs Tchaikovsky’s Souvenir de Florence on Monday, Sept. 17 at 7:30p at the Cook-DeWitt Center on the Allendale Campus.
Celebrating its 50th year, the annual Fallasburg Arts Festival is presented by LowellArts and will be held on Sept. 15 and 16. The two-day festival includes 100 fine art and fine crafts booths, timeless craft demonstrations, live music, children’s activities, and food booths.
Hours: Saturday and Sunday, 10am-5pm.
Admission is free.
Location: Fallasburg Park, 1124 Fallasburg Park Drive, Lowell, MI, 49331.
Artist booths are juried and a broad range of different mediums are represented including jewelry, sculpture, ceramics, glass, fiber, mixed media, wood, painting, drawing, photography, floral, basketry, print-making, and more. Demonstrators of traditional crafts are located in the pavilion. Visitors of all ages are invited to watch the artisans at work. Demonstrations include iron forging, mosaic, fly tying, leather craft, origami, quilting, wood carving, weaving, and more.
Musical entertainment is held on an outdoor stage both days of the event, featuring a variety of music styles.
Saturday music line-up:
10:15am The Bruce Matthews Band
11:30am Paddy’s Cure
1pm Fauxgrass
2:30pm Hawks and Owls
4pm Josh Rose and the Founding Fathers
Photo courtesy LowellArts
Sunday music line-up:
10:15am Lighting Matches
11:30am Steam Powered Bluegrass
1pm The Cheater B’s
2:30pm The Adams Family
An enclosed Children’s Area provides children the opportunity to decorate and take home a pumpkin. Food booths offer an array of fall-inspired and festival foods, offered by local community organizations. Visitors are invited to purchase raffle tickets to win one of over 90 artist-made items donated by festival artists or the grand prize quilt created for the event. Annual attendance estimates are 25,000. This year’s event sponsors are Fifth Third Bank, Meijer, All-Weather Seal, and Local Spins.
Fallasburg Park is located off Lincoln Lake Road north of downtown Lowell at 1124 Fallasburg Park Drive, Lowell, MI. Lowell is located 14 miles east of Grand Rapids and 1-hour from Lake Michigan and Lansing. For more information, contact LowellArts at (616) 897-8545, e-mail info@lowellartsmi.org or visit lowellartsmi.org.
Following record attendance three years in a row, the Michigan Irish Music Festival is expanding its grounds. The festival’s seventh covered stage will be positioned on The Point at Heritage Landing, space previously inaccessible to festival patrons. The Belfast Stage will feature live music, new dining options, beverage offerings, and more.
The Belfast Stage is named for the capital of Northern Ireland, a fitting choice since The Point is the northernmost location at Heritage Landing. Festival-goers will find everything they need near the new stage, including powder rooms with running water, a Blarney Bucks station, a bar, and two food vendors new to the festival. One such vendor is downtown Muskegon favorite Curry Kitchen, who will be serving butter chicken, samosas, and other Indian cuisines. The second vendor, Camzie’s Pizza, will offer two-topping wood-fired pizzas, as well as an Irish pizza option.
The Michigan Irish Music Festival runs from Sept. 13th-16th. MIMF will kick off the 2018 festival with a Pub Preview Party on Thursday night. The Pub Party will give patrons a preview of the weekend with food, beverage, and three bands in the pub tent only. Admission is $5 (cash only Thursday). The full festival opens Friday, featuring over 30 bands on seven covered stages and an extensive selection of food, beverages (domestic beer, Irish whiskey, Irish cider, and local craft beer), shopping, and cultural offerings – including some returning favorites:
The Celtic Highland Games All day Saturday, the Celtic Highland Games return with competitors, both men and women, participating in the stone throw, sheaf toss, 16-lb. hammer toss, weight for height and distance, and the ever-popular caber toss (a log approx. 18’- 20’ long).
