I do have rehearsal this evening the the lovely and fabulous New London Community Orchestra in preparation for our upcoming concert on January 22, 2012 at 2pm in the Ballroom of Harbour Towers (461 Bank St. New London). The concert is open to the public with free admission, but a voluntary donation is greatly appreciated.
Interested in becoming a sponsor to children of New London that are unable to take music lessons in school due to budget cuts or financial difficulties within their own homes? We'll I know how you can help!
YES! I would like to make a contribution to the New London Community Orchestra and it's program of after-school music lessons for inner-city children. Have your name listed among our sponsors on our website and in our programs as a contributor to our organization.
AMOUNT DIVISION
__$25 Sponsor
__$50 Section Leader
__$100 Concertmaster
__$125 Maestro
__$____ Other
Please make checks payable to: New London Community Orchestra.
Checks may be mailed to NLCO, 153 Thames St., New London, CT 06320.
Name:_______________________________________
Address:______________________________________
City, State, Zip:__________________________________
Phone:_______________________________________
Email:________________________________________
Thank you for your generous donation!
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Music History
Great news! I recently had returned to me one of my college notebooks containing a semesters worth of Music History 101 from Prof. Calissi. Somewhere I also have Music Survey I and II notes from Dr. Belles and Prof. Lemons. Needless to say, it should take a great deal of time before I run out of things to discuss with you, my adoring fans.
Obviously, having a B.A. in Performing Arts means I took my fair share of classes dealing with the common genres of performing arts. ie: Music and Theater. I did not dabble in dance whatsoever but if you should have any inquires about dance, I will do my best to provide you with an answer.
Soon to follow will be brief lessons in:
Music History
Music Cultures of the World
Music Survey I and II
Intro to Theater
American Popular Music
and 20th Century Music
Obviously, having a B.A. in Performing Arts means I took my fair share of classes dealing with the common genres of performing arts. ie: Music and Theater. I did not dabble in dance whatsoever but if you should have any inquires about dance, I will do my best to provide you with an answer.
Soon to follow will be brief lessons in:
Music History
Music Cultures of the World
Music Survey I and II
Intro to Theater
American Popular Music
and 20th Century Music
Sunday, December 18, 2011
Semper Paratus
Today is the Coast Guard Band Annual Holiday Concert!
Don't miss this open to the public performance at Leamy Hall on their New London campus. I know I won't.
Today they have a one hour matinee beginning at 2pm, and a full performance at 7pm.
Be sure to arrive early, as the hall fills quickly.
Don't miss this open to the public performance at Leamy Hall on their New London campus. I know I won't.
Today they have a one hour matinee beginning at 2pm, and a full performance at 7pm.
Be sure to arrive early, as the hall fills quickly.
Saturday, December 17, 2011
Don't forget the Tots
Today is the Annual Holiday Concert at Connecicut College, in the Harkness Chapel. Those attending are encouraged to bring an unwrapped toy for donation to Toys for Tots.
Get in the holiday spirit of giving, and enjoy some carols sung by the Eastern Connecticut Symphony Chorus.
Annual Holiday Concert
8pm at Connecticut College
270 Mohegan Ave, New London
Admission: $22 adults, $20 students/seniors
Guests are encouraged to bring an new unwrapped toy for donation.
For more information, call (Harkness Chapel)
Get in the holiday spirit of giving, and enjoy some carols sung by the Eastern Connecticut Symphony Chorus.
Annual Holiday Concert
8pm at Connecticut College
270 Mohegan Ave, New London
Admission: $22 adults, $20 students/seniors
Guests are encouraged to bring an new unwrapped toy for donation.
For more information, call (Harkness Chapel)
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
This week in New London county
Thursday December 15, 2011
Holiday Follies 2011
7:30pm at The Spirit of Broadway Theater
featuring the Second Step Players Theater Troupe
Admission: $15 also showing Friday and Saturday
The Norwich Arts Center's Annual Carol Sing
travelling through downtown
a potluck dinner begins at 6pm in the gallery
62 Broadway
for more information call 860-887-2789
Friday December 16, 2011
Caroling throughout Sprague
beginning at 6pm
Carolers of Baltic, meet at the gazebo
Carolers of Hanover, meet at the Congregational Church
Carolers of Versailles, meet at the United Methodist Church
Bring your own flashlights, or lanterns are available for $2.
