wknd-20260618

JUNETEENTH

Above, guests enjoy the Springfield Symphony Orchestra’s Juneteenth Freedom Day concert in 2025. Inset, Avery Sharpe will perform in the Friday concert, set to take place at Center Court in Tower Square. The concert begins at 3 p.m., but the event itself will start at noon with various vendors and a Juneteenth panel. For more information on Friday’s concert, go online to springfield symphony.org.

OSpringfield Symphony Orchestra concert will prove power of community

Keith O’Connor | Special to The Republican

n June 19, 1865, the last remaining enslaved African Americans in Texas were finally informed of their freedom — two-and-a-half-years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed. Now a federal holiday, established in 2021, Juneteenth will be celebrated in Springfield on Friday when the Springfield Symphony Orchestra presents its fourth annual

Orchestra

Juneteenth Freedom Day Concert in a new format and location at Center Court in Tower Square.

The free event is being organized by the Orchestra, in partnership with White Lion Brewing Company and 6 Bricks.

The concert, set for 3 p.m., will feature the string section of the Springfield Symphony Orchestra and Chorus, the Avery Sharpe Quintet led by jazz legend Avery Sharpe who resides in Western Massachusetts, and the Extended Family Choir directed by his brother, vocalist and instrumentalist Kevin Sharpe.

The program will feature “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” traditional spirituals such as “Wade in the Water” and “Ain’t Gonna Let Nobody Turn Me Around,” choral works including “Better” by Hezekiah Walker and arranged by Avery Sharpe, among other pieces.

The Avery Sharpe Quintet will play a number of Sharpe’s compositions, such as “Harlem and the War to End All Wars,” and traditional spirituals including “A City Called Heaven” and “Sometimes I Feel Like a Motherless Child.”

Kevin Sharpe, who resides in Springfield and has previously served as a guest conductor of the Springfield Symphony Orchestra, returns as conductor for this year’s Juneteenth concert.

He explained how the program selections are reflective of Juneteenth.

“Since Juneteenth is the celebration of the emancipation of the last enslaved Black folks in Texas, we use these selections as somewhat of a historical/emotional timeline of the Black experience,” Kevin Sharpe said, explaining that the spiritual arrangements — like “Wade in the Water” and “Amazing Grace” — are songs of sorrow. Some songs were underground codes during the days of slavery.

“The program begins with ‘Lift Every Voice and Sing,” which is considered the ‘Black national anthem’ and is a kind

“Because

many people still don’t know what Juneteenth even is nor its significance, events like this can help put it before the eyes and into the ears of people who may just consider the holiday as ‘just an extra day off.’”

Kevin Sharpe

of an overture to the whole performance,” Sharpe said.

“We have a variety of music either by Black American composers or rooted in Black American tradition. As a conductor, my role is to help make it fit together and be a sort of musical traffic cop,” he added.

Sharpe noted it was “quite important” to him to accept conducting duties for a couple reasons.

“I very much enjoy conducting and appreciate every opportunity to do so. I’ve guest conducted with the

Celebrating Juneteenth in WMass

• Wistariahurst Museum in Holyoke will host a Juneteenth celebration on Friday, June 19, from noon to 3 p.m. The day — which will include live music and local food vendors — will highlight Black-owned businesses and artists. No admission is required to enter the Museum gardens.

• The Juneteenth Jubilee returns to Springfield this weekend with a flag-raising ceremony on State Street and Ben Swan Way Friday at noon, followed by a Juneteenth adult block party from 5-9 p.m. A Juneteenth Jubilee afterparty will be held at White Lion Brewing from 9:30 p.m. to midnight. A family-friendly block party will be held Saturday, June 20, from 1-7 p.m. at Blunt Park and will feature live music, a kids fashion show and activities including

hair-styling with professional braiders and barbers, arcade games, face painting and free food.

• A Father's Day-meets-Juneteenth celebration will be offered by True Roots LLC at the Chicopee Portuguese American Club, 149 Exchange St., on Sunday, June 21 at 2 p.m. There will be food, an open bar, vendors, a live DJ, raffle prizes, and a live cake decorating class. Tickets can be purchased on Eventbrite.

• NAACP Berkshire County will host a Juneteenth celebration on Sunday, June 21, with events running from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Pittsfield City Hall and Durant Park. The festivities will include food and vendors, a basketball tournament, Freedom Walk, and family fun. The day's events are free.

Heritage Greens Kitchen & Bar

Come experience the beginning of something special!

Welcome to Heritage Greens Kitchen & Bar, the newly imagined restaurant at Wyckoff Country Club, offering a fresh and elevated dining experience in a beautiful setting.

Danielle Miraglia to play Theodores’ in Springfield

Considering where she is today, Danielle Miraglia’s first band experience might surprise a few fans.

“When I was 10, I started a band with friends before I even knew how to play an instrument,” she said in a recent interview with The Republican. “I was just playing one-finger lines on a Casio keyboard. We were just writing silly songs and cheesy pop songs.”