John “Red” Shea The author of New York Times bestseller Rat Bastards returns to the festival after captivating audiences back in 2012. Shea talks about his life in the notorious Boston Irish mob, a compelling story of one of the most powerful Irish mobs in American history.
Celtic Beard Bout Presented by Lumbertown Beard Barons, this family-friendly beard and mustache competition celebrates facial hair of all shapes and sizes and the cultural significance of beards in Ireland.
Celtic Canines Come to meet the dog breeds that originated from the Emerald Isle and learn about what each breed was originally intended to do. If you’re interested in owning one for yourself, chat with the owners to find out if the breed is right for you!
Limerick Contest Awaken the poet within you, or just come and enjoy one of Ireland’s most popular literary traditions. Not for the faint-of-heart, experience our local authors’ pithy and humorous takes on subjects such as sex, politics, love, death, and more.
Learn How to Play the Bodhrán This all-ages hands-on presentation is a great introduction to the bodhrán, a percussion instrument traditionally made with a wooden body and goat-skin head and played with a double-headed stick.
How to Speak Gaelic Through presentations and an ongoing exhibit by West Michigan Gaeltacht, patrons can enjoy learning and speaking the Irish language.
Session Tent Festival musicians are joined by walk-in amateurs as they participate in impromptu jam sessions, carrying on the Irish tradition of “session music.” Bring your instrument and join in the fun!
Wake House Visit Cathy Jo and Steve Smith for a glimpse into the cultural traditions of an actual Irish wake. Much more than a funeral, an Irish wake is a celebration of life with three days full of dancing, drinking, and singing.
Advance tickets and festival passes are available online through Wednesday, August 29th, after which tickets are only available at the Heritage Landing box office starting on Thursday, September 13th. Patrons can save $5 per ticket versus the gate price when they buy online. The festival offers an Early-In Free promotion on Friday only from 5-6PM, sponsored by Family Financial Credit Union. Other major sponsors of the festival include G&L, Van’s Car Wash, and Budweiser. For complete festival information, visit michiganirish.org.
Singer-songwriter Myra Maimoh is as comfortable on stage with a microphone as she is with a warm cup around the coffee table. The Cameroonian-born mother of three laughs easily and genuinely while recounting her youth in Central Africa, singing in church and in girl bands. She takes the stage in our studio to share an original composition from her recent album and shares how this formerly cold city of Grand Rapids is rapidly becoming home. Come for the music; stay for the conversation!
By Matthew Makowski, Grand Valley State University
Arts at Noon
Arts at Noon brings nationally and internationally-known musicians to Grand Valley State University for 14 performances each academic year. All Arts at Noon concerts will take place in the Cook-DeWitt Center, located on the Allendale Campus. They will begin at noon and last approximately one hour. Every concert is free and open to the public. For more information about Arts at Noon, visit gvsu.edu/artsatnoon or contact Henry Duitman, series coordinator, at duitmanh@gvsu.edu.
December 6 – GVSU Brass Quintet Holiday Concert
The annual holiday concert featuring the GVSU Brass Quintet is an Arts at Noon tradition. The ensemble is comprised of Grand Valley State University music faculty, including Alex Wilson (trumpet), Richard Britsch (horn), Mark Williams (trombone), Paul Carlson (tuba) and visiting performer Paul Hardaker (trumpet). Each year, the quintet also performs multiple outreach concerts, and facilitates master classes and coaching sessions at high schools throughout Michigan.
Theatre at Grand Valley presents “Cabaret”
When: December 1-2, at 7:30 pm, December 3, at 2 pm
Where: Linn Maxwell Keller Black Box Theatre, Thomas J. and Marcia J. Haas Center for Performing Arts, Allendale Campus
Tickets: $12 adults, $10 seniors and GVSU alumni, faculty and staff, $6 students and groups “Cabaret” takes place in Berlin, Germany, in 1930. American novelist, Cliff, is searching for inspiration when he finds lodging at Frau Schneider’s residence above the notorious Kit Kat Club. Led by a saucy emcee and Sally Bowles, a sassy showgirl, the free-wheeling performers at the club turn Cliff’s world upside down. Can Cliff and Sally find happiness as anti-Semitism and homophobia are on the rise?