Holiday Sing Along
11am-11:45am
Otis Library
Free admission.
Saturday December 17, 2011
7th Annual Winter Solstice Harp Recital
featuring: Allyn Brown Donath
2pm at the East Lyme Public Library
39 Society Road, East Lyme
For info: 860-739-6926
Annual Holiday Concert
8pm at Connecticut College
270 Mohegan Ave, New London
Admission: $22 adults, $20 students/seniors
Guests are encouraged to bring an new unwrapped toy for donation.
For more information, call 860-443-2876 (Harkness Chapel)
Shoreline Ringers Concert
7pm at the Niantic Community Church
170 Pennsylvania Avenue
Directed by Jane Nolan
Holiday Follies 2011
7:30pm at The Spirit of Broadway Theater
featuring the Second Step Players Theater Troupe
Admission: $15 also showing Friday and Saturday
The Norwich Arts Center's Annual Carol Sing
travelling through downtown
a potluck dinner begins at 6pm in the gallery
62 Broadway
for more information call 860-887-2789
Friday December 16, 2011
Caroling throughout Sprague
beginning at 6pm
Carolers of Baltic, meet at the gazebo
Carolers of Hanover, meet at the Congregational Church
Carolers of Versailles, meet at the United Methodist Church
Bring your own flashlights, or lanterns are available for $2.
Holiday Sing Along
11am-11:45am
Otis Library
Free admission.
Saturday December 17, 2011
7th Annual Winter Solstice Harp Recital
featuring: Allyn Brown Donath
2pm at the East Lyme Public Library
39 Society Road, East Lyme
For info: 860-739-6926
Annual Holiday Concert
8pm at Connecticut College
270 Mohegan Ave, New London
Admission: $22 adults, $20 students/seniors
Guests are encouraged to bring an new unwrapped toy for donation.
For more information, call 860-443-2876 (Harkness Chapel)
Shoreline Ringers Concert
7pm at the Niantic Community Church
170 Pennsylvania Avenue
Directed by Jane Nolan
Saturday, December 10, 2011
Niantic Light Parade
Look for members from the New London Community Orchestra near the gazebo handing out free bookmarks, and don't miss our concert on January 22nd at 2pm in the Ballroom at Harbour Towers, 461 Bank Street New London. Admission is free, donations welcome.
As seen on Discovereastlyme.com
"December 11, 2011
23rd Annual Niantic Light Parade & Winterfest 2011
After much debate, review with local business owners and town officials, and feedback from the many parade-goers over the years, this ever popular grand holiday event will once again be held on Sunday night.
Early plans and notices identified the event as taking place on Saturday, but that will not be the case this year. So, book those family and friend get-togethers now and plan on attending the 23rd Annual Niantic (East Lyme) Light Parade on Sunday, December 11th, 2011 beginning on 5:00 pm. Come see the beautifully built and lighted parade floats, dance groups and Santa himself as they parade down beautiful Main St. in Niantic. Last year, John Wilson of SignCraft Signs stole the show with his “Toy Story Niantic” float; who will challenge Mr. Wislon in 2011 for Best Commercial Float? For further informnation about the 2011 parade, or for information to enter/register a float, please contact: Paul Cushing at ProTek Auto at
(860) 739-5729 or email him at paul@protekauto.com
Early plans and notices identified the event as taking place on Saturday, but that will not be the case this year. So, book those family and friend get-togethers now and plan on attending the 23rd Annual Niantic (East Lyme) Light Parade on Sunday, December 11th, 2011 beginning on 5:00 pm. Come see the beautifully built and lighted parade floats, dance groups and Santa himself as they parade down beautiful Main St. in Niantic. Last year, John Wilson of SignCraft Signs stole the show with his “Toy Story Niantic” float; who will challenge Mr. Wislon in 2011 for Best Commercial Float? For further informnation about the 2011 parade, or for information to enter/register a float, please contact: Paul Cushing at ProTek Auto at
(860) 739-5729 or email him at paul@protekauto.com
New this year ~ WinterFest 2011.