Fortunately, Miraglia’s musical adventure didn’t end there. And although she hails from Boston, she has made plenty of friends and fans in Western Massachusetts via her gigs here. The next such show will be at Theodores’ in downtown Springfield tonight at 8. She’ll be joined by lead guitarist Bob Enik.

After that first preteen band, Miraglia’s interest in music only grew stronger, resulting in her getting her first guitar at age 13 from her mother’s friend.

T’s, New

and

All three bands will play the MassMutual Center in a triple bill this

“I immediately went home and started picking out notes one at a time and learned how to play ‘Iron Man’ by Black Sabbath,” she said.

Miraglia explored a different artistic path during college, when she attended Emerson College and majored in creative writing. She didn’t seriously pursue music until she went to an open mic at the Kendall Cafe in Cambridge. She decided to give it a try and since then, has never looked back.

“And it was like I had found my tribe. I felt really connected with the people there and it became my scene,” she said. “And it grew from there

‘ROCK THE LANDING’

By Ashley P otter apotter@repub.com

SPRINGFIELD — Fans of early 2000s rock will be in for a treat this Saturday as the MassMutual Center plays host to a triple bill of generational greats. Yellowcard, joined by Plain White

NIGHTCLUBS & OUTINGS

THURSDAY

Northampton Brewery: Bands on Brewster: The Hendersons Blues Band. 11 Brewster Court, Northampton

Theodores': Danielle Miraglia. 201 Worthington St., Springfield

Uno Chicago Grill: Country Music. 820 West Columbus Ave., Springfield

Lawn Party @ The Landing: Joe

Macey. The Landing at The MassMutual Center, Springfield

White Lion Pridelands: Music by local DJ and beer on tap from White Lion Brewing. Tower Square Park, Springfield.

Wyckoff Country Club: Ladies Night with DJ Purcyse. Heritage Greens, 233 Easthampton Road,

Holyoke

FRIDAY

Delaney House: Luther Johnson. 3 Country Club Road, Holyoke

Iron Horse Music Hall: Inde, PARRIS and The Ujima Singers. 20 Center St., Northampton

MGM Springfield: MGM Free Music

Fridays presents Redneck Castaway Band. 1 MGM Way, Springfield

Theodores': Shokazoba - New World Funk. 201 Worthington St., Springfield

Uno Chicago Grill: Roots, Blues and Rock. 820 West Columbus Ave., Springfield

West Springfield's Irish House Restaurant & Pub: Johnny BeBop. 429 Morgan Road, West Springfield

SATURDAY

Delaney House: Eric Bascom Trio. 3

Country Club Road, Holyoke

Delaney House: Trivia in the Mick. 3 Country Club Road, Holyoke

MGM Springfield: MGM Roar

Comedy Club presents Don McMillian. 1 MGM Way, Springfield

Theodores': Diane Blue and Friends. 201 Worthington St., Springfield

Uno Chicago Grill: Modern, Contemporary Rock. 820 West Columbus Ave., Springfield

West Springfield's Irish House

Restaurant & Pub: New Leaf. 429 Morgan Road, West Springfield

SUNDAY

Delaney House: Trivia with Bobby Roast Beef on the Patio. 3 Country Club Road, Holyoke

Uno Chicago Grill: Jazz. 820 West Columbus Ave., Springfield

NORTHAMPTON

Iron Horse preps for Juneteenth celebration

The Iron Horse Music Hall will present its first Juneteenth celebration, featuring local artist Indë alongside Springfield’s PARRIS and The Ujima Singers, on June 19 at 7 p.m.

SSO several times beginning back in 2001. The Springfield Symphony is a very good orchestra, and I have worked with some of its members outside of the group. It is also good for people from the community, both the greater Springfield community overall and the Black American community, to see someone from said community conducting such an event,” he said.

“Also, because many people still don’t know what Juneteenth even is nor its significance, events like this can help put it before the eyes and into the ears of people who may just consider the holiday as ‘just an extra day off.’ Perhaps this type of concert can spark a bit of curiosity into its meaning or even possibly inspire folks to go even deeper,” he added.

The Springfield Symphony Chorus, directed by Nikki Stoia, consists of singers from throughout the greater Connecticut River Valley and collaborates and performs with the SSO each concert season at Symphony Hall. They also perform in concert recitals on their own.

“The Springfield Symphony Chorus and I are very honored to be a part of the Juneteenth celebration. Both the choral

and instrumental works on the program, which represent a variety of musical genres and styles, are deeply meaningful to all of the musicians and our audience,” Stoia said.

“As a thankful graduate of Springfield public schools, I’m especially proud that these concerts are happening in the heart of Springfield.”

This is the Chorus’ fourth year playing the Springfield Juneteenth concert, Stoia said, and also the fourth year that the Chorus has joined forces with the Extended Family Choir and Kevin Sharpe.

“Kevin and I really enjoy rehearsing and performing together,” she said.

The Friday concert starts at 3 p.m., but there will be activities in Tower Square starting as early as 12:30 p.m., including performances by the Youthful Expressions and Springfield Prep Charter School Dancers, the first-ever Juneteenth Innovation Panel, and memorials for the late Rosemary Tracy Woods, founding director of the Art for the Soul Gallery, and the late Ruby Maddox, co-founder of Gardening the Community and Direct Your Purpose.