GVSU Early Music Ensemble Concert
When: December 2, at 3 pm
Where: Sherman Van Solkema Recital Hall (room 1325), Thomas J. and Marcia J. Haas Center for Performing Arts, Allendale Campus
Grand Valley State University’s Early Music Ensemble performs under the direction of Pablo Mahave-Veglia, professor of cello. This event is free and open to the public.
GVSU Fall Dance Concert
When: December 2, at 7 pm, December 3, at 2 pm
Where: Louis Armstrong Theatre, Thomas J. and Marcia J. Haas Center for Performing Arts, Allendale Campus
During this fall dance concert at Grand Valley State University, which is free and open to the public, the GVSU Dance Company and Freshman Dance Company will perform a diverse collection of dance works.
GVSU Choral Concert
When: December 5, at 7:30 pm
Where: Cook-DeWitt Center, Allendale Campus
This concert at Grand Valley State University will feature the vocal expertise of three ensembles: Select Women’s Ensemble, University Singers and Cantate Chamber Ensemble. The Select Women’s Ensemble has earned a reputation for quality performances of challenging choral literature and performing both accompanied and a cappella repertoire that is representative of a variety of musical periods and styles. University Singers is comprised of students from all majors; over 90 percent of its members are non-music majors. The Cantate Chamber Ensemble is dedicated to the artistic performance of distinctive a cappella choral music for a small ensemble.
GVSU Concert Band Concert
When: December 6, at 7 pm
Where: Louis Armstrong Theatre, Thomas J. and Marcia J. Haas Center for Performing Arts, Allendale Campus
For this concert at Grand Valley State University, which is free and open to the public, the GVSU Concert Band will perform a variety of selections, including “A Feast of Wind Treats,” “An American Fanfare,” “Ave Maria,” “Second Suite in F,” “Chimes of Liberty,” “Song for Lindsay,” and “Vesuvius.”
GVSU Symphonic Wind Ensemble Concert
When: December 8, at 7:30 pm
Where: Louis Armstrong Theatre, Thomas J. and Marcia J. Haas Center for Performing Arts, Allendale Campus
The Grand Valley State University Symphonic Wind Ensemble will perform under the direction of Kevin Tutt during this free concert, which is open to the public. The Symphonic Wind Ensemble is widely recognized as one of the elite undergraduate wind ensembles, committed to the performance of the finest band literature. In 2016, the Symphonic Wind Ensemble released its first CD, titled “Under Western Skies,” which is available on iTunes and Amazon.
GVSU Varsity Men’s Glee Club Concert
When: December 9, at 7:30 pm
Where: Cook-DeWitt Center, Allendale Campus
The Grand Valley State University Varsity Men’s Glee Club is an all-male ensemble comprising young men who represent a variety of musical and academic disciplines. The ensemble’s diverse repertoire includes literature that spans from Gregorian chant to the 21st century music.
GVSU Fall Senior Dance Concert
When: December 9, at 7 pm, December 10, at 2 pm
Where: Dance Studio Theatre, room 1600, Thomas J. and Marcia J. Haas Center for Performing Arts, Allendale Campus
Join GVSU senior dance majors for a showcase of new works created as a part of their capstone projects. This concert will feature the diverse and unique choreographic visions of five students: Sarah Byington, Coral Howard, Mackenzie Matyn, Leigha McDaniel and Hannah Suydam. This event is free and open to the public.
