Tag: Gloucester Meetinghouse Foundation

Cape Ann Big Band

Posted on by Donna Ardizzoni

Thank you, Ashley Shedd, from the Gloucester Meetinghouse for this information.


Please join us Friday, September 5, from 6 to 8 pm, for the 2025 season’s final Music on Meetinghouse Green concert at the Gloucester Unitarian Universalist Church, at the corner of Middle and Church Streets, Gloucester, as we go out with a bang with the Cape Ann Big Band. This diverse 17-piece big band entertains and delights audiences with danceable music infused with jazz, swing, New Orleans Street bands, soul, and rock n’ roll that will take you back in time.

Food service for this event will be Meat & Sweet serving savory meat dishes and baked goods.

Our free summer concerts support partner local nonprofit organizations. This week, the Gloucester Meetinghouse Foundation itself will benefit from the free-will donations that support these partners, helping support preservation of this architectural and historic landmark. The evening also will include a 50/50 raffle as the Foundation celebrates the 10th anniversary of Music on Meetinghouse Green. Along with the nine-concert summer outdoor music series, The Meetinghouse year-around hosts public symposiums on contemporary concerns and offers a variety of concerts and other public programs. Information is on GMF’s website at http://www.gloucestermeetinghouse.org.

Please note that all events are rain or shine, with concerts being moved into the social hall if there is inclement weather!

Summer Concerts 2024

Posted on by Donna Ardizzoni

MUSIC ON MEETINGHOUSE GREEN, FRIDAY EVENINGS FROM 6-8:00PM, STARTS JULY 5TH

The ninth season of this free outdoor music festival opens on Friday July 5th with a greeting by Mayor Greg Verga.  The John Baboian Ensemble, from the Berklee School of Music, will be performing mellow Jazz favorites, Pathways for Children will receive free-will donations from the audience in support of their great work in early childhood education, and the Lobster Roller will be on hand offering delicious seafood and other delights.

Music on Meetinghouse Green is a beloved Gloucester tradition offering ten consecutive Friday- evening concerts this year through September 6th at the Gloucester Unitarian Universalist Church, located on the green at the corner of Middle and Church Street.  Please note: concerts are held ‘rain or shine,’ moving indoors to the Church social hall in case of inclement weather.

Each week the festival supports a different North Shore non-profit organization through free-will donations from the audience.  Please bring extra cash for when the buckets are passed.  Some chairs are provided but audience members are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs or blankets.  Limited parking near the Middle Street entrance to the green is available to HC plate cars only.  Picnicking with delicious local food and soft drinks from our vendors is a great dining option but you may bring your own food and libations.

FULL SUMMER SCHEDULE

July 5      music by the John Baboian Ensemble; donations to Pathways for Children; food by the Lobster Roller

July 12    music by The Headlands; donations to Backyard Growers; food by Markouk

July 19    music by the Rhiannon Hurst Quartet; donations to TownGreen; food by the Lobster Roller

July 26    music by the Alex Minasian Jazz Quartet; donations to The Open Door; food by Crepes du Jour

Aug 2      music by Dave Cabral Celtic Ensemble; donations to the NS Health Project; food by The   Causeway

Aug 9      music by Jim ‘n’ Tonic; donations to HAWC, food by the RheaPizzeria

Aug 16   music by Willie Alexander; donations to the Grace Center; food by the Lobster Roller

Aug 23   music by Hye Fusion; donations to Action, Inc.; food by Markouk

Aug 30   music by the Alek Razdan Ensemble; donations to the Wellspring House; food by Crepes du Jour

Sept 6     music by the Cape Ann Big Band; donations to GMF, food by The Causeway

 THANKS TO THE GLOUCESTER MEETINGHOUSE FOUNDATION SUMMER SPONSORS
100% of audience donations to go directly to our non-profit partners!

Titanium                Scobie Ward

Platinum               J.J. & Jackie Bell, Karen Bell, Cape Ann Savings Bank, Peter Calkins & Susan Casey, Linzee Coolidge

Gold                       BOMCO, Michael Bresnan & Mary-Ann Sherry, Patricia Roach & Rob Martin, Dr. David Rabin & Heather Atwood, Spittle Electric

Silver                      Ann Banks, Jonathan Golding & Sally Bradley-Golding, JoeAnn Hart & Gordon Baird, Charles Nazarian, Dick Prouty

Bronze                   Jerry Ackerman

For more information, a full schedule of upcoming concerts and events, and to sign up for the GMF newsletter please visit us at  www.gloucestermeetinghouse.org.

We are pleased to announce the ninth season of our free outdoor concert series, Music on Meetinghouse Green, opening this Friday July 5th with remarks by Mayor Greg Verga at 6:00pm.  Following tradition, the John Baboian Ensemble from the Berklee School of Music will be performing and the free-will donations from the audience will go to Pathways for Children for their extraordinary work in early childhood education.  The Lobster Roller will be on hand, offering delicious seafood for your picnicking delight.

Concerts are held on the green in front of the Gloucester Unitarian Universalist Church at the corner of Middle and Church Street. This first event will be held indoors, in the downstairs Church social hall, because the restoration of the green is behind schedule.  All events proceed rain or shine, going indoors if the weather is inclement.

The press release for the whole summer festival is attached, plus the poster and the two-sided season cards with the individual concert information.  Please share these through your media channels and encourage your subscribers to come out on Friday evenings for the great music, camaraderie, and to support Cape Ann non-profits.

