BEGIN:VCALENDAR
VERSION:2.0
PRODID:-//Downtown Pittsfield Western Massachusetts The Berkshires - ECPv6.17.3.1//NONSGML v1.0//EN
CALSCALE:GREGORIAN
METHOD:PUBLISH
X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://downtownpittsfield.com
X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Downtown Pittsfield Western Massachusetts The Berkshires
REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H
X-Robots-Tag:noindex
X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H
BEGIN:VTIMEZONE
TZID:America/New_York
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0400
TZNAME:EDT
DTSTART:20220313T070000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0400
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:EST
DTSTART:20221106T060000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0400
TZNAME:EDT
DTSTART:20230312T070000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0400
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:EST
DTSTART:20231105T060000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0400
TZNAME:EDT
DTSTART:20240310T070000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0400
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:EST
DTSTART:20241103T060000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0400
TZNAME:EDT
DTSTART:20250309T070000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0400
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:EST
DTSTART:20251102T060000
END:STANDARD
END:VTIMEZONE
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240808T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240808T200000
DTSTAMP:20240729T172252Z
CREATED:20240729T172252Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240729T172252Z
UID:10001189-1723136400-1723147200@downtownpittsfield.com
SUMMARY:Jazz in Persip Park with the Matt Steckler Quartet
DESCRIPTION:Matthew Steckler\, aka Matty Stecks\, performs and composes in several musical settings internationally. Primarily a saxophonist/woodwind specialist\, he also performs on vocals\, keyboards\, percussion and electronic media\, bringing a dynamic\, holistic approach to the live musical experience. As an artist\, Matthew has appeared at prominent festivals and concert series\, including: The Blue Note and Lincoln Center (NYC)\, the Kennedy Center (DC)\, Winnipeg Art Gallery\, Operetta Teatrul (Bucharest)\, House of Blues & Jazz (Shanghai)\, and the Tri-C\, Key Maine\, New Haven\, Discover and Flint Jazz Festivals. He has received commissions from Chamber Music America\, Meet the Composer\, American Music Center and American Composers Forum; has recordings on Ropeadope\, Cuneiform and Innova labels; and has made Best CD lists in Downbeat and Jazz Times. Over the course of his career\, Matthew has also performed alongside Lonnie Plaxico\, Gary Smulyan\, Lee Konitz\, Anthony Braxton\, Roswell Rudd\, George Russell\, Joe Lovano\, Wynton Marsalis\, Bobby Sanabria\, Gunther Schuller\, Tony Lewis\, Alex Blake\, Jon Hendricks\, and many others. Matthew has written for concert music\, theatre\, film and game audio settings\, and continues his own foundational work in electroacoustics and multimedia that began with his 2013 research-based\, extended work Eco Beat Heresy. Matthew holds a Ph.D. in Composition (NYU) and M.M. in Jazz Performance (New England Conservatory)\, and a B.A. in Music (Wesleyan University). \nMatt Steckler Quartet:\nMatt Steckler – saxophones and flute\nMark Kleinhaut – guitar\nSylvain Castellano – bass\nGeorge Schuller – drums
URL:https://downtownpittsfield.com/event/jazz-in-persip-park-with-the-matt-steckler-quartet/
LOCATION:Persip Park\, 175 North Street\, Pittsfield\, MA\, 01201\, United States
CATEGORIES:Music,Outdoors
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://downtownpittsfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Matthew-Steckler-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240804T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240804T190000
DTSTAMP:20240805T141340Z
CREATED:20240719T161354Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240805T141340Z
UID:10000588-1722790800-1722798000@downtownpittsfield.com
SUMMARY:Downtown Pittsfield Summer Music Series – Free Latin Dance Instruction!
DESCRIPTION:The Downtown Pittsfield Cultural Association\, with partners the City of Pittsfield\, MassDevelopment’s Transformative Development Initiative (TDI)\, and Downtown Pittsfield\, Inc. (DPI)\, are presenting a free Downtown Pittsfield Summer Music Series on Fridays\, Saturdays\, and Sundays (and select Thursdays) through early September. \n  \nFridays will feature a variety of local musicians and performers live at Persip Park\, 175 North Street\, from 5 to 8 pm. Saturdays will feature live Jazz in collaboration with Berkshires Jazz from 2 to 5 pm at Persip Park; and Sundays will feature Latin Dance Instruction in Dunham Mall\, 100 North Street\, from 5 to 7 pm. \n\n  \n  \nSunday\, July 21\, 5 to 7 pm: Zumba® with Sandra Zarate in Dunham Mall \nSandra has been a Zumba® instructor since 2016. She is from Colombia and has her own Zumba® studio in South County. Follow her on Instagram @sandrapatriciazumbazin \n  \n  \nSunday\, July 28\, 5 to 7 pm: Salsa and Brazilian Samba Classes with Luana Dias David in Dunham Mall \nLuana Dias David is a performing artist and choreographer based in the Berkshires. With over two decades of experience\, Luana embodies a profound passion for dance and a steadfast commitment to cultural preservation and community engagement. Hailing from São Paulo\, Brazil\, Luana excels in various dance forms including Samba\, Capoeira\, Break dancing\, Latin dance\, Jazz\, and Classic Ballet. Her rich cultural heritage is evident in her teaching and choreography\, ensuring that every performance is an authentic blend of tradition and innovation. \n5 pm: Salsa Class\n60 minutes \nDancers will focus on basic footwork\, body lagging\, spinning techniques\, and partner work. Additionally\, this class will explore salsa choreography\, timing & musicality\, and performance skills. Be ready to learn fun routines that you can take on the dance floor! \n6 pm: Samba for Beginners \n60 minutes \nThis class will teach you Brazilian Samba from the ground up. You will learn the technique for the basic Samba step including the foundation footwork and hip movement. You will also learn arm placement\, basic body movement\, and simple transitions. Luana will teach and break down the timing and movements in fine detail to ensure that everyone in class learns at a comfortable pace. \nThis class is ideal for absolute beginners (no dance experience required) or beginner level Samba students who want to refresh their basic skills. \n  \n  \nSunday\, August 4\, 5 to 7 pm: Latin Dance Lessons by BSKE Dance Community Group in Dunham Mall \nNeil Von Flatern will lead a quick lesson in salsa and bachata which will be followed by open dancing! Enjoy a live DJ and have fun! No experience is necessary! \n  \n  \nSunday\, August 11\, 5 to 7 pm: Latin Dance Lessons by BSKE Dance Community Group in Dunham Mall \nNeil Von Flatern will lead a quick lesson in salsa and bachata which will be followed by open dancing! Enjoy a live DJ and have fun! No experience is necessary! \n  \n  \nSunday\, August 18\, 5 to 7 pm: Capoeira Lesson with Tarcísio “Taz” Ramos in Dunham Mall \nSuitable for all levels\, ages 12+ \nDiscover the essence of Afro-Brazilian martial art with a captivating Capoeira class. Experience acrobatic movements\, dance\, powerful kicks\, and the enchanting rhythms of traditional Capoeira music. This dynamic practice cultivates strength\, flexibility\, rhythm\, and coordination. Come and embrace the spirit of Capoeira with us! \nTarcísio (Taz) is a Brazilian artist living in the Berkshires. His interdisciplinary approach to the arts gives him the ability to navigate through different art forms. He is a member of the Brazilian percussion group Berkshire Bateria and the founder of Quarteto de Samba. He performs often with both groups. He has published two books: a poetry book called “Point of Departure” and a children’s book titled “Quinho\, a Kid Out The World”. Tarcisio has worked in Upstate New York at Art Omi\, teaching theater and percussion. Presently he works for a not-for-profit organization\, also in Upstate NY\, providing individuals with autism with artistic and practical avenues to live an expansive life and to self-express. Out of all art forms that he practices\, he has practiced Capoeira the longest. Capoeira was part of his upbringing in Brazil and he started it at the age of 10. He is excited to share it with the Berkshires. \n  \n  \nSunday\, August 25\, 5 to 7 pm: Andres Ramirez from the Funk Box Dance Studio teaches hip-hop in Dunham Mall \nAndres Ramirez is a professional Breakdancer\, instructor\, and owner of The Funk Box Dance Studio in Pittsfield. He travels and competes frequently as well as hosts his own Hip Hop festival in his hometown. Andres trains and coaches young athletes and dancers who compete at both national and world-level events. His biggest passion\, besides being a dad to 2 boys\, is passing down knowledge to his students and promoting the positive influence that Hip Hop culture can bring to communities. Andres also performs and choreographs many pieces for his studio which have been displayed in theaters and stages across the region including Jacob’s Pillow. \n  \n  \nSunday\, September 1\, 5 to 7 pm: Zumba® with Sandra Zarate in Dunham Mall \nSandra has been a Zumba® instructor since 2016. She is from Colombia and has her own Zumba® studio in South County. Follow her on Instagram @sandrapatriciazumbazin \n\n  \n  \nSunday\, September 8\, 5 to 7 pm: Andres Ramirez from the Funk Box Dance Studio teaches hip-hop in Dunham Mall \nAndres Ramirez is a professional Breakdancer\, instructor\, and owner of The Funk Box Dance Studio in Pittsfield. He travels and competes frequently as well as hosts his own Hip Hop festival in his hometown. Andres trains and coaches young athletes and dancers who compete at both national and world-level events. His biggest passion\, besides being a dad to 2 boys\, is passing down knowledge to his students and promoting the positive influence that Hip Hop culture can bring to communities. Andres also performs and choreographs many pieces for his studio which have been displayed in theaters and stages across the region including Jacob’s Pillow. \n  \n  \nFollow along with @downtownpittsfield on Facebook for updates including cancellations due to weather.
URL:https://downtownpittsfield.com/event/downtown-pittsfield-summer-music-series-free-latin-dance-instruction/2024-08-04/
LOCATION:Dunham Mall\, 100 North Street
CATEGORIES:Dance,Free,Outdoors
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://downtownpittsfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/SummerMusicSeriesBlogHeader.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240803T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240803T170000
DTSTAMP:20240817T181611Z
CREATED:20240719T160742Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240817T181611Z
UID:10000579-1722693600-1722704400@downtownpittsfield.com
SUMMARY:Downtown Pittsfield Summer Music Series - Free!
DESCRIPTION:  \nThe Downtown Pittsfield Cultural Association\, with partners the City of Pittsfield\, MassDevelopment’s Transformative Development Initiative (TDI)\, and Downtown Pittsfield\, Inc. (DPI)\, are presenting a free Downtown Pittsfield Summer Music Series on Fridays\, Saturdays\, and Sundays (and select Thursdays) through early September. \n  \nFridays will feature a variety of local musicians and performers live at Persip Park\, 175 North Street\, from 5 to 8 pm. Saturdays will feature live Jazz in collaboration with Berkshires Jazz from 2 to 5 pm at Persip Park; and Sundays will feature Latin Dance Instruction in Dunham Mall\, 100 North Street\, from 5 to 7 pm. \n  \n  \n  \nCANCELLED DUE TO WEATHER: Saturday\, August 3\, 2 to 5 pm: Jazz in Persip Park with the Peggy Stern Trio \nPeggy Stern Trio: Peggy Stern\, Maryann McSweeney\, and Conor Meehan \n  \n  \n  \nSaturday\, August 10\, 2 to 5 pm: Jazz in Persip Park with Charlie Tokarz and Paul Arslanian \nCharlie Tokarz plays saxophone\, flute\, and clarinet. He has worked as an accompanist for modern dance at the Institute For Contemporary in Boston\, Contact Improvisation in New England\, and for The American Tap Dance Foundation in New York directly as a result of being introduced to the group by Paul Arslanian. He has played in the pit band for musicals for local theatre groups\, high schools\, the Colonial Theatre\, and Arena Stage in Washington\, DC. He continues to freelance with various jazz groups and teaches primarily at Hotchkiss School. \nPaul Arslanian has been playing professionally since 1970\, first in the San Francisco Bay Area as a freelance jazz pianist\, bandleader\, composer and dance accompanist and then\, since 1984\, in New England where he now resides. \nPaul was a Senior Lecturer in Dance at UMass\, Amherst from 1999-2018 until retiring\, teaching “Music for Dancers” and accompanying classes in ballet\, modern and tap dance. From 2010 to the present\, Paul has been pianist with the Green Street Trio and coordinator of the Northampton Jazz Workshop\, a weekly concert and jam session series. He has been a producer for the Northampton Jazz Festival\, in Northampton\, MA\, since 2015. \nThroughout his long career\, Paul has had the opportunity to play with\, and learn from\, many great jazz artists such as Pharoah Sanders\, Houston Person\, Freddie Hubbard and Gary Smulyan and with many vocalists including Karrin Allyson\, Rebecca Parris\, and Giacomo Gates. \n  \n  \nSaturday\, August 17\, 2 to 5 pm: Katherine Winston in Persip Park \nFrom the rolling hills of New England\, Katherine Winston is a Singer/Songwriter whose music is a blend of country\, folk/rock\, and pop. Inspired by musical icons like Stevie Nicks\, Brandi Carlile\, and Dolly Parton\, Katherine’s powerhouse vocals and raw emotional power have captivated audiences all over the country and beyond. \nKatherine’s deeply relatable songwriting explores the intricate layers of human emotion and experience. Her live shows are a testament to her ability to connect with audiences on a profound level\, leaving fans spellbound with each heartfelt lyric and impassioned melody. https://katherinewinston.com \n  \n  \nSaturday\, August 24\, 2 to 5 pm: Jazz in Persip Park with The Lucky 3 \nThe Lucky 3 is a slimmed down version of the quintet ’The Lucky 5’.  While a smaller outfit than their mainstay band\, the trio has more room to explore the music all the while maintaining their signature swing. Consisting of Jonathan Talbott on violin\, Matt Downing on bass\, and Kip Beacco on guitar\, The Lucky 3 plays everything from old hot jazz and swing to Parisian gypsy jazz and eastern European styles. The trio runs the gamut of the sounds their quintet is known for in the region and beyond. \n  \n  \nSaturday\, August 31\, 2 to 5 pm: Jazz in Persip Park with Luke Franco \nGuitarist Luke Franco purveys the rich tradition of jazz guitar by gleaning from the masters\, both past and present. Formative years spent with John Abercrombie—his main influence and one of the great guitar innovators—led Franco to develop his own style and compositional voice. While pursuing a Doctorate of Musical Arts at the University of Miami\, he was Teachers Assistant in John Hart’s talented and ambitious guitar studio\, and performed as a featured soloist with the award winning Concert Jazz Band led by Grammy winner Jon Daversa alongside guest artists including Gonzalo Rubalacaba and Alan Ferber. He was featured as lead guitarist at the world premiere of Michael Tilson Thomas’s “Four Preludes on Playthings of the Wind” along with the New World Symphony in 2016. Presently\, Franco has been performing in the Berkshires\, Hudson Valley\, and NY Capital Region presenting his own music both as a leader and as an in-demand sideman\, notably in trio with Tarik Shah and Jimmy Madison. As a counterpoint to his musical career\, he and his wife founded Tiny Hearts Farm in Copake\, NY in 2011 and manage the 35-acre farm with their two young boys\, growing cut flowers and playing music at the foothills of the Berkshire Mountains. \n  \n  \nSaturday\, September 7\, 2 to 5 pm: Jazz in Persip Park with the Peggy Stern Trio \nPeggy Stern – piano\nPaul Ostermayer – sax\nDave Christopolis – bass \nPeggy Stern has composed\, played\, recorded\, and toured in a wide variety of situations: from solos to octets to jazz choruses. Her compositions range from highly original pieces to reharmonized jazz standards. “Everything she writes wants to dance\,” says Ken Dais of Jazziz. \nPeggy’s background would account for her varied musical tastes. She began playing classical piano at an early age\, continuing her studies at the Eastman School of Music\, and finishing a master’s degree\, still in Classical music\, at the New England Conservatory. And then she began to improvise. While living in San Francisco\, she played in salsa bands\, notably Azteca and Supercombo with Benny Vallarde. She did a stint in an R&B band (called Cat’s Cradle) with singer Linda Tillery and was “instructed” by Paul Jackson (bass) and Mike Clark (drums) of Herbie Hancock’s Headhunter band. \nSubsequently\, Peggy moved to New York\, absorbing the piano stylings of the greats\, such as Jimmy Rowles and Tommy Flanagan. Peggy has worked and toured with many wonderful musicians: Lee Konitz\, Diane Schuur\, David “Fathead” Newman\, Jay Clayton\, Gary Peacock\, Gene Bertoncini\, Bud Shank\, Red Holloway\, Thomas Chapin\, Machito\, Puck Fair\, Bobby Shew\, Stanley Turrentine\, Gerry Mulligan\, Eddie Henderson\, and Emily Remler\, to name a few. \nPeggy has toured throughout Europe\, the US\, Canada\, Australia\, and Japan. In addition\, Peggy has worked as an educator for the past 20 years\, at colleges in the US. She has given workshops throughout Europe (Switzerland\, Sweden\, Denmark\, Italy)\, and the US. peggystern.com \n  \n  \nFollow along with @downtownpittsfield on Facebook for updates including cancellations due to weather. \n 
URL:https://downtownpittsfield.com/event/downtown-pittsfield-summer-music-series-free-2/2024-08-03/
LOCATION:Persip Park\, 175 North Street\, Pittsfield\, MA\, 01201\, United States
CATEGORIES:Free,Music,Outdoors
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://downtownpittsfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/SummerMusicSeriesBlogHeader.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240802T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240802T200000
DTSTAMP:20240805T141409Z
CREATED:20240719T160400Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240805T141409Z
UID:10000569-1722618000-1722628800@downtownpittsfield.com
SUMMARY:Downtown Pittsfield Summer Music Series - Free!
