Downtown Worcester

FREE Brown Bag Concert featuring the Armen Donelian Trio
2022-06-15 00:00 - 23:59 (America/New_York)
Join us for a complimentary lunchtime Brown Bag Concert featuring the Armen Donelian Trio!

Armen Donelian
…Brings a serene sense of dignity and elegance to every measure. (Berkshire Eagle)
…But don’t underestimate his ability to swing hard and throw punches. (Phildelphia Weekly)
In 25 countries throughout the Americas, Europe, Asia, the Middle and Far East, ARMEN DONELIAN has performed and recorded since 1975 as a featured solo pianist, bandleader, and with Jazz legends including Sonny Rollins, Chet Baker, Paquito D’Rivera, Mongo Santamaria, David Liebman and Billy Harper.
A pianist with a crystalline touch but a penchant for avant gardism (New York Times), Armen Donelian has performed in the Bilsak, Burlington, Caramoor, Cinco de Mayo, Hennessey, Istanbul, Jacksonville, Jazz Jamboree, Jerusalem, Montreal, Nemu-no Sato, Oshanitsky, Ottawa, Pori, Portsmouth, Toronto Harbourfront, Tucson, Veneto and Yerevan Jazz Festivals.
A poetic composer (Swing Journal) of 100 works, Armen Donelian has produced 14 critically acclaimed recordings backed by top-shelf New York artists including Eddie Gomez, Billy Hart, Jay Anderson, Bill Stewart, Dick Oatts, Dean Johnson, Marc Mommaas, Tyshawn Sorey and
Dennis Mackrel. In his 2014 two-CD release Sayat-Nova: Songs Of My Ancestors (Sunnyside), with David Clark and George Schuller, Donelian transforms 18th Century Armenian folk songs into Jazz masterpieces with Countless exquisite moments (Downbeat).
Armen Donelian is a six-time Jazz Performance Fellow of the National Endowment for the Arts for concerts and master classes in New York City, and a Fulbright Senior Scholar and Specialist in Armenia, Finland, Greece Sweden, Switzerland and Romania. A faculty member at New School Jazz (1986-present) and William Paterson University (1993-2017), he has lectured in Athens, Bucharest, Corfu, Copenhagen, Gothenberg, Graz, The Hague, Helsinki, Iasi, Jyväskylä, Lisbon, Malmö, Paris, St. Petersburg, Tblisi, Vienna, Yerevan and Zurich.
Armen Donelian has published Training The Ear Vols. 1 & 2, Whole Notes: A Piano Masterclass and Ancestral Songs. A graduate of Columbia University (1972), Donelian studied privately with Carl Bamberger (conducting), Ludmila Ulehla (harmonic analysis), Harold Seletsky (Schoenberg theory and counterpoint) and Richie Beirach (jazz piano). www.armendonelian.com

Armen Donelian Trio Musicians
Armen Donelian, piano
David Clark, bass
George Schuller, drums

Youth Orchestra of San Antonio
2022-06-19 00:00 - 23:59
The Youth Orchestra of San Antonio performs at Mechanics Hall while on their New England Tour
The mission of Youth Orchestras of San Antonio, the premier orchestral experience for youth citywide, is to enhance education, enrich the community, and transform lives by pursuing excellence in classical music in a stimulating, nurturing, and fun environment that is equally accessible to all youth.
YOSA provides young musicians of all backgrounds the opportunity to play music together so they can learn, grow, and thrive while connecting with the community. YOSA changes kids’ lives through music. We provide transformative music experiences to more than 2,500 young musicians ages 8-20 through YOSA Orchestras, YOSA Summer Symphony Camp, and YOSA School Partnerships. YOSA connects motivated young musicians together and provides a world-class experience that helps youth grow creatively, academically, and socially.
YOSA envisions a community where all musically-inclined youth in San Antonio have a chance to pursue their interests and maximize their potential. YOSA seeks ways to remove financial and social barriers to high-quality music education and designs its activities around this purpose.

Gordon Lightfoot
2022-06-24 00:00 - 23:59
"I can't think of any Gordon Lightfoot song I don't like. Every time I hear a song of his, I wish it would last forever. " – Bob Dylan
"Gordon Lightfoot has created some of the most beautiful and lasting music of our time." – Kris Kristofferson
After more than 50 active years of hit song making and international album sales well into the multi-millions, it's safe to say that esteemed singer-songwriter and musician Gordon Lightfoot resides with some very exclusive company atop the list of all-time greats. Lightfoot has recorded 20 albums, has five Grammy nominations and is a member of the Songwriters Hall of Fame. His song catalog is incredibly vast and includes such immortals as “Early Morning Rain,” “If You Could Read My Mind,” “Carefree Highway,” “Sundown,” “(That's What You Get) For Lovin Me,” “The Wreck Of The Edmund Fitzgerald," "Canadian Railroad Trilogy," "Ribbon Of Darkness," "Beautiful," "Song For A Winter's Night" and "Rainy Day People.”
Aside from his success in writing, singing and performing his own songs, Lightfoot has found fortune in having his songs recorded and performed by other great artists including Bob Dylan, Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Hank Williams, Jr., Jerry Lee Lewis, Judy Collins, Johnny Mathis, Olivia Newton-John, Barbra Streisand, Peter Paul & Mary and more.
Tickets are $44, $59, $74 and $89 depending on seat location. For more information, call the box office at 877.571.SHOW (7469).