Dan Graser Faculty-Artist Recial: The Solo Saxophone
When: December 10, at 7:30-9 pm
Where: Sherman Van Solkema Recital Hall (room 1325), Thomas J. and Marcia J. Haas Center for Performing Arts, Allendale Campus
Dan Graser, saxophonist and assistant professor of saxophone at Grand Valley State University, will present a free recital of the history of solo works for wind instruments in the 20th/21st centuries. This recital is free and open to the public.
For more information about Music, Theatre and Dance Department events, contact 616.331.3484 or visit gvsu.edu/mtd.
By Matthew Makowski, Grand Valley State University
Enrich your life with these free performances in November at Grand Valley State University!
High School Vocal Day Concert
When: November 3, at 2 pm
Where: Cook-DeWitt Center, Allendale Campus
Now in its 7th year, High School Vocal Day at Grand Valley State University welcomes more than 100 high school students from around Michigan to a day of learning and performing alongside Grand Valley music faculty and students, as well as nationally known guest instructors. This concert will be the capstone performance for High School Vocal Day at Grand Valley. This busy day of workshops and seminars will conclude with a performance by Grand Valley student soloists and a choir consisting of both Vocal Day participants and Grand Valley students. This concert is free and open to the public.
GVSU Faculty-Artist Recital: Sookkyung Cho, piano
When: November 7, at 7:30 pm
Where: Sherman Van Solkema Recital Hall (room 1325), Thomas J. and Marcia J. Haas Center for Performing Arts, Allendale Campus
This free concert will highlight the musical prowess of Sookkyung Cho, assistant professor of piano at Grand Valley State University. This concert is open to the public. Before Grand Valley, Cho served on the piano faculty at New England Conservatory Preparatory School and Continuing Education in Boston. She was also adjunct faculty in theory at Peabody Institute of Johns Hopkins University and served as a Teaching Fellow in the piano minor and music theory departments at The Juilliard School.
Cho has performed throughout North America, Europe, and her native country, Korea, in prestigious venues, including the Alice Tully Hall at Lincoln Center, Steinway Hall in New York, Chicago Cultural Center, Sarasota Opera House, Beaux concerts de la releve in Quebec, Château de Fontainebleau in France and Zijingang Theater at Zhejiang University in China, among others. She received a bachelor’s of music and doctorate of musical arts degrees from The Juilliard School, and her master’s from Johns Hopkins University.
GVSU presents Amosa Duo
When: November 8, at 7:30 pm
Where: Sherman Van Solkema Recital Hall (room 1325), Thomas J. and Marcia J. Haas Center for Performing Arts, Allendale Campus
Join the Amosa Duo at Grand Valley State University as they present works for clarinet and piano by Schubert, Schumann, Lindberg, and Weinberg. Comprising Gary June on clarinet and Chia-Ying Chan on piano, the Amosa Duo is devoted to bringing the best of the clarinet and piano repertoires to the concert stage, including both well-known masterpieces and contemporary gems. This concert is free and open to the public.
GVSU Laker Marching Band presents Bandorama
When: November 12, at 7:30 p.m.
Where: Kelly Family Sports Center, Allendale Campus
Join the 220-member Laker Marching Band at Grand Valley State University as they perform a sampling of their 2017 football season halftime shows. This performance will feature song selections ranging in genre from jazz and top 40 to “music from across the pond.” This concert is free and open to the public.
GVSU Saxophone Studio Recital
When: November 28, at 7:30 p.m.
Where: Sherman Van Solkema Recital Hall (room 1325), Thomas J. and Marcia J. Haas Center for Performing Arts, Allendale Campus
During this free concert, Grand Valley State University’s Saxophone Studio will perform solo and quartet performances. The Saxophone Studio consists of multiple student ensembles, including the Yavin IV Quartet, GQ Quartet and Jubilee Quartet.
For more information about Music, Theatre and Dance Department events, contact 616. 331.3484 or visit gvsu.edu/mtd.
Fuentes is a professor of music at Calvin College and he also enjoys composing music for theater, television and the concert hall. (Photo courtesy Calvin College.)