DESCRIPTION:The Downtown Pittsfield Cultural Association\, with partners the City of Pittsfield\, MassDevelopment’s Transformative Development Initiative (TDI)\, and Downtown Pittsfield\, Inc. (DPI)\, are presenting a free Downtown Pittsfield Summer Music Series on Fridays\, Saturdays\, and Sundays (and select Thursdays) through early September. \n  \nFridays will feature a variety of local musicians and performers live at Persip Park\, 175 North Street\, from 5 to 8 pm. Saturdays will feature live Jazz in collaboration with Berkshires Jazz from 2 to 5 pm at Persip Park; and Sundays will feature Latin Dance Instruction in Dunham Mall\, 100 North Street\, from 5 to 7 pm. \n  \n  \nFriday\, July 26\, 5 to 8 pm: Moe Greene in Persip Park \nMoe Greene is a singer songwriter from the Upper Hudson Valley who performs original material along with tasteful interpretation of blues\, Americana\, and rock covers. \n  \n  \nFriday\, August 2\, 5 to 8 pm: First Fridays at Five in Persip Park with the Wandering Dance Society: Swing Dance with Rushelle Bowie and Step & Dance with Youth Alive \nPersip Park\, 175 North Street\, will feature interactive performances presented by the Wandering Dance Society as part of the August 2 First Fridays at Five and the free Downtown Pittsfield Summer Music Series. Dancers of all ages and abilities are encouraged to participate throughout the evening. \nEast Coast Swing Lesson with Rushelle Bowie: 5 to 6:15 pm\nStep\, Dance\, and Drumline with Youth Alive: 6:30 to 8 pm\nFeaturing guests: R.O.P.E. member Abby Percy and James Ryan \nRushelle Bowie will be teaching a basic lesson in East Coast Swing from 5 to 6:15 pm. East Coast Swing is a fun\, upbeat dance guaranteed to bring a smile to your face. The lesson will be followed by a short demo and open dancing. \nRushelle has been sharing her passion for dancing for over 15 years\, offering group and private lessons in East Coast Swing\, Rumba\, Cha-Cha\, Foxtrot\, and Waltz. She also provides personalized dance instruction for weddings\, parties\, and other special events. Her dance studio is located in Dalton\, MA\, where it is always ‘Time to Dance’. \nThere will be a performance of Step\, Dance\, and Drumline with Youth Alive from 6:30 to 8 pm. Youth Alive\, Inc. (YA) is a multi-cultural\, community-based organization founded in 1995 by two teenagers\, Akilah Edgerton and Erica Young\, in Pittsfield\, MA. The purpose of YA is to teach life skills to youth aged six to eighteen using performance arts as the teaching vehicle. YA performs at major cultural institutions such as Jacob’s Pillow\, MASS MoCA\, and Williams College\, and YA has performed and been recognized at the Massachusetts State House for their impact. YA has impacted hundreds of young people’s lives in the Berkshires\, who are now contributing adult citizens – some in key leadership positions locally and beyond. The New Era of YA steppers\, dancers\, and drummers are being coached by YA phenomenal alumnus: Step Coach Chyenne VanBramer\, Dance Coach Serina Saunders\, and Musical Director\, Percussionist and Spoken Word Artist Jerome Edgerton Jr. \nIn the case of inclement weather\, the Wandering Dance Society performances will be at the Lichtenstein Center for the Arts\, 28 Renne Avenue. \n  \n  \nFriday\, August 9\, 5 to 8 pm: Dave Brown in Persip Park \nPittsfield native Dave Brown has been performing for decades\, both backing up and leading bands of all different types in the Berkshires and beyond. He’ll be performing his solo set at Persip Park consisting of primarily classic rock covers. \n  \n  \nFriday\, August 16\, 5 to 8 pm: The Whinin’ Boys in Persip Park \nThe Whinin’ Boys\, featuring Jeff Gonzales and Mike Mercier\, are a finger picking blues based acoustic duo who perform The Music of Hot Tuna along with blues\, folk and rock covers from the 60’s and 70’s. \n  \n  \nFriday\, August 23\, 5 to 8 pm: DJ Young Champ in Persip Park \nNew Jersey born and raised in Pittsfield\, Massachusetts\, DJ Champ has been lighting up the dance floor since 2008 – doing everything from celebrity events to the smallest of venues. He is the founder of Young Champ Foundation which helps the community with back-to-school supplies and Christmas gifts as well as providing mentoring for our youth. There’s nothing DJ Champ hasn’t touched in Berkshire County. One thing you can be sure of is that when he is around the vibe with be great! \n  \n  \nFriday\, August 30\, 5 to 8 pm: Christine Bilé with full band in Persip Park \nChristine Bilé is a singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist from Pittsfield\, MA\, known for her acoustic pop-folk original music and covers. Influenced by artists like John Mayer\, Tracy Chapman\, and Beyoncé\, Christine’s performances are captivating and emotionally engaging\, featuring her wide vocal range and skills on guitar and ukulele. Her music is designed to empower\, make you smile\, laugh\, groove\, and maybe even cry. Christine will be playing at the Downtown Pittsfield Summer Music Series on August 30th with a full band including Tony Berkley (Guitar)\, Zen Reinhardt (Bass)\, and John Harris (Drums). \n  \n  \nFriday\, September 6\, 5 to 8 pm: Housie Shakers in Persip Park (First Fridays at Five) \n\nWhile the Housie Shakers are a new band on the Berkshire music scene\, its members have deep local roots and have been playing music in the area for decades. All four members grew up in the Berkshires\, and after various adventures living around the country and the world\, returned here to raise their families. Having played together informally for various short-term projects in recent years\, they decided the time was ripe to solidify the lineup and start playing out more. \nThe Housie Shakers bring a variety of styles to the mix\, with wide-ranging covers and original music spanning rock\, blues\, pop\, bluegrass\, reggae\, Americana\, and improvisational groove. They don’t take themselves too seriously and have no ambitions to go on the road (as if the 12 kids they have collectively would make that possible anyway)… they’re just out to play local gigs and give people a chance to hang out\, let loose\, dance\, and have a good time! The band’s name is a nod to their home community and the people and places that have shaped their musical journeys. \nThe Housie Shakers are Simeon Bittman (drums & vocals)\, Noah Cook-Dubin (guitar\, cavaquinho & vocals)\, Jonathan Denmark (guitar & vocals)\, and Colin Ovitsky (bass). \n\n  \n  \nFollow along with @downtownpittsfield on Facebook for updates including cancellations due to weather. \n 
URL:https://downtownpittsfield.com/event/downtown-pittsfield-summer-music-series-free/2024-08-02/
LOCATION:Persip Park\, 175 North Street\, Pittsfield\, MA\, 01201\, United States
CATEGORIES:Free,Music,Outdoors
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://downtownpittsfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/SummerMusicSeriesBlogHeader.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240801T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240801T200000
DTSTAMP:20240719T161629Z
CREATED:20240719T161629Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240719T161629Z
UID:10000594-1722531600-1722542400@downtownpittsfield.com
SUMMARY:Jazz in Persip Park with Rees Shad and The Conversations
DESCRIPTION:Rees Shad made a name for himself as a wordsmith troubadour traveling the country and the world sharing his particular blend of Americana gothic storytelling. Over the years\, Rees has recorded over 30 albums with compositions often influenced by classic American songbook writers such as Hoagy Carmichael\, Willie Dixon\, Robert Johnson\, and Cole Porter. In 2019\, Rees began to perform with a band he dubbed “The Conversations”. Together with longtime collaborator/drummer\, Bobby Kay\, and bassist Jeff Link\, Rees seeks to make the audience smile\, tap their feet\, and enjoy the many stories he loves to share and sing. This music is nothing short of joyful and swinging. It “cruises like a convertible” (Americana Highway). www.ReesShadMusic.com \nRees Shad & The Conversations featuring: \nJeff Link (bass) \nMarcus Benoit (Sax) \nRob “Bobby Kay” Kovacs (drums) \nRees Shad (guitar/voice) \n  \nFollow along with @downtownpittsfield on Facebook for updates including cancellations due to weather.
URL:https://downtownpittsfield.com/event/jazz-in-persip-park-with-rees-shad-and-the-conversations/
LOCATION:Persip Park\, 175 North Street\, Pittsfield\, MA\, 01201\, United States
CATEGORIES:Free,Music,Outdoors
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://downtownpittsfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Rees-Shad-The-Conversations.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240728T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240728T190000
DTSTAMP:20240805T141340Z
CREATED:20240719T161354Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240805T141340Z
UID:10000587-1722186000-1722193200@downtownpittsfield.com
SUMMARY:Downtown Pittsfield Summer Music Series – Free Latin Dance Instruction!
DESCRIPTION:The Downtown Pittsfield Cultural Association\, with partners the City of Pittsfield\, MassDevelopment’s Transformative Development Initiative (TDI)\, and Downtown Pittsfield\, Inc. (DPI)\, are presenting a free Downtown Pittsfield Summer Music Series on Fridays\, Saturdays\, and Sundays (and select Thursdays) through early September. \n  \nFridays will feature a variety of local musicians and performers live at Persip Park\, 175 North Street\, from 5 to 8 pm. Saturdays will feature live Jazz in collaboration with Berkshires Jazz from 2 to 5 pm at Persip Park; and Sundays will feature Latin Dance Instruction in Dunham Mall\, 100 North Street\, from 5 to 7 pm. \n\n  \n  \nSunday\, July 21\, 5 to 7 pm: Zumba® with Sandra Zarate in Dunham Mall \nSandra has been a Zumba® instructor since 2016. She is from Colombia and has her own Zumba® studio in South County. Follow her on Instagram @sandrapatriciazumbazin \n  \n  \nSunday\, July 28\, 5 to 7 pm: Salsa and Brazilian Samba Classes with Luana Dias David in Dunham Mall \nLuana Dias David is a performing artist and choreographer based in the Berkshires. With over two decades of experience\, Luana embodies a profound passion for dance and a steadfast commitment to cultural preservation and community engagement. Hailing from São Paulo\, Brazil\, Luana excels in various dance forms including Samba\, Capoeira\, Break dancing\, Latin dance\, Jazz\, and Classic Ballet. Her rich cultural heritage is evident in her teaching and choreography\, ensuring that every performance is an authentic blend of tradition and innovation. \n5 pm: Salsa Class\n60 minutes \nDancers will focus on basic footwork\, body lagging\, spinning techniques\, and partner work. Additionally\, this class will explore salsa choreography\, timing & musicality\, and performance skills. Be ready to learn fun routines that you can take on the dance floor! \n6 pm: Samba for Beginners \n60 minutes \nThis class will teach you Brazilian Samba from the ground up. You will learn the technique for the basic Samba step including the foundation footwork and hip movement. You will also learn arm placement\, basic body movement\, and simple transitions. Luana will teach and break down the timing and movements in fine detail to ensure that everyone in class learns at a comfortable pace. \nThis class is ideal for absolute beginners (no dance experience required) or beginner level Samba students who want to refresh their basic skills. \n  \n  \nSunday\, August 4\, 5 to 7 pm: Latin Dance Lessons by BSKE Dance Community Group in Dunham Mall \nNeil Von Flatern will lead a quick lesson in salsa and bachata which will be followed by open dancing! Enjoy a live DJ and have fun! No experience is necessary! \n  \n  \nSunday\, August 11\, 5 to 7 pm: Latin Dance Lessons by BSKE Dance Community Group in Dunham Mall \nNeil Von Flatern will lead a quick lesson in salsa and bachata which will be followed by open dancing! Enjoy a live DJ and have fun! No experience is necessary! \n  \n  \nSunday\, August 18\, 5 to 7 pm: Capoeira Lesson with Tarcísio “Taz” Ramos in Dunham Mall \nSuitable for all levels\, ages 12+ \nDiscover the essence of Afro-Brazilian martial art with a captivating Capoeira class. Experience acrobatic movements\, dance\, powerful kicks\, and the enchanting rhythms of traditional Capoeira music. This dynamic practice cultivates strength\, flexibility\, rhythm\, and coordination. Come and embrace the spirit of Capoeira with us! \nTarcísio (Taz) is a Brazilian artist living in the Berkshires. His interdisciplinary approach to the arts gives him the ability to navigate through different art forms. He is a member of the Brazilian percussion group Berkshire Bateria and the founder of Quarteto de Samba. He performs often with both groups. He has published two books: a poetry book called “Point of Departure” and a children’s book titled “Quinho\, a Kid Out The World”. Tarcisio has worked in Upstate New York at Art Omi\, teaching theater and percussion. Presently he works for a not-for-profit organization\, also in Upstate NY\, providing individuals with autism with artistic and practical avenues to live an expansive life and to self-express. Out of all art forms that he practices\, he has practiced Capoeira the longest. Capoeira was part of his upbringing in Brazil and he started it at the age of 10. He is excited to share it with the Berkshires. \n  \n  \nSunday\, August 25\, 5 to 7 pm: Andres Ramirez from the Funk Box Dance Studio teaches hip-hop in Dunham Mall \nAndres Ramirez is a professional Breakdancer\, instructor\, and owner of The Funk Box Dance Studio in Pittsfield. He travels and competes frequently as well as hosts his own Hip Hop festival in his hometown. Andres trains and coaches young athletes and dancers who compete at both national and world-level events. His biggest passion\, besides being a dad to 2 boys\, is passing down knowledge to his students and promoting the positive influence that Hip Hop culture can bring to communities. Andres also performs and choreographs many pieces for his studio which have been displayed in theaters and stages across the region including Jacob’s Pillow. \n  \n  \nSunday\, September 1\, 5 to 7 pm: Zumba® with Sandra Zarate in Dunham Mall \nSandra has been a Zumba® instructor since 2016. She is from Colombia and has her own Zumba® studio in South County. Follow her on Instagram @sandrapatriciazumbazin \n\n  \n  \nSunday\, September 8\, 5 to 7 pm: Andres Ramirez from the Funk Box Dance Studio teaches hip-hop in Dunham Mall \nAndres Ramirez is a professional Breakdancer\, instructor\, and owner of The Funk Box Dance Studio in Pittsfield. He travels and competes frequently as well as hosts his own Hip Hop festival in his hometown. Andres trains and coaches young athletes and dancers who compete at both national and world-level events. His biggest passion\, besides being a dad to 2 boys\, is passing down knowledge to his students and promoting the positive influence that Hip Hop culture can bring to communities. Andres also performs and choreographs many pieces for his studio which have been displayed in theaters and stages across the region including Jacob’s Pillow. \n  \n  \nFollow along with @downtownpittsfield on Facebook for updates including cancellations due to weather.
URL:https://downtownpittsfield.com/event/downtown-pittsfield-summer-music-series-free-latin-dance-instruction/2024-07-28/
LOCATION:Dunham Mall\, 100 North Street
CATEGORIES:Dance,Free,Outdoors
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://downtownpittsfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/SummerMusicSeriesBlogHeader.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240727T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240727T170000
DTSTAMP:20240817T181611Z
CREATED:20240719T160742Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240817T181611Z
UID:10000578-1722088800-1722099600@downtownpittsfield.com
SUMMARY:Downtown Pittsfield Summer Music Series - Free!