Menopause The Musical®
2022-06-25 19:30 - 23:59
The Hilarious Celebration of Women and the Change!®
Come join our sisterhood!
Four women at a lingerie sale have nothing in common but a black lace bra AND memory loss, hot flashes, night sweats, not enough sex, too much sex and more! This hilarious musical parody set to classic tunes from the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s will have you cheering and dancing in the aisles! See what more than 15 million women and fans worldwide have been laughing about for 18 years.

Recommended for ages 14+.
Tickets are $29, $39 and $49 depending on seat location. Discounts are available for members and groups of 10 or more. For more information, call the box office at 877.571.SHOW (7469).

John Philip Sousa National Honor Band NE Region Concert
2022-06-29 00:00 - 23:59
Fun Fact: The 2022 Band consists of 90 students from 25 states!
About the John Philip Sousa National High School Honor Band:
The John Philip Sousa National High School Honor Band was formed in 1981 and met biannually for over twenty years under the direction of Col. John R. Bourgeois, former conductor of “The President’s Own” United States Marine Band of Washington, D.C. The group met for many years in Washington, D.C. and also in New Orleans, Louisiana. It met most recently in Boston, Massachusetts, presenting a concert in historical Fanueil Hall under the director of Col. Jason Fettig, the present conductor of the United States Marine Band. The members of the Board of Directors of the John Philip Sousa Foundation are pleased to be able to offer the event once again. Students who were in grades 9 – 12 in September of 2021 from all fifty states and territories of the United States of America were invited to audition for this 2022 Sousa Honor Band.
Concert Program:
Who's Who in Navy Blue- John Philip Sousa
Firefly – Ryan George
Irish Tune from County Derry – Percy Aldridge Grainger
Four Scottish Dances – Malcolm Arnold (trans. John P. Paynter)
America, The Beautiful – Samuel Ward (arr. Carmen Dragon)
Frank L. Battisti – Guest Conductor
Hymn for the Innocent – Julie Giroux
Conga del Fuego Nuevo – Arturo Marquez (arr. Nicel)
The Stars and Stripes Forever – John Philip Sousa

2022 John Philip Sousa National High School Honor Band
2022-06-29 00:00 - 23:59
The John Philip Sousa Foundation is proud to be the sponsor of a very special event occurring June 29, 2022 in Worcester, Massachusetts – The John Philip Sousa National High School Honor Band. This group will be performing in historic Mechanics Hall in Worcester on Wednesday, June 29, 2022 at 7pm and will consist of over 90 high school students selected, by audition, from across the country. The band is being conducted by Colonel Michael J. Colburn, former Director of the “The President’s Own” United States Marine Band. Mechanics Hall was the site of at least 27 performances by the original Sousa Band conducted by John Philip Sousa himself. The Sousa National High School Honor Band was formed in 1981 and met biannually for over twenty years under the direction of Col. John R. Bourgeois, former conductor of “The President’s Own” United States Marine Band of Washington, D.C. It met most recently in 2018 in Boston, presenting a concert in historical Fanueil Hall under the Marine Band’s present director, Col. Jason Fettig.

Music Worcester Presents: Wynton Marsalis
2022-07-08 00:00 - 23:59
Wynton Marsalis has been described as the most outstanding jazz musician and trumpeter of his generation, as one of the world’s top classical trumpeters, as a big band leader in the tradition of Duke Ellington, a brilliant composer, a devoted advocate for the Arts and a tireless and inspiring educator. He carries these distinctions well. His life is a portrait of discipline, dedication, sacrifice, and creative accomplishment.
His septet will perform at The Hanover Theatre in Worcester, MA on July 8 at 8PM.

Music Worcester Presents: Tony DeSare's "Sinatra and Beyond"
2022-07-14 00:00 - 23:59
From jazz clubs to Carnegie Hall to Las Vegas headlining with Don Rickles and major symphony orchestras, Tony DeSare has brought his fresh take on old school class around the globe. DeSare has three top ten Billboard jazz albums under his belt and has been featured on the CBS Early Show, NPR, A Prairie Home Companion, the Today Show and his music has been posted by social media celebrity juggernaut, George Takei.
DeSare's "Sinatra and Beyond" program comes to historic Mechanics Hall on Thursday, July 14 at 7:30 PM.

Her Name Is America
2022-07-23 00:00 - 23:59
Worcester's Youth Poet Laureate, Adael Mejia, teams up with long-time friend, Jayson Dominguez, to bring a fresh form of theater! Experience this 21st century operatic rhapsody told through performance and synesthesia in art.
Relive the nostalgia through the eyes of an orphan being raised by his abuela. Adael named this play "Her Name Is America" after his grandmother, America Cepeda.
See a mural that runs across the PopUp wall and an art exhibit created by 4 independent female artists, displayed for public viewing in the PopUp.
Make sure to stop by for food and drinks brought to you by authentic tastes of Worcester.

