This year, for the first time, Music at Eden’s Edge (MEE), the North Shore’s own resident chamber music ensemble, will present its annual Family Concert in Newburyport. Sure to enchant music lovers of all ages, “Family at Any Age” will take place on Sunday, March 21 at 3:00 PM at the historic First Religious Society, Unitarian Universalist Church, 26 Pleasant Street in Newburyport.
The program will feature an adventurous mix of music ranging from the Baroque to a movement from a new piece written for MEE by Salem, Massachusetts composer John Wallace. Called “Structures,” this composition portrays in music the architectural lines and character of several North Shore architectural landmarks. The First Religious Society Church – chosen by Wallace for the “perfect proportions” of its soaring steeple – is the subject of the movement to be performed at this special concert.
In addition, bassoon and flute quartets by Devienne and Mozart, assorted duets, and a multiple choice “grab-bag” of pieces to be selected by audience members will make for a fun and intriguing program. Artists areOrlando Cela, Flute; Maria Benotti, Violin; Mark Berger, Viola; Neil Fairbairn, Bassoon; and Sarah Freiberg, Cello.
As is tradition with MEE’s Family Concerts, audience participation is the rule. One favorite event at every MEE Family Concert is the “Meet the Instruments and Their Owners” intermission. This special time gives audience members young and old a chance to try a string instrument, meet a flute or talk to the performers about their musical life. The “Grab-Bag of Music” game will be another opportunity for audience interaction. Following the concert, everyone is invited to a free “Meet the Cookies and Their Performer Friends” reception, where delicious treats, sparkling conversation, and a chance to meet the artists provide the perfect finale to a delightful afternoon.