DESCRIPTION:  \nThe Downtown Pittsfield Cultural Association\, with partners the City of Pittsfield\, MassDevelopment’s Transformative Development Initiative (TDI)\, and Downtown Pittsfield\, Inc. (DPI)\, are presenting a free Downtown Pittsfield Summer Music Series on Fridays\, Saturdays\, and Sundays (and select Thursdays) through early September. \n  \nFridays will feature a variety of local musicians and performers live at Persip Park\, 175 North Street\, from 5 to 8 pm. Saturdays will feature live Jazz in collaboration with Berkshires Jazz from 2 to 5 pm at Persip Park; and Sundays will feature Latin Dance Instruction in Dunham Mall\, 100 North Street\, from 5 to 7 pm. \n  \n  \n  \nCANCELLED DUE TO WEATHER: Saturday\, August 3\, 2 to 5 pm: Jazz in Persip Park with the Peggy Stern Trio \nPeggy Stern Trio: Peggy Stern\, Maryann McSweeney\, and Conor Meehan \n  \n  \n  \nSaturday\, August 10\, 2 to 5 pm: Jazz in Persip Park with Charlie Tokarz and Paul Arslanian \nCharlie Tokarz plays saxophone\, flute\, and clarinet. He has worked as an accompanist for modern dance at the Institute For Contemporary in Boston\, Contact Improvisation in New England\, and for The American Tap Dance Foundation in New York directly as a result of being introduced to the group by Paul Arslanian. He has played in the pit band for musicals for local theatre groups\, high schools\, the Colonial Theatre\, and Arena Stage in Washington\, DC. He continues to freelance with various jazz groups and teaches primarily at Hotchkiss School. \nPaul Arslanian has been playing professionally since 1970\, first in the San Francisco Bay Area as a freelance jazz pianist\, bandleader\, composer and dance accompanist and then\, since 1984\, in New England where he now resides. \nPaul was a Senior Lecturer in Dance at UMass\, Amherst from 1999-2018 until retiring\, teaching “Music for Dancers” and accompanying classes in ballet\, modern and tap dance. From 2010 to the present\, Paul has been pianist with the Green Street Trio and coordinator of the Northampton Jazz Workshop\, a weekly concert and jam session series. He has been a producer for the Northampton Jazz Festival\, in Northampton\, MA\, since 2015. \nThroughout his long career\, Paul has had the opportunity to play with\, and learn from\, many great jazz artists such as Pharoah Sanders\, Houston Person\, Freddie Hubbard and Gary Smulyan and with many vocalists including Karrin Allyson\, Rebecca Parris\, and Giacomo Gates. \n  \n  \nSaturday\, August 17\, 2 to 5 pm: Katherine Winston in Persip Park \nFrom the rolling hills of New England\, Katherine Winston is a Singer/Songwriter whose music is a blend of country\, folk/rock\, and pop. Inspired by musical icons like Stevie Nicks\, Brandi Carlile\, and Dolly Parton\, Katherine’s powerhouse vocals and raw emotional power have captivated audiences all over the country and beyond. \nKatherine’s deeply relatable songwriting explores the intricate layers of human emotion and experience. Her live shows are a testament to her ability to connect with audiences on a profound level\, leaving fans spellbound with each heartfelt lyric and impassioned melody. https://katherinewinston.com \n  \n  \nSaturday\, August 24\, 2 to 5 pm: Jazz in Persip Park with The Lucky 3 \nThe Lucky 3 is a slimmed down version of the quintet ’The Lucky 5’.  While a smaller outfit than their mainstay band\, the trio has more room to explore the music all the while maintaining their signature swing. Consisting of Jonathan Talbott on violin\, Matt Downing on bass\, and Kip Beacco on guitar\, The Lucky 3 plays everything from old hot jazz and swing to Parisian gypsy jazz and eastern European styles. The trio runs the gamut of the sounds their quintet is known for in the region and beyond. \n  \n  \nSaturday\, August 31\, 2 to 5 pm: Jazz in Persip Park with Luke Franco \nGuitarist Luke Franco purveys the rich tradition of jazz guitar by gleaning from the masters\, both past and present. Formative years spent with John Abercrombie—his main influence and one of the great guitar innovators—led Franco to develop his own style and compositional voice. While pursuing a Doctorate of Musical Arts at the University of Miami\, he was Teachers Assistant in John Hart’s talented and ambitious guitar studio\, and performed as a featured soloist with the award winning Concert Jazz Band led by Grammy winner Jon Daversa alongside guest artists including Gonzalo Rubalacaba and Alan Ferber. He was featured as lead guitarist at the world premiere of Michael Tilson Thomas’s “Four Preludes on Playthings of the Wind” along with the New World Symphony in 2016. Presently\, Franco has been performing in the Berkshires\, Hudson Valley\, and NY Capital Region presenting his own music both as a leader and as an in-demand sideman\, notably in trio with Tarik Shah and Jimmy Madison. As a counterpoint to his musical career\, he and his wife founded Tiny Hearts Farm in Copake\, NY in 2011 and manage the 35-acre farm with their two young boys\, growing cut flowers and playing music at the foothills of the Berkshire Mountains. \n  \n  \nSaturday\, September 7\, 2 to 5 pm: Jazz in Persip Park with the Peggy Stern Trio \nPeggy Stern – piano\nPaul Ostermayer – sax\nDave Christopolis – bass \nPeggy Stern has composed\, played\, recorded\, and toured in a wide variety of situations: from solos to octets to jazz choruses. Her compositions range from highly original pieces to reharmonized jazz standards. “Everything she writes wants to dance\,” says Ken Dais of Jazziz. \nPeggy’s background would account for her varied musical tastes. She began playing classical piano at an early age\, continuing her studies at the Eastman School of Music\, and finishing a master’s degree\, still in Classical music\, at the New England Conservatory. And then she began to improvise. While living in San Francisco\, she played in salsa bands\, notably Azteca and Supercombo with Benny Vallarde. She did a stint in an R&B band (called Cat’s Cradle) with singer Linda Tillery and was “instructed” by Paul Jackson (bass) and Mike Clark (drums) of Herbie Hancock’s Headhunter band. \nSubsequently\, Peggy moved to New York\, absorbing the piano stylings of the greats\, such as Jimmy Rowles and Tommy Flanagan. Peggy has worked and toured with many wonderful musicians: Lee Konitz\, Diane Schuur\, David “Fathead” Newman\, Jay Clayton\, Gary Peacock\, Gene Bertoncini\, Bud Shank\, Red Holloway\, Thomas Chapin\, Machito\, Puck Fair\, Bobby Shew\, Stanley Turrentine\, Gerry Mulligan\, Eddie Henderson\, and Emily Remler\, to name a few. \nPeggy has toured throughout Europe\, the US\, Canada\, Australia\, and Japan. In addition\, Peggy has worked as an educator for the past 20 years\, at colleges in the US. She has given workshops throughout Europe (Switzerland\, Sweden\, Denmark\, Italy)\, and the US. peggystern.com \n  \n  \nFollow along with @downtownpittsfield on Facebook for updates including cancellations due to weather. \n 
URL:https://downtownpittsfield.com/event/downtown-pittsfield-summer-music-series-free-2/2024-07-27/
LOCATION:Persip Park\, 175 North Street\, Pittsfield\, MA\, 01201\, United States
CATEGORIES:Free,Music,Outdoors
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://downtownpittsfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/SummerMusicSeriesBlogHeader.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240726T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240726T200000
DTSTAMP:20240805T141409Z
CREATED:20240719T160400Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240805T141409Z
UID:10000568-1722013200-1722024000@downtownpittsfield.com
SUMMARY:Downtown Pittsfield Summer Music Series - Free!
DESCRIPTION:The Downtown Pittsfield Cultural Association\, with partners the City of Pittsfield\, MassDevelopment’s Transformative Development Initiative (TDI)\, and Downtown Pittsfield\, Inc. (DPI)\, are presenting a free Downtown Pittsfield Summer Music Series on Fridays\, Saturdays\, and Sundays (and select Thursdays) through early September. \n  \nFridays will feature a variety of local musicians and performers live at Persip Park\, 175 North Street\, from 5 to 8 pm. Saturdays will feature live Jazz in collaboration with Berkshires Jazz from 2 to 5 pm at Persip Park; and Sundays will feature Latin Dance Instruction in Dunham Mall\, 100 North Street\, from 5 to 7 pm. \n  \n  \nFriday\, July 26\, 5 to 8 pm: Moe Greene in Persip Park \nMoe Greene is a singer songwriter from the Upper Hudson Valley who performs original material along with tasteful interpretation of blues\, Americana\, and rock covers. \n  \n  \nFriday\, August 2\, 5 to 8 pm: First Fridays at Five in Persip Park with the Wandering Dance Society: Swing Dance with Rushelle Bowie and Step & Dance with Youth Alive \nPersip Park\, 175 North Street\, will feature interactive performances presented by the Wandering Dance Society as part of the August 2 First Fridays at Five and the free Downtown Pittsfield Summer Music Series. Dancers of all ages and abilities are encouraged to participate throughout the evening. \nEast Coast Swing Lesson with Rushelle Bowie: 5 to 6:15 pm\nStep\, Dance\, and Drumline with Youth Alive: 6:30 to 8 pm\nFeaturing guests: R.O.P.E. member Abby Percy and James Ryan \nRushelle Bowie will be teaching a basic lesson in East Coast Swing from 5 to 6:15 pm. East Coast Swing is a fun\, upbeat dance guaranteed to bring a smile to your face. The lesson will be followed by a short demo and open dancing. \nRushelle has been sharing her passion for dancing for over 15 years\, offering group and private lessons in East Coast Swing\, Rumba\, Cha-Cha\, Foxtrot\, and Waltz. She also provides personalized dance instruction for weddings\, parties\, and other special events. Her dance studio is located in Dalton\, MA\, where it is always ‘Time to Dance’. \nThere will be a performance of Step\, Dance\, and Drumline with Youth Alive from 6:30 to 8 pm. Youth Alive\, Inc. (YA) is a multi-cultural\, community-based organization founded in 1995 by two teenagers\, Akilah Edgerton and Erica Young\, in Pittsfield\, MA. The purpose of YA is to teach life skills to youth aged six to eighteen using performance arts as the teaching vehicle. YA performs at major cultural institutions such as Jacob’s Pillow\, MASS MoCA\, and Williams College\, and YA has performed and been recognized at the Massachusetts State House for their impact. YA has impacted hundreds of young people’s lives in the Berkshires\, who are now contributing adult citizens – some in key leadership positions locally and beyond. The New Era of YA steppers\, dancers\, and drummers are being coached by YA phenomenal alumnus: Step Coach Chyenne VanBramer\, Dance Coach Serina Saunders\, and Musical Director\, Percussionist and Spoken Word Artist Jerome Edgerton Jr. \nIn the case of inclement weather\, the Wandering Dance Society performances will be at the Lichtenstein Center for the Arts\, 28 Renne Avenue. \n  \n  \nFriday\, August 9\, 5 to 8 pm: Dave Brown in Persip Park \nPittsfield native Dave Brown has been performing for decades\, both backing up and leading bands of all different types in the Berkshires and beyond. He’ll be performing his solo set at Persip Park consisting of primarily classic rock covers. \n  \n  \nFriday\, August 16\, 5 to 8 pm: The Whinin’ Boys in Persip Park \nThe Whinin’ Boys\, featuring Jeff Gonzales and Mike Mercier\, are a finger picking blues based acoustic duo who perform The Music of Hot Tuna along with blues\, folk and rock covers from the 60’s and 70’s. \n  \n  \nFriday\, August 23\, 5 to 8 pm: DJ Young Champ in Persip Park \nNew Jersey born and raised in Pittsfield\, Massachusetts\, DJ Champ has been lighting up the dance floor since 2008 – doing everything from celebrity events to the smallest of venues. He is the founder of Young Champ Foundation which helps the community with back-to-school supplies and Christmas gifts as well as providing mentoring for our youth. There’s nothing DJ Champ hasn’t touched in Berkshire County. One thing you can be sure of is that when he is around the vibe with be great! \n  \n  \nFriday\, August 30\, 5 to 8 pm: Christine Bilé with full band in Persip Park \nChristine Bilé is a singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist from Pittsfield\, MA\, known for her acoustic pop-folk original music and covers. Influenced by artists like John Mayer\, Tracy Chapman\, and Beyoncé\, Christine’s performances are captivating and emotionally engaging\, featuring her wide vocal range and skills on guitar and ukulele. Her music is designed to empower\, make you smile\, laugh\, groove\, and maybe even cry. Christine will be playing at the Downtown Pittsfield Summer Music Series on August 30th with a full band including Tony Berkley (Guitar)\, Zen Reinhardt (Bass)\, and John Harris (Drums). \n  \n  \nFriday\, September 6\, 5 to 8 pm: Housie Shakers in Persip Park (First Fridays at Five) \n\nWhile the Housie Shakers are a new band on the Berkshire music scene\, its members have deep local roots and have been playing music in the area for decades. All four members grew up in the Berkshires\, and after various adventures living around the country and the world\, returned here to raise their families. Having played together informally for various short-term projects in recent years\, they decided the time was ripe to solidify the lineup and start playing out more. \nThe Housie Shakers bring a variety of styles to the mix\, with wide-ranging covers and original music spanning rock\, blues\, pop\, bluegrass\, reggae\, Americana\, and improvisational groove. They don’t take themselves too seriously and have no ambitions to go on the road (as if the 12 kids they have collectively would make that possible anyway)… they’re just out to play local gigs and give people a chance to hang out\, let loose\, dance\, and have a good time! The band’s name is a nod to their home community and the people and places that have shaped their musical journeys. \nThe Housie Shakers are Simeon Bittman (drums & vocals)\, Noah Cook-Dubin (guitar\, cavaquinho & vocals)\, Jonathan Denmark (guitar & vocals)\, and Colin Ovitsky (bass). \n\n  \n  \nFollow along with @downtownpittsfield on Facebook for updates including cancellations due to weather. \n 
URL:https://downtownpittsfield.com/event/downtown-pittsfield-summer-music-series-free/2024-07-26/
LOCATION:Persip Park\, 175 North Street\, Pittsfield\, MA\, 01201\, United States
CATEGORIES:Free,Music,Outdoors
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://downtownpittsfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/SummerMusicSeriesBlogHeader.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240721T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240721T190000
DTSTAMP:20240805T141340Z
CREATED:20240719T161354Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240805T141340Z
UID:10000586-1721581200-1721588400@downtownpittsfield.com
SUMMARY:Downtown Pittsfield Summer Music Series – Free Latin Dance Instruction!
DESCRIPTION:The Downtown Pittsfield Cultural Association\, with partners the City of Pittsfield\, MassDevelopment’s Transformative Development Initiative (TDI)\, and Downtown Pittsfield\, Inc. (DPI)\, are presenting a free Downtown Pittsfield Summer Music Series on Fridays\, Saturdays\, and Sundays (and select Thursdays) through early September. \n  \nFridays will feature a variety of local musicians and performers live at Persip Park\, 175 North Street\, from 5 to 8 pm. Saturdays will feature live Jazz in collaboration with Berkshires Jazz from 2 to 5 pm at Persip Park; and Sundays will feature Latin Dance Instruction in Dunham Mall\, 100 North Street\, from 5 to 7 pm. \n\n  \n  \nSunday\, July 21\, 5 to 7 pm: Zumba® with Sandra Zarate in Dunham Mall \nSandra has been a Zumba® instructor since 2016. She is from Colombia and has her own Zumba® studio in South County. Follow her on Instagram @sandrapatriciazumbazin \n  \n  \nSunday\, July 28\, 5 to 7 pm: Salsa and Brazilian Samba Classes with Luana Dias David in Dunham Mall \nLuana Dias David is a performing artist and choreographer based in the Berkshires. With over two decades of experience\, Luana embodies a profound passion for dance and a steadfast commitment to cultural preservation and community engagement. Hailing from São Paulo\, Brazil\, Luana excels in various dance forms including Samba\, Capoeira\, Break dancing\, Latin dance\, Jazz\, and Classic Ballet. Her rich cultural heritage is evident in her teaching and choreography\, ensuring that every performance is an authentic blend of tradition and innovation. \n5 pm: Salsa Class\n60 minutes \nDancers will focus on basic footwork\, body lagging\, spinning techniques\, and partner work. Additionally\, this class will explore salsa choreography\, timing & musicality\, and performance skills. Be ready to learn fun routines that you can take on the dance floor! \n6 pm: Samba for Beginners \n60 minutes \nThis class will teach you Brazilian Samba from the ground up. You will learn the technique for the basic Samba step including the foundation footwork and hip movement. You will also learn arm placement\, basic body movement\, and simple transitions. Luana will teach and break down the timing and movements in fine detail to ensure that everyone in class learns at a comfortable pace. \nThis class is ideal for absolute beginners (no dance experience required) or beginner level Samba students who want to refresh their basic skills. \n  \n  \nSunday\, August 4\, 5 to 7 pm: Latin Dance Lessons by BSKE Dance Community Group in Dunham Mall \nNeil Von Flatern will lead a quick lesson in salsa and bachata which will be followed by open dancing! Enjoy a live DJ and have fun! No experience is necessary! \n  \n  \nSunday\, August 11\, 5 to 7 pm: Latin Dance Lessons by BSKE Dance Community Group in Dunham Mall \nNeil Von Flatern will lead a quick lesson in salsa and bachata which will be followed by open dancing! Enjoy a live DJ and have fun! No experience is necessary! \n  \n  \nSunday\, August 18\, 5 to 7 pm: Capoeira Lesson with Tarcísio “Taz” Ramos in Dunham Mall \nSuitable for all levels\, ages 12+ \nDiscover the essence of Afro-Brazilian martial art with a captivating Capoeira class. Experience acrobatic movements\, dance\, powerful kicks\, and the enchanting rhythms of traditional Capoeira music. This dynamic practice cultivates strength\, flexibility\, rhythm\, and coordination. Come and embrace the spirit of Capoeira with us! \nTarcísio (Taz) is a Brazilian artist living in the Berkshires. His interdisciplinary approach to the arts gives him the ability to navigate through different art forms. He is a member of the Brazilian percussion group Berkshire Bateria and the founder of Quarteto de Samba. He performs often with both groups. He has published two books: a poetry book called “Point of Departure” and a children’s book titled “Quinho\, a Kid Out The World”. Tarcisio has worked in Upstate New York at Art Omi\, teaching theater and percussion. Presently he works for a not-for-profit organization\, also in Upstate NY\, providing individuals with autism with artistic and practical avenues to live an expansive life and to self-express. Out of all art forms that he practices\, he has practiced Capoeira the longest. Capoeira was part of his upbringing in Brazil and he started it at the age of 10. He is excited to share it with the Berkshires. \n  \n  \nSunday\, August 25\, 5 to 7 pm: Andres Ramirez from the Funk Box Dance Studio teaches hip-hop in Dunham Mall \nAndres Ramirez is a professional Breakdancer\, instructor\, and owner of The Funk Box Dance Studio in Pittsfield. He travels and competes frequently as well as hosts his own Hip Hop festival in his hometown. Andres trains and coaches young athletes and dancers who compete at both national and world-level events. His biggest passion\, besides being a dad to 2 boys\, is passing down knowledge to his students and promoting the positive influence that Hip Hop culture can bring to communities. Andres also performs and choreographs many pieces for his studio which have been displayed in theaters and stages across the region including Jacob’s Pillow. \n  \n  \nSunday\, September 1\, 5 to 7 pm: Zumba® with Sandra Zarate in Dunham Mall \nSandra has been a Zumba® instructor since 2016. She is from Colombia and has her own Zumba® studio in South County. Follow her on Instagram @sandrapatriciazumbazin \n\n  \n  \nSunday\, September 8\, 5 to 7 pm: Andres Ramirez from the Funk Box Dance Studio teaches hip-hop in Dunham Mall \nAndres Ramirez is a professional Breakdancer\, instructor\, and owner of The Funk Box Dance Studio in Pittsfield. He travels and competes frequently as well as hosts his own Hip Hop festival in his hometown. Andres trains and coaches young athletes and dancers who compete at both national and world-level events. His biggest passion\, besides being a dad to 2 boys\, is passing down knowledge to his students and promoting the positive influence that Hip Hop culture can bring to communities. Andres also performs and choreographs many pieces for his studio which have been displayed in theaters and stages across the region including Jacob’s Pillow. \n  \n  \nFollow along with @downtownpittsfield on Facebook for updates including cancellations due to weather.