In addition to the ever popular Niantic Light Parade above, this year's parade will be preceeded by the town's first ever "WinterFest" festival. The Town of East Lyme is celebrating the holidays in a unique and festive way! Introducing WinterFest 2011, a family-focused compliment to the wildly popular and highly anticipated East Lyme Light Parade!
WinterFest activities take place throughout Main Street starting at noon on Sunday, December 11th. Activities include a Chowder & Chili Cook-off, Gingerbread House Competition, Pictures with Santa, Horse Drawn Carriage Rides and Live Demonstrations including Ice Sculpture, Pottery and Glass Blowing at Protek Auto! Participating local merchants will host fabulous activities and tastings as well as special holiday savings. Enjoy FREE Family Entertainment at Niantic Cinema Theater number 4 from Noon-3 including Author/Musician Ryan SanAngelo, Magician Zach Ivins and kids dance lessons from Arthur Murray. The East Lyme Parks and Rec crew will be at the East Lyme Police Station with free face painting and seasonal arts and crafts for kids of all ages. Families will have fun participating in the town-wide Scavenger Hunt while listening to festive live carolers and warming bonfires. Look for the GIANT HEATED TENT on Methodist Street where you will find over 50 local vendors, music and festive food. Taste and judge over 25 varieties of Chili/Chowder and vote on the best. It doesn’t get any better than this locally-focused, community celebration by the sea! Don’t forget the FIREWORKS display to kick-off the Light Parade and remember to bring a non-perishable food item & FILL-A-FLOAT!
Again, WinterFest 2011 will take place in downtown Niantic beginning a noon on Sunday, Dec. 11th (same day as the parade).
For a complete line-up, go to: ELWinterFest"
In addition to the ever popular Niantic Light Parade above, this year's parade will be preceeded by the town's first ever "WinterFest" festival. The Town of East Lyme is celebrating the holidays in a unique and festive way! Introducing WinterFest 2011, a family-focused compliment to the wildly popular and highly anticipated East Lyme Light Parade!
WinterFest activities take place throughout Main Street starting at noon on Sunday, December 11th. Activities include a Chowder & Chili Cook-off, Gingerbread House Competition, Pictures with Santa, Horse Drawn Carriage Rides and Live Demonstrations including Ice Sculpture, Pottery and Glass Blowing at Protek Auto! Participating local merchants will host fabulous activities and tastings as well as special holiday savings. Enjoy FREE Family Entertainment at Niantic Cinema Theater number 4 from Noon-3 including Author/Musician Ryan SanAngelo, Magician Zach Ivins and kids dance lessons from Arthur Murray. The East Lyme Parks and Rec crew will be at the East Lyme Police Station with free face painting and seasonal arts and crafts for kids of all ages. Families will have fun participating in the town-wide Scavenger Hunt while listening to festive live carolers and warming bonfires. Look for the GIANT HEATED TENT on Methodist Street where you will find over 50 local vendors, music and festive food. Taste and judge over 25 varieties of Chili/Chowder and vote on the best. It doesn’t get any better than this locally-focused, community celebration by the sea! Don’t forget the FIREWORKS display to kick-off the Light Parade and remember to bring a non-perishable food item & FILL-A-FLOAT!
Again, WinterFest 2011 will take place in downtown Niantic beginning a noon on Sunday, Dec. 11th (same day as the parade).