FREE Organ Concert featuring Stefan Donner
2022-08-03 00:00 - 23:59
Join us for a complimentary lunchtime organ concert featuring Stefan Donner!

Stefan Donner, organ
Stefan Donner has earned degrees from the University of Music and Performing Arts Vienna (highest honors) where he studied organ, piano and conducting. He also received his Master's degree in organ performance from the Conservatory of Amsterdam. In addition to his studies, Stefan has also participated in master classes with Jacques van Oortmerssen, Edorado Bellotti, Joris Verdin and Olivier Latry. He has notably received a 2014-15 Fulbright Scholarship to study organ and harpsichord at the Eastman School of Music in Rochester, NY (USA). Stefan is the recipient of various awards, including first prize in the 2010 Franz-Schmidt-Organ Competition (Austria), and third prize in the 2011 Dublin International Organ Competition.
Besides various radio and television recordings, Stefan has recorded CDs performing on the Dacci organ of St. Salvator Vienna and on the Buckow organ from the musical instruments collection of the Technical Museum Vienna. These albums notably document his artistic proficiency as a concert organist.
Stefan has performed extensively all over Europe, and in farther countries including Turkey, Israel, the USA, and Australia. As a soloist, he is regularly invited to perform in
prestigious organ festivals; previous engagements include the Berliner Orgelpower 2012, the 2016 Terra Sancta Organ Festival, the 2017 Kremnica Castle Organ Festival and the 2017 Tallinn Organ Festival. In 2017 he was invited to lecture on J. S. Bach’s Organ- Triosonatas at the Władysław Żeleński’s Secondary School of Music in Krakow, Poland.

Program
Toccata and Fugue in D Minor, BWV 538 ("Dorian"): Johann Sebastian Bach (1685-1750)
Four Sketches for the pedal piano, op. 58: Robert Schumann (1810-1856)
1. Nicht schnell und sehr markiert
2. Nicht schnell und sehr markiert
3. Lebhaft
4. Allegretto
Sonata Nr. 4 in A Minor, op. 98 Rheinberger
1. Tempo moderato
2. Intermezzo
3. Fuga cromatica. Tempo moderato

About The Worcester Organ
The Hook Organ, installed in 1864, dominates the Great Hall. American organ builders Elias and George Hook, brothers from Boston, constructed the 52-stop, 3,504-pipe instrument, which is often referred to as the "Worcester Organ." Today, the Hook organ is the oldest unaltered four-keyboard pipe organ in the Western Hemisphere located at its installation site.
Restored in 1982, the Hook Organ since then has become one of the most popular and respected organs in the United States. It has been featured numerous times on National Public Radio, performed in several recordings, and has been featured on television and in a major motion picture, as well as in a music video starring Michael Crawford, the original "Phantom of the Opera."
See the specifications of the Hook Organ
Read more about the Hook Organ at HookOrgan.org