URL:https://downtownpittsfield.com/event/downtown-pittsfield-summer-music-series-free-latin-dance-instruction/2024-07-21/
LOCATION:Dunham Mall\, 100 North Street
CATEGORIES:Dance,Free,Outdoors
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://downtownpittsfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/SummerMusicSeriesBlogHeader.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240720T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240720T170000
DTSTAMP:20240817T181611Z
CREATED:20240719T160742Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240817T181611Z
UID:10000577-1721484000-1721494800@downtownpittsfield.com
SUMMARY:Downtown Pittsfield Summer Music Series - Free!
DESCRIPTION:  \nThe Downtown Pittsfield Cultural Association\, with partners the City of Pittsfield\, MassDevelopment’s Transformative Development Initiative (TDI)\, and Downtown Pittsfield\, Inc. (DPI)\, are presenting a free Downtown Pittsfield Summer Music Series on Fridays\, Saturdays\, and Sundays (and select Thursdays) through early September. \n  \nFridays will feature a variety of local musicians and performers live at Persip Park\, 175 North Street\, from 5 to 8 pm. Saturdays will feature live Jazz in collaboration with Berkshires Jazz from 2 to 5 pm at Persip Park; and Sundays will feature Latin Dance Instruction in Dunham Mall\, 100 North Street\, from 5 to 7 pm. \n  \n  \n  \nCANCELLED DUE TO WEATHER: Saturday\, August 3\, 2 to 5 pm: Jazz in Persip Park with the Peggy Stern Trio \nPeggy Stern Trio: Peggy Stern\, Maryann McSweeney\, and Conor Meehan \n  \n  \n  \nSaturday\, August 10\, 2 to 5 pm: Jazz in Persip Park with Charlie Tokarz and Paul Arslanian \nCharlie Tokarz plays saxophone\, flute\, and clarinet. He has worked as an accompanist for modern dance at the Institute For Contemporary in Boston\, Contact Improvisation in New England\, and for The American Tap Dance Foundation in New York directly as a result of being introduced to the group by Paul Arslanian. He has played in the pit band for musicals for local theatre groups\, high schools\, the Colonial Theatre\, and Arena Stage in Washington\, DC. He continues to freelance with various jazz groups and teaches primarily at Hotchkiss School. \nPaul Arslanian has been playing professionally since 1970\, first in the San Francisco Bay Area as a freelance jazz pianist\, bandleader\, composer and dance accompanist and then\, since 1984\, in New England where he now resides. \nPaul was a Senior Lecturer in Dance at UMass\, Amherst from 1999-2018 until retiring\, teaching “Music for Dancers” and accompanying classes in ballet\, modern and tap dance. From 2010 to the present\, Paul has been pianist with the Green Street Trio and coordinator of the Northampton Jazz Workshop\, a weekly concert and jam session series. He has been a producer for the Northampton Jazz Festival\, in Northampton\, MA\, since 2015. \nThroughout his long career\, Paul has had the opportunity to play with\, and learn from\, many great jazz artists such as Pharoah Sanders\, Houston Person\, Freddie Hubbard and Gary Smulyan and with many vocalists including Karrin Allyson\, Rebecca Parris\, and Giacomo Gates. \n  \n  \nSaturday\, August 17\, 2 to 5 pm: Katherine Winston in Persip Park \nFrom the rolling hills of New England\, Katherine Winston is a Singer/Songwriter whose music is a blend of country\, folk/rock\, and pop. Inspired by musical icons like Stevie Nicks\, Brandi Carlile\, and Dolly Parton\, Katherine’s powerhouse vocals and raw emotional power have captivated audiences all over the country and beyond. \nKatherine’s deeply relatable songwriting explores the intricate layers of human emotion and experience. Her live shows are a testament to her ability to connect with audiences on a profound level\, leaving fans spellbound with each heartfelt lyric and impassioned melody. https://katherinewinston.com \n  \n  \nSaturday\, August 24\, 2 to 5 pm: Jazz in Persip Park with The Lucky 3 \nThe Lucky 3 is a slimmed down version of the quintet ’The Lucky 5’.  While a smaller outfit than their mainstay band\, the trio has more room to explore the music all the while maintaining their signature swing. Consisting of Jonathan Talbott on violin\, Matt Downing on bass\, and Kip Beacco on guitar\, The Lucky 3 plays everything from old hot jazz and swing to Parisian gypsy jazz and eastern European styles. The trio runs the gamut of the sounds their quintet is known for in the region and beyond. \n  \n  \nSaturday\, August 31\, 2 to 5 pm: Jazz in Persip Park with Luke Franco \nGuitarist Luke Franco purveys the rich tradition of jazz guitar by gleaning from the masters\, both past and present. Formative years spent with John Abercrombie—his main influence and one of the great guitar innovators—led Franco to develop his own style and compositional voice. While pursuing a Doctorate of Musical Arts at the University of Miami\, he was Teachers Assistant in John Hart’s talented and ambitious guitar studio\, and performed as a featured soloist with the award winning Concert Jazz Band led by Grammy winner Jon Daversa alongside guest artists including Gonzalo Rubalacaba and Alan Ferber. He was featured as lead guitarist at the world premiere of Michael Tilson Thomas’s “Four Preludes on Playthings of the Wind” along with the New World Symphony in 2016. Presently\, Franco has been performing in the Berkshires\, Hudson Valley\, and NY Capital Region presenting his own music both as a leader and as an in-demand sideman\, notably in trio with Tarik Shah and Jimmy Madison. As a counterpoint to his musical career\, he and his wife founded Tiny Hearts Farm in Copake\, NY in 2011 and manage the 35-acre farm with their two young boys\, growing cut flowers and playing music at the foothills of the Berkshire Mountains. \n  \n  \nSaturday\, September 7\, 2 to 5 pm: Jazz in Persip Park with the Peggy Stern Trio \nPeggy Stern – piano\nPaul Ostermayer – sax\nDave Christopolis – bass \nPeggy Stern has composed\, played\, recorded\, and toured in a wide variety of situations: from solos to octets to jazz choruses. Her compositions range from highly original pieces to reharmonized jazz standards. “Everything she writes wants to dance\,” says Ken Dais of Jazziz. \nPeggy’s background would account for her varied musical tastes. She began playing classical piano at an early age\, continuing her studies at the Eastman School of Music\, and finishing a master’s degree\, still in Classical music\, at the New England Conservatory. And then she began to improvise. While living in San Francisco\, she played in salsa bands\, notably Azteca and Supercombo with Benny Vallarde. She did a stint in an R&B band (called Cat’s Cradle) with singer Linda Tillery and was “instructed” by Paul Jackson (bass) and Mike Clark (drums) of Herbie Hancock’s Headhunter band. \nSubsequently\, Peggy moved to New York\, absorbing the piano stylings of the greats\, such as Jimmy Rowles and Tommy Flanagan. Peggy has worked and toured with many wonderful musicians: Lee Konitz\, Diane Schuur\, David “Fathead” Newman\, Jay Clayton\, Gary Peacock\, Gene Bertoncini\, Bud Shank\, Red Holloway\, Thomas Chapin\, Machito\, Puck Fair\, Bobby Shew\, Stanley Turrentine\, Gerry Mulligan\, Eddie Henderson\, and Emily Remler\, to name a few. \nPeggy has toured throughout Europe\, the US\, Canada\, Australia\, and Japan. In addition\, Peggy has worked as an educator for the past 20 years\, at colleges in the US. She has given workshops throughout Europe (Switzerland\, Sweden\, Denmark\, Italy)\, and the US. peggystern.com \n  \n  \nFollow along with @downtownpittsfield on Facebook for updates including cancellations due to weather. \n 
URL:https://downtownpittsfield.com/event/downtown-pittsfield-summer-music-series-free-2/2024-07-20/
LOCATION:Persip Park\, 175 North Street\, Pittsfield\, MA\, 01201\, United States
CATEGORIES:Free,Music,Outdoors
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://downtownpittsfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/SummerMusicSeriesBlogHeader.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240706T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240706T210000
DTSTAMP:20240621T191540Z
CREATED:20240616T142516Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240621T191540Z
UID:10001143-1720278000-1720299600@downtownpittsfield.com
SUMMARY:Common Ground Festival
DESCRIPTION:This interdisciplinary festival will feature live music\, dance\, art-making\, and family-friendly activities with performances and participation from organizations such as Tanglewood\, Barrington Stage Company\, Kripalu\, Jacob’s Pillow\, along with many others. \nCommon Ground Festival is a free\, family-friendly event produced by Mill Town Foundation. \nRain date: July 7\, 2024 \n  \nSchedule:\n\n3pm – Yoga presented by Kripalu\n4pm – Barrington Stage Company presents KidsAct!\, Celebration of Black Voices\, and Musical Theatre Conservatory\n4:45pm – Clara Guatta\, live concert\n5:15pm – Quarteto de Samba\, live concert\n6pm – Tanglewood in the City\, screened Boston Symphony Orchestra concert\n7pm – Community Dance Circle with the Funk Box Dance Studio\n7:45pm – Headline concert by The Funky Dawgz Brass Band\n\nFeatured Free Activities:\n\nArtmaking\nFace Painting\nBalloon Twisters\nBicycle Village with mini-bike races and demos\nPhoto Booth\nBounce Houses\nMini Soccer Games\nAnd More!\n\nVendors:\n\n413 Cycling\nAndrew the Balloonatic\nAsia Luna\nBB’s Hot Spot\nBeatNest\nBerkshire Art Center\nBerkshire Bike & Board\nBerkshire Bike Path\nBerkshire Community Diaper Project\nBerkshire County Youth Soccer League\nBerkshire Humane Society\nBerkshire Mountain Bike Training Series\nBerkshire Museum\nBerkshire Pulse\nBerkshire Theatre Group\nBomb Shack Vintage\nCharlie’s Bistro Bus\nChoices Mentoring Initiative\nClementine’s Vintage\nCravin’s Ice Cream\nDowntown Pittsfield Inc.\nEforAll Berkshires\nElizabeth Freeman Center\nFacepainting with Barbara Arpante\nHappy Trails Guiding\nHeart & Soil Collective\nJacob’s Pillow\nKatunemo Art & Healing\nKripalu\nLatinas413\nMASS MoCA\nMill Town Foundation\nNorman Rockwell Museum\nPittsfield Community Design Center\nRoots Rising\nShaker Ridge Trails\nShire Shredders\nUnited Soccer Group\nValerie Fanarjian\, Handmade Jewelry\nVolunteers in Medicine\nWander Berkshires
URL:https://downtownpittsfield.com/event/common-ground-festival/
LOCATION:The Common\, First Street\, Pittsfield\, MA\, 100 First Street\, Pittsfield\, MA\, 01201\, United States
CATEGORIES:Celebration,Dance,Family Fun,Free,Music,Outdoors,Performance
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://downtownpittsfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/common-ground-july-6.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240705T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240705T200000
DTSTAMP:20240630T000608Z
CREATED:20240630T000608Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240630T000608Z
UID:10001157-1720198800-1720209600@downtownpittsfield.com
SUMMARY:Makers Market at First Fridays at Five
DESCRIPTION:The Makers’ Market at First Fridays at Five will be on North Street between School Street and Fenn Street and will feature over two dozen local artisanal vendors who make their own\, handmade products such as crafts\, clothing and accessories\, candles\, art\, custom gift items\, self-care items\, and packaged foods and sweets. \nJuly 5th Vendors (Vendors are subject to change): \nAJ Boutique – (Beauty accessories\, jewelry\, clothes and more) – Aidaliz Colon \nAlways Love – (Blacklight reactive sensory and color changing art) – April White \nAlyssa Lee Jewelry – (Handmade jewelry) – Alyssa Jagiello \nArtwork by Janice – (Handmade glass\, semi-precious stone earrings & planters) – Janice Rapisarda \nATK Customs – (Coffee tumblers and other drinkware) – Colin DeZess \nBerkshire Henna – Vee Dang \nBlossomBun – (Shadow boxes\, tumblers\, coasters) – Raluca Pascu \nBohemian Roots – (Handmade children’s sweaters\, hats\, hoodies\, dresses and jewelry) – Jorge Morales \nChill Zone Snow Cone factory – Jennifer Cunagin \nCuppa Love – (Non-alcoholic beverages) – Emily Silver \nDragWoodDesigns – (Wooden products for adults) – Lawrence Dragon \nEdgar Bonilla – (Handmade art in leather and crochet toys) \nGrampie’s Dog House – (Hot dogs) – Ernie Jordan \nFandom Forge – (Stickers\, pins\, magnets) – Sean Spring \nFreddy’s Rockin Lemonade – Michael Copeland \nImperfectly Purple – (Homemade licensed CBD topical body care products) – Rebekah Dawson \nJack Liebenow – (Health & Wellness products) \nJust a Knit of Love – (Crochet items) – Melyssa Weiner \nJust Kickin It Bar B Que – Donsil Harris \nKelsey Larina Art – Kelsey Fitzgerald \nLa Maria Arts – (Handmade jewelry) – Maria Ortiz \nMade by Sarah Rose – (Sewn accessories)- Sarah Rose Miller \nMindset Personalized – (Canvases\, Coffee Mugs\, T-shirts\, Wine Glasses) – Godwin Adu \nPatchrabbit – (Handmade sculptures and pendants) – Steven McQuade \nPour Jordan – (Acrylic paintings) – Jordan Stone \nShire Family Roots – (Glasses\, candles\, candle molds\, jewelry) – Chelsea Hernandez \nTeaTimes – (Loose leaf tea\, ShortBread\, Tea Towels\, Botanical Drawings) – Jennifer Waryas \nThe Purse Lady – Michelle Peoples \nTruffles by Tarah LLC – (Uniquely flavored chocolate truffles) – Tarah Warner \nXtwii – (Handmade jewelry\, crystals\, home décor\, and original artwork) – Lauren Flores-Avery \nYael Durso – (Custom Pokémon Card Packs) \nYarnAblaze – (Crochet goods) – Alicia Sanchez \nYoungLiving Essential Oil – (Essential oils and products) – Heather Dascani
URL:https://downtownpittsfield.com/event/makers-market-at-first-fridays-at-five-2/
LOCATION:Downtown Pittsfield\, Pittsfield\, MA\, 01201\, United States
CATEGORIES:First Fridays at Five,Outdoors,Shopping
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://downtownpittsfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/FINAL-June-7-Makers-Market-First-Fridays-at-Five-Square.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240705T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240705T200000
DTSTAMP:20240705T191256Z
CREATED:20240624T181828Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240705T191256Z
UID:10001151-1720198800-1720209600@downtownpittsfield.com
SUMMARY:July 5 First Fridays at Five!