David Fuentes believes it is impossible to find a piece of music that is not about who we are and what we care about. “In fact, I even offer $500 to any student that can find one,” said the music professor. “I’m not out any money yet.”
Fuentes addresses this in his writing for, Vocation across the Academy, a book collaboration with NetVUE, a nationwide network of colleges and universities. NetVUE is working to create resources that empower students in vocational exploration, said Fuentes. Fuentes contributed chapter five, “To whom do I sing, and why,” addressing the place of music in human flourishing.
Fuentes began his musical journey when his mother picked up his first instrument, an accordion, at a garage sale. From then on, said Fuentes, he had a knack for music and liked making up his own songs. Since then, Fuentes has enjoyed composing music for theater, television and the concert hall as well as teaching a number of Calvin’s music courses.
Music as vocation
The topic of vocation is particularly important to Fuentes because part of his job is to help students uncover their personal calling and understand how much of their lives will be directly related to music. “For some this will be 100 percent, for others it will be a smaller part,” he said.
Fuentes believes the way students approach education has changed over the years. In the past, it was about learning reasoning and critical thinking, he said. Then, in whatever field you pursue, you would be pulling from a pool of knowledge. “Students today are trying to be practical about what they are going to go into. If they don’t have a job right out of college, they feel like a failure.”
Fuentes said students are often so focused on finding a career that they forget to ask: What are my gifts and loves? How can I contribute to God’s Kingdom? Educating students about vocation helps them fine-tune and understand all of their giftings, he said. It also gives students permission or a calling to help people.
“I have been nervous about pursuing music as a major for the longest time, but I definitely felt more comfortable after taking his class,” said Alexia White, a student of Fuentes.
Why music matters
Each semester Fuentes asks his students: Why does music matter in human lives? Are people just listening because they like it or is there something deeper?
“I assumed that when I took this class it would be about how music is only meant to bring glory and honor to God,” said White. “But Professor Fuentes helped us understand how that can be one purpose for music, but music can help us explain our biblical worldview. Music can teach us about God, others and ourselves.”
In the chapter he wrote in Vocation across the Academy, Fuentes tackles the issues of artists creating only for self-expression and audiences expecting a profound emotional experience with every artistic encounter. According to Fuentes, this is only a small part of what music can do.
“Sometimes people use music to escape; music is good at that. We go into a different state of mind and can experience great emotion there. On the other hand, music can help us delve into issues,” said Fuentes. “The deepest and most profound emotions come when we realize something. Rather than escaping from reality, music can bring us deeper into reality,” said Fuentes.
“There are two basic ways human beings make sense of the world: rationality and intuition,” said Fuentes. “Music brings those two together beautifully.”
Copyright Calvin College, reprinted by permission.
We’ve entered one of Michigan’s most magical seasons. Michigan summers are the perfect time for exploration, new activities and, most importantly, fun! Fortunately for Grand Rapidians and those living in surrounding transit-friendly suburbs, there are a number of outdoor events to ensure you’re able to embrace the sunshine and warmth promised in July. The best part is that all of these events are free to the public.
Whether it’s watching your favorite local band or musician in the park, catching a movie or exploring your local farmer’s market, there are so many reasons to hop on board the bus and let us do the driving to these fun summer events. If you’re looking for the best deal and aren’t a frequent Rapid rider, purchase a 10-Ride Card to use for riding to these events.
The Mainstays play July 13
Enjoy Concerts in Kentwood
On July 13, and 27, ride Routes 2 and 44 to Kentwood City Hall for live music from 7 – 8:30 p.m for the Kentwood City Summer Entertainment Series. The Mainstays will play on the 13th; Look Out Lincoln will be on the 20th; and The Tomas Esparza Blues Band plays on the 27th. This event also features food trucks and more! Grab your blanket or a chair for some Thursday evening fun.
