MUSIC

As the beauty and abundance of summer unfolds around us, the Family Folk Chorale will celebrate with a concert of inspiring songs celebrating our place in the natural world. The Family Folk Chorale's 60 singers-aged 4 to 85-bring the songs to life, and invite you to sing along-on familiar songs, and new gems.

Boston-based singer-songwriter Oen Kennedy joins us as a special guest, as the chorale presents two of his heart-opening classics "Loon" and "Sky so Black." Oen will also present two of his songs solo. His warm, energetic voice and sensitive lyrics remind the listener how intimate we can be with the earth and with nature, and his joyful melodies carry the message right to the heart.

Artistic Director Christopher Eastburn comments: "I'm excited to have Oen singing with us for these shows. He has a way of capturing the essence of what a person can see and feel in nature. His songs were the inspiration for this session, and the rest of the music complements his vision."

In the modern folk classic, "Gentle Arms of Eden" by Dave Carter, we sing the story of humanity's place in the flow of creation. Always an audience favorite, the men of the Folk Chorale will sing John Prine's poignant "Paradise," evoking the nostalgia felt for the now-disappeared place of childhood. Kids and adults will appreciate the joyful and enlightening counting song "One is the Sun." Other tunes include Cheryl Wheeler's delicious and mischievous ode to the "Potato," and the Talking Heads' wry "Nothing But Flowers."

Artistic Director Christopher Eastburn crafts each tune with his sensitive arrangements. The Folk Chorale's band will feature Dan Dick multi-instrumentalist of the band Outrageous Fortune, Oen Kennedy on guitar, and some riveting performances on fiddle and percussion by some of the Folk Chorale's youngest members.

"The Family Folk Chorale is what folk music is all about-or what it should be all about- people coming together as a community, crossing generations, and singing because it's what they love to do." -Matt Smith, Manager, Club Passim