DESCRIPTION:  \nThe City of Pittsfield\, Downtown Pittsfield\, Inc. (DPI)\, and the Downtown Pittsfield Cultural Association (DPCA) have announced details for the July 5th First Fridays at Five. The event will feature live music\, art\, dance\, family fun\, shopping\, food\, and entertainment throughout downtown Pittsfield. \n  \nBerkshire Blues Legends will headline the July 5th event on the mobile City Stage. The Amy Ryan Band will play from 5 to 6 pm\, followed by Misty Blues from 6 to 8 pm. \n  \nMisty Blues pays homage to the older blues made popular by the bold and brassy women of its time\, while still paying respect to classic male artists of the 20’s\, 30’s and 40’s. The band also performs classic rock and folk tunes infused with a healthy dose of the blues. Over the years\, Misty Blues has produced ten albums\, and today\, the core members include Gina Coleman (band founder and lead singer)\, Seth Fleischmann\, Bill Patriquin\, Ben Kohn\, Rob Tatten and Aaron Dean. \n  \nThe Amy Ryan Band has been twice nominated for “Blues Artist of the Year” at the Capital Region Thomas Edison Music Awards (“the Eddies”). With a repertoire that includes band adaptations of Amy’s self-penned solo tunes\, newly minted originals and select covers\, the Amy Ryan Band rocks the blues. \n  \nPersip Park\, 175 North Street\, will feature a variety of interactive performances presented by the Wandering Dance Society from 5 to 8 pm as part of the free Downtown Pittsfield Summer Music Series. Performances will be 30-45 minutes each. At 5 pm\, enjoy an African Dance Lesson with Noel Staples-Freeman. At 5:45 pm\, Olawale “Wale” Oladehin will lead a Salsa lesson. From 6:30 to 7:15 pm\, the Berkshire Rhythm Keepers will perform led by Aimee Gelinas; and the night will conclude with more Salsa dancing from 7:15 to 8 pm. Dancers of all ages and abilities are encouraged to participate throughout the evening. \n  \nNoel Staples-Freeman is a resident of Pittsfield and a graduate of Emerson College\, holding a B.S. in Children’s Theatre/Performing Arts and Dance. Noel has dedicated over five decades to teaching and the performing arts\, both locally and internationally. Her formal training started at age 11 at The Billie Pope School of Dance in Roxbury followed by The Boston Conservatory of Music\, The Elma Lewis School of Fine Arts\, The Art of Black Dance and Music\, and Koumpo West African Dance Company. Noel’s illustrious career includes notable performances such as Nelson Mandela’s visit to Boston in 1990\, participation in Dance Africa at the Brooklyn Academy of Music\, and appearances at Jacob’s Pillow. As the Founder and Director of Uprising Dance Theatre since 1983\, Noel leads an intergenerational group celebrating the African Diaspora’s traditional and contemporary dance\, music\, and theater. \n  \nOlawale “Wale” Oladehin trained in Salsa and Afro Cuban dance with several Boston companies\, including Salsa Y Control\, MetaMovements\, and Masacote. After several years of training\, Wale joined Masacote as an instructor and performer in their professional Salsa company. Masacote’s emphasis on musicality and culture helped Wale better appreciate the interconnectedness of music and dance. With Masacote\, Wale has had the opportunity to perform in Canada\, London\, Istanbul\, and across the US. \n  \nThe Berkshire Rhythm Keepers are an intergenerational\, multi-level community drum and song group founded and led by Aimee Gelinas M.Ed\, Director of the Tamarack Hollow Nature and Cultural Center and co-founder of Gaia Roots and Trio Candela. BRK participants attend Aimee’s weekly Monday evening drum and song classes at the Lichtenstein Center for the Arts in Pittsfield\, which is open to beginners and advanced drummers. The group performs traditional music on folkloric instruments from West Africa and the Caribbean\, as well as on original creations. Members of BRK have been studying and performing together for 15+ years. \n  \nThe BRK performance on July 5th will feature stories and the cultural context of the rhythms\, audience participation\, and may include guest dancers! \n  \nSottile Park\, at the corner of North and Eagle Street\, will feature a live painting demo by local artist and Creative Sorceress\, Mollie Kellogg\, from 5 to 8 pm. Mollie will demonstrate her mixed-media pencil and watercolor technique. Kellogg’s Incognito Witch subjects are magickal beings adorned with jewels/nature elements\, messy lipstick\, and a signature flash of color under the eyes. Universal connection is symbolized in stars and dream-like metallics. Figures evoke a Mother Nature archetype of power\, strength\, attraction\, empathy\, vulnerability. \n  \nJim Horsford will be hosting a free live pottery demonstration at Palace Park from 5 to 8 pm where he will be inviting individuals to help him make pots on the potter’s wheel. \n  \nOpal Raven will host The Hissing Booth on North Street from 5 to 8 pm. The Hissing Booth is your one stop education station to learn about different reptiles and how to care for them\, and you can even meet some members of Opal’s scale family. Want to get a closer look? Ask for the VIP experience and get a photo op for you or a loved one holding one of Opal’s friendly ambassadors. \n  \nThe Makers’ Market at First Fridays at Five will be on North Street between School Street and Fenn Street and will feature over two dozen local artisanal vendors who make their own\, handmade products such as crafts\, clothing and accessories\, candles\, art\, custom gift items\, self-care items\, and packaged foods and sweets. \n  \nThe Family Fun Zone at First Fridays at Five will be on Dunham Mall at 100 North Street and will feature free\, interactive activities from local non-profit organizations including face-painting\, arts & crafts\, games\, and more. Participating organizations include the Berkshire Athenaeum\, Jacob’s Pillow\, Shakespeare & Company\, Barrington Stage Company\, and many others. Downtown Pittsfield\, Inc. will host a Free Kids’ Paint & Sip and Balloon Ben will be giving away free balloon creations. \n  \nHot Plate Brewing Co. will host a Beer Garden on School Street from 5 to 8 pm. School Street will be closed to traffic so you can take your beers outside and play some family-friendly games. \n  \nFirst Fridays Artswalk will showcase dozens of artists at venues throughout downtown Pittsfield from 5 to 8 pm including Berkshire Art Center\, Berkshire Black Economic Council\, Clock Tower Artists\, Downtown Pittsfield\, Inc.\, Hotel on North\, Lichtenstein Center for the Arts\, Living in Recovery\, Marie’s North Street Eatery and Gallery\, Marketplace Cafe\, NUarts gallery + studios\, Roots and Dreams and Mustard Seeds\, Soda Chef\, and THECOLLAB. Follow a virtual walking tour on the free Downtown Pittsfield App and enjoy opening receptions with the artists. Visit the free Open Studios event at the Clock Tower from 5 to 8 pm. A free art shuttle to and from the Clock Tower Artist Studios will run from 5 to 8 pm – every 15 minutes from City Hall on Allen Street. The Art Shuttle is provided and operated by RSVP Volunteers. \n  \nBerkshire Art Center\, 141 North Street\, will feature Free Drop-in Art Making from 5:30 to 7:30 pm. All ages are welcome to stop in to participate in a free art activity with the guidance and support of a faculty artist. \n  \nThere will be many downtown restaurants serving food outside during the event or stick around for a bite after 8. \n  \nFirst Fridays at Five is a brand-new event led by the City of Pittsfield and Downtown Pittsfield\, Inc. taking place in downtown Pittsfield from May-September. A portion of North Street and School Street will be closed during the event. \n  \nSeason partners and sponsors include the Feigenbaum Foundation\, Guardian Life Insurance Company of America\, Mill Town Foundation\, MountainOne\, and the Pittsfield Cultural Council. \n  \nFor more information and a full event listing\, visit https://lovepittsfield.com/first-fridays. \n  \nNorth Street will be closed from Park Square to Depot Street on Friday\, July 5 from 3:30 to 8 pm. Drivers are asked to seek alternate routes during this timeframe and follow appropriate detours. In addition\, a parking restriction will be in place on North Street between Park Square and Depot Street starting at 2 pm on Friday.
URL:https://downtownpittsfield.com/event/july-5-first-fridays-at-five/
LOCATION:Downtown Pittsfield\, Pittsfield\, MA\, 01201\, United States
CATEGORIES:Dance,Family Fun,First Fridays at Five,Music,Outdoors,Performance,Shopping
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://downtownpittsfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/July-5-2024-Facebook-Ad-2024-First-Fridays-at-Five.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240705T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240705T200000
DTSTAMP:20240623T181955Z
CREATED:20240623T181955Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240623T181955Z
UID:10001146-1720198800-1720209600@downtownpittsfield.com
SUMMARY:The Amy Ryan Band and Misty Blues on the City Stage
DESCRIPTION:Berkshire Blues Legends will headline the July 5th First Fridays at Five on the mobile City Stage. The Amy Ryan Band will play from 5 to 6 pm\, followed by Misty Blues from 6 to 8 pm. \nMisty Blues pays homage to the older blues made popular by the bold and brassy women of its time\, while still paying respect to classic male artists of the 20’s\, 30’s and 40’s. The band also performs classic rock and folk tunes infused with a healthy dose of the blues. Over the years\, Misty Blues has produced ten albums\, and today\, the core members include Gina Coleman (band founder and lead singer)\, Seth Fleischmann\, Bill Patriquin\, Ben Kohn\, Rob Tatten and Aaron Dean. \nThe Amy Ryan Band has been twice nominated for “Blues Artist of the Year” at the Capital Region Thomas Edison Music Awards (“the Eddies”). With a repertoire that includes band adaptations of Amy’s self-penned solo tunes\, newly minted originals and select covers\, the Amy Ryan Band rocks the blues.
URL:https://downtownpittsfield.com/event/the-amy-ryan-band-and-misty-blues-on-the-city-stage/
LOCATION:City Stage at First Fridays at Five
CATEGORIES:First Fridays at Five,Free,Music,Outdoors
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://downtownpittsfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Misty-Blues-First-Fridays-at-Five-Square.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240503T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240503T193000
DTSTAMP:20240425T172006Z
CREATED:20240425T172006Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240425T172006Z
UID:10001127-1714757400-1714764600@downtownpittsfield.com
SUMMARY:Soul Magnets on the City Stage!
DESCRIPTION:First Fridays at Five kicks off with the Soul Magnets on the City Stage from 5:30 to 7:30 pm! \nSoul Magnets is a horn-heavy 9-piece ensemble\, playing a mix of old-school\, funk and neo-soul originals\, deep covers\, and dancefloor favorites. \nThe City Stage will be located at the south end of the road closure on North Street near Park Square. \n  \nCheck out all of the May 3rd First Fridays at Five events at lovepittsfield.com/first-fridays \n  \nFirst Fridays at Five is a brand-new event led by the City of Pittsfield and Downtown Pittsfield\, Inc. taking place in downtown Pittsfield from May-September. A portion of North Street and School Street will be closed during the event. \nSeason partners and sponsors include the Feigenbaum Foundation\, Guardian Life Insurance Company of America\, Mill Town Foundation\, MountainOne\, and the Pittsfield Cultural Council.
URL:https://downtownpittsfield.com/event/soul-magnets-on-the-city-stage/
LOCATION:Downtown Pittsfield\, Pittsfield\, MA\, 01201\, United States
CATEGORIES:First Fridays at Five,Free,Music,Outdoors
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://downtownpittsfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Soul-Magnets-First-Fridays-at-Five-Square.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240503T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240503T200000
DTSTAMP:20240426T005211Z
CREATED:20240426T005211Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240426T005211Z
UID:10001132-1714755600-1714766400@downtownpittsfield.com
SUMMARY:Fire Dancing with Opal Raven Cirque!
DESCRIPTION:Opal Raven Cirque will be doing fire dancing at Persip Park\, 175 North Street\, to kick-off the First Fridays at Five 2024 season! \nOpal Raven Cirque is a circus and sideshow performer based in the mountains of Western MA. She’s known across New England and the Tri-State area for her “Danger Dame of the Flame” variety show. Also known as the “Sword Queen of Gypsy Layne”\, Opal showcases masterful sword spinning\, daring prop tricks\, and some say she can even speak to snakes. Opal Raven’s one-woman circus is a unique performance that won’t soon be forgotten. \n  \nCheck out all of the May 3rd First Fridays at Five events at lovepittsfield.com/first-fridays \nFirst Fridays at Five is a brand-new event led by the City of Pittsfield and Downtown Pittsfield\, Inc. taking place in downtown Pittsfield from May-September. A portion of North Street and School Street will be closed during the event. \nSeason partners and sponsors include the Feigenbaum Foundation\, Guardian Life Insurance Company of America\, Mill Town Foundation\, MountainOne\, and the Pittsfield Cultural Council.
URL:https://downtownpittsfield.com/event/fire-dancing-with-opal-raven-cirque/
LOCATION:Persip Park\, 175 North Street\, Pittsfield\, MA\, 01201\, United States
CATEGORIES:First Fridays at Five,Outdoors,Performance
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://downtownpittsfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Opal-Raven-First-Fridays-at-Five-Square.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240503T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240503T200000
DTSTAMP:20240426T004515Z
CREATED:20240426T004515Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240426T004515Z
UID:10001129-1714755600-1714766400@downtownpittsfield.com
SUMMARY:Free Kids’ Paint & Sip as part of the First Fridays at Five Family Fun Zone
DESCRIPTION:Downtown Pittsfield\, Inc. will host a Free Kids’ Paint & Sip as part of the First Fridays at Five Family Fun Zone on Dunham Mall. \nThis free Paint & Sip is best suited for ages 5 to 12\, although younger and older children are welcome. Materials\, instruction\, and juice will be provided. Children are welcome to drop in anytime over the course of the event\, and all children must be accompanied by an adult. \nCheck out all of the May 3rd First Fridays at Five events at lovepittsfield.com/first-fridays \nFirst Fridays at Five is a brand-new event led by the City of Pittsfield and Downtown Pittsfield\, Inc. taking place in downtown Pittsfield from May-September. A portion of North Street and School Street will be closed during the event. \nSeason partners and sponsors include the Feigenbaum Foundation\, Guardian Life Insurance Company of America\, Mill Town Foundation\, MountainOne\, and the Pittsfield Cultural Council.
URL:https://downtownpittsfield.com/event/free-kids-paint-sip-as-part-of-the-first-fridays-at-five-family-fun-zone/
LOCATION:Dunham Mall\, 100 North Street
CATEGORIES:Art,Family Fun,First Fridays at Five,Outdoors
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://downtownpittsfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Paint-Sip-First-Fridays-at-Five-Square.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240503T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240503T200000
DTSTAMP:20240425T172220Z
CREATED:20240425T172220Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240425T172220Z
UID:10001128-1714755600-1714766400@downtownpittsfield.com
SUMMARY:May 3 First Fridays at Five
DESCRIPTION:The May 3 First Fridays at Five will feature the 9-piece brass band\, Soul Magnets\, on the City Stage; fire dancing with Opal Raven Cirque at Persip Park; a live art demonstration by artist Mike Carty at Sotille Park; a live pottery demonstration by Jim Horsford at Palace Park; and the First Fridays Artswalk. \nThe Family Fun Zone at First Fridays at Five will feature free\, interactive activities from local non-profit organizations such as a Kids’ Paint & Sip\, Balloon Ben\, Face-painting\, Arts & Crafts\, Games\, and the Berkshire Museum’s Mobile Museum Unit and Zipline Challenge! \nShop local artisanal vendors who make their own\, handmade products at the Makers Market at First Fridays at Five. \nCheck out the First Fridays at Five Beer Garden on School Street outside of Hot Plate Brewing Co. on May 3 from 5 to 8 pm. Enjoy lawn games in the closed street! \n  \nCheck out all of the May 3rd First Fridays at Five events at lovepittsfield.com/first-fridays \n  \nFirst Fridays at Five is a brand-new event led by the City of Pittsfield and Downtown Pittsfield\, Inc. taking place in downtown Pittsfield from May-September. A portion of North Street and School Street will be closed during the event. \nSeason partners and sponsors include the Feigenbaum Foundation\, Guardian Life Insurance Company of America\, Mill Town Foundation\, MountainOne\, and the Pittsfield Cultural Council.
URL:https://downtownpittsfield.com/event/may-3-first-fridays-at-five/
LOCATION:Downtown Pittsfield\, Pittsfield\, MA\, 01201\, United States
CATEGORIES:Art,Artswalk,Celebration,Educational,Family Fun,First Fridays at Five,Free,Music,Open Studios,Outdoors,Performance
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://downtownpittsfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Facebook-Ad-2024-First-Fridays-at-Five.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240503T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240503T200000
DTSTAMP:20240425T171758Z
CREATED:20240425T171758Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240425T171758Z
UID:10001126-1714755600-1714766400@downtownpittsfield.com
SUMMARY:Family Fun Zone at First Fridays at Five
DESCRIPTION:The Family Fun Zone at First Fridays at Five will feature free\, interactive activities from local non-profit organizations such as a Kids’ Paint & Sip\, Balloon Ben\, Face-painting\, Arts & Crafts\, Games\, and the Berkshire Museum’s Mobile Museum Unit and Zipline Challenge! \nPresenting/sponsoring organizations include Downtown Pittsfield\, Inc.\, BART Charter Public School\, Berkshire Athenaeum\, Berkshire Bank\, Berkshire County Head Start/Pittsfield CFCE\, Berkshire Museum\, CleanSlate Centers\, NBT Bank\, and Pittsfield Public Schools. \nCheck out all of the May 3rd First Fridays at Five events at lovepittsfield.com/first-fridays \n  \nFirst Fridays at Five is a brand-new event led by the City of Pittsfield and Downtown Pittsfield\, Inc. taking place in downtown Pittsfield from May-September. A portion of North Street and School Street will be closed during the event. \nSeason partners and sponsors include the Feigenbaum Foundation\, Guardian Life Insurance Company of America\, Mill Town Foundation\, MountainOne\, and the Pittsfield Cultural Council.
URL:https://downtownpittsfield.com/event/family-fun-zone-at-first-fridays-at-five/
LOCATION:Downtown Pittsfield\, Pittsfield\, MA\, 01201\, United States
CATEGORIES:Family Fun,First Fridays at Five,Free,Outdoors
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://downtownpittsfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Family-Fun-Zone-First-Fridays-at-Five-Square.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240503T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240503T200000
DTSTAMP:20240425T171538Z
CREATED:20240425T171538Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240425T171538Z
UID:10001125-1714755600-1714766400@downtownpittsfield.com
SUMMARY:First Fridays at Five Beer Garden on School Street
DESCRIPTION:Check out the First Fridays at Five Beer Garden on School Street outside of Hot Plate Brewing Co. on May 3 from 5 to 8 pm. Enjoy lawn games in the closed street! \nCheck out all of the May 3rd First Fridays at Five events at lovepittsfield.com/first-fridays \n  \nFirst Fridays at Five is a brand-new event led by the City of Pittsfield and Downtown Pittsfield\, Inc. taking place in downtown Pittsfield from May-September. A portion of North Street and School Street will be closed during the event. \nSeason partners and sponsors include the Feigenbaum Foundation\, Guardian Life Insurance Company of America\, Mill Town Foundation\, MountainOne\, and the Pittsfield Cultural Council.