Every Monday through Thursday, you can find a variety of fitness classes taking place throughout downtown Grand Rapids thanks to the Stay Fit Downtown Class Series. This 9-week program is a joint effort through Downtown Grand Rapids Inc. and the City of Grand Rapids Parks & Recreation Department. Free, no-registration classes include Zumba, ballroom dancing, kickboxing and more. Classes take place at Rosa Parks Circle, the Blue Bridge and the JW Marriott Lobby.
Routes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6+
Listen to Music in Walker
The Standale Summer Concert Series takes place July 13 with Strumble Head and July 27 with Brena Band at Walker Community Park. Music starts playing at 6:30 p.m. and the fun lasts until 8:30 p.m. Ride Routes 12 and 50 to get there, pack a picnic and enjoy a beautiful evening with local tunes!
Explore the Market with your Kids
Grab your children and get on board the Silver Line or Routes 1 and 2 to head to the Downtown Market for free fun for kids every week in July. You can expect crafts, educational activities and more! Each week, Kids at the Market has a new theme that your children will love. While you’re there, grab lunch or a snack and do a bit of shopping.
Grand Rapids Public Museum is opening their doors for a day of free admission on July 16 from 12–5 pm. Explore all three floors of exhibits and dive into hands-on fun for the whole family. Make a day out of it by riding Routes 7 and 9 and enjoying lunch or dinner at a downtown Grand Rapids eatery.
Every Monday, ride Routes 7 and 9 to Ah-Nab-Awen Park to enjoy an evening of jazz presented by the West Michigan Jazz Society. Some of this month’s upcoming acts include Metro Jazz Voices, Kevin Jones Band and The Lakeshore Big Band.
How close is your nearest farmers market? There are so many that are transit-friendly throughout Grand Rapids, Grandville, Wyoming and Kentwood! Grab your reusable shopping bags, hop on board the bus and ride to your favorite farmers market to enjoy local produce and goods. You can even ride Route 14 straight to the Fulton Street Farmers Market every Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday!
Lowell Showboat Sizzlin’ Summer Concerts outdoor concert series runs June 15 to August 25, 2017. Thursday evening concerts begin at 7 p.m. in front of the Flat River, 113 Riverwalk Plaza, in downtown Lowell, Mich. Food and spirits are available; admission to the concerts and parking are free.
The concerts promote the best of the region’s talented musicians, featuring music groups exclusively from Michigan. A diverse mix of music including Blues, World Music, Roots, Rock, Swing, Big Band, Jazz, Country, Americana, Folk, Indie, Funk, R&B and more draw upwards of 1,000 visitors each week. The concert venue is wheelchair-accessible; bleacher seating is available or attendees may bring their own folding chair.
June 15 – Harper & The Midwest Kind – Blues, World Music, Roots
Borrowing from Western and Aboriginal music, an original take on the roots genre labeled “World Blues”.
June 22 – Brena – Rock, Motown. Features horns, violin, keyboard, electric and acoustic guitar and vocal harmony.
June 29 – Rhythm Section Jazz Band – Swing, Big Band, Jazz
“Little Big Band” consisting of alto sax, tenor sax, trombone, trumpet, piano, guitar, bass, drums, and vocals.
July 6 – Gunnar & the Grizzly Boys – Country, Rock, Americana
Honest storytelling and music that explodes into the audience like an electrifying dose of adrenaline.
July 7 (Friday) – The Bronk Bros. – Country, Southern Rock, Americana. Combines impressive vocals, remarkable guitar playing, rocking harmonica, and crowd-engaging stage energy.
The Lowell Showboat
July 13 – The Steve Hilger Band – Blues. Progressive blues mixed with traditional blues music, come out for an exciting blend of smokin’ hot blues!
July 20 – Lindsay Lou & the Flatbellys – Americana
Eclectic Bluegrass band with distinct vocals, tight harmonies, instrumental expertise and creative arrangements.
