Music gives a soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination and life to everything,” said Plato. And those words are never truer than today. Music is one of those universal forces that perseveres no matter what is happening in the world. Music is soothing to our souls and can be reflective of everything we’re going through individually and collectively—something we need more than ever at this moment.
Kent County is home to some of the best melodic happenings and music-filled venues that can help one get back to a feeling of normalcy through song and sound. The global pandemic has forced organizations to find ways to feed the collective fiber through music but remain safe and socially-distance. In Kent County, music is celebrated in smaller ways and in new forms as people have had to become creative during these times. This article spotlights local venues that have done their part to bring music to the community and have had to reimagine music programming (virtual concerts anyone?); but proof that melody and music live on in Kent County.
Chestertown Cheer for the Holidays
While some beloved holiday traditions such as the Annual Holiday Parade and Lighting of the Town have been cancelled this year to avoid large gatherings, Chestertown will turn on the charm for holiday shoppers and downtown visitors during a “Chestertown Cheer” weekend during First Friday December 4 and all day Saturday December 5. As stilt-walkers in lighted costumes entertain, live music performances will fill the streets with festive, holiday cheer. The Chestertown A&E District will host a variety of musical artists and special exhibits to usher in the holiday spirit. Done your most festive holiday mask and enjoy the sights and sounds of Chestertown.
Garfield Center for the Arts
The music can’t be stopped at this historic Chestertown venue on High Street. Every week since Covid-19 pandemic has shut the venue’s doors, the Garfield Center for the Arts has been streaming art performances on Wednesday nights with local talent on GCTV (Garfield Center TV).
“Just like every other performance venue across the country, it made us realize how business has to change or we won’t have one,” says Executive Director Steven J. Arnold. The team at Garfield Center for the Arts wanted to continue to present diverse programming, so they transitioned to live performances in some fashion every Wednesday at 7:30 p.m. on Facebook. The livestreams provide guests an opportunity to preview the rich arts culture and entertainment that Kent County has to offer. Viewers are encouraged to watch live or go to the center’s YouTube channel to view performances on demand.
The Mainstay
The Mainstay has been making musical magic for more than 20 years. It’s a place where music brings together the community. Although, the Covid-19 pandemic has forced cancelation of in-person shows at The Mainstay, the venue has been streaming an online concerts on Monday nights via Facebook Live as part of their “Pandemic Piano” series. Viewers can also purchase streaming passes as part of “Livestreaming at The Mainstay” performances by featured local artists.
Legacy Day
African American heritage and culture is filled with a history rooted in music. Legacy Day was created to celebrate that rich tradition among Kent County’s African American population. Legacy Day provides an opportunity for all participants to have a great time recognizing their shared history through musical performances, a geneaology workshop and a virtual street party. Additional virtual events can be viewed via YouTube. Plan to join in-person in 2021.
Even though many events were postponed in 2020, a few have already been rescheduled and are planned for 2021. Be sure to mark your calendars, check Kent County’s website often, and plan a visit today.