URL:https://downtownpittsfield.com/event/first-fridays-at-five-beer-garden-on-school-street/
LOCATION:Hot Plate Brewing Co.\, 1 School Street\, Pittsfield\, MA\, 01201\, United States
CATEGORIES:First Fridays at Five,Outdoors
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://downtownpittsfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Beer-Garden-First-Fridays-at-Five-Square.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240417T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240417T180000
DTSTAMP:20240403T000149Z
CREATED:20240401T183715Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240403T000149Z
UID:10001117-1713366000-1713376800@downtownpittsfield.com
SUMMARY:Celebrate Spring Beach Party
DESCRIPTION:In collaboration with Downtown Pittsfield\, Inc.\, Pittsfield Parks & Recreation will host a Celebrate Spring Beach Party on Wednesday\, April 17 from 3 to 6 pm at Onota Lake Beach. There will be a scavenger hunt\, relay races\, games\, and free food. The Onata Lake Beach Toy Library will also be unveiled during the event.
URL:https://downtownpittsfield.com/event/celebrate-spring-beach-party/
LOCATION:MA
CATEGORIES:Family Fun,Outdoors
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231203T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231203T160000
DTSTAMP:20231202T222832Z
CREATED:20231117T002245Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20231202T222832Z
UID:10001112-1701608400-1701619200@downtownpittsfield.com
SUMMARY:Festive Frolic Holiday Market at Hot Plate!
DESCRIPTION:Our Holiday Market has moved INDOORS on Sunday\, December 3 from 1 TO 4 PM at Hot Plate Brewing Co. at 1 School Street. (Please note the time change to 1 to 4.) \n-Visit with Santa\n-Shop Local Vendors\n-Enjoy Holiday Music with DJ Pup Daddy\n-Entertainment & Photo Ops with Ms. Krampus as played by Opal Raven Cirque
URL:https://downtownpittsfield.com/event/festive-frolic-holiday-market-featuring-a-krampus-beer-garden/
LOCATION:Dunham Mall\, 100 North Street
CATEGORIES:Celebration,Holiday,Outdoors,Performance,Shopping
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://downtownpittsfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Rain-change-Festive-Frolic-Holiday-Market.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231021T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231021T170000
DTSTAMP:20231017T191139Z
CREATED:20231011T193214Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20231017T191139Z
UID:10001103-1697893200-1697907600@downtownpittsfield.com
SUMMARY:Downtown Pittsfield... It's Alive! Block Party & Kids' Zone!
DESCRIPTION:Downtown Pittsfield… It’s Alive! Block Party & Kids’ Zone!\n\n\nDowntown Pittsfield\, Inc. has announced the return of Downtown Pittsfield… It’s Alive! to celebrate the Halloween season. This year’s event will feature 2 parts: a Block Party and Kids’ Zone inside the McKay Street Parking Garage. The Downtown Pittsfield… It’s Alive! Block Party will be on Saturday\, October 21 from 1 to 5 pm and The Downtown Pittsfield… It’s Alive! JR. Kids’ Zone will be on Saturday\, October 21 from 1 to 4 pm. Both events have been moved to the McKay Street Parking Garage due to Saturday’s rainy forecast. \n\nDowntown Pittsfield… It’s Alive! Block Party: Saturday\, October 21\, 1 to 5 pm\, inside the McKay Street Parking Garage \n\nTo park for the day\, enter the Parking Garage via the Depot Street entrance for access to the upper parking levels. The event will be on the McKay Street level. \n\nThe It’s Alive! Block Party will feature a Marketplace with 20+ Vendors (see vendor list below)\, a Beer Garden with Wandering Star Craft Brewery\, and food from BB’s Hot Spot. Musician Evan Lanoue will play from 1 to 2:30 pm\, and the band Vaguely Pagan will play from 3:30 to 5 pm. There will be a performance by Opal Raven Cirque at 1:30\, 2:30\, and 3:30 pm featuring swords\, scarves\, and fans. \n\nEvan Lanoue\, a local singer-songwriter\, found his passion for music at a young age by learning his favorite Beatles songs on piano. Combining his love for guitar and classic rock with major influences such as John Mayer and the Weeknd\, Lanoue’s songwriting delivers a soulful and introspective take on heartbreak and the pursuit of happiness. \n\nThe Berkshire guitar quartet of Wes Buckley\, Brian Kantor\, Miles Lally\, and Sam McGarrity\, known as Vaguely Pagan\, keep an audience moving with their roadhouse-rhythmdelics and underbilly sound. Their original songs lean into psych\, folk\, and rock territory and their covers are the ones you love to move to\, no matter your age or sense of humor. \n\nOpal Raven Cirque is a circus and sideshow performer based in Western Massachusetts. She’s known across New England and the Tri-State area for her “Danger Dame of the Flame” variety show. Also known as the Sword Queen of Gypsy Layne\, Opal showcases masterful sword spinning\, daring prop tricks\, and some say she can even speak to snakes. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDowntown Pittsfield… It’s Alive! JR. Kids’ Zone: Saturday\, October 21\, 1 to 4 pm\, inside the McKay Street Parking Garage \n\nAll Kids’ Zone activities are free and costumes are encouraged! \n\nArts & Crafts – Games – Face Painting – Giveaways – and More! \n\nFree Activities Provided By: \n\nDowntown Pittsfield\, Inc.\nAdams Community Bank\nBerkshire Athenaeum\nBerkshire Museum\nFlying Cloud Institute\nKatunemo Art & Healing\nOperation Copsicle\nPittsfield Parks and Recreation\nWitch Slapped \n\nSlater and Marjo from Live 95.9 will broadcast live from 1-3 pm! \n\n\n\nVendors at Block Party: \nShop baked goods\, chocolate\, candles\, handmade jewelry\, home accents\, apparel\, original art\, slime and gifts for kids\, and so much more! \nAuntie Janet’s Gifts\nAutumn Phoenix Photography\nBaked! Pastries & More\nBerkshire Botanicals\nBerkshire Creative\nBerkshire Yarn Works\nCardboard Colosseum\nElevenPMCreations\nFunny Farm Slimes\nHill Top Home Accents\nLYCO designs\nMiscellaneous Whimsy\nPeace Train Tees\nQueen Flower Therapy\nSandra Bonilla\nShire Family Roots\nSoma’s Aromas\nTHANKYOUSEAN\nThe Shop by Only In My Dreams Events\nTruffles by Tarah\nWE DIG HERKS \nVendors subject to change. \n\n\n\nDowntown Pittsfield… It’s Alive! is presented by Downtown Pittsfield\, Inc. with support from Mill Town Foundation\, The Berkshire Eagle\, and Townsquare Media Berkshire.
URL:https://downtownpittsfield.com/event/downtown-pittsfield-its-alive-block-party-kids-zone/
LOCATION:McKay Street Parking Garage\, Pittsfield\, MA\, 01201
CATEGORIES:Art,ARTWEEK 2023,Family Fun,Free,Holiday,Music,Outdoors,Performance
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://downtownpittsfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/NEW-general-Its-Alive-ANNOUNCEMENT-Square.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20230909T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20230909T180000
DTSTAMP:20230908T210114Z
CREATED:20230905T190251Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230908T210114Z
UID:10001098-1694260800-1694282400@downtownpittsfield.com
SUMMARY:Let It Shine! A Celebration of Public Art: Sat. Sept. 9 in Downtown Pittsfield
DESCRIPTION:The Pittsfield Let It Shine! Public Art Partnership will celebrate eight new murals in Pittsfield on Saturday\, September 9 – the day of the partnership’s community celebration: “Let It Shine! A Celebration of Public Art”. The celebration will feature self-guided tours of the mural sites and the Let It Shine! Block Party on Saturday\, September 9\, from 12 to 6 pm at Palace Park at the Cooper Center\, 116 North Street. This event is appropriate for all ages. \n  \nDirect link to virtual walking tour of over 2 dozen murals in Pittsfield: https://pocketsights.com/tours/tour/Pittsfield-1-Mural-Tour-of-Pittsfield-MA-8699 \n  \nThe Let It Shine! Block Party will feature live music and entertainment\, community art making\, games\, and food vendors from 12 to 6 pm. Grab a bite from Upstreet Smoke\, the destination for smoked meats and Southern style sides\, or Grampie’s Dog House\, home of Ernie’s famous hot dogs. Have a seat in the Beer Garden provided by Wandering Star Craft Brewery and settle in for live music from the Benny Kohn Trio and Sample The Cat and an engaging performance from “Dance and Drum with Aimee\, Kim and Dan”. \n  \nSchedule of events at the Block Party location: \n  \n\n12:00-12:30pm – Welcome and Introductions/House Music\n12:30-2:30pm – Benny Kohn Trio\n2:30-3:00pm – Youth Alive\n3:00-4:00pm – “Dance and Drum with Aimee\, Kim and Dan”\n4:00-6:00pm – Sample The Cat\n\n  \nThe Benny Kohn Trio features Benny Kohn (piano\, vocals)\, Ed Moran (lead vocals and harmonica)\, and Dan Broad (bass\, vocals). The trio plays a mix of classic blues\, soul\, jazz\, and popular songs. Ed provides the hard driving\, deeply blues-infused\, powerful lead vocals\, while Dan and Benny lay down a solid foundation ranging from hard swinging to straight solid grooves. \n  \n“Dance and Drum with Aimee\, Kim and Dan” features Aimee Gelinas and Dan Cohen on drums and dancer Kim Waterman. For 25 years\, Aimee\, Kim and Dan have been sharing traditional West African and Caribbean song\, drum\, and dance in the Berkshires and beyond. They have all studied with master teachers from West Africa\, Haiti\, Cuba\, Puerto Rico\, and Brazil\, and it is with these teachers’ blessings and an abundance of spirit and respect that they bring these traditions to you. \n  \nSample The Cat is a 4-piece soulful rock group storming the region’s rock scene. The band fuses elements of rock\, soul\, blues\, and funk into an energetic yet smooth original sound that grooves with a serious head bop factor. Years in the making\, the group includes singer Kendrah Bellevue with her soulfully enriching vocals\, Steve Dalton with his masterful melodic arrangements on guitar\, Bryan “Dizzy Fingers” Brophy with his colorful layers on keys\, and Olivia Davis with her punchy groove on drums. \n  \nLet It Shine! Celebration attendees will be able to pick up a map at the Block Party to follow a self-guided tour of the mural sites\, or they can download the Downtown Pittsfield app in the App Store or on Google Play to follow a virtual walking tour of all murals downtown and in the West Side neighborhood of Pittsfield. \n  \nThere will also be an opportunity to meet mural artists Cara Petricca\, Trinity Rivard\, Pops Peterson\, and Jasmine Sade. \n  \nBelow are the eight new murals being celebrated as part of the Let It Shine! event: \n  \n“Sisterhood” by Silvia Lopez Chavez on the Shipton Building at 146 North Street \n  \nMaking Wishes by Cara Petricca on the north-facing side of 348 North Street (the alleyway facing St. Joseph’s Church) \n  \n“Young Legends” by Trinity Rivard on The Howard Building at 41 Federal Street \n  \nAn original mural by qwynto on Carr Hardware at 547 North Street \n  \n“Wings” & “Two Colors of Water” by Pops Peterson at the Riverside Sitting Park at the corner of Columbus and Dewey Avenues (in partnership with the Westside Legends) \n  \nMemory Lane by Jasmine Sade at the Riverside Sitting Park at the corner of Columbus and Dewey Avenues (in partnership with the Westside Legends) \n  \nSeven Stars for Renne Ave. by Huckleberry (Huck) Elling on the east side (facing Renne Avenue) of The Cooper Center at 1 Fenn Street \n  \nOther murals will also be included as part of the self-guided tour. \n  \nThe Westside Legends will host a special unveiling of “Wings” & “Two Colors of Water” by Pops Peterson and Memory Lane by Jasmine Sade at the Riverside Sitting Park\, corner of Columbus and Dewey Avenues\, at 2 pm on Saturday\, September 9. There will be an opportunity to meet with Pops and Jasmine during this event. \n  \nPaintings by Karen Chase and Paul Graubard will also be on view at the Lichtenstein Center for the Arts\, 28 Renne Avenue\, from 12 to 4 pm. Witch Slapped\, 78 North Street\, will be open with an afternoon of spooky\, free family fun. There will be a Spooky Storytime at noon with Poppy DaBubbly and spooky ornament making from 12 to 4 pm. \n  \n  \nThe Let It Shine! Public Art Partnership is a group of Pittsfield-based community members who have formed to organize public art and revitalization on North Street\, empowered by organizing efforts through MassDevelopment’s TDI. MassDevelopment’s Transformative Development Initiative (TDI) is a program for Gateway Cities designed to accelerate economic growth within focused districts. \n  \nThe Let It Shine! Public Art Project is sponsored by MassDevelopment’s TDI Creative Catalyst Grant program\, Teton Management\, Mill Town Foundation\, and Carr Hardware. It is presented in partnership with MassDevelopment’s TDI\, Downtown Pittsfield\, Inc.\, Downtown Pittsfield Cultural Association\, Artscape\, City of Pittsfield’s Office of Cultural Development\, Huck Elling\, Jesse Tobin McCauley\, Common Wealth Murals\, Westside Legends\, Allegrone Companies\, The Cooper Center\, and Paul Aronofsky. \n  \nMassDevelopment’s TDI Creative Catalyst Grant program is made possible by the Barr Foundation\, which since 2019 has awarded $4.4 million to MassDevelopment to create and administer arts-based programming that directly supports the expansion of cultural and creative industries in Gateway Cities. Gateway Cities have historically been home to many vibrant cultural and creative assets\, and MassDevelopment’s TDI Creative Catalyst Grant program seeks to amplify the vibrancy of these communities by providing grant funding for locally initiated arts and culture-based projects. \n  \nMassDevelopment’s Transformative Development Initiative (TDI) works with cross-sector partnerships in targeted commercial districts in Gateway Cities in order to engage community members\, implement local economic development initiatives\, and spur further public and private investment. Since 2015\, MassDevelopment has invested $20 million in TDI districts through tools such as technical assistance\, real estate investments\, grant programs\, and fellows who work in the districts. That investment has directly influenced over $100.2 million in public and private investments in the districts and assisted an additional $219.9 million.