July 23 (Sunday at 3 p.m.) – 126 Army Band, “The Governor’s Own” – Military Ensemble – Grand Rapids based citizen-soldiers, the band has been providing music for the nation since 1857.
July 27 – The Natchez Trace – Country, Rock. Award-winning group, celebrating 30 years, kickin’ instrumentation and tight 4-part harmony.
August 3 – The Ragbirds – Folk, World Music. A fusion of folk rock and pop hooks over danceable world rhythms stirred with a Celtic fiddler’s bow.
August 17 – Olivia Mainville & the Aquatic Troupe – Folk, Gypsy Swing, Indie. Known for energized, dynamic performances and gargantuan musical talent.
August 24 – The Hip Pocket – Funk, R&B Band. High energy R&B, with cutting edge horn arrangements and exceptional musicianship.
August 25 (Friday at 6 p.m.) – Rockin’ for the Showboat. Alive & Well, The Adams Family, Josh Rose, The Preservers, Time Hungry, The Upstage Crew Blues Band – Regional and local bands joining forces to raise money and help rebuild a Lowell community icon.
Music and Dance
For more information about all Music and Dance Department events, call (616) 331-3484. All events are free and open to the public.
Baum Series Recital: Boris Slutsky, piano
April 2, at 3 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Sherman Van Solkema Hall (room 1325), Performing Arts Center, Allendale Campus
Consistently acclaimed for his exquisite tonal beauty and superb artistry, Boris Slutsky emerged on the international music scene when he captured the First Prize along with every major prize, including the Audience Prize and Wihelm Backhaus Award, at the 1981 William Kapell International Piano Competition at the University of Maryland. His other accomplishments include first prizes at the Kosciuszko Chopin Competition and San Antonio International Keyboard Competition, and major prizes at the International Bach Competition in Memory of Glenn Gould, Gina Bachauer, Busoni, Rina Sala Gallo, and Ettore Pozzoli International Piano Competitions. Since his orchestral debut at Carnegie Hall with the New York Youth Symphony in 1980, Slutsky has appeared on nearly every continent as soloist and recitalist. He currently serves as the Piano Department chair at The Peabody Conservatory of Music.
GVSU Senior Dance Concert
April 7 and 8, at 7 p.m.
Dance Studio Theatre (room 1600), Performing Arts Center, Allendale Campus
Join GVSU Dance Program seniors as they showcase their choreography and performance in their Capstone concert. Original works will be presented by Delaney Dickens, Robin Hutchings, Amadeo Lopez-Keranen, Ashley Paradise and Kaye Suarez.
GVSU Early Music Ensemble Concert
April 8, at 5 p.m.
Sherman Van Solkema Hall (room 1325), Performing Arts Center, Allendale Campus
Under the direction of Pablo Mahave-Veglia, professor of cello at Grand Valley State University, the GVSU Early Music Ensemble will be joined by Gregory Crowell, professor of organ and music general education at Grand Valley, as well as guest artists Sarah Huebsch (oboe), Leighann Daihl (flute), and Keith Collins (bassoon). Repertoire for this performance will include works by Bach, Telemann, Monteverdi, and others. The GVSU Early Music Ensemble is dedicated to the performance of pre-classical repertoire utilizing period instruments, or faithful modern replicas, as well as historically informed performance practice.
GVSU University Arts Chorale and Cantate Chamber Ensemble Concert
April 9, at 5 p.m.
St. Mark’s Episcopal Church (134 Division Ave. North, Grand Rapids)
A part of the Sacred Sounds Concert Series, the Grand Valley Cantate Chamber Ensemble and University Arts Chorale will present a varied concert of choral music including “Lobet den Herrn” by Johann Sebastian Bach, “Alleluia” by Paul Basler and works by Daniel Elder and Kim Arnessen.
GVSU Low Brass Chamber Music Concert
April 9, from 7:30-8:45 p.m.