Music on Meetinghouse Green runs every Friday evening at 6-8:00pm through September 6th.  Each one features a different musical ensemble and benefits a local non-profit organization through the donations from the audience.  100% of the donations go to the organizations thanks to the generosity of our sponsors, who pay all the festival expenses.  More information about the weekly concerts is available at:  www.gloucestermeetinghouse.org/summer-concerts

MUSIC ON MEETINGHOUSE GREEN, FRIDAY EVENINGS FROM 6-8:00PM, STARTS JULY 5TH

The ninth season of this free outdoor music festival opens on Friday July 5th with a greeting by Mayor Greg Verga.  The John Baboian Ensemble, from the Berklee School of Music, will be performing mellow Jazz favorites, Pathways for Children will receive free-will donations from the audience in support of their great work in early childhood education, and the Lobster Roller will be on hand offering delicious seafood and other delights.

Music on Meetinghouse Green is a beloved Gloucester tradition offering ten consecutive Friday- evening concerts this year through September 6th at the Gloucester Unitarian Universalist Church, located on the green at the corner of Middle and Church Street.  Please note: concerts are held ‘rain or shine,’ moving indoors to the Church social hall in case of inclement weather.

Each week the festival supports a different North Shore non-profit organization through free-will donations from the audience.  Please bring extra cash for when the buckets are passed.  Some chairs are provided but audience members are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs or blankets.  Limited parking near the Middle Street entrance to the green is available to HC plate cars only.  Picnicking with delicious local food and soft drinks from our vendors is a great dining option but you may bring your own food and libations.

FULL SUMMER SCHEDULE

July 5      music by the John Baboian Ensemble; donations to Pathways for Children; food by the Lobster Roller

July 12    music by The Headlands; donations to Backyard Growers; food by Markouk

July 19    music by the Rhiannon Hurst Quartet; donations to TownGreen; food by the Lobster Roller

July 26    music by the Alex Minasian Jazz Quartet; donations to The Open Door; food by Crepes du Jour

Aug 2      music by Dave Cabral Celtic Ensemble; donations to the NS Health Project; food by The   Causeway

Aug 9      music by Jim ‘n’ Tonic; donations to HAWC, food by the RheaPizzeria

Aug 16   music by Willie Alexander; donations to the Grace Center; food by the Lobster Roller

Aug 23   music by Hye Fusion; donations to Action, Inc.; food by Markouk

Aug 30   music by the Alek Razdan Ensemble; donations to the Wellspring House; food by Crepes du Jour

Sept 6     music by the Cape Ann Big Band; donations to GMF, food by The Causeway

 THANKS TO THE GLOUCESTER MEETINGHOUSE FOUNDATION SUMMER SPONSORS
100% of audience donations to go directly to our non-profit partners!

Titanium                Scobie Ward

Platinum               J.J. & Jackie Bell, Karen Bell, Cape Ann Savings Bank, Peter Calkins & Susan Casey, Linzee Coolidge

Gold                       BOMCO, Michael Bresnan & Mary-Ann Sherry, Patricia Roach & Rob Martin, Dr. David Rabin & Heather Atwood, Spittle Electric

Silver                      Ann Banks, Jonathan Golding & Sally Bradley-Golding, JoeAnn Hart & Gordon Baird, Charles Nazarian, Dick Prouty

Bronze                   Jerry Ackerman

 

For more information, a full schedule of upcoming concerts and events, and to sign up for the GMF newsletter please visit us at  www.gloucestermeetinghouse.org.

Gloucester Meetinghouse Foundation, Save the date

Posted on by Donna Ardizzoni

Thank you, Kathleen Williams, for sending me for Good Morning Gloucester.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 4, 2023

WRITER-PRODUCER HEATHER ATWOOD PRESENTS “THE COLOR OF LIGHT” VIDEOS ON LESSER-KNOWN CAPE ANN ARTISTS
The Gloucester Meetinghouse Foundation welcomes Heather Atwood on Sunday, April 23 at 3:30 pm in the historic 1806 Meetinghouse, corner of Middle and Church Streets, as she presents the stories of Cape Ann artists and their contribution to the vibrant artistic tradition of the region in a series of narrated videos. In collaboration with Cape Ann Cinema, Atwood’s videos will be projected upon a large screen inside the darkened Meetinghouse.

Artists have been coming to Cape Ann for more than 200 years inspired by its magical mix of rock, sea, and air. Of the hundreds of eminent painters, sculptors, and printmakers who have visited Cape Ann, moved here, or even grew up here, only a few are well known and most have received little recognition for their artistic contribution. Heather Atwood is changing that dynamic in a series of video presentations titled, The Color of Light. In these videos, Atwood tells the stories of some of Cape Ann’s most talented artists, some whose influence has been felt at the national level, but about whom little is known. By sharing these stories, Atwood seeks to demonstrate how rich and significant the Cape Ann artistic tradition has been, and continues today.

Heather Atwood is a producer for 1623 Studios, Cape Ann’s local access television station, where she is co-host for “Cape Ann Today.” She is well known for her exploration of Cape Ann’s local food traditions. For nearly ten years she profiled local growers, fishers, bakers, chefs, and homecooks through her “Food for Thought” column in the Gloucester Daily Times. Her cookbook, In Cod We Trust, celebrating the cuisine of coastal Massachusetts, was published by Globe Pequot Press in 2015. Her stories have appeared in Edible Boston, North Shore Magazine, and South Shore Magazine. In 2017, Atwood traveled the country combining politics and food in a podcast titled The Midterms Election Podcast.

