2010 Event:

The Maine Festival of American Music: Its Roots and Traditions
Fifth Season, June 23-26, 2010

Presented by
The United Society of Shakers, Sabbathday Lake,
and The Portland String Quartet

This unique four-day festival celebrates music central to America's religious and secular foundations. Held in the acoustically superb 1794 Shaker Meeting House, the Shaker Society, the Portland String Quartet and guest artists present American music in the context of the world's great chamber music.

Wednesday, June 23rd, 7:00 PM

"We've Got Rhythm! - the Music of George Gershwin" with the Portland String Quartet and pianist and Gershwin expert Paul Posnak of the U. of Miami, Coral Gables, Florida.

Thursday, June 24th, 7:00 PM

"In the Shaker Tradition: Shaker Music and Historical Commentary" with the Portland String Quartet and Brother Arnold Hadd.

Friday, June 25th, 9:15 AM - 5:30 PM

"Workshop Day" - Chamber music players from throughout New England will be coached by the Portland String Quartet. Movements from the chamber music of Ernest Bloch and other American composers will be prepared and presented in a Master Class (3:30 - 5:30 p.m.) in the Shaker Meeting House. A Shaker hymn arrangement will also be part of each group's musical experience.

Saturday, June 26th, 7:00 PM

"Celebrating Ernest Bloch's Other Music" with the Portland String Quartet and pianist Paul Posnak. The concert includes music by Mendelssohn and Beethoven who inspired Bloch's oeuvre beyond the famous Cello Rhapsody, Schelomo.

Ticket Information:

Adults: $25 (per Festival program)
Seniors: $20 (per Festival program)
Students 21 & younger: Free
Workshop participant: $60
(Master Class, June 25th, is free and open to the public)

Checks are payable to:
United Society of Shakers
707 Shaker Rd.
New Gloucester, ME 04260.

Phone: (207) 926-4597
E-mail: usshakers@aol.com

For more information, visit the festival on line at: www.portlandstringquartet.org