Music to fill the library’s amphitheater
Summer music series benefits Paonia Library landscaping fund
"With the shade sails installed over the amphitheater, the last piece of the landscaping is now complete," says Myrna Westerman, Paonia library manager. "We are now ready to begin offering great outdoor programs, but we need a little more help from the community to maintain this wonderful public space."
"The amphitheater and surrounding outdoor area was part of the original vision of the Paonia Foundation and Friends of the Paonia Library for the new building and grounds," explains Ann Murphy, president of the library board. "The landscape maintenance is supported solely by fundraising, the majority which is done by the foundation and friends."
"Although the performances are free to the public," Westerman explains, "we are encouraging donations, which we will split between the musicians and the landscape fund. Everyone is looking forward to the music series and using this new public space for programs."
With a great response from local musicians, here is the summer line up:
Michael Meadows starts the series off on June 7. Meadows, from the band Mojo, will be performing solo with a mix of folk rock and reggae.
David and Tamara Hauze will take the stage on June 14 with their eclectic sound of contemporary favorites as well as original selections. Their acoustic sound is expressed through refined vocal harmonies and guitar, as well as Celtic harp and flute. David and Tamara have performed across the country at festivals, formal affairs and backyard porches, carrying positive messages to warm the heart and uplift the soul.
Gustavo Brett shares his music on June 21. "I have written over 2000 songs, but I only remember twelve of them," Brett says. "Since I have about six fans, management thought playing at the Paonia Library might push my career over the top. Besides, I happen to love the library and the people that work there."
Ellen Stapenhorst, with her guitar and a good dose of humor, will entertain the crowd on June 28. Stapenhorst has been performing, writing, and recording music for over four decades. She was part of the Aspen-based eclectic original country-rock band, Tanglefoot, and since then, has performed solo and with various groups locally, around the U.S., and internationally. Paonia librarian Laura Lee Yates says, "There is a well-founded rumor that Ellen will perform the song she wrote for the opening of the new Paonia Library three years ago."
Mike Gwinn will perform solo on July 12, showing off his timeless musical talents. Gwinn will share a mix of jazz and rock-n-roll, along with original songwriting.
Russ Chapman will take the stage July 19 with his blend of early swing, pre-war blues, and New Orleans swamp music. Chapman is known for his "wit, spontaneity, sly sentimentalism, and originality." His performances are "memorable for all ages."
Juliana Weiser, singer/songwriter, concludes the summer series on July 26 with guitar vocals that speaks to the heart and soul.
To cool off during this hot summer music series, the Kids Pasta Project will be blending up smoothies.
The summer music series is free to the public but donations are strongly encouraged to support the landscaping fund. Bring snacks or a picnic. Special surprise guests will perform during the musicians' breaks.
For more information, please contact the Paonia Public Library at 527-3470 or visit the Delta County Libraries' website at www.deltalibraries.org.
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