MERIDEN — The city is calling on local artists and music lovers to join in the first-ever International Make Music Day on Tuesday.
The city will provide free live music in two venues on the date of the summer solstice. City Recreation Coordinator Kathy Matula is leading the city’s effort and is encouraging participation, including aspiring musicians, of any skill level.
“I love the spirit of this community celebration where anyone can play music for others and hopefully be inspired to continue developing their musical skills,” Matula stated in a press release.
Under the umbrella of the New Haven County Arts Council, the Meriden event will run 11:00 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the West Main Street Midtown Plaza — across from the Senior Center — and the Rosa Ponselle Memorial Stage —at the Augusta Curtis Cultural Center.
The public is welcome to listen or sign up to perform.
“Meriden continues to expand as a recognized hub for live music and we’re excited to help promote artists of all skill levels on Make Music Day,” said David Cooley, an organizer with the Olde Church Concert Series. “Kathy Matula has done a nice job involving seniors and kids alike, and we will have raw amateurs and established pros making music throughout the day. We still have slots available for anyone who would like to participate.”
International Make Music Day began in Paris 40 years ago to provide free, live music on the summer solstice. Venues around the world include street corners, parks, rooftops, gardens, store fronts and mountaintops.
Mayor Kevin Scarpati, a noted crooner, is scheduled to present a proclamation at 1 p.m. at the West Main Midtown Plaza venue. Meriden Senior Center Director, Rick Leigl will lead a drum circle with children from the Meriden Summer Playground Program at noon. Father-son duo Pat and David Coffey will kick off the music on West Main Street at 11 a.m., followed by Meriden’s Frank Critelli at 11:30. Noted singer/songwriter Joe Flood is scheduled to play at 4:30 p.m.
The Rosa Ponselle stage will host Philomena Nesci with her father, while Inner Groove will also perform. Plenty of time slots are still available at both venues, Free T-shirts will be available for the first 50 attendees at each spot. For more information or to participate sign go to https://www.makemusicnewhaven.org/ and scroll to the Meriden venues to request a time slot.
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