Louis Armstrong Theatre, Performing Arts Center, Allendale Campus
Members of the GVSU Tuba and Euphonium Studio, and Trombone Studio will showcase their chamber music talents through a performance of classical, romantic and contemporary compositions.
For nearly 30 years, Cathie Ryan has been a leading light in Irish music.
The former lead singer for Cherish the Ladies has recorded five solo albums on her own and collaborated with a galaxy of Irish and Celtic musicians. Twice she’s been named Irish Female Vocalist of the Decade by LiveIreland and honored as one of the Top 100 Irish Americans by Irish Music Magazine.
Surprisingly, the singer and songwriter isn’t from Dublin; she’s from Detroit.
A first-generation Irish-American, Ryan is the daughter of immigrants Mary Ryan from County Kerry and Timothy Ryan from County Tipperary. Though she grew up surrounded by the music of Motown in the Motor City, Ryan also was steeped in the music of her ancestral home. Her father sang tenor, her grandmother was a fiddler and singer, and Ryan regularly crossed the Atlantic Ocean to visit relatives back home.
Singing “songs of the heart” in a distinctive soprano voice, folksinger and songwriter Cathie Ryan joins the Grand Rapids Pops for a St. Patrick’s Day Celebration that opens on St. Patrick’s Day itself, March 17.
Associate Conductor John Varineau leads the Fox Motor Pops concerts at 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, March 17-18, and 3 p.m. Sunday, March 19, at DeVos Performance Hall, 303 Monroe Ave. NW.
The Cathie Ryan Band, with traditional musicians Patsy O’Brien on guitar and vocals, Patrick Mangan on fiddle, and Brian Melick on percussion, perform Ryan’s original songs such as Carrick-a-Rede plus a blend of Irish traditional music mixed with rafter-raising jigs, reels and rousing Irish step dancing with special guest dancers, West Michigan’s own Scoil Rince Ní Bhraonáin.
Ryan’s tales about her parents and their childhood in Ireland, paired with her humorous take on Irish culture, creates a true celebration of Irish-American music.
Ryan’s family’s musical legacy, coupled with the early influences while growing up as a member of The Gaelic League and Irish-American Club of Detroit, gave Ryan her start. But she faced challenges along the way.
She left Detroit to attend Fordham University in New York. In the early 1980s, she sang in a band, married a musician, became a mother and set aside her own musical career. Then she got divorced.
When her son was little, she cleaned houses during the day and returned to school at night, eventually finishing her bachelor’s degree in English literature and secondary education at the City University of New York in 1991.
But four years earlier in 1987, Ryan became the lead vocalist for Cherish the Ladies, writing songs including the title track for Cherish the Ladies’ 1992 album, The Back Door.
A 1995 appearance on a PBS-TV special, A Christmas Tradition with Tommy Makem, starring the Irish folk musician and storyteller, gave Ryan the break she needed to launch a solo career.
Cathie Ryan has been in the vanguard of Irish music ever since. Her fifth CD, Through Wind and Rain, is bringing her music to a much wider audience.
Closer to home, in 2012, Ryan was one of the first people inducted into the Michigan Irish Hall of Fame alongside another well-known descendant of Ireland, Henry Ford.
Tickets
Tickets start at $18 and are available at the GRS ticket office, weekdays 9 am-5 pm at 300 Ottawa Ave. NW, Suite 100, (located across from the Calder Plaza), or by calling 616.454.9451 x 4. (Phone orders will be charged a $2 per ticket service fee, with a $12 maximum.)
Tickets are available at the DeVos Place box office, weekdays 10 a.m.-6 p.m. or on the day of the concert beginning two hours prior to the performance. Tickets also may be purchased online at GRSymphony.org.
Full-time students of any age are able to purchase tickets for only $5 on the night of the concert by enrolling in the GRS Student Passport program. This is a MySymphony360 eligible concert.
