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The following was submitted by the Griffin Museum of Photography:
Music connects us. It carries our memories, gives voice to our experiences, brings communities together, and crosses boundaries of time and place. From the blues and jazz clubs that nurtured new sounds to the rock stages, country dance halls, and concert rooms where musical traditions continue to evolve, American music tells a story of creativity, influence, and shared experience.
Inspired by the Griffin Museum of Photography’s exhibition “Common Time: American Musicality,” this concert series brings that story to life through live performance.
The museum is pleased to Collaborate with the Winchester Community Music School for a series of concerts exploring the extraordinary range of American music — from blues, rock ’n’ roll, and jazz to bluegrass, contemporary classical music, Americana, and beyond.
Across four distinct performances, familiar songs and influential compositions offer a chance to revisit the artists who shaped our musical landscape, discover unexpected connections between genres, and experience the power of music to bring people together.
Each performance offers its own perspective on the American musical tradition, from the roots of rock and blues to the enduring voices of great songwriters and the expressive possibilities of American composers.
Common Time is both a musical rhythm and an idea: the pulse we share, even when the music takes us in different directions. We invite you to experience these performances alongside the exhibition, to see the images, hear the sounds, and celebrate the music that continues to shape our collective cultural experience.
Thank you to the Winchester Community Music School, and to Fern and Charlie Nesson for making this series possible.
CONCERT INFORMATION
Concerts will take place on the following dates, from 7-8:30 p.m.
• Nov. 7: Common Time : American Musicality Artist Reception
Join us in celebrating the artists of Common Time on Saturday, Nov. 7, from 4-6 p.m. This event is free to attend.
The Griffin thrilled to celebrate music through the eyes of Janette Beckman, Margo Cooper, William Feiring, Bootsy Holler, Joseph O. Holmes, Henry Horenstein, Lou Jones, Ron Pownall, Michael Weinstein and the collections of Evan Mirapaul and Gary Leopold.
• Nov. 10: Celebrating American Composers
Performing modern classical and bluegrass pieces for string trio by American composers. A trio of WCMS faculty members—Molly Tucker, violin; Simone Cartales, viola; and Pamela Ambrose, cello—will perform modern classical and bluegrass pieces for string trio by American composers.
Featured works will include the “Appalachia Waltz” by Mark O’Connor; “Movement for String Trio” by Coleridge-Taylor Perkinson; and much more.
• Nov. 17: An evening of Acoustic Jazz
Zahra Lux & Chris Gardino Acoustic Duo: Zahra Lux & Chris Gardino team up in a fantastic duo, playing all of your favorite tunes, old and new! From Dean Martin and Frank Sinatra to Noah Kahan and Alice in Chains, the duo plays a wide range of songs across jazz, Pop, Rock, and Country. Faculty Chris Gardino (guitar) and guest artist Zahra Lux (vocals)
• Nov. 24: Classic Rock and Blues from the 50’s to the Present
Blues, rockabilly, and classic rock from artists such as Leiber & Stroller, Muddy Waters, Neil Young, Jim Morrison, Lennon & McCartney, Allman Brothers, Eddie Cochran.
Performed by the Blues Chasers.
• Dec. 1: American Songwriting
Guitarist Miles Blackwood leads a tribute to all the songwriters who have inspired his approach to Americana, alternative, and jazz-laced alt-pop-rock: Paul Simon, Stevie Wonder, Jeff Tweedy, Brittany Howard, John Linnell & John Flansburgh (They Might Be Giants), Warren Zevon, Roland Orzabal (Tears for Fears), Bill Withers, and more.
Tickets for events range from $5 to $35.