Tickets are available online at www.gloucestermeetinghouse.org or at the door. General seating $25; students with ID $5; children under 12 free.

ABOUT THE GLOUCESTER MEETINGHOUSE FOUNDATION
Founded in 2015, the Gloucester Meetinghouse Foundation is dedicated to preserving the landmark building as a civic hub, entertainment venue, and community center. In addition to its work to preserve the historic 1806 Meetinghouse, GMF is currently raising funds to restore Meetinghouse Green. The GMF has received a $130,000 grant from the Community Preservation Act and a $2,000 grant from the Essex Heritage Partnership Grant Program towards a total project goal of $340,000. Construction is scheduled to begin in fall 2023.

For more information, a full schedule of upcoming concerts and events, and to sign up for the GMF newsletter, visit www.gloucestermeetinghouse.org.

We thank the sponsors of the Gloucester Meetinghouse Foundation’s 2022-2023 Autumn, Winter, Spring Concert and Event Series:
GUARANTOR: H. Woody Brock, Patricia Roach & Robert Martin, Scobie Ward
PLATINUM: Anonymous, Peter Calkins & Susan Casey, Linzee Coolidge
GOLD: J.J. & Jackie Bell, John & Janis Bell, Karen Bell, Cape Ann Savings Bank, Susan Gray, Andrew Spindler & Hiram Butler
SILVER: JoeAnn Hart & Gordon Baird, Charles Nazarian, Patricia Poore
BRONZE: Beth Graham & William Schulz, Sandra & John Ronan, Holly Tanguay, Sarah Willwerth-Dyer and Michael Dyer
SPECIAL THANKS: Massachusetts Cultural Council, Essex County Community Foundation

 

WHAT TIME IS IT MR FOX PERFORMS AT MUSIC ON MEETINGHOUSE GREEN ON FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2

Posted on by Donna Ardizzoni

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 23, 2022

WHAT TIME IS IT MR FOX PERFORMS AT MUSIC ON MEETINGHOUSE GREEN ON FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2
Singer/songwriter 3rian King and the musicians of What Time Is It Mr. Fox deliver an electrifying performance with an evening of smoky cabaret,
neo-soul, and acoustic noir at the corner of Middle and Church Streets at 6:00 p.m. NOTE: THIS CONCERT WAS RESCHEDULED FROM AUGUST 5.

Well known in Boston’s underground cabaret scene, What Time Is It Mr. Fox has earned a loyal following with frequent performances in New York City
and tours across the United States. Their original songs feature rich lyrical imagery that explore love, spirituality, sexuality, and identity, and their
performances are infused with energy, honesty, and emotional authenticity. Their unique brand of music and performance art has been adopted
by popular singers, filmmakers, and repertory theaters. Band members include: 3rian King, voice, piano, and acoustic guitar; Nathan Cohen, violin,
trumpet, voice; Dennis Monagle, drums; Renee Dupuis, voice, keys, and melodica; and Joe Cardoza, upright bass.

Your free-will donations will benefit the North Shore Health Project supporting the health and wellbeing of people living on the North Shore for
more than three decades. The evening’s food vendor is Chef Ross Franklin offering gourmet tacos and tater tots from his 5 Star Phresh-Phood Taco Truck.

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION
Now in its seventh season, Music on Meetinghouse Green features nine free Friday evening concerts from July 8 to September 9. Performances are held
on the Green with great music, favorite foods from local vendors, and a different North Shore non-profit organization benefits each week through free-will
donations from the audience. Concerts begin at 6:00 p.m. and conclude at 8:30 p.m. Some chairs will be provided and audience members are welcome to
bring their own lawn chairs or blankets. Picnic with delicious local food from our vendors or bring your own. Performances are handicapped accessible and
parking on the Green is limited to persons with disabilities.

ABOUT THE GLOUCESTER MEETINGHOUSE FOUNDATION
Founded in 2015, the Gloucester Meetinghouse Foundation is dedicated to preserving the landmark building as a civic hub, entertainment venue, and
community center. In addition to its work to preserve the historic 1806 Meetinghouse, GMF is currently raising funds to restore Meetinghouse Green.
The GMF has received a $130,000 grant from the Community Preservation Act and a $2,000 grant from the Essex Heritage Partnership Grant Program
towards a total project goal of $340,000. Construction is scheduled to begin in spring 2023.

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS
Thanks to our sponsors, many of whom have contributed since the series’ first year, all of the season’s expenses for musicians and logistics are fully paid
making it possible for 100% of audience donations to go directly to our non-profit partners.

PLATINUM: John and Janis Bell, J.J. and Jackie Bell, Karen Bell, Cape Ann Savings Bank, J. Linzee Coolidge, Scobie Ward, GOLD: BOMCO, Mary Hintlian,
Trish Roach and Rob Martin, Mary Weissblum, SILVER: JoeAnn Hart and Gordon Baird, Landesign, Susan Mckain and Ken Steiner, Charles Nazarian,
John and Sandra Ronan, BRONZE: Jerry Ackerman, Peter Calkins and Susan Casey, Jonathan Golding and Sally Bradley-Golding, Joe and Maggie Rosa,
Kathleen and Peter Van Demark, Kathleen Williams

For more information, a full schedule of upcoming concerts and events, and to sign up for the GMF newsletter, visit www.gloucestermeetinghouse.org.

Gloucester Meetinghouse Foundation

Posted on by Donna Ardizzoni

GLOUCESTER MEETINGHOUSE FOUNDATION, 10 Church Street, Gloucester, MA 01930

 PRESS RELEASE – For immediate release

“The Racial Climate in Gloucester: What Lies Ahead”

Is Topic for Martin Luther King Day Forum

Race relations in Gloucester, including findings of a new community survey, will be the focus when the Gloucester Meetinghouse Foundation conducts its annual observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, on Monday, January 17, 2022.Three local organizations have been invited to take part in a forum titled “The Racial Climate in Gloucester: What Lies Ahead,” beginning at 2 p.m. that day.

Because of continuing Covid-19 health concerns, the forum will be conducted virtually, via Zoom. Pre-registration will be required at www.gloucestermeetinghouse.org. Detailed information on how to then access this event from a home computer, smartphone or tablet, will be posted at the same website.

The keynote speaker will be Brian Saltsman, director of Student Diversity and Inclusion at Alfred University in upstate New York, a leading advocate of addressing community issues between dominant and marginalized racial, ethnic or economic sectors as allies, a process known as “allyship.”

The invited presenting organizations are:

  • The Gloucester Racial Justice Team, reporting on a survey that assessed how much people of color “feel like they have a sense of community and belong in the city, including how race and ethnicity play a role in their daily lives,” according to GRJT spokesperson Gaily Seavey.
  • The North Shore Branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) which most recently has focused on racism issues within Danvers High School athletic teams. A branch leader will discuss the North Shore branch’s activities across a region stretching from Lynn to New Hampshire.
  • The Diversity and Equity Committee of the Gloucester 400th Anniversary celebration, which is researching narrative stories that accurately depict racial and ethnic relationships since European settlement began displacing the native, indigenous Pennacook-Abenaki peoples. This will include years of slave ownership and maritime commerce in the global slave trade.

This is the sixth year of programs conducted by the Gloucester Meetinghouse Foundation that are focused on the legacy of the Reverend Martin Luther King, Jr. The Foundation is a nonsectarian, federally recognized nonprofit organization to promote preservation and active community use of the architecturally distinguished 1806 Meetinghouse on Middle Street, one block off Main Street in downtown Gloucester. The Meetinghouse is the home of the Gloucester Unitarian Universalist Church. Donations to GMF are tax-deductible to the extent of the law.

Music on Meetinghouse Green

Posted on by Donna Ardizzoni

PRESS RELEASE (for immediate release):

Music on Meetinghouse Green, Summer Music Festival 2021

The free outdoor concerts resume live on the Green at the corner of Middle and Church Street starting July 9th on Friday evenings at 6:00pm. Join us for the festival’s sixth season of great music, raising funds for Cape Ann non-profits via free-will offerings, and delicious food available from local vendors. Info: http://www.gloucestermeetinghouse.org

Description:

This unique free summer music festival features a different popular musical ensemble at each Friday evening concert on Meetinghouse Green and benefits nine North Shore non-profits via free-will offerings from the audience. Bring lawn chairs, blankets and your favorite libation to enjoy the music and delicious food available from local vendors while supporting the local non-profit partner of the event with cash or check donations.

Performers:

The season again opens with the acclaimed John Baboian Ensemble from the Berklee School in support of Pathways for Children. Concerts offer a delightful medley of Jazz, Punk, Rock-n Roll, and Oldies from the 50s to the 70s. Some of this season’s offerings include:  What Time Is it Mr. Fox? with Brian King; singer Mari Martin; Willie Alexander’s Persistence of Memory Orchestra; The Goddesses; and The Cape Ann Big Band. The Middle Eastern group, Hye Fusion, returns with music ideal for line dancing and there are two newcomer ensembles to delight music-lovers: the internationally-acclaimed Klezmer band, Ezekiel’s Wheels and Vermont lyrical Folk duo, The Early Risers.

 

Schedule:

DATE MUSICIANS NON-PROFIT PARTNER FOOD VENDOR
July 9 John Baboian Ensemble Pathways for Children Causeway
July 16 The Early Risers Backyard Growers Common Crow
July 23 Hye Fusion Maritime Gloucester Classic Cooks
July 30 The Goddesses Open Door Jalapeno’s
August 6 What Time Is It Mr. Fox? North Shore Health Project Maria’s Pizza
August 13 Mari Martin HAWC Jalapeno’s
August 20 Ezekiel’s Wheels Grace Center TBD
August 27 Willie Alexander’s Persistence of Memory Orchestra Gloucester Education Foundation TBD
September 10 Cape Ann Big Band Gloucester Meetinghouse Foundation Causeway

 

Location, Time and More Info:

The Green in front of the Gloucester Meetinghouse is located at the intersection of Middle and Church Street. The program starts at 6:00PM and concludes around 8:30PM. Please consult www.gloucestermeetinghouse.org  for more information about the performers, non-profits and food vendors. Sign up for our email blasts to stay current, especially for contingency plans in case of bad weather. Note: parking on the Green is limited to a small area near Middle Street for persons with disabilities only.

Sponsors

Thanks to our Sponsors all the series’ expenses, such as for the musicians, are pre-paid. 100% of the free-will donations go to our non-profit community partners.

Platinum          John & Janis Bell, J.J. & Jackie Bell, Cape Ann Savings Bank, J. Linzee Coolidge, Scobie Ward

Gold                 BOMCO, Michael & Mary Ann Bresnan, Landesign, Inc.

Silver               Anonymous, Tom Burger & Andrée Robert, JoeAnn Hart & Gordon Baird, Pat Johnson & Jeff Henderson, Susan McKain & Ken Steiner, Charles Nazarian, John & Sandra Ronan

Bronze             Jerry Ackerman, Karen Bell, Pamela Bynum & Henry Ferrara, Peter Calkins & Susan Casey, Frederick Cowan, Richard Gardner, Rev. Janet Parsons, Dick Prouty, Joe & Maggie Rosa, Kathleen Williams, Sarah Willwerth-Dyer

Restoration of the Green Coming Up Soon!

After many years of neglect Meetinghouse Green is in need of a thorough restoration. Last year, summer series virtual audiences contributed $7,500 towards a Feasibility Study by the firm Landesign, Inc. to improve accessibility and enhance safety. The GMF is currently seeking large government and foundation grants plus individual donations to fund this over $200K project, slated to begin this fall and be completed in time for the 2022 summer series.

About the GMF

The Gloucester Meetinghouse Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit modeled upon the Old North Foundation in relation to Boston’s famous Old North Church.  Its mission is to preserve the landmark building as a civic hub, entertainment venue, and community center. The ongoing preservation of the building seeks to combine the highest standard of restoration with energy conservation techniques and has achieved a ‘net-zero’ building carbon footprint with the help of Reforest the Tropics and its climate-change initiative TownGreen/2025.

Building History and the Gloucester Meetinghouse Foundation

Completed in 1806 for the first Universalist Church in America, the grand Federal Style, 600-seat Meetinghouse with a 110’ lantern steeple and Paul Revere Bell is a jewel in the heart of the Historic District. Now well into its third century serving the people of Cape Ann, its history is steeped in the establishment of religious freedom in Massachusetts and the Constitutional separation of church and state. Home of the present-day Gloucester Unitarian Universalist Church and host to The Grace Center, the building is alive with activities like concerts, family-friendly entertainment, events, symposia and civic celebrations.

 

 

 

 

Gloucester Meetinghouse

Posted on by Donna Ardizzoni

1)  On Saturday, February 16th the Gloucester Meetinghouse Foundation presents a Free Family Movie Day at the Cape Ann Community Cinema from 10:00am to 4:00pm with games, prizes, face-painting and a pizza lunch.  There are two feature movies, the animation thriller ‘Spider-Man, Into the Spider-Verse’ at 11:30am and the hilarious Disney sequel ‘Wreck-It Ralph 2’ at 2:00pm.  The fun starts with refreshments and making decorated indoor snowmen from white socks at 10:00am.  Community partners Maritime Gloucester and Pathways for Children will participate with presentations, displays and program information. The movies and activities are best-suited for kids 6-12 years old.  Admission is free for children and their parents or adult guardians (no drop-offs please) thanks to the sponsors of the Gloucester Meetinghouse Foundation 2018-19 Winter Series as a special mid-winter treat.  Free-will donations to Pathways for Children to support their terrific early education programs are encouraged.  Popcorn with additional treats and refreshments will be available at the theater counter all day.  At 4:00pm we will take a short walk up to visit the historic (1806) Gloucester Meetinghouse for a brief educational tour, demonstration of the pipe-organ, and ringing of the Paul Revere bell. The Cape Ann Community Cinema is located above Mystery Train at 21 Main Street.  More information at gloucestermeetinghouse.org

(2)   On Saturday, March 2nd at 3:30pm the Gloucester Meetinghouse Foundation will host a concert by the Albany Pro Musica with Camerata Coral from Puerto Rico in a choral program called ‘The Americas, Land of Many Cultures.’ Making their first appearance in Massachusetts, the combined choral groups of Albany Pro Musica and Camerata Coral will present a stirring and inspirational concert in Spanish as well as English with distinctive harmonies and thrilling rhythms that will transport you in a journey celebrating the diversity, multiculturalism, inclusiveness, and acceptance: the values that hold the Americas strong. The program will consist of carefully selected works from the best contemporary composers in the western hemisphere. With the ravages of hurricanes and political discord that afflicts all countries in our hemisphere, this concert provides the beauty of classical choral music that can overcome turmoil, warm the heart, and provide hope.  Tickets: $45 Preferred seats, $30 General, $10 Students, Under 12 free (note: no one turned away for lack of funds) available at the door and on-line.  The Gloucester Meetinghouse is located on the green at the corner of Middle and Church Streets with accessible side entrance at #10 Church Street.  More information and advance ticket purchases at gloucestermeetinghouse.org

Charles L. Nazarian, president

Gloucester Meetinghouse Foundation

10  Church

Street
Gloucester, MA 01930

cell: 978-821-5291

TODAY: GMF’s Martin Luther King Day Celebration 2019 is ON and here’s the program!

Posted on by Catherine

GMF MLK 2019.jpg

Update from the Gloucester Meetinghouse Foundation:

2PM It’s on but use caution!

We regret that Meetinghouse Green is now frozen over solid and is not safe for parking or walking, so allow time to find on-street parking or use one of the lots in the Historic District.  The front steps will be clear and sanded but please exercise extra caution when coming up from Church Street.  You are also welcome to use the side entrance instead, close to the intersection of Church and Pine Streets, where there is an interior staircase and an elevator.

The 2019 GMF Martin Luther King Day Celebration event is in four segments separated by breaks with refreshments.  You are welcome to attend part or all of the Program:

SCHEDULE

  • 2:00-2:15 Introduction: ‘Why Are We Here? Sandra Ronan
  • 2:15-2:45 ‘Shadowed Lives,’ Effects of Slavery on Cape Ann Stephanie Buck
  • 2:45-3:00 Break with Refreshments 
  • 3:05-3:50 The Honorable Seth Moulton United States Representative, Massachusetts 6th Congressional District
  • 3:05-3:50 Alvin Foster and his band Soul Eclectic, music that underpinned Black people’s courage to be happy and celebrate life, love, spirituality and growth in the face of racism
  • 3:50-4:00 Break with Refreshments
  • 4:00-5:00 Keynote Speaker: Clennon L. King, ‘MLK’S Boston Years’ The award-winning documentary filmmaker and journalist Clennon L. King will present a slideshow, focusing on the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s movements in Boston and New England, from the fall of 1951 to the spring of 1954, to be followed by Q&A with the audience
  • 5:00-5:15 Break with Refreshments
  • 5:15-6:00 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. “I’ve Been to the Mountaintop” speech accompanied by a slide show of period and present-day images
  • Conclusion Audience invited to join in ringing the Paul Revere Bell for freedom

This free annual civic event is hosted by the Gloucester Meetinghouse Foundation. GMF mugs, caps, totes, shirts, and memberships are available along with refreshments all through the afternoon and your support is greatly appreciated.
Gloucester Meetinghouse Foundation

Front stairs open but approach is icy. Approach from side entrance. Many have suggested a temporary winter ice skating rink on this glorious spot but not in this way.

 

 

‘Christmas with the Bach Family’ magical Musicians of the Old Post Road with opera soloists coming to Gloucester Meetinghouse UU Church

Posted on by Catherine

GLOUCESTER MEETINGHOUSE FOUNDATION presents The Musicians of the Old Post Road ‘Christmas with the Bach Family’ Friday, December 14, 2018, 7:30pm Corner of Middle & Church Street, Gloucester, MA

Christmas Bach Concert Poster, GMF 12-14-18.jpg

Press release from the Gloucester Meetinghouse: Continue reading “‘Christmas with the Bach Family’ magical Musicians of the Old Post Road with opera soloists coming to Gloucester Meetinghouse UU Church” →

First Gloucester Invitational, a classic car show hosted buy the Gloucester Meetinghouse Foundation, has been moved to our rain date: Sunday, October 14th.

Posted on by Donna Ardizzoni

Hi All:

Due to predicted rainy weather on Saturday the first Gloucester Invitational, a classic car show hosted by the Gloucester Meetinghouse Foundation, has been moved to our rain date:  Sunday, October 14th.

Please note the time of the show on Sunday:  from 1:00 to 5:00pm.

Set-up and car arrival on the green is between noon-1:00pm. The Sunday show retains the same festivities:  live Dixieland music by ‘John’s Giddy Gang,’  delicious chowders and lobster rolls by the Causeway Restaurant, and hourly tours of the historic Meetinghouse with a demonstration piece on the 1893 pipe-organ.

Trophies in 9 categories based upon the audience voting will be given out in an award ceremony at 4:30pm.

Please help us to get the word out in any way you can.

Thanks,

Charles L. Nazarian, president

Gloucester Meetinghouse Foundation

 

10  Church

Street
Gloucester, MA 01930

cell: 978-821-5291

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Classic Cars on the Green Oct 13

Posted on by Catherine

Gloucester Meetinghouse Invitational, October 13th, car show to benefit Meetinghouse renovation

The opening event in the Gloucester Meetinghouse Foundation’s 2018-19 Concert & Lecture Series is a vintage car show, to be held on the green at the corner of Church and Middle Street from 10:00am to 2:00pm on Saturday, October 13th.  The event is free to the public but a $5 donation per adult is requested.

A set of over 30 very special classic cars will be on display!

This event will be the first annual classic car show displaying vintage or significant cars owned by North Shore collectors to benefit the ongoing restoration of the historic 1806 Meetinghouse as a civic hub, entertainment venue and community center by the Gloucester Meetinghouse Foundation.

It’s a competition! Vote for your favorites!

The audience will judge the cars in 9 categories, including Best in Show. The event will conclude with trophies given to the winners in an awards ceremony.
PRIZE CATEGORIES
1 FIRST PRIZE Best in Show, the People’s Choice
2 ELEGANCE The most elegant car
3 LUXURY The car with the most luxurious interior
4 GRAND TOURING The best road-trip car
5 SPORT The best racing car
6 OSTENTATIOUS The showiest car
7 PRACTICAL The most useful vehicle
8 BEAUTIFUL The car with the best styled exterior
9 DELIGHTFUL The most fun to drive

Hourly tours of the Meetinghouse

will include a performance on the historic 1893 Hutchings pipe organ. Food and beverages will be available. A Dixieland band, ‘John’s Giddy Gang,’ will perform on the Meetinghouse steps.