URL:https://downtownpittsfield.com/event/let-it-shine-a-celebration-of-public-art-sat-sept-9-in-downtown-pittsfield/
LOCATION:Palace Park\, 116 North Street\, Pittsfield\, MA\, 01201\, United States
CATEGORIES:Art,Celebration,Dance,Free,Music,Outdoors,Performance
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://downtownpittsfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/FINALlargeBLOCKpartyAnnouncement.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20230901T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20230901T200000
DTSTAMP:20230818T210621Z
CREATED:20230818T210621Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230818T210621Z
UID:10001097-1693587600-1693598400@downtownpittsfield.com
SUMMARY:September 1 First Fridays Artswalk
DESCRIPTION:September 1 First Fridays Artswalk: New Art Shows\, Live Music\, Art Market\, DJ Champ\, Live Painting\, and a Free Kids’ Paint & Sip and Scavenger Hunt!\n  \nThe First Fridays Artswalk in downtown Pittsfield returns on Friday\, September 1 from 5 to 8 pm. Enjoy an Art Market on Dunham Mall with DJ Champ\, live music in Persip Park with sets by Niki Kaos and duo Bree Nicola and Crys Moore\, a live art demonstration with Creative Sorceress Mollie Kellogg\, opening receptions\, open studios\, and a Free Kids’ Paint & Sip and Scavenger Hunt. Other participating venues include the Berkshire Art Center\, Clock Tower Artists\, Hotel on North\, Krol Headquarters\, Lichtenstein Center for the Arts\, Marchetti Headquarters\, Marketplace Cafe\, Methuselah Bar and Lounge\, NUarts gallery + studios\, ReDefine Community Center\, Soda Chef\, Soma’s Aromas\, the Unitarian Universalist Church\, and Witch Slapped. Click here to view our digital guided tour of all events! \n  \nDownload the Downtown Pittsfield app in the App Store or on Google Play to follow a virtual walking tour of art on your cell phone. \n  \nOn Friday\, September 1\, solo musician Niki Kaos and duo Bree Nicola and Crys Moore will share the stage at Persip Park\, 175 North Street\, as part of the First Fridays Artswalk. \n  \nFrom 5 to 6:30 pm\, duo Bree Nicola and Crys Moore will kick-off the evening\, and from 6:30 to 8 pm\, Niki Kaos will treat audiences to her original songs. \n  \nNiki Kaos is an indie-alt-rock-Americana influenced songwriter who has been creating music for over 30 years. Born and raised in Troy\, NY – she lived in San Francisco and New York City in her 20’s\, then returned to The Capital Region to be closer to family. She currently works for www.radioradiox.com as a DJ and music journalist\, in addition to running her arts and entertainment business\, Kaos Industries. \n  \nNiki’s love of music is boundless! She is well known for her support of the Capital Region music scene. Her 518 Homegrown original music open mic at 344 2nd Street in Troy\, NY is a popular destination for songwriters on the first Sundays of each month. Her passion for promoting up and coming musicians in the 518 community is contagious. Niki is excited to see how our collective efforts are sparking a revival across our local music scenes! \n  \nBree Nicola is a 22-year-old singer/songwriter from Pittsfield. She just graduated with a BFA from Rider University as a Musical Theatre major and is currently working on her first EP. \n  \nCrys Moore is a 20-year-old indie/RNB artist from Pittsfield. Crys attended The College of Saint Rose briefly\, majoring in music industry. They will be continuing their studies in music production at BCC in the spring of 2024. \n  \nThe duo is very excited to get to perform on the streets they both grew up in and can’t wait to have a blast with the community. \n  \nCreative Sorceress Mollie Kellogg will demonstrate her messy and glitter/star-embedded mixed media underpainting pouring process during the September 1st First Fridays Artswalk at Sotille Park\, 200 North Street. This free live painting demonstration will be from 5 to 8 pm\, rain or shine. Kellogg’s Incognito Witch Project celebrates hidden magick and encompasses fine art\, film\, music\, and dance. \n  \nDowntown Pittsfield\, Inc. will host a Free Kids’ Paint & Sip and Scavenger Hunt on Friday\, September 1in the outdoor seating area next to Hot Harry’s and in front of the Marketplace Cafe (37 & 53 North Street). The Paint & Sip is from 5 to 7 pm\, and the Scavenger Hunt is from 5 to 8 pm. \n  \nThis free Back-to-School-themed Paint & Sip is best suited for ages 5 to 12\, although younger and older children are welcome. All materials\, instruction\, snacks\, and juice will be provided. Children are welcome to drop in anytime over the course of the event\, and all children must be accompanied by an adult. \n  \nThe Free Kids’ Scavenger Hunt for art will be held from 5 to 8 pm on September 1 during the First Fridays Artswalk. Children who complete the hunt will receive a coupon for a free ice cream. A copy of the hunt can be picked up on September 1 at the Kids’ Paint & Sip beginning at 4:45 pm. Kids should return to the site of the Kids’ Paint & Sip no later than 8 pm with a completed Scavenger Hunt to claim their prize. \n  \nDowntown Pittsfield\, Inc.\, in partnership with CozQuest Creative\, will be curating an Art Market on Dunham Mall (100 North Street) on the first Friday from 5 to 8 pm through October 2023. The September 1st Art Market will feature local artists\, artisans\, makers\, and food vendors\, and DJ Champ will be playing Top 40 Hits\, Hip Hop\, and Funk on the steps of City Hall! \n  \nNew Jersey born and raised in Pittsfield\, Massachusetts\, DJ Champ has been lighting up the dance floor since 2008 – doing everything from celebrity events to the smallest of venues. He is the founder of Young Champ Foundation which helps the community with back-to-school supplies and Christmas gifts as well as providing mentoring for our youth. There’s nothing DJ Champ hasn’t touched in Berkshire County. One thing you can be sure of is that when he is around the vibe with be great! \n  \nThe Clock Tower Artists at 75 South Church Street will host an open studios event in their beautiful and ever-expanding space on Friday\, September 1\, and every First Friday of the month through December\, from 5 to 8 pm\, and on Saturday\, September 2\, and every first Saturday of the month through December\, from 11 am to 4 pm. Witness the artists’ artistic processes firsthand and be captivated by an eclectic blend of masterpieces that will enchant and inspire you. \n  \nArtists with Open Studios in September include: Deborah H. Carter\, Joan Palano Ciolfi\, Marion H. Grant\, Stacey Healy\, Caroline Kelley\, Bruce Laird\, Mark Mellinger\, Linda Petrocine\, Shany Porras\, Sally Tiska Rice\, Ilene Richard\, Audrey Shachnow\, and Stefanie Weber. \n  \nThe Lichtenstein Center for the Arts\, 28 Renee Avenue\, will feature paintings by Karen Chase and Paul Graubard\, September 1-29. There will be an opening reception with the artists during the First Fridays Artswalk on Friday\, September 1\, 5 to 8 pm. \n  \nAerofauna Studio presents The P.E.B.E. Project with the artistic stylings of Natalie Zoe White at The Unitarian Universalist Church of Pittsfield\, 175 Wendell Avenue\, September 1-30. There will be a reception with the artists on Friday\, September 1\, 5 to 7 pm\, as part of First Fridays Artswalk. \n  \nThe P.E.B.E. Project is a Biodata sonification demonstration. Exhibits are plants connected to instrumentation that registers stomatal conductance and translates the signal into sound. The Project is presented by Linda Merry who has a Master of Arts in Biology from Miami University and who currently works at Berkshire Community College in the Life Sciences. Pencil illustrations by artist Natalie Zoe White will also be part of this exhibit. \n  \nReDefine Community Center\, 5 Melville Street\, will feature local artists\, Matthew Brinton and Nicole Fecteau\, for one night only during the September 1st First Fridays Artswalk. Stop by from 5 to 8 pm on September 1 to view their art and chat with them about their artistic process. Matthew Brinton will present works in charcoal\, pen\, marker\, and pastels\, and Nicole Fecteau will present works in fabric. \n  \nThe Berkshire Art Center (BAC)\, 141 North Street\, will continue to offer Free Family Drop-Ins on the First Friday of the month from 5:30 to 7:30 pm\, year-round. For the month of September\, The Berkshire Art Center will also feature two window displays: “Ping. Pong.” by multimedia artist Deborah H. Carter and a window display by their 2023 Berkshire Artist Residents: Noah Beauregard and Kelly Potter. \n  \nThe smaller window display will Introduce the work of two local artists participating in Berkshire Art Center’s Artist Residency Program which has paired local visual artists with cultural institutions and historic landmarks across the Berkshires since 2012. The 2023 Artists have been creating work inspired by their site locations since the end of May. Kelly Potter\, Chesterwood Artist-in-Residence\, is a painter and a ceramic sculptor based in the Berkshires. Her visual art is based on preliminary studies of plant and animal activity within semi-natural locations in the Berkshires and the Pioneer Valley. Using oil painting and wall mounted ceramic relief sculpture\, she investigates a dynamic between the tamed and the untamed. \n  \nNoah Beauregard\, Red Lion Inn Artist-in-Residence\, is a painter working out of Berkshire County. Drawn to painting and design as a child\, Beauregard’s art focuses on abstracting common images through form and color. Beauregard pushes recognizable scenes into a bright bizarre world of saturated color and mythic design. The human form and unworldly plants are common motifs in his work. \n  \nSally Tiska Rice will present “Autumn Reverie” at Krol Headquarters\, 139 North Street\, August 31 through October 2. Sally invites you to indulge your senses in the vibrant colors and intricate brushstrokes of abstract canvases and framed translucent watercolor works. There will be an opening reception with the artist on Friday\, September 1\, 5 to 8 pm\, during the First Fridays Artswalk. \n  \nAs a versatile multi-media artist\, Sally Tiska Rice seamlessly employs a tapestry of techniques\, working in acrylic\, watercolors\, oil paints\, pastels\, and collages containing botanicals and mixed media elements. Her creative spirit draws inspiration from the idyllic surroundings of her rural hometown\, where she resides with her husband Mark and cherished pets. \n  \nOn Friday\, September 1\, 5 to 8 pm\, NUarts gallery + studios\, 311 North Street\, will open their Hall Gallery featuring the works of resident artists including Richard Britell\, Kathy Gideon\, Brent Ridge\, Joan Rooks\, Marney Schorr\, and Laura Thompson. \n  \nSoma’s Aromas\, 81 East Street\, will host a reception with in-house artist\, Nicole March\, on Friday\, September 1 from 5 to 8 pm. \n  \nNicole is an emerging artist born and raised in the Berkshires. Intrinsically inspired by Mother Nature’s glory and equally as moved by the magic of capturing moments photographically\, it was only in a matter of time that her creative\, unrefined edge would merge with alluring images. \n  \nThe Marketplace Cafe\, 53 North Street\, will host paintings by Mary Davidson for the month of September. There will be a reception with the artist during the September 1 First Fridays Artswalk from 5 to 7 pm. \n  \nMary is a painter living in South Egremont\, MA. Her New Hat Series presents large-scale\, feminine forms that are mysterious\, bold\, dramatic\, captivating\, and complex. The many elegant\, amorphic\, and intricate shapes which flow throughout keep the eyes moving. \n  \nMarchetti Headquarters\, at 314 North Street\, will feature Strike a Memory: Imagery & Illustration in Berkshire Matchbooks\, an art exhibit of vintage Berkshire matchbooks dating from the 1950s-1980s for the month of September. \n  \nThe exhibit is curated by local artist Sara Paul of Shire Prints and features vintage matchbooks with famous landmarks in Lenox\, Pittsfield\, Great Barrington\, and other Berkshire towns. The matchbooks have been scanned at a high resolution and printed many times greater than their size so that viewers can get an up-close look at matchbook art in its full color\, detail\, and splendor. \n  \nVisitors can meet Sara at a reception on Friday\, September 1 from 5 to 7 pm at Marchetti Headquarters. \n  \nWitch Slapped\, 78 North Street\, will feature The Fantastical Artwork of Kit Curry on Friday\, September 1\, 5 to 8 pm. \n  \nKit Curry’s serenely apocalyptic artwork draws upon those primordial beliefs — animism\, witchcraft\, the occult —that modernity and so-called enlightenment have failed to entirely exorcise. Combining graphite\, charcoal\, and pastel for a wide tonal range\, Kit creates figurative and illustrative black and white chiaroscuro drawings in which witches and goblins dance amidst a crumbling world. Kit Curry’s artwork serves as a reminder of the mystery\, terror\, and delight of the strange world we inhabit. \n  \nHotel on North\, 297 North Street\, will feature When Soft Particles Soften: Abstract work by Justin Carafotes & Ryan Garvey through September 30. Soft Particles was first presented at His Daughter Paloma Gallery in August of 2022 curated by Justin Carafotes. This is the gallery’s first traveling exhibition. \n  \nDownload the Downtown Pittsfield app in the App Store or on Google Play to follow a virtual walking tour of art on your cell phone. \n  \nFirst Fridays Artswalk is supported in part by a grant from the Mass Cultural Council\, and a grant from the Pittsfield Cultural Council\, a local agency which is supported by the Mass Cultural Council\, a state agency. \n  \nThis program is also supported in part by The Feigenbaum Foundation as well as a grant awarded by Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation’s Arts Build Community initiative with funding from the Barr Foundation. \n  \nFor more information on First Fridays Artswalk\, visit firstfridaysartswalk.com or call Downtown Pittsfield\, Inc. at 413-443-6501. Download the Downtown Pittsfield app in the App Store or on Google Play to follow a virtual walking tour of art on your cell phone. \n  \n  \nEvent Highlights (South to North): \n  \nUnitarian Universalist Church of Pittsfield\, 175 Wendell Avenue \nAerofauna Studio presents The P.E.B.E. Project with the artistic stylings of Natalie Zoe White \nOpening Reception: Friday\, September 1\, 5 to 7 pm \n  \nArtists at the Clock Tower\, 75 South Church Street\, Third Floor \nDeborah H. Carter\, Joan Palano Ciolfi\, Marion H. Grant\, Stacey Healy\, Caroline Kelley\, Bruce Laird\, Mark Mellinger\, Linda Petrocine\, Shany Porras\, Sally Tiska Rice\, Ilene Richard\, Audrey Shachnow\, and Stefanie Weber \nOpen Studios: Friday\, Sept. 1\, 5 to 8 pm; Sat\, Sept. 2\, 11 am to 4 pm \n  \nSoma’s Aromas\, 81 East Street \nReception with in-house artist Nicole March \nFriday\, September 1\, 5 to 8 pm \n  \nFree Drop-in Kids’ Paint & Sip \nOutdoor seating area at Hot Harry’s and in front of \nthe Marketplace Cafe (37 & 53 North Street) \nFriday\, September 1\, 5 to 7 pm \n  \nFree Kids’ Scavenger Hunt \nBegins at outdoor seating area at Hot Harry’s (37 North Street) \nFriday\, September 1\, 5 to 8 pm \n  \nMarketplace Cafe\, 53 North Street \nMary Davidson \nOpening Reception: Friday\, September 1\, 5 to 7 pm \n  \nBeacon Cinema Lobby\, 57 North Street \nTBD \n  \nWitch Slapped\, 78 North Street \nThe Fantastical Artwork of Kit Curry \nOn View: Friday\, September 1\, 5 to 8 pm \n  \nArt Market on Dunham Mall with DJ Champ \nArtists\, Artisans\, Local-makers\, and Food Vendors \nDJ Champ will be on the steps of City Hall playing Top 40 hits\, Hip Hop and Funk! \nFriday\, September 1\, 5 to 8 pm \n  \nLichtenstein Center for the Arts\, 28 Renne Avenue \nKaren Chase / Paul Graubard \nPaintings \nOpening Reception: Friday\, September 1\, 5 to 8 pm \n  \nKrol Headquarters\, 139 North Street \nAutumn Reverie \nSally Tiska Rice \nOpening Reception: Friday\, September 1\, 5 to 8 pm \n  \nBerkshire Art Center/Brothership Building\, 141 North Street \n2023 Berkshire Artist Residency: Noah Beauregard and Kelly Potter – Window Display (Small Window) \n“Ping. Pong.” by Deborah Carter – Window Display (Large Window) \nFree Family Art Making Drop-In: Friday\, Sept. 1\, 5:30 to 7:30 pm \n  \nSoda Chef\, 161 North Street \nNicole March Art – Window Display \n  \nLIVE MUSIC at Persip Park\, 175 North Street \n5 to 6:30 pm: Bree Nicola and Crys Moore \n6:30 to 8 pm: Niki Kaos \nFriday\, September 1 \n  \nSotille Park\, 200 North Street \nFree Live Painting Demo with Mollie Kellogg \nFriday\, September 1\, 5 to 8 pm \n  \nReDefine Community Center\, 5 Melville Street \nMatt Brinton and Nicole Fecteau – On view one night only! \nFriday\, September 1\, 5 to 8 pm \nView art and chat with the artists about their artistic process \n  \nHotel on North\, 297 North Street \nWhen Soft Particles Soften: \nAbstract work by Justin Carafotes & Ryan Garvey \nOn View: Friday\, September 1\, 5 to 8 pm \n  \nNUarts gallery + studios\, 311 North Street \nTour NUarts’ Hall Gallery featuring the works of resident artists \nFriday\, September 1\, 5 to 8 pm \n  \nMarchetti Headquarters\, 314 North Street \nStrike a Memory: Imagery & Illustration in Berkshire Matchbooks\, an art exhibit of vintage Berkshire matchbooks dating from the 1950s-1980s \nSara Paul of Shire Prints \nOpening Reception: Friday\, September 1\, 5 to 7 pm \n  \nMethuselah Bar and Lounge\, 391 North Street \nBoss Themes/ Alien Communication by Edward Pelkey \nOn View: Friday\, September 1\, 5 to 8 pm
URL:https://downtownpittsfield.com/event/september-1-first-fridays-artswalk/
LOCATION:Downtown Pittsfield\, Pittsfield\, MA\, 01201\, United States
CATEGORIES:Art,Artswalk,DJ,Family Fun,Free,Music,Open Studios,Outdoors,Shopping
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://downtownpittsfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Sept2023ArtswalkSquareAllEvents.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20230901T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20230901T190000
DTSTAMP:20230818T211733Z
CREATED:20230729T183144Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230818T211733Z
UID:10001094-1693587600-1693594800@downtownpittsfield.com
SUMMARY:Free Kids’ Paint & Sip and Scavenger Hunt - September 1
DESCRIPTION:Free Kids’ Paint & Sip\nFriday\, September 1\, 5 to 7 pm\nScavenger Hunt: 5 to 8 pm\n\nDowntown Pittsfield\, Inc. will host a Free Kids’ Paint & Sip and Scavenger Hunt* on Friday\, September 1\, 5 to 7 pm\, in the outdoor seating area next to Hot Harry’s and in front of the Marketplace Cafe (37 & 53 North Street).\n\nThis free Back-to-School-themed Paint & Sip is best suited for ages 5 to 12\, although younger and older children are welcome. All materials\, instruction\, snacks\, and juice will be provided. Children are welcome to drop in anytime over the course of the event\, and all children must be accompanied by an adult.\n\n*The Free Kids’ Scavenger Hunt for art will be held from 5 to 8 pm on September 1 during the First Fridays Artswalk. Children who complete the hunt will receive a coupon for a free ice cream. A copy of the hunt can be picked up on September 1 at the Kids’ Paint & Sip beginning at 4:45 pm. Kids should return to the site of the Kids’ Paint & Sip no later than 8 pm with a completed Scavenger Hunt to claim their prize!\n\nThese events are part of the September 1 First Fridays Artswalk. For more info\, visit www.firstfridaysartswalk.com.
