The Downtown Holiday Singing to benefit the winter homeless shelter has started and will continue through Dec. 20. This year, we are working closely with the Downtown Northampton Association and presenting at least 25 different performances during the Holiday Stroll block party this Saturday, Dec. 1, from 5-8 p.m. The groups range from small to large; from children to adults; and through a huge range of genres (pop, jazz, folk, rock, classical, a cappella, gospel), both vocal and instrumental.
Some performers will wander the streets; others will perform inside downtown businesses (thank you, A.P.E. Gallery, Birdhouse Music, Faces, Artisan Gallery, Coldwell Banker, Le BonNton), and there will be multi-performer events at First Churches, the Unitarian Society, and the Christian Science Society. Valley Rock Voices will sing out in front of First Churches at 5:30, and the City Hall Steps will host Amandla, the UMass Gospel Choir, and Sacred Harp of Western MA.
Musicians are performing free of charge, and there is no admission fee. They will have at least two things in common: wonderful music, and collection hats or baskets for the homeless shelter. The Holiday Stroll is great fun overall, with many street performers, a bonfire and toasted marshmallows, and good food.
Please come and enjoy it all! And if you can, throw something in the collection hats to provide a warm bed and hot food to our less fortunate neighbors.
Rick Hart, Friends of Hampshire County Homeless Individuals
Leeds