Fourth season of Blacksmith Shop concerts makes debut

Rhythm guitarists Andrew Brown and Michael Harrington provided the centerpiece for the Gypsy Jazz sounds of the Harrington & Brown Quartet on Saturday night.

Last Saturday, the historic Blacksmith Shop on Main Street hosted the first concert in its 2018-19 series, welcoming Jazz Manouche musicians “Harrington & Brown Quartet.”

Jazz Manouche, also known as Gypsy Swing, came out of France in the 1920s and 30s and was popularized on both sides of the ocean by guitarist Django Reinhardt. Jazz Manouche groups generally consisted of a lead guitar, violin, two rhythm guitars,  and bass. Harrington & Brown left off the violin and add a clarinet to the lineup, which beautifully complements the percussive rhythm and syncopated bass. The result is an amazingly fast and energetic swing sound reminiscent of a 1930s-era French dance hall. Those who were unaware of the background of this musical style were educated by guitarist Andrew Brown on the lives and times out of which it grew.

The Historical Society’s Blacksmith Shop served as a perfect backdrop for this unique blend of acoustic music. During intermission, guests were treated to food samplings from local farms along with the opportunity to take in the fascinating surroundings. It’s not only a musical experience; it’s an informative and tasty way to spend a fall evening!

The Blacksmith Shop concerts are held monthly from September-May (with the exception of December), sponsored by the Riverfolk Music & Arts Organization and supported by grants from the Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation, Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs, and Ann Arbor Arts Alliance. Tickets to these events, $18 per person, are available on Eventbrite. The next concert will be October 27 and will feature Ann Arbor-based Klezmephonic, featuring frollicking freylakhs, blazing bulgars, and spirited horas. This band’s old world sound will get the new world crowd dancing!

For more information on the Blacksmith Shop Concert Series, visit www.riverfolkarts.org or on Facebook at @riverfolkarts.

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by Marsha Chartrand

Marsha Johnson Chartrand, a founder, writer, and copy editor with the Manchester Mirror, is a 50-year resident of Manchester. She has a long history of volunteer and community involvement.