Riverfolk awarded grants to support Blacksmith Shop Concerts
Abigail Stauffer and Dave Haughey will perform at the next Blacksmith Shop Concert on January 25, 7:30 pm.
The Riverfolk Music and Arts Organization has been awarded two grants from Michigan Humanities Council, with additional support from the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs to support its popular Blacksmith Shop Concert series this winter.
Riverfolk presents Abigail Stauffer and Dave The Cellist January 25, and Ara Topouzian February 22. Both artists are listed in the Michigan Humanities Council Touring Guide, which made it possible for the non-profit organization to apply for additional funding, which will help compensate musicians for their appearances at its events.
Abigail Stauffer and Dave Haughey blend soulful pop vocals with the rare and distinct sound of jazz cello. Every song is a captivating showcase of confidence and vulnerability, crafting a balance of pain, hope, and joy. Their music and live performances evoke so much emotion, it’s hard to believe each song isn’t specifically about you.
Ara Topouzian is an Armenian-American musician whose proficiency at the Kanun (Middle Eastern harp) has made him a nationally-recognized artist. He has performed at concerts, music festivals, and many celebrated venues across the United States, with some of the top musicians of Armenian and Middle Eastern music. Topouzian’s traditional music style keeps to his Armenian heritage, but has expanded to include music from around the Middle East with jazz, fusion, and new age influences. The recipient of numerous awards, Topouzian’s music has been heard and sold around the globe. In 2012, Kresge Arts of Detroit recognized Topouzian with a Kresge Arts Fellowship for his achievements and contributions to his craft.
Riverfolk has reached 50% of its $10,000 goal for the 2019-20 fiscal year. If you haven’t given yet, you may mail your donation to PO Box 146, Manchester, MI 48158.
Thank you to the following donors to date: Peter Lynch, Marsha Johnson Chartrand, Linda Brannock, Richard Spring, DeRuth Miles, Barbara Highfield, Peggi Sue Iebba, Mark Palms, Janice V Sullivan, Lisa Patrell, Kent Miller, Marifran Brown, Dale Petty, Lynn Miller, Elizabeth Stuart, Carol Westfall, Gordy and Karen Peters, Marilyn Kellum, Theresa Tenpas Herron, Andrea Cecconie, Jennifer Alwicz, Sue Hansen LaRocque, Mark Skowronski, Catherine King, Marsha Chartrand, Barry and Elaine Osterbur, Pat Sahakian, Dennis Russell Davies, Riverfolk’s Summer Fundraiser attendees, Margaret Goodrich, Fresh Forage, Aileen and Bob Rohwer, Katherine Harris, and Vicki Shepherd.
Upcoming Winter Events
Saturday, January 25: Blacksmith Shop Concert, Abigail Stauffer and Dave the Cellist, located at 324 E. Main Street, 7:30 pm. Tickets are $20 on Eventbrite.com
Tuesday, January 28: CAS Winter Recital, at the MAHS Kingsley-Jenter House, 302 E Main St, 5:30 pm FREE
Saturday, February 8 Dance, Manchester! Mardi Gras with Creole du Nord, at Emanuel Church, 324 W. Main Street, 7:30 pm. There is a suggested donation of $10 at the door
As Riverfolk looks ahead to 2020, the group is further developing its partnership with Manchester Area Historical Society with a new program called “Passport to Manchester,” which will explore additional historic venues throughout Manchester offering programming that includes music, art, dance, and history. For more information, or to get involved, contact Riverfolk at info@riverfolkarts.org
Cultural Art Strings students of Jillienne Bowers, Zachary Brown, Ryan Seay, Jacob Warren and Daniel Winnick performed Christmas carols for the residents of Brecon Village Memory Center in Saline. Students also performed at Christmas in the Village, Manchester Area Historical Society, St. Mary’s Church, and Manchester United Methodist Church. Your donations ensure that our students are able to share their gifts with the community by providing scholarships to students in need.
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