URL:https://downtownpittsfield.com/event/free-kids-paint-sip-september-1/
LOCATION:Parklet at 53 North Street
CATEGORIES:Art,Artswalk,Family Fun,Free,Outdoors
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://downtownpittsfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Sept-1-2023-Paint-and-Sip-and-Scavenger-Hunt.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20230804T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20230804T200000
DTSTAMP:20230804T173742Z
CREATED:20230727T183342Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230804T173742Z
UID:10001093-1691168400-1691179200@downtownpittsfield.com
SUMMARY:August 4 First Fridays Artswalk
DESCRIPTION:The First Fridays Artswalk in downtown Pittsfield returns on Friday\, August 4 from 5 to 8 pm. Enjoy live music at the Lichtenstein Center for the Arts with sets by Robin O’Herin and Bernice Lewis\, a live art demonstration with Diane Firtell at Framework\, opening receptions\, open studios\, and a Free Kids’ Paint & Sip. Other participating venues include the Beacon Cinema\, Berkshire Art Center\, Clock Tower Artists\, Hotel on North\, Krol Headquarters\, Lichtenstein Center for the Arts\, Marchetti Headquarters\, Methuselah Bar and Lounge\, NUarts gallery + studios\, Soda Chef\, Soma’s Aromas\, the Unitarian Universalist Church\, and Witch Slapped. \n  \nDownload the Downtown Pittsfield app in the App Store or on Google Play to follow a virtual walking tour of art on your cell phone. Click here to view the digital tour of all stops! \n  \nOn Friday\, August 4\, Robin O’Herin and Bernice Lewis will share the stage at the Lichtenstein Center for the Arts\, 28 Renee Ave. From 5 to 6:30 pm\, Robin O’Herin will kick-off the evening with her original blues music\, and from 6:30 to 8 pm\, Bernice Lewis will treat audiences to her original songs. \n  \nRobin O’Herin is a touring blues and gospel musician\, specializing in historically rich\, often interactive concerts that include original and traditional American music. Her concerts are warm\, affirming experiences she shares with the audience. Let her take you on a journey of musical exploration through the Delta and Piedmont regions of the South. Song selections may include Robert Johnson\, Blind Willie Johnson\, and Robin’s own original blues and fingerstyle ballads. \n  \nSinger-Songwriter Bernice Lewis has been a touring artist for almost four decades\, performing at innumerable festivals\, concert halls\, coffeehouses\, colleges\, and house concerts. She is The Artist Associate in Songwriting at Williams College (Williamstown\, MA) and founding faculty at Schreiner University’s Songkeeper Program (Kerrville\, TX). She has released seven CDs of her original music and is currently signed to Houston’s Berkalin Records. \n  \nOn Friday\, August 4 at FRAMEWORK\, 437 North Street\, Diane Firtell will be hosting a free live painting demonstration from 5 to 8 pm where she will illustrate how she transfers one of her photographs onto a canvas and transforms it into a realistic oil painting. \n  \nPittsfield artist Diane Firtell uses her camera\, now mostly her iPhone\, to capture the ever-changing beauty of the Berkshires. During this event\, she will be working on Ranunculus Bouquet\, a work in progress. \n  \nDowntown Pittsfield\, Inc. and St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church will host a Free Kids’ Paint & Sip on Friday\, August 4\, 5 to 7 pm\, in the auditorium at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church\, 67 East Street\, as part of the First Fridays Artswalk. \n  \nThis free animal-themed Paint & Sip is best suited for ages 5 to 12\, although younger and older children are welcome. All materials\, instruction\, snacks\, and juice will be provided. Children are welcome to drop in anytime over the course of the event\, and all children must be accompanied by an adult. The auditorium is on the second floor of the parish house\, and the entrance is on Allen Street. \n  \nThe Clock Tower Artists at 75 South Church Street will host an open studios event in their beautiful and ever-expanding space on Friday\, August 4\, and every First Friday of the month through December\, from 5 to 8 pm\, and on Saturday\, August 5\, and every first Saturday of the month through December\, from 11 am to 4 pm. Witness the artists’ artistic processes firsthand and be captivated by an eclectic blend of masterpieces that will enchant and inspire you. \n  \nArtists with open studios in August include: Deborah H. Carter\, Joan Palano Ciolfi\, Marion H. Grant\, Stacey Healy\, Bruce Laird\, Mark Mellinger\, Linda Petrocine\, Shany Porras\, Sally Tiska Rice\, Ilene Richard\, Audrey Shachnow\, and Stefanie Weber. \n  \nHotel on North\, 297 North Street\, will feature a reception with the artists for When Soft Particles Soften: Abstract work by Justin Carafotes & Ryan Garvey on Friday\, August 4 from 5 to 8 pm. Soft Particles was first presented at His Daughter Paloma Gallery in August of 2022 curated by Justin Carafotes. This is the gallery’s first traveling exhibition. The exhibition will be on view August 4 through September 30. \n  \nThe Berkshire Art Center (BAC)\, 141 North Street\, will continue to offer Free Family Drop-Ins on the First Friday of the month from 5:30 to 7:30 pm\, year-round. For the month of August\, The Berkshire Art Center will also feature two window displays: “HOW SHALL WE LIVE? Climate Visions of Berkshire Youth Artists II” and “Ping. Pong.” by multimedia artist Deborah H. Carter. \n  \n“HOW SHALL WE LIVE? Climate Visions of Berkshire Youth Artists II” will be on view August 4 through August 30 in the smaller window at 141 North Street. This is a juried exhibition of student art responding to the climate crisis\, presented by Living the Change Berkshires. There will be a reception with the artists from 6 to 7 pm on Friday\, August 4 as part of the First Fridays Artswalk. \n  \nThe Unitarian Universalist Church of Pittsfield\, 175 Wendell Avenue\, will present works by artists Kas Maroney\, Fern Leslie\, Kamille Hylton-Alvarado\, and the late Paul Glavin\, August 4 through August 25\, in a show entitled UU Artists Past and Present Views. There will be a reception with the artists on Friday\, August 4\, 5 to 7 pm\, as part of the First Fridays Artswalk. \n  \nThe UU Church of Pittsfield is known for its diversity and inclusion of people including artists\, authors\, revolutionaries\, and activists. Included in this exhibit are voices from the LGBTQ+ community\, established artists\, new voices and more. \n  \nWitch Slapped\, 78 North Street\, will host a reception showcasing The Fantastical Artwork of Kit Curry on Friday\, August 4\, 5 to 8 pm. \n  \nKit Curry’s serenely apocalyptic artwork draws upon those primordial beliefs — animism\, witchcraft\, the occult —that modernity and so-called enlightenment have failed to entirely exorcise. Combining graphite\, charcoal\, and pastel for a wide tonal range\, Kit creates figurative and illustrative black and white chiaroscuro drawings in which witches and goblins dance amidst a crumbling world. Kit Curry’s artwork serves as a reminder of the mystery\, terror\, and delight of the strange world we inhabit. A glow in the dark shirt with one of Kit’s pieces will debut at the reception and will be available for sale. \n  \nOn Friday\, August 4 from 5 to 7 pm\, Marchetti Headquarters\, 314 North Street\, will present Past and Present: Acrylic paintings by J J Tobin at an opening reception with the artist. J J Tobin has been making art for over 50 years\, including paintings\, sculpture\, and murals. This show\, on view August 4-30\, will feature acrylic paintings on canvas and older assemblages. \n  \nKrol Headquarters\, 139 North Street\, will present “Flowers\, Fruit and Veggies” by Ilene Richard on Friday\, August 4 from 5 to 8 pm at an opening reception with the artist. \n  \nOn Friday\, August 4\, 5 to 8 pm\, NUarts gallery + studios\, 311 North Street\, will open their Hall Gallery featuring the works of resident artists including Richard Britell\, Kathy Gideon\, Brent Ridge\, Joan Rooks\, Marney Schorr\, and Laura Thompson. \n  \nSoma’s Aromas\, 81 East Street\, will host a reception with in-house artist Irene Collias from 5 to 8 pm on Friday\, August 4. \n  \nThe Lichtenstein Center for the Arts\, 28 Renee Avenue\, will present CATA’s I Am a Part of Art through August 23\, 2023. Community Access to the Arts’ Annual Art Show I Am a Part of Art features more than 150 paintings and drawings by artists with disabilities – the culmination of hundreds of CATA visual arts workshops serving teens\, adults\, and elders with disabilities. \n  \nDownload the Downtown Pittsfield app in the App Store or on Google Play to follow a virtual walking tour of art on your cell phone. \n  \nFirst Fridays Artswalk is supported in part by a grant from the Mass Cultural Council\, and a grant from the Pittsfield Cultural Council\, a local agency which is supported by the Mass Cultural Council\, a state agency. \n  \nThis program is also supported in part by The Feigenbaum Foundation as well as a grant awarded by Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation’s Arts Build Community initiative with funding from the Barr Foundation. \n  \nFor more information on First Fridays Artswalk\, visit firstfridaysartswalk.com or call Downtown Pittsfield\, Inc. at 413-443-6501. Download the Downtown Pittsfield app in the App Store or on Google Play to follow a virtual walking tour of art on your cell phone. \n  \nImages in header (clockwise top left to bottom left): The Blog Bus\, Joan Palano Ciolfi\, Kids’ Paint & Sip\, Bernice Lewis\, Ilene Richard\, and Robin O’Herin \n  \n\nEvent Highlights (South to North): \nUnitarian Universalist Church of Pittsfield\, 175 Wendell Avenue\nUU Artists Past and Present Views\nKas Maroney\, Fern Leslie\, Kamille Hylton-Alvarado\, and Paul Glavin\nOpening Reception: Friday\, August 4\, 5 to 7 pm \nArtists at the Clock Tower\, 75 South Church Street\, Third Floor\nDeborah H. Carter\, Joan Palano Ciolfi\, Marion H. Grant\, Stacey Healy\, Bruce Laird\, Mark Mellinger\, Linda Petrocine\, Shany Porras\, Sally Tiska Rice\, Ilene Richard\, Audrey Shachnow\, and Stefanie Weber\nOpen Studios: Friday\, August 4\, 5 to 8 pm; Sat\, August 5\, 11 am to 4 pm \nSoma’s Aromas\, 81 East Street\nReception with in-house artist Irene Collias\nFriday\, August 4\, 5 to 8 pm \nFree Drop-in Kids’ Paint & Sip\nSt. Stephen’s Episcopal Church\, 67 East Street\nFriday\, August 4\, 5 to 7 pm \nMarketplace Cafe\, 53 North Street – Paintings by Mollie Kellogg \nBeacon Cinema Lobby\, 57 North Street\nPatrick Swan\nMeet the artist on Friday\, August 4\, 5 to 8 pm \nWitch Slapped\, 78 North Street\nThe Fantastical Artwork of Kit Curry\nReception: Friday\, August 4\, 5 to 8 pm \nWheat Paste Mural\, 26 Dunham Mall\nTeens from Boys & Girls Club and Huck Elling \nBrick Quilt Mural on Renne Avenue\nBack of 122 North Street\nHuck Elling \nLIVE MUSIC at the Lichtenstein Center for the Arts\, 28 Renne Avenue\n5 to 6:30 pm: Robin O’Herin\n6:30 to 8 pm: Bernice Lewis\nFriday\, August 4 \nLichtenstein Center for the Arts\, 28 Renne Avenue – CATA’s Annual Art Show I Am a Part of Art\nOn View: Friday\, August 4\, 5 to 8 pm \nKrol Headquarters\, 139 North Street\nIlene Richard: Flowers\, Fruit and Veggies\nOpening Reception: Friday\, August 4\, 5 to 8 pm \nBerkshire Art Center/Brothership Building\, 141 North Street\nHOW SHALL WE LIVE? Climate Visions of Berkshire Youth Artists II – Window Display (Small Window)\n“Ping. Pong.” by Deborah Carter – Window Display (Large Window)\nReception with youth artists: Friday\, August 4\, 6 to 7 pm\nFree Family Art Making Drop-In: Friday\, August 4\, 5:30 to 7:30 pm \nSoda Chef\, 161 North Street\nNicole March Art – Window Display \nBerkshire Palate\, 297 North Street\nLive music with Dave Brown\nFriday\, August 4\, 7 pm \nHotel on North\, 297 North Street\nWhen Soft Particles Soften:\nAbstract work by Justin Carafotes & Ryan Garvey\nOpening Reception: Friday\, August 4\, 5 to 8 pm \nNUarts gallery + studios\, 311 North Street\nTour NUarts’ Hall Gallery featuring the works of resident artists\nFriday\, August 4\, 5 to 8 pm \nMarchetti Headquarters\, 314 North Street\nPast and Present: Acrylic paintings by J J Tobin\nOpening Reception: Friday\, August 4\, 5 to 7 pm \nMethuselah Bar and Lounge\, 391 North Street\nBoss Themes/ Alien Communication by Edward Pelkey\nOn View: Friday\, August 4\, 5 to 8 pm \nFRAMEWORK\, 437 North Street\nFree Live Painting Demo with Diane Firtell\nFriday\, August 4\, 5 to 8 pm
URL:https://downtownpittsfield.com/event/august-4-first-fridays-artswalk/
LOCATION:Downtown Pittsfield\, Pittsfield\, MA\, 01201\, United States
CATEGORIES:Art,Artswalk,DJ,Family Fun,Free,Music,Open Studios,Outdoors,Shopping
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://downtownpittsfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Blog-Header-First-Fridays-Artswalk-Expands-on-August-4-2023.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20230804T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20230804T200000
DTSTAMP:20230804T173519Z
CREATED:20230727T182154Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230804T173519Z
UID:10001089-1691168400-1691179200@downtownpittsfield.com
SUMMARY:Live Painting Demo with Diane Firtell
DESCRIPTION:Live Painting Demo with Diane Firtell\nFriday\, August 4\, 5 to 8 pm\, FREE\nFRAMEWORK\, 437 North Street\n\nAs part of the First Fridays Artswalk\, Diane Firtell will be hosting a free live painting demonstration on August 4 from 5 to 8 pm where she will illustrate how she transfers one of her photographs onto a canvas and transforms it into a realistic oil painting. \nPittsfield MA artist Diane Firtell uses her camera\, now mostly her iPhone\, to capture the ever-changing beauty of the Berkshires. She will be working on Ranunculus Bouquet\, a work in progress.
URL:https://downtownpittsfield.com/event/live-painting-demo-with-diane-firtell/
LOCATION:Framework by Downtown Pittsfield\, Inc.\, 437 North Street\, Pittsfield\, MA\, 01201\, United States
CATEGORIES:Art,Artswalk,Family Fun,Free,Outdoors
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://downtownpittsfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/FRAMEWORK-Live-Painting-with-Diane-Firtell.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20230804T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20230804T200000
DTSTAMP:20230804T173419Z
CREATED:20230727T182033Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230804T173419Z
UID:10001088-1691168400-1691179200@downtownpittsfield.com
SUMMARY:Live Music: Robin O'Herin and Bernice Lewis
DESCRIPTION:Robin O’Herin and Bernice Lewis\nFriday\, August 4\, 5 to 8 pm\, FREE\n \nLichtenstein Center for the Arts\, 28 Renee Ave. \n  \nOn Friday\, August 4\, Robin O’Herin and Bernice Lewis will share the stage at the Lichtenstein Center for the Arts\, 28 Renee Ave. From 5 to 6:30 pm\, Robin O’Herin will kick-off the evening with her original blues music\, and from 6:30 to 8 pm\, Bernice Lewis will treat audiences to her original songs. \n  \nRobin O’Herin is a touring blues and gospel musician\, specializing in historically rich\, often interactive concerts that include original and traditional American music. Her concerts are warm\, affirming experiences she shares with the audience. Let her take you on a journey of musical exploration through the Delta and Piedmont regions of the South. Song selections may include Robert Johnson\, Blind Willie Johnson\, and Robin’s own original blues and fingerstyle ballads. \n  \nSinger-Songwriter Bernice Lewis has been a touring artist for almost four decades\, performing at innumerable festivals\, concert halls\, coffeehouses\, colleges\, and house concerts. She is The Artist Associate in Songwriting at Williams College (Williamstown\, MA) and founding faculty at Schreiner University’s Songkeeper Program (Kerrville\, TX). She has released seven CDs of her original music and is currently signed to Houston’s Berkalin Records.
URL:https://downtownpittsfield.com/event/live-music-robin-oherin-and-bernice-lewis/
LOCATION:Lichtenstein Center for the Arts\, 28 Renne Avenue\, Pittsfield\, MA\, 01201\, United States
CATEGORIES:Artswalk,Family Fun,Free,Music,Outdoors
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://downtownpittsfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Lichtenstein-Center-for-the-ArtsFFAAugust2023.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20230722T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20230722T223000
DTSTAMP:20230530T204407Z
CREATED:20230530T203937Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230530T204407Z
UID:10001084-1690030800-1690065000@downtownpittsfield.com
SUMMARY:Mountain Day with The Whiskey Treaty Roadshow
DESCRIPTION:Berkshire-based Americana/folk rock supergroup The Whiskey Treaty Roadshow and the Berkshire County Outdoor Recreation Summit are proud to announce the 2nd Annual Mountain Day at Bousquet Mountain on Saturday\, July 22\, 2023. A celebration of music\, community\, art\, and outdoor activities\, the festival features performances from The Whiskey Treaty Roadshow and a slew of other folk/rock and Americana artists.Winners of the 2022 New England Music Awards Folk Rock Act of the Year\, The Whiskey Treaty Roadshow puts on a performance that can’t be recreated anywhere else\, with five singer/songwriters all trading off on lead vocals and an eclectic array of instruments from strings to horns to keys; the band itself is something of a one act music festival – replete with boot-stomping jams\, sing-along anthems\, and a completely larger than life command of the stage.1 pm: Free Admission to the 2nd Annual Berkshire County Outdoor Recreation Summit: Learn about new Berkshires initiatives in hiking\, climbing\, backcountry skiing\, and more.3 pm: Ticketed entry to Mountain Day Begins: Vendor Village in the base area of the mountain will feature multiple local businesses and outdoor recreation stakeholders. Activities will include yoga\, biking\, and more\, and there will be smaller live music performances throughout the afternoon.8:30 pm: Headline performance from The Whiskey Treaty RoadshowEarly Bird Ticket Prices:Adult – $30Student (13 – 20 years old) – $15Youth (Under 12 years old) – $5 \n  \nClick here to purchase tickets!General Mountain Day Ticket Prices:Adult – $45Student (13 – 20 years old) – $20Youth (Under 12 years old) – $5 \n  \n 
URL:https://downtownpittsfield.com/event/mountain-day-with-the-whiskey-treaty-roadshow-2/
LOCATION:Bousquet Mountain\, 101 Dan Fox Drive\, Pittsfield\, MA\, 01201\, United States
CATEGORIES:Celebration,Family Fun,Music,Outdoors
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://downtownpittsfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Mountain-Day-With-The-Whiskey-Treaty-Roadshow-3.jpg
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR