Spring is the Time for Visions

I have a vision these days of a very local life. That life needs to include the basics of human existence--food, warmth, and love. It also must include culture: specifically, music. Out of this vision was born my idea to have open piano concerts. I think of these events as opportunities for the musical among us to share their talents and for all of us to enjoy basking in music that we love. And why stop at music? In my vision, there is certainly room for poetry amid the musical selections. 

Now that there is a piano worth playing in Fryeburg (the village I visit to fulfill many of my other needs), it's even easier to realize this vision. The next open piano concert takes place on Sunday, April 16, at 5 PM at Fryeburg New Church. The church is located at 12 Oxford Street in Fryeburg.

The theme of Sunday's concert is "To Spring." The title is eponymous with a piece Grieg included in Opus 43 that I will perform in the concert. Its music is full of promise, but is not without reference to the dark days when the snow returns. Charlotte Gill will be sharing two movements from one of the Bach French Suites. She and I will play together on a set of pieces called Method Book Miniatures. These are little musical jokes inspired by famous teaching pieces. 

The program’s musical selections will be seasoned with spring poems. Other players and readers are welcome to contribute. To join in the performance, please contact me at ellen.m.schwindt@gmail.com a few days before the concert. Admission to the concert is free. Donations will be gratefully accepted to help take care of the piano, and to support my organizing work.