Island’s Classical Concert Series To Begin July 17

Free Shows To Offer Diverse Musical Experiences

By Leslie Rott

For those looking for a relaxing activity during the hot days of summer, the Mackinac Island Community Foundation, in collaboration with the Mackinac Arts Council, will hold a classical concert series in July and August.

The concert series will begin July 17 and feature a flute, harp, and bass trio. The group, including Tess Miller, Sylvia Norris, and Melissa Straus, will play French music and the concert will be held at Ste. Anne’s Church at 1 p.m.

On July 31, the duo “Folias,” will play Argentinian folk music. “Folias” is a husband and wife duo comprised of Andrew Bergeron on guitar and Carmen Maret on flute. The concert will be held at Ste. Anne’s Church at 2 p.m.

The “London Trio” will play at the Mackinac Island Public Library at 2 p.m. on August 7. The “London Trio” includes Tess Miller and Mary Procopio, both playing flute, and Melissa Straus playing bass.

On August 14, a steel drum band will play at Marquette Park at 2 p.m. The steel drum band is led by Ethnomusicologist Marie Kujenga.

Tentative for August 28 is “Beaumont Brass,” a faculty ensemble from Michigan State University that is scheduled to play at Ste. Anne’s Church at 2 p.m.

The idea for the series came about in May, when Melissa Straus and Tess Miller performed classical music at the Mackinac Island Public Library.

“You are going to be able to experience all different types of music,” said Jennifer Bloswick, Community Foundation director, which she hopes will attract both children and adults, locals and tourists.

Dr. Straus said that it made sense for her and Dr. Miller to recruit musicians to play for the classical concert series, since they are both professional musicians and they know many other musicians. They are both summer residents on the Island. The classical concert series, Dr. Straus added, will “create opportunities for people to hear classical music” on the Island.

Mrs. Bloswick added that it is a great opportunity for the community and that when such opportunities arise, the Community Foundation has a “responsibility to make it happen.”

All concerts are free, with a suggested donation to support the Community Foundation, and are open to the public.