For a complete line-up, go to: ELWinterFest"
Twas the night before Sunday
If you're looking for a way to support music in schools this holiday season, then head over to Montville High School (800 Old Colchester Road, Oakdale, CT 06370) for their Montville High School Holiday Boosters Holiday Dinner from 4:30pm to 7:30pm. The event will raise money for the organization. There will be high school bands and chorus groups performing during your meal; admission is $7 for adults, $5 for students/seniors, and $20 for a family of four (don't forget the little ones under 5 are free).
Would you rather see a classic holiday show? Perhaps, The Nutcracker? Because let's face it, it's not Christmas without a Nutcracker performance.
You're in luck! Eastern Connecticut has a bevvy of performances this weekend. (forgive me of the short notice)
Eastern Connecticut Ballet
When: 1:30pm and 7pm today
1:30pm sunday
Where: Guarde Arts Centre, 325 State St. New London
Price: $20-$42
Call: 860-444-7373
Mystic Ballet
When: 2pm today and Dec. 17th
Where: Mashantucket Pequot Museum, 110 Pequot Trail Mashantucket
Price: $15-$40
Call: 860-536-3671
Ballet Theater Company
When: 3pm today
Where: Hyde Cultural Center, 150 Route 169, Woodstock
Price: $15
Call: 860-928-2946
Connecticut Ballet
When: 1pm and 4pm sunday
Where: The Jorgensen Center for the Performing Arts, 2132 Hillside Road, Storrs
Price: $25-$30
Call: 860-486-4226
Would you rather see a classic holiday show? Perhaps, The Nutcracker? Because let's face it, it's not Christmas without a Nutcracker performance.
You're in luck! Eastern Connecticut has a bevvy of performances this weekend. (forgive me of the short notice)
Eastern Connecticut Ballet
When: 1:30pm and 7pm today
1:30pm sunday
Where: Guarde Arts Centre, 325 State St. New London
Price: $20-$42
Call: 860-444-7373
Mystic Ballet
When: 2pm today and Dec. 17th
Where: Mashantucket Pequot Museum, 110 Pequot Trail Mashantucket
Price: $15-$40
Call: 860-536-3671
Ballet Theater Company
When: 3pm today
Where: Hyde Cultural Center, 150 Route 169, Woodstock
Price: $15
Call: 860-928-2946
Connecticut Ballet
When: 1pm and 4pm sunday
Where: The Jorgensen Center for the Performing Arts, 2132 Hillside Road, Storrs
Price: $25-$30
Call: 860-486-4226
Sunday, December 4, 2011
Music Fundamentals
Perhaps you've always had an interest in music, but haven't had the ability to indulge that interest? Maybe you were faced with other options that preoccupied your time. Well, everyone should have at least a basic understanding of music.
Lesson A:
Let me introduce you to a new word: ethnocentrism.
Ethnocentrism is the assumption that our culture us universal.
Unfortunately, it's not. BUT! A lot of musical ideas are universal. However, since we live in the western world, I may as well just relate everything to our way of thinking.
What is music?
This is a difficult question to answer. It is difficult to distinguish music from noise, as everyone has their own idea of music. Generally music is described as having a few defining features: rhythm (this organizes sound in time, done by giving it a beat or pulse) and a melody (changes in pitch, sometimes with a harmony). It can also include instruments, lyrics, and vocals but not every song has these features.
Lesson B:
Instruments are divided into categories we can easily identify.
Strings: violin, viola, cello, upright bass, harp, guitar, lute, mandolin, etc.
There is a system used to classify instrument types that was established by Erich Moritz von Hornbostel and Curt Sachs called (who-da-thunk) the Sachs-von Hornbostel (or Hornbostel-Sachs) classification system.
Its not often this system is used in casual conversation but for a little intellectual stimulation you can toss these new words around at your next fancy party.
Aerophones: uses air to produce sound. ie: trumpets, flutes, clarinet, oboe, english horn, basoon, saxophone, french horn, tuba, trombone.
Chordophones: anything with strings. ie: violin, viola, cello, guitar
Membranophones: having a membrane, ie: drums
Idiophones: self sounding (makes sound when struck). ie: cowbell
Now don't you feel a little smarter than you were when you woke up today?
Lesson A:
Let me introduce you to a new word: ethnocentrism.
Ethnocentrism is the assumption that our culture us universal.
Unfortunately, it's not. BUT! A lot of musical ideas are universal. However, since we live in the western world, I may as well just relate everything to our way of thinking.
What is music?
This is a difficult question to answer. It is difficult to distinguish music from noise, as everyone has their own idea of music. Generally music is described as having a few defining features: rhythm (this organizes sound in time, done by giving it a beat or pulse) and a melody (changes in pitch, sometimes with a harmony). It can also include instruments, lyrics, and vocals but not every song has these features.
Lesson B:
Instruments are divided into categories we can easily identify.
Strings: violin, viola, cello, upright bass, harp, guitar, lute, mandolin, etc.
Brass: Trumpet, Trombone, French Horn, Tuba, Baritone (saxhorn, euphonium)
Woodwinds: Flute, clarinet, bass clarinet, oboe, bassoon, saxophone, english horn.
Percussion: drums including snare drum, timpani, and bass drum, keyboard instruments including xylophone, marimba, vibraphone, and glockenspiel, and other instruments such as tambourine, maracas, claves, temple blocks, chimes, cymbals, and gong.
Typically when we think of an orchestra this is what comes to mind, the Symphony Orchestra, which includes all instrument types.
There is a system used to classify instrument types that was established by Erich Moritz von Hornbostel and Curt Sachs called (who-da-thunk) the Sachs-von Hornbostel (or Hornbostel-Sachs) classification system.
Its not often this system is used in casual conversation but for a little intellectual stimulation you can toss these new words around at your next fancy party.
Aerophones: uses air to produce sound. ie: trumpets, flutes, clarinet, oboe, english horn, basoon, saxophone, french horn, tuba, trombone.
Chordophones: anything with strings. ie: violin, viola, cello, guitar
Membranophones: having a membrane, ie: drums
Idiophones: self sounding (makes sound when struck). ie: cowbell
Now don't you feel a little smarter than you were when you woke up today?
Thursday, December 1, 2011
What's Happening: December
Looking for something to do this holiday season? Well, December is the perfect month for concerts and shows in the area.
Coast Guard Band:
Leamy Concert Hall
U.S. Coast Guard Academy
15 Mohegan Ave.
New London, CT
Also featuring the premiere of a new work by MU1 Nelson.
Norwich Arts Center: (formerly Norwich Arts Council)
60 - 64 Broadway, Norwich, CT 06360
Phone: 860-887-2789
administration@norwicharts.org
Phone: 860-887-2789
administration@norwicharts.org
12/02/2011
6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Holiday Show
unjuried show
NAC Gallery
60 Broadway / Norwich CT 06360
860-887-2789
Reception: December 2 from 6-8 PM
Show runs: November 30 through December 31
Gallery hours: Wednesday through Saturday 12-4 PM
8:00 pm - 10:00 pm
FFLS: Phred Mileski
Donald L. Oat Theater
62 Broadway / Norwich CT 06360
860-887-2789
doors open 7:30 PM / tickets $20 / BYOB
Coast Guard Band:
Leamy Concert Hall
U.S. Coast Guard Academy
15 Mohegan Ave.
New London, CT
December 12th at 2 p.m. Coast Guard Big Band Concert "Ornaments in Jazz"
Trombonist and Musician First Class Sean Nelson leads a big band jazz concert featuring the music of Maynard Ferguson, Woody Herman, Stan Kenton, and other modern jazz composers. Also featuring the premiere of a new work by MU1 Nelson.
December 18th at 2 p.m. (1hr matinee) and 7 p.m. (full concert) Academy Concert "Happy Holidays!"
Rejoice in the holiday season with either the hour-long matinee or the full-length evening performance, both bursting with festive musical selections.
Free admission
Free admission
Shafer Auditorium at Eastern Connecticut State University
83 Windham Street
Willimantic, CT 06226
Saturday, December 3, 2011, 7:30 PM
Holiday Concert:
Rimsky-Korsakov, Polonaise from Christmas Eve; Manfredini, Concerto Grosso in C (op.3, no.12); Rebikov, 4 pieces from The Christmas Tree;Anderson, Sleigh Ride;Irving Berlin, White Christmas; Cacavas, Christmas medley
Free admission, donations appreciated
Free admission, donations appreciated
Jorgensen Center for the Performing Arts
2132 Hillside Road, Unit 3104
University of Connecticut
Storrs, Connecticut 06269-3104
Phone: (860) 486-4226
2132 Hillside Road, Unit 3104
University of Connecticut
Storrs, Connecticut 06269-3104
Phone: (860) 486-4226
December 3rd
Boston Pops Esplanade Orchestra, Keith Lockhart, Conductor Rockapella, Featured Guests
Jollify your holiday season with Keith Lockhart, the Boston Pops, and vocal powerhouse Rockapella! For the first time ever, "America's Orchestra" joins America's leading a cappella group for a light-hearted and unforgettable holiday show. From unique takes on classic favorites to brand new originals, audiences of all ages can expect a program jam-packed with material from the Boston Pops' albums "Holiday Pops" and "Sleigh Ride," Rockapella's chart-topping "Comfort & Joy" and "Christmas," plus a special visit from Jolly Ole' St. Nick and a time-honored audience sing along. Treat yourself and your loved ones to a holiday tradition that millions cherish!
Holiday Meet & Greet, 6-7pm
Meet conductor Keith Lockhart and the members of Rockapella while enjoying delicious hor d'oeuvres and cash bar at this special holiday reception.
$35 per person
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Ready for take off
So, I was asked last night if I would be willing to be a community blogger for The Bulletin. At first, I was unsure of what I might be able to write about that would be relevant to the community; but after considering a few topics, and reading my father's column today, I realized the Arts of Eastern Connecticut would be perfect. Not only am I informed about the arts, I am part of the arts.
I began playing violin in fourth grade, picked up viola in ninth grade, added french horn and mellophone in eleventh grade, and took piano lessons through college where I majored in Performing Arts with a concentration of Music. At Norwich Free Academy, I played in the Orchestra, Concert Band, and Wildcat Marching Band.
I currently play with the New London Community Orchestra. In the past I have played with the Willimantic Orchestra, Thames Valley Orchestra, and the Eastern Connecticut Symphony Youth Orchestra. I have played at the Eastern Region High School Concert Festival, USSBA Championships at Giants Stadium (twice), and countless adjudication festivals up and down the east coast including Virginia Beach, Washington D.C., the Walt Disney World Resort, also locally in Waterford and Colchester.
Also, my brother was a fine arts student at NFA, so I do hear about local art shows and exhibitions.
I think it's safe to say, I might know a thing or two about a thing or two. Being in my mid-20s, it's only normal for me to be practically obsessed with social networking so any local events pertaining the arts (music, visual arts, dance, theater) should be no problem to investigate.
I began playing violin in fourth grade, picked up viola in ninth grade, added french horn and mellophone in eleventh grade, and took piano lessons through college where I majored in Performing Arts with a concentration of Music. At Norwich Free Academy, I played in the Orchestra, Concert Band, and Wildcat Marching Band.
I currently play with the New London Community Orchestra. In the past I have played with the Willimantic Orchestra, Thames Valley Orchestra, and the Eastern Connecticut Symphony Youth Orchestra. I have played at the Eastern Region High School Concert Festival, USSBA Championships at Giants Stadium (twice), and countless adjudication festivals up and down the east coast including Virginia Beach, Washington D.C., the Walt Disney World Resort, also locally in Waterford and Colchester.
Also, my brother was a fine arts student at NFA, so I do hear about local art shows and exhibitions.
I think it's safe to say, I might know a thing or two about a thing or two. Being in my mid-20s, it's only normal for me to be practically obsessed with social networking so any local events pertaining the arts (music, visual arts, dance, theater) should be no problem to investigate.
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