Car owners are asked to pre-register at info@gloucestermeeinghouse.com with a suggested contribution of $25. For more information please see:  www.gloucestermeetinghouse.org

gmf Car Show 2018, FINAL POSTER

Gloucester Meetinghouse UU symposium- Finding Common Ground: American Culture, Gun Violence, 2nd Amendment

Posted on by Catherine

commonground2018f

press release shared with GMG:

Upcoming symposium hosted by Gloucester Meetinghouse foundation at historic Gloucester UU  Church (Gloucester Unitarian Universalist Church) May 19, 2018 FINDING COMMON GROUND: A SYMPOSIUM ON AMERICAN CULTURE, GUN VIOLENCE AND THE SECOND AMENDMENT

SATURDAY, MAY 19, FROM 2 TO 6 P.M., AT THE GLOUCESTER MEETINGHOUSE

Spurred by national concern about mass shootings, a symposium in Gloucester on Saturday, May 19, will put a fresh focus on gun violence, examining both the intent and application of the Second Amendment and the differences among us that led to an impasse in addressing the problem. The afternoon program, at the Gloucester Unitarian Universalist Church, is sponsored by the Gloucester Meetinghouse Foundation. It will include:

  • Students from Gloucester High School speaking about the growing youth movement against gun violence;
  • A presentation by former Essex County District Attorney Kevin Burke on issues surrounding the intent of the Second Amendment’s language on the right to bear arms and its application today;
  • Remarks by Mark Nestor, a Vietnam veteran who as commander of Gloucester’s American Legion Post 3 oversaw a unanimous vote by Post members favoring tighter regulation of firearms;
  • Discussion by Cape Ann clergy on the moral imperative for action with diverse approaches;
  • A panel discussion that will include John Rosenthal, a Boston businessman and Gloucester resident whose national organization, Stop Handgun Violence, campaigns to reduce firearms deaths.

The keynote speaker is Colin Woodard, author of “American Nations: A History of the Eleven Rival Regional Cultures of North America.” The Washington Post described this book as “a compelling and informative attempt to make sense of the regional divides in North America in general and this country in particular.” MaineBusiness.com said it “explodes the red state-blue state myth” and describes how conflicts between cultures “have shaped our country’s past and mold its future.”

This symposium is occurring as our country experiences outrage over the Parkland, Florida, high school shooting and a powerful new youth movement is taking shape with the intent to make sure it never happens again. Gloucester Meetinghouse Foundation vice president Sandra Ronan describes it as “an event to help restore civic dialogue by seeking common ground on an emotional and difficult subject.” Richard Prouty, a lifelong educator and former director of Project Adventure in Beverly, will be moderator.

The program begins at 2 p.m., is separated into four segments with 15-minute breaks, and will conclude at 6 p.m. with a ceremonial ringing of the church’s Paul Revere bell, for freedom. The community is welcome to attend all, or only some, of the segments. Written questions will be welcomed and reviewed for replies from the panel in the final segment.

The program is free with voluntary donations invited. Refreshments will be available. The event is part of the Meetinghouse Foundation’s 2017-18 Concert & Lecture Series. The nonprofit, IRS-recognized Foundation was founded to help preserve and increase public use of the 212-year-old Meetinghouse. The structure is listed in the National Register of Historic Places and the church founders are recognized for their role in establishing religious freedom in Massachusetts, well before that guarantee was made in the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

            The Meetinghouse is located at the corner of Middle and Church Streets in downtown Gloucester and has easy access for persons with disabilities at the side entrance at 10 Church Street. Parking is available on the Meetinghouse Green, in lots nearby in the Central Gloucester Historic District, and at St. Peter’s Square.

continue to read fact sheet schedule

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Gloucester portion of Massachusetts 2017 $9,000,000 arts funding celebrates Paul Manship and…

Posted on by Catherine
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Sculpture Garden outside Paul Manship residence/studio Lanesville village of Gloucester, MA  (photo taken after 1943 when he bought 14 acres abandoned quarry)

How did Gloucester stack up? $375,500

From the release (May 18, 2017 – New Bedford, MA) – 

“The Baker-Polito Administration and Massachusetts Cultural Council today announced $9.3 million in new awards from Massachusetts Cultural Facilities Fund (CFF), celebrating over $100 million in total cultural sector investments since the fund was established ten years ago. An additional $10 million in funding was included in the Baker-Polito Administration’s Fiscal Year 2018 Capital Budget Plan released last week…Over $100 million in CFF awards since 2007 have supported 772 building projects in the nonprofit arts, sciences and humanities, with total development costs of $2.6 billion, driving cultural tourism, job growth, and community vitality in cities and towns across Massachusetts. Over ten years CFF-funded projects have supported 8,512 full time jobs and $492 million in wages, employed 23,778 architects, engineers, contractors, and construction workers, and created 2,092 new permanent jobs…The new round of awards today includes 61 capital grants totaling about $8.9 million and another 18 planning grants totaling nearly $400,000. Grants range from $7,000 to $300,000, and must be matched one-to-one from private and/or other public sources. Learn more about the CFF.”

Scroll on to see the state’s Cultural Facilities Funding (CFF) totaling $367,000 plus Massachusetts Cultural Council (MCC) totaling $8500 breakdown for Gloucester.  Along with the categories below and others, make sure and think about next year’s application categories including the new festival grant category OPEN NOW.