FREE Organ Concert with Marshall & Shaylen Joos
2022-08-10 00:00 - 23:59
Join us for a complimentary lunchtime organ concert featuring Marshall & Shaylen Joos!
Please join us for an unusual and exciting combination of instruments: the mighty Hook organ with the beautiful orchestral harp. The organ’s 30 pedals blend with the harp’s seven pedals as played by sibling young artists Marshall (organ) and Shaylen (harp) Joos. The hall’s amazing acoustics will meld the glorious overtones of both instruments in a delightful array of compositions by Bach, Salzedo, Faure, and Debussy.
Marshall Joos, organ
Marshall Joos, age 18, is a rising sophomore Organ Performance major at Rice University’s Shepherd School of Music studying under Ken Cowan. He began his organ studies at the age of ten under Lorrie Dodson with scholarships from the Young Organist Collaborative (YOC), a New Hampshire-based non-profit focused on investing in the next generation of organists. He is a two-time winner of the YOC’s Penn Brown Scholarship for Advanced Organ Studies. In Fall 2018, Marshall began studying organ under Christian Lane of the Boston Organ Studio. Under Mr. Lane’s direction, Marshall competed and won 1st place in the Boston Chapter of the Regional Competition for Young Organists in March of 2019, went on to place 2nd at the Northeast Regional Convention in Buffalo, NY in July, and was also the 2019 1st place winner of the L. Cameron Johnson Scholarship Competition in Storrs, CT. In 2021, he was featured on NPR’s “From the Top” (Episode 396) and received the Jack Kent Cooke Young Artist Award. He was the 2021 Boston Chapter winner of the Regional Competition for Young Organists and in May went on to receive 2nd place in the Northeast Regional Competition for Young Organists. He was the 2021 recipient of the Methuen Memorial Music Hall scholarship awarded to graduating seniors pursuing a music degree. Most recently, Marshall was awarded the prestigious Pogorzelski-Yankee Memorial Scholarship by the American Guild of Organists. Marshall has enjoyed playing in concerts throughout New England, most notably on the organ at the Methuen Memorial Music Hall (Methuen, MA), the Kotzschmar organ at Merrill Auditorium (Portland, ME), and on the Charles Fisk organ at the historic Old West Church (Boston, MA). Marshall frequently plays organ and piano at Heritage Baptist Church in Dover, NH. In his spare time, he enjoys arranging sacred music, spending time with his family, and playing with his dog, Sandy.
Shaylen Joos, harp
Shaylen Joos, age 18, is a rising sophomore Harp Performance major at the New England Conservatory in Boston, NH. She studies under Jessica Zhou of the Boston Symphony Orchestra. She began her harp studies at the age of ten under Erica Driscoll. She was one of eight finalists in the 2018 international Young Artist’s Harp competition in Kenyon, OH, and placed in the American Harp Society’s (AHS) national competitions in 2019 and 2021. With scholarships from the AHS, Shaylen has twice attended Curtis Institute of Music’s Summerfest Harp Colony and was able to study under internationally acclaimed harpists Elizabeth Hainen and Judy Loman. She has enjoyed working with the Nashua Chamber Orchestra, the New Hampshire Philharmonic, the Seacoast Wind Ensemble, the Musical Youth of the Portsmouth Symphony Orchestra (MyPSO), the Boston Philharmonic Youth Orchestra, the North Shore Theatre, and the Boston Philharmonic Orchestra. Shaylen was chosen to be featured on NPR’s radio show From the Top (episode 394) in January of 2021 and is a Jack Kent Cooke Young Artist Award recipient. Shaylen frequently plays at Heritage Baptist Church in Dover, NH. When not practicing, she also enjoys reading, listening to classical music, beating her family at games, and spending time with her cousins.
About The Worcester Organ
The Hook Organ, installed in 1864, dominates the Great Hall. American organ builders Elias and George Hook, brothers from Boston, constructed the 52-stop, 3,504-pipe instrument, which is often referred to as the "Worcester Organ." Today, the Hook organ is the oldest unaltered four-keyboard pipe organ in the Western Hemisphere located at its installation site.
Restored in 1982, the Hook Organ since then has become one of the most popular and respected organs in the United States. It has been featured numerous times on National Public Radio, performed in several recordings, and has been featured on television and in a major motion picture, as well as in a music video starring Michael Crawford, the original "Phantom of the Opera."
See the specifications of the Hook Organ
Read more about the Hook Organ at HookOrgan.org

WICN Vinyl Paint & Pop-Up
2022-08-12 00:00 - 23:59
National Vinyl Record Day is Friday, August 12th, and we want to celebrate with you.
Come by WICN Studio 50 from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm for a special Vinyl Pop-Up Sale!
We will feature records from all your favorite genres, including folk, rock, pop, and blues. As a special treat, we will also be hosting a Vinyl Painting activity!*
Take a break from record shopping and join us in Studio 50 to get creative! Records and paint will be provided, so you don't have to worry about bringing your own supplies.
Sign up to reserve your spot today!

*The fee for painting is $10 and will increase to $15 at the door.

Out To Lunch Festival & Farmers' Market: 8/18/22
2022-08-18 00:00 - 23:59
The City of Worcester and the Worcester Cultural Coalition are pleased to announce the return of the Out to Lunch Festival and Farmers’ Markets for 2022! Out To Lunch will be held on the Worcester Common from 11am to 2pm August 4th, August 18th, and September 1st, with a rain date of Thursday, September 8th.
Now in its 12th year, Out to Lunch events are free and open to the public, hosting musical performances, local artists and crafters, area restaurants, farmers, and community organizations and nonprofits. More information can be found on the City of Worcester website: http://www.worcesterma.gov/worcester-common-oval/out-to-lunch.
East Coast Soul perform funk, soul, and R&B on August 18th (rain date September 8).
As with all City of Worcester events, the latest COVID-19 guidance will be observed to ensure public safety. Learn more at: http://www.worcesterma.gov/coronavirus

Jazz at Sunset '22
2022-08-19 00:00 - 23:59
The Hanover Theatre and 90.5 WICN Public Radio, in collaboration with Downtown Worcester Business Improvement District, are pleased to present Jazz at Sunset 2022, featuring singer, songwriter, and sax player extraordinaire, Grace Kelly!
Grace has been part of the WICN family since she was a 12-year-old prodigy. Come and enjoy the cool sounds of live jazz as the area behind the theatre is transformed into an outdoor, picnic-style concert venue that will include food trucks and cash bars. Doors open at 5:30pm; show begins at 6:30pm.
Acclaimed singer-songwriter Grace Kelly has announced a new U.S. tour supporting her upcoming album, All That I Need. This Jazz at Sunset concert will be the tour kick-off!
After two years of isolation, Grace Kelly is excited to get back on the road and see her fans again. The tour name, Good To See You Again, was inspired by the time she spent away from her fans during the pandemic. “It’s been a long time!” says Kelly. “This will feel like a reunion!”
Kelly’s honors include multiple ASCAP Composer Awards, Song of the Year in the 2018 John Lennon Songwriting Contest, and has been named nine times consecutively in the annual Downbeat Magazine's Critics Poll Rising Star, Alto Saxophone award from the age of 17 in 2009 and winning the poll in 2017 (Youngest ever named to the Downbeat critics poll in 2009.). She has played in the house band for The Late Show with Stephen Colbert and was featured in Amazon’s Emmy-nominated series Bosch.
Grammy and Academy Award winner and bandleader for The Late Show with Steven Colbert, Jon Batiste, has called Grace Kelly a performer with “electric charisma.” In a statement, Kelly remarked how live performance is one of her favorite things to do and that connecting with her audience is a special experience. She says, “We need that human-to-human connection more than ever during these times, and it’s going to feel amazing to come together to sing, dance, and set our spirits free!”
Get your tickets now!

Live Music by Gracie Day @ The Mercantile
2022-08-21 00:00 - 23:59
Enjoy live music by Gracie Day on the rooftop Sunday, August 21st, 4 PM – 7 PM.

Live Music by 'The Cover Daddys' @ The Mercantile
2022-08-28 00:00 - 23:59
Enjoy live music by 'The Cover Daddys" Sunday, August 28th @ 4 PM – 7 PM.

Out To Lunch Festival & Farmers' Market: 9/1/22
2022-09-01 00:00 - 23:59
The City of Worcester and the Worcester Cultural Coalition are pleased to announce the return of the Out to Lunch Festival and Farmers’ Markets for 2022! Out To Lunch will be held on the Worcester Common from 11am to 2pm August 4th, August 18th, and September 1st, with a rain date of Thursday, September 8th.
Now in its 12th year, Out to Lunch events are free and open to the public, hosting musical performances, local artists and crafters, area restaurants, farmers, and community organizations and nonprofits. More information can be found on the City of Worcester website: http://www.worcesterma.gov/worcester-common-oval/out-to-lunch.
Whitney Doucet and the Moonshine Band perform New England country music September 1st (rain date September 8).
As with all City of Worcester events, the latest COVID-19 guidance will be observed to ensure public safety. Learn more at: http://www.worcesterma.gov/coronavirus

Champions for Children
2022-09-08 00:00 - 23:59
Champions for Children is an evening to celebrate, honor, and raise funds to ensure the continuing efforts of advocacy and support of children in Worcester County that have been abused or neglected.
CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) Project Worcester County is a not-for-profit organization committed to speaking for the best interests of abused and neglected children in the Worcester County Courts. The CASA Project, a member of the National CASA Association, recruits, screens, and trains community volunteers to become Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA), also known as Guardians ad Litem (GAL). Appointed by judges to help on the most heart-breaking cases in the foster care system, CASAs help abused and neglected children navigate the Worcester County Juvenile Courts, one child or sibling group at a time.
Champions for Children will feature seven local multicultural food vendors serving samples of their unique cuisine, a cash bar, and live entertainment. This event will honor five members of the community, thanking them for their important role in advancing the work of the organization. The event raises critical funds for CASA Project Worcester County to recruit, screen, and train volunteers from the community to be appointed advocates for children that have been abused or neglected in Worcester County.

Out to Lunch Festival and Farmers' Market: 09/08/2022
2022-09-08 00:00 - 2022-09-09 23:59
The City of Worcester and the Worcester Cultural Coalition are pleased to announce the return of the Out to Lunch Festival and Farmers’ Markets for 2022! Out To Lunch will be held on the Worcester Common from 11am to 2pm August 18th, September 1st, and September 8th.
Now in its 12th year, Out to Lunch events are free and open to the public, hosting musical performances, local artists and crafters, area restaurants, farmers, and community organizations and nonprofits. More information can be found on the City of Worcester website: http://www.worcesterma.gov/worcester-common-oval/out-to-lunch.
Headlining Act: Fueled by their passion to explore beyond the edges of traditional musical boundaries and with their diverse ethnic and musical backgrounds, the Alchemystics blend reggae, politically infused hip-hop, gritty soul, hard-driving rock, and pulsing Jamaican, Cuban, and Trinidadian rhythms into an utterly unique and distinctively original new sound. The result is modern-day roots music with global appeal – an alchemy of ancient musical traditions; intricate, intelligent wordplay; elementally raw soul; irresistible hooks; deep, driving rhythms; and old-school vocal harmonies – fired by the Alchemystic's unique blend of intensity, passion and sheer artistic chemistry into a powerful, contemporary and unmistakable sound.
Intermission Act: Nfuh is a predominantly men’s socio-cultural group from Mbumland in North West Cameroon. It originally played the role of village defense and protection. Today, its role has shifted to the preservation of the cultural heritage of the Mbum people. Through the Nfuh Dance Group, this culture is celebrated and uplifted.
As with all City of Worcester events, the latest COVID-19 guidance will be observed to ensure public safety. Learn more at: http://www.worcesterma.gov/coronavirus

Music Worcester Presents: The Knights with Aaron Diehl, piano
2022-09-16 00:00 - 23:59
The Knights are a collective of adventurous musicians dedicated to transforming the orchestral experience and eliminating barriers between audiences and music. Driven by an open-minded spirit of camaraderie and exploration, they inspire listeners with vibrant programs that encompass their roots in the classical tradition and passion for artistic discovery. The orchestra has toured and recorded with renowned soloists including Yo-Yo Ma, Dawn Upshaw, Béla Fleck, and Gil Shaham, and has appeared across the world’s most prestigious stages, including those at Carnegie Hall, Tanglewood, Ravinia, The Kennedy Center, and the Vienna Musikverein.
PROGRAM
Bach Brandenburg Concerto No. 3
Ravel Tombeau de Couperin
Gershwin Rhapsody in Blue
Stravinsky Firebird Suite

Worcester Chamber Music Society: Consider the Source
2022-09-18 00:00 - 23:59
Consider the Source
Annual Tom Keil Memorial Concert
Sunday, Sept. 18 | Mechanics Hall, Worcester @4 PM
Whether drawing inspiration from the Civil Rights movement, or with gestures to religious poetry and folk songs, each piece on this program reveals its source before transforming it into something entirely new and fresh.
Program
Chinary Ung Child Song
Jessie Montgomery Source Code
Judith Weir Three Chorales for cello and piano
Antonín Dvořák String Sextet, Op. 48
Tickets:
Adults $38, Students $10, EBT/WIC $5, Youth 17 and under free
For EBT/WIC tickets, call the office at 508-978-8624 to order
This program will also be performed Friday, Sept. 16 | Unitarian Universalist Church, Harvard @7:30 PM

3rd Annual Central Mass Jazz Fest
2022-09-20 00:00 - 23:59
This is the first of a five day Fest in Worcester. All performances are free to the public and include local, regional and internationally renowned artists. This first date will feature pianist Pamela Hines and trumpet and flugelhorn player Bill Fanning. World class jazz in Worcester kicks off today!

Central Mass Jazz Fest
2022-09-21 00:00 - 23:59
Day two of the five day fest will feautre The Russo Brothers Jazz Quintet at the Worcester Beer Garden on Franklin Street. The Russo Brothers received the 2021 Best Jazz Act in a local poll and perform a soulful blend of jazz styles that include Swing, Latin and Funk. Enjoy the Beer Garden's vast selection of beer and delicious food.

An Evening with Chita Rivera and Seth Rudetsky
2022-09-23 00:00 - 23:59
Broadway legend Chita Rivera and Seth Rudetsky launch the second season of Broadway in Worcester bringing their intimate and hilarious tête-à-tête to the BrickBox Theater.
This unscripted evening will feature the legendary Broadway icon Chita Rivera in intimate conversation and song alongside host and musical director Seth Rudetsky at the piano. Together they will perform many of Rivera’s signature songs from her vast musical theatre repertoire. Ms. Rivera is perhaps best known for her now legendary roles of Anita in West Side Story, Rose in Bye Bye Birdie, and Velma in Chicago, among many others.
The evening is a seamless mixture of intimate and behind-the-scenes stories of Rivera’s career through insightful, funny and revealing questions posed by Rudetsky at the piano. An acclaimed actress, singer and dancer, Rivera has earned ten Tony nominations for her beloved Broadway roles, winning twice.
This spontaneous evening of hilarity and show-stopping songs is not to be missed.
A limited number of VIP tickets will include a private 30 minute VIP Meet & Greet and photo opportunity with Ms. Rivera following the performance based on the current Covid-19 protocols at the time of the event. Proof of vaccination/boosters and masks will be required for anyone attending the Meet & Greet.

About Chita Rivera
A theatrical icon and one of Broadway's greatest triple-threat talents, Chita Rivera is one of the most nominated performers in Tony Award history having earned 10 nominations, won twice and received the 2018 Special Tony Award for Lifetime Achievement in the Theatre. A versatile actress/singer/dancer, her most recent starring roles include The Visit, the final John Kander/Fred Ebb/Terrence McNally musical directed by John Doyle and choreographed by Graciela Daniele on Broadway; the Broadway revival of The Mystery of Edwin Drood; the Broadway and touring productions of The Dancer’s Life, a dazzling musical celebrating her spectacular career, written by Terrence McNally and directed by Graciela Daniele and the revival of the Broadway musical Nine with Antonio Banderas. She trained as a ballerina (from age nine) before receiving a scholarship to the School of American Ballet from the legendary choreographer George Balanchine. Chita’s first appearance (age 19) was as a principal dancer in Call Me Madam. Her electric performance as Anita in the original Broadway premiere of West Side Story brought her stardom, which she repeated in London. Her career is highlighted by starring roles in Bye Bye Birdie, The Rink (Tony Award), Chicago, Jerry’s Girls, Kiss of the Spider Woman (Tony Award), and the original Broadway casts of Guys and Dolls, Can-Can, Seventh Heaven and Mr. Wonderful. On tour: Born Yesterday, The Rose Tattoo, Call Me Madam, Threepenny Opera, Sweet Charity, Kiss Me Kate, Zorba, Can-Can with The Rockettes. Chita was awarded The Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Barack Obama in 2009 and received the coveted Kennedy Center Honor in 2002. In 2019, Chita performed her solo concert at London’s Cadogan Hall; in 2018 she was honored as a Living Landmark by the New York Landmarks Conservancy; in 2016 she headlined at Carnegie Hall and in 2015, Great Performances aired their special Chita Rivera: A Lot of Livin’ To Do, a retrospective of her extraordinary life and career nationally on PBS. Her current solo CD is entitled And Now I Swing. Her most treasured production is her daughter, singer/dancer/choreographer Lisa Mordente.

About Seth Rudetsky
When Broadway shut down, Seth and his husband James Wesley have been hosting the livestream Stars In The House which raises money for The Actors Fund. They’ve had reunions of Broadway shows like A Chorus Line, Ragtime and The Producers (with Nathan, Matthew and Mel!) and TV shows like “Grey’s Anatomy”, “Taxi” and “E.R.” (with George Clooney). So far they’ve raised over $1.1 million dollars and recently celebrated their two year anniversary of the show. Before that, Seth spent many years on Broadway as a pianist and conductor as well as two years as a comedy writer on THE ROSIE O’DONNELL SHOW (three Emmy nominations with his co-writers). He is now the afternoon deejay on the SiriusXM Broadway channel as well as the host of SETH SPEAKS. He’s performed his show, DECONSTRUCTING BROADWAY in London, Boston (IRNE Award) and L.A. (with Barbra Streisand in the audience!). He co-wrote and co-starred in DISASTER! (NY TIMES critics’ pick) on Broadway which was licensed by Music Theater International and is being performed around the country. He’s written the books SETH’S BROADWAY DIARY VOLUME 1 and 2 (Dress Circle publishing) and has also authored two young adult novels; “MY AWESOME/AWFUL POPULARITY PLAN” and “THE RISE AND FALL OF A THEATER GEEK” (Random House). Seth and James co-produced the “What The World Needs Now Is Love” recording with Broadway Records (number one on iTunes) featuring amazing singers like Idina Menzel, Audra MacDonald, Lin-Manuel Miranda and so many more to help the victims and families of the Orlando Pulse Nightclub shooting. He and James also produce and host the yearly “Voices For The Voiceless” concert to benefit You Gotta Believe which helps older foster kids find families (stars have included Tina Fey and Jessie Mueller) as well as producing/hosting 13 Concert For America benefits which help non-profits like National Immigration Law Center and NAACP (stars have included Audra McDonald and Chita Rivera). James and Seth run “Seth’s Big Fat Broadway Cruise” which brings Broadway stars and Broadway lovers together to fabulous destinations! You can learn about more Seth’s cruises and watch his videos at SethRudetsky.com

About Eric Butler, Presenter
Eric serves as Director of Development at edX, an online education platform founded by Harvard and MIT and is founder of Final Bow Productions, a commercial theater investment and production company represented by An American in Paris, Kinky Boots, On Your Feet!, and Moulin Rouge. Eric launched Broadway in Worcester in March 2022 with an unforgettable evening featuring Tony Award winner Laura Benanti and pianist Billy Stritch. Locally, Eric serves as the Chair of the Board for the Worcester Cultural Coalition, a board member and past president for WCLOC Theater Company, and a corporator for the Worcester Art Museum.

#BroadwayinWorcester #ChitaRivera #SethRudetsky #BroadwayLegend

Central Mass Jazz Fest
2022-09-23 00:00 - 23:59
Day four of the Central Mass Jazz Fest features a Jazz Pop Up with special guests here in our WCCA TV studios featuring pieces from the Great American Songbook.

Central Mass Jazz Festival
2022-09-24 00:00 - 23:59
Our final day of the Central Mass Jazz Festival wwill take place in Mechanics Hall with four diverse acts. The Worcester Youth Jazz Ensemble with Dangable will kick things off followed the Cameron Campbell Trio, the incomparable Donna Byrne and world renowed saxophone artist Gregg Abate. As with all previous preformances, the event is free of charge and family friendly! Join us for this "Grand Finale" to wrap up the week long Central Mass Jazz Fest!

Jazz Hamilton CARNEVALE
2022-10-15 00:00 - 23:59
Jazz Hamilton, saxophone
There is magic at a Jazz Hamilton concert! With a career spanning over 3 decades as a soloist, the Classical Pop saxophonist brings you a musical journey through romance, passion, excitement, and well-known melodies that will transfix your imagination. With an uncanny ability of combining Classical music with elements of Jazz, Pop, and Latin, the artist unearths his unique ID after years of immersing himself in the academic study of music and profoundly testing the limits of the saxophone. Consequently, Jazz Hamilton crafted a distinctive sound which emerges from a Classical backdrop but then transcends beyond the limits of any single creative expression masterfully placing his instrument at the forefront of the orchestra. Now, Jazz Hamilton presents his mystical and electrifying masquerade concert showcasing masterpieces such as: “Song From A Secret Garden,” “Libertango,” “Over The Rainbow,” “Green Hornet,” “Aranjuez,” and “Besame Mucho” along many more using a theatrical style approach to create unforgettable memories for his audience. All this intertwined with his personal original arrangements, orchestrations, and spellbinding interpretations. Come and celebrate love in a unique immersive musical experience to the organic, smooth, and warm tone of Jazz Hamilton in this dynamic and breathtaking Book of Moments that today he calls: "CARNEVALE" . . .
~Enjoy the masquerade …

"The President's Own" United States Marine Band
2022-10-17 00:00 - 23:59
Join the renowned “The President’s Own” United States Marine Band for an evening of spirited selections, ranging from classical to popular.
Five years have passed since the scarlet coats of "The President's Own" United States Marine Band last appeared on stages in the Northeast of the United States. In the style of the band's 17th Director John Philip Sousa, who initiated the concert tour tradition in 1891, Marine Band Director Col. Jason K. Fettig has chosen a diverse mix of programs, from traditional band repertoire and Sousa marches to instrumental solos and a salute to the Armed Forces. Free tickets are available (limit four per request) by clicking the "Register" tab on the upper right of this page. Seating is general admission and ticket holders must be seated by 7:15pm; remaining seats will be released to the standby line at that time.

Established in 1798 by an Act of Congress signed by President John Adams, the United States Marine Band is America’s oldest continuously active professional musical organization. The band made its White House debut on New Year’s Day, 1801, and has performed at the inauguration of every President since Thomas Jefferson, who is credited with giving the band the title, “The President’s Own.”
From the earliest days of our nation, the Marine Band’s primary mission has been to provide music for the President of the United States and the Commandant of the Marine Corps. Performing for state arrival ceremonies, dinners, receptions, and accompanying famous entertainers, Marine Band musicians appear at the White House more than 200 times each year. Additionally, the Marine Band participates in more than 500 public and official performances annually, including concerts and ceremonies throughout the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area and across the country during the fall concert tour.
In 1891, the band’s legendary 17th Director, John Philip Sousa, led the Marine Band on its first concert tour. As a result, for more than one hundred years, the Marine Band has toured throughout the country performing in communities both large and small. Marine Band concerts offer a unique blend of traditional concert band and contemporary wind ensemble music suitable for people of all ages and musical tastes.

Website: http://www.marineband.marines.mil/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marineband
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marines/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/marineband
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/usmarineband

75th Season Preview & Reception
2022-10-18 00:00 - 23:59
Celebrate the opening of the Worcester Youth Orchestra's 75th Season! Join the WY Jazz Band and Symphony Orchestra with directors Dan Gabel & Jonathan Colby for an evening of great music and refreshments. Starting at 5:30pm, the evening will feature a keynote address and a chance to meet WYO's many families, donors and supporters. Catered by Creedon & Co, Cash Bar.

Travelin' McCoury's
2022-10-20 00:00 - 23:59
The Travelin’ McCourys do not stand still. They are on the road—and online—entertaining audiences with live shows that include some of the best musicians and singers from all genres. It’s always different, always exciting, and always great music.
No other band today has the same credentials for playing traditional and progressive music. As the sons of bluegrass legend Del McCoury, Ronnie McCoury on mandolin and Rob McCoury on banjo continue their father’s work—a lifelong dedication to the power of bluegrass music to bring joy into people’s lives. And with fiddler Jason Carter and bassist Alan Bartram, the ensemble is loved and respected by the bluegrass faithful. But the band is now combining their sound with others to make something fresh and rejuvenating.
They recently played with the Allman Brothers at Wanee Fest and then brought the house down at Warren Haynes’ Annual Christmas Jam, an invitation only Southern Rock homecoming. Their jam with the Lee Boys was hailed by many as the highlight of the evening, and once word of the live video hit the streets, sent new fans online to watch a supercharged combination of sacred steel, R&B, and bluegrass. They’ve also performed with Warren Haynes, Phish, and have a tour scheduled with the aforementioned Lee Boys. Ronnie McCoury described it as “peanut butter and jelly.” It was just right.
They can push forward so far because their roots are so deep. The band has a confidence that only comes with having paid their dues with twenty years on the bluegrass road. Other groups and new fans hear this immediately—the tight rhythm, the soulful material, and the confidence in taking bluegrass from the safety of the shore into uncharted waters.
Ronnie says, “We like to go in and play traditional bluegrass music the way we do it with Dad, but we also like to be able to step into situations where we can really stretch out. If we need to plug in, we’ll plug in. We’re open to anything.”
It’s that attitude, backed up by talent, that marks great musicians, traditional or progressive. The Travelin’ McCourys are twenty-first century musical pilgrims and adventurers. They’re onto something new, just like Bill Monroe was in the 1940s, but now we can see and hear that adventure live or online. Go see them, or—if you hold still long enough—they’ll come to you.