The Juneteenth event will also pay tribute to two community activists that have died in recent weeks — state Rep. Benjamin Swan and Henry Thomas III, longtime leader of the Springfield Urban League.

Small business vendors will also have tables set up in Tower Square throughout the afternoon.

The night before the concert, a free Juneteenth kick-off party will be hosted at White Lion Brewing’s outdoor Pridelands beer garden at 5:30 p.m. The evening will feature live music by the Springfield Symphony Orchestra Jazz Quartet, who will benefit from 10% of the night’s drink proceeds.

The Pridelands beer garden will again be open on Friday night after activities in Tower Square quiet down.

“This important celebration of Juneteenth is coming together in spite of funding cuts, and we thank the partners who stepped forward to make this a reality, particularly White Lion Brewing, 6 Brick’s, Avery and Kevin Sharpe, the Springfield Symphony Chorus and the Extended Family Choir. The arts are part of the heartbeat of the city, where people gather, celebrate, reflect, heal, and reconnect with one another,” said Heather Caisse-Roberts, president and CEO of the Springfield Symphony Orchestra. “There is so much talent, culture, and possibility in Springfield, and moments like this remind us exactly why continuing to invest in that future is so important.”

For more information, visit springfieldsymphony.org.

Indë’s journey began when they first performed at the Iron Horse Music Hall at 14 years old with the Northamptones, Northampton High School’s a capella group. Twelve years later, they are returning to the stage as an artist of their own and as director of The Ujima Singers, an Afrocentric music collective based at the Northampton Community Music Center, a role they took on after the death of gospel/blues singer Evelyn Harris in December 2025.

Since the venue’s reopening under the Parlor Room Collective nonprofit umbrella in 2024, events like Juneteenth with Indë are part of a broader commitment to present

Singer-songwriter Esther Rose. (LEO

By Keith O’Connor

Special to The Republican

She’s from Michigan and has been as far as New Orleans, where she built a name for herself in the music scene, but singer-songwriter Esther Rose is new to Greenfield, where she will perform at the 40th annual Green River Festival this weekend.

“I hadn’t heard of the Green River Festival until the offer came in. It seems incredible and many of the artists performing are exactly what I’m into,” Rose said, noting songwriters like Wednesday, Angela Autumn and Ken Pomeroy. “Festivals like Green River are an opportunity for people to discover new artists, and as an artist myself, I get exposed to new sounds, just as some people will discover my music,” Rose said.

GREEN RIVER FESTIVAL

This year’s event, running on the Franklin County Fairgrounds in Greenfield from Friday through Sunday, features headliners Charley Crockett, Spoon, and Geese, alongside a mix of indie, rock, Americana, country, funk, reggae, pop artists and more — some regional, some national and some international.

Named one of “50 essential summer music festivals” by The New York Times, the Green River Festival is a celebration of music and the community featuring over 50 world-class acts on four stages, over 30 food trucks, and beverages of all kinds — both alcoholic and nonalcoholic. The weekend also boasts a Makers Market, made up of nearly 50 vendors selling handmade clothing, jewelry, art and illustrations, accessories, and more, as well as “carefully chosen” vintage and vinyl vendors.

Festival entry is free for kids 12 and under with a variety of activities planned on the Festival Kidway, including The Art Garden, where

festivalgoers can create, explore, play and make art, including working on cardboard creatures to paint and carry in the Green River Parade, which will take place at 5:30 p.m. on Saturday night.

“At a time when many fes-

Singer Esther Rose talks new album before performance at weekend music fest

tivals around the country are struggling and postponing or ending their festivals outright, we are looking forward to our biggest crowd ever this year. And that is not only a testament to the quality of artists who will be perform-

ing, but the family-friendly atmosphere at Green River Festival,” said John Sanders, festival director and partner at DSP Shows, producers of the Green River Festival.

He added many people come to the festival to hear their headliners, while also finding their next favorite band whom they may have never heard before, like Esther Rose.

“Esther Rose, who will appear on our Back Porch on Sunday, is a great singer and songwriter. I’m a big fan of her latest album ‘Want,’ which came out last year, and she stood out to me when I saw her in Nashville. She is

TUESDAY

Chicopee Elks #1849 431 Granby Road, Chicopee 413-592-1849

Bingo Tuesday

Doors Open at 4PM

2 Progressive Jackpots 6:15PM Early Bird 6:20PM Start

Min. Entry Package $15 Open Seating

2 Halls for Players Handicap Restroom 1st Floor

WEDNESDAY

Polish American Citizens Club 355 East Street, Ludlow, 583-6385

Bingo Wednesdays 6:30-9:30pm

Doors Open at 4pm. Minimum Admission $50 1 - 1199 Progressive Betty Boop 50/50 Prize $900 2 - $500 Cover Alls 3 - $400 Special Games

THURSDAY

Fairview Knights of Columbus 1599 Memorial Drive, Chicopee (413) 532-2011

DOORS OPEN 4:30PM

MASKS OPTIONAL Progressