A monthly series of concerts hosted by the Manchester Area Historical Society at the Blacksmith Shop will take place throughout the winter months in Manchester.

by Marsha Chartrand

The Manchester Area Historical Society will sponsor a full series of Blacksmith Shop concerts this winter, through May 2024, featuring an extensive lineup of talented and intriguing musicians.

“Riverfolk donated to MAHS funds previously obtained for these concerts, and the plan is to hold monthly concerts at the Blacksmith Shop, or perhaps an alternate location during severe weather or other reason,” said Ray Berg, president of MAHS. “The full program of concerts, and ticket information, are contained on the flyer that accompanies the article.”

Tickets can be purchased through Eventbrite at the MAHS website (www.mahsmi.org) or at the door. Admission is $20, with under 18 years old at $10.

The first concert will be held this Saturday, October 21, starting at 7:30pm at the Blacksmith Shop, 324 E Main St. Advance tickets are available via Eventbrite or can be purchased for cash at the door.

Come join us for an intimate acoustic duo performance of live music at the Blacksmith Shop, featuring the incredible guitar talents of Erik McIntyre & Alex Belhaj! Eric hails from Flint while Alex is an Ann Arbor native.

This in-person event promises to be a delightful experience for music enthusiasts. Enjoy the rich ambience of the historic Blacksmith Shop while being serenaded by these two incredibly talented musicians. It’s an evening you won’t want to miss!

Alex Belhaj and Erik McIntyre play intimate acoustic music on vintage guitars with swinging rhythm, sweet and haunting melodies, and an interweaving of joy and sorrow through improvisational conversations inspired by blues, jazz, and a plethora of early-20th-century recordings. They’ve been described as “gentle voices searching for home.” Their music is dynamic and never the same twice.

Come and support the arts in Manchester, and the Historical Society as well. We look forward to having you join us as we renew this longtime Manchester tradition!