Nicole Klein, a Mattapoisett business owner, said she grew up in the area as a musician. She says she initially did not know about the concert series to descend on Marion next month. Now she is a board member of the Buzzards Bay Musicfest about to celebrate its 25th season with five performances, starting on Wednesday, July 12 and culminating Sunday, July 16.
“I grew up as a musician locally and had no real idea about this series and what a great thing it is,” said Klein. “What is really great about it is it’s a charitable organization and funded by community donations.”
Back after taking a few seasons off due to COVID-19, the BBMF has a goal to spread the word. Another mission is to get more young people involved.
On July 12 at 2:30 pm at Tabor Academy’s Fireman Performing Arts Center, there will be a rehearsal for young people. Music hopefuls might get an opportunity to perform with some of the world-class musicians.
“We want more local people to realize this is something they can take part in and enjoy,” Klein said.
The Town of Marion is one of the few places where world-class musicians come and play for free for a week.
“Since its founding, the BBMF has been dedicated to bringing world-class music to Marion and the surrounding communities. Thanks to the generosity of our donors, concerts have always been offered free of charge,” according to a written release. “Through partnerships with the Marion Art Center and Tabor Academy, the BBMF has become a cultural cornerstone of the town and contributes to the cultural enrichment of the community, connects people through the arts and enhances the quality of life for Marion and the surrounding area. Performances have captivated audiences and garnered acclaim.”
Word of mouth and youth involvement might be on the rise this year thanks to Tabor Academy, which has donated its hall for the concerts this year.
All concerts are free and everything is donated.
“It’s a lot of community involvement coming together,” Klein said.
Members of the community even house musicians during their stay.
“This is a momentous year for us, and we’re thrilled to be celebrating our 25th season,” said Trudy Kingery, BBMF’s founder and honorary chairperson, in a written release. “We’re looking forward to bringing our audiences the very best in classical music, and we can’t wait to share our ‘Season of Celebration.'”
Returning conductor Antony Walker will kick off the concert series on Wednesday, July 12, by waving his baton and guiding an orchestra. Other highlights of the five performances scheduled during the week include chamber music performances on Thursday, July 13, and on Saturday, July 15. The BBMF Swing Band will swing into action on Friday, July 14, and a second chamber orchestra concert is scheduled on Sunday, July 16.
The Sunday concert will be at 2:00 pm. All other concerts are set in the evening at 8:00 pm.
By Jeffrey D. Wagner