MCC ARTIST FELLOWSHIP -$0

MCC BIG YELLOW SCHOOL BUS  – $400

O’Maley and Veterans $200 each for an educational field trip

CULTURAL FACILITIES FUND (CFF) – $367,000

Driven by the Boston Foundation, MA Advocates for the Arts, Sciences and Humanities (MAASH), the MCC and others after many years, this big pot that funds so many projects was part of legislation passed back in July of 2006. Complete list of the winners announced May 18, 2017. Gloucester received 3 awards:

UU is MA cultural facilities fundGloucester Meetinghouse Foundation, Gloucester
Project: Fire Safety and Detection Systems
Grant: $130,000
About the Facility: The Federal Style edifice, completed in 1806, is the largest, oldest and last remaining historic Meetinghouse in Gloucester. It serves as a welcoming civic center, distinguished concert hall and hub for community events. About this Project: The Cultural Facilities Fund awarded the Gloucester Meetinghouse Foundation $130,000 for the installation of a comprehensive fire-sprinkler system, fire-proof insulation and new detection systems.

SAAM-J0085221SAAM-J0085220 (1)Manship Artist and Residence Studios (MARS)Gloucester
Project: Acquisition and Establishment of New Artist Residency
Grant: $207,000
About the Facility: Manship Artist and Residence Studios will preserve a local treasure with national significance and continue the legacy of Cape Ann’s historic community of artists by establishing an artist residency program at the renovated 15+ acre property of sculptor Paul Manship. About the Project: The Cultural Facilities Fund awarded Manship Artist and Residence Studios $207,000 to purchase the Manship property in Gloucester, which will be transformed into an artist educational facility and gallery place. In 2016, MARS received $30,000 to conduct a feasibility study for the renovation of the Manship property as an arts and culture center with an artist residency program.

Cape Ann Museum, Gloucester
Grant: $30,000 Feasibility & Technical Assistance Grants
About this Project: The Cultural Facilities Fund awarded the Cape Ann Museum $30,000 for architectural studies and strategic planning assistance to explore expansion and facility improvements, informed by programmatic need and a 2016 Systems Replacement Plan.

MCC CULTURAL INVESTMENT PORTFOLIO- $0

MCC JOHN AND ABIGAIL ADAMS ART PROGRAM – $0

FESTIVALS PROGRAM– $500

St Peter’s Fiesta

–NEW GRANT OPEN–Festivals Taking Place September 1, 2017 – February 28, 2018
Online application available: June 2017
Preliminary funding decisions begin: September 1, 2017
Application deadline: September 15, 2017 at 5 PM (ET)
Grants announced: October 2017

MCC LOCAL CULTURAL COUNCIL (LCC)-  $7600

Allocation Gloucester $7,600 Thanks LCC volunteers on the committee for processing the applications every year

Alicia Quintano, Lucille LePage and

2017 / 2016

$911 / $450
Cape Ann Shakespeare Troupe $295 / $348
Cape Ann Symphony $200
Community Band, Cape Ann $500
DiPrima, Jay $300 / $250
East Gloucester Elementary School PTO $500 / $300
Ethnic Arts Center $400 / $400
Gloucester Lyceum & Sawyer Free Library $500 (1 grant) / $964 (2 grants)
Gloucester Writers Center $300
Mark Chester Diversity Project and MIRA Coalition, a 501(c)3 $300
Mass Audubon Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary $200
Northeast MA Youth Orchestras, Inc. $500
Rockport Music $250 / $400
Sarah Slifer Swift $400 / $400
Sheehan, Rose $960 / $500
Sheehan, Rose $800 / $450
Sheehan, Rose $800
Summer Concert Series, Antonio Gentile Bandstand $500
Wendy Manninen, Vicki Marsh & $400 / $300
Windhover Foundation $500 / $700

LAST YEAR’S GMG POST: 2016 THE ENVELOPE, PLEASE! NEARLY $310,000 GLOUCESTER PIECE OF MA’S ART FUNDING PIE *some of the grants announced in 2016 span more than one year (if they were listed last year I did not repeat them into this year)

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Paul Manship Gloucester property

GMG Post- Gloucester at the MET Paul Manship Three Bears, Anna Hyatt Huntington…

2016 Summer Concert Series ‘Music on Meetinghouse Green’

Posted on by Vickie & Peter

Postcard Face, 2016 Meetinghouse Summer Series-finalThe Gloucester Meetinghouse Foundation presents a series of 9 free concerts on Meetinghouse Green, corner of Church and Middle St., Gloucester, from July 8 to September 2, 2016.  The family-friendly concerts begin at 6 pm.  Bring a picnic, folding chairs or blankets.  In case of rain, the events will take place inside the Meetinghouse (no food or drink.)  The public is invite
d to make free-will donations to Cape Ann non-profit organizations partnered with each concert (bring cash/check!)  Parking is available next door at St John’s Church.

 

The concert schedule and non-profit partners:

 

July 8    Berklee Jazz Quintet & Linda Amero to benefit Pathways for Children

July 15  Ken Steiner Presents the Music of New Orleans to benefit Gloucester Stage Company

July 22  Peter Souza, 3 Sheets to the Wind to benefit Schooner Adventure

July 29  Northshoremen, Barbershop Chorus to benefit The Kestrel Educational Adventures

Aug 5    Willie Alexander and the Raztones to benefit Opioid Angel Program

Aug 12  Dory Mates + Brian King  & Nathan Cohen to benefit Gloucester Writers Center

Aug 19  The Milkhouse Heaters, Vermont to benefit The Grace Center

Sep 2      Cape Ann Big Band (Ensemble) to benefit GMF Fire-Sprinkler Project

Poster, 2016 Meetinghouse Summer Series-final

The Gloucester Meetinghouse Foundation’s mission is to preserve the City’s oldest church building (1806), centerpiece of the Historic District on the National Register, and to expand its non-religious use as a civic hub, entertainment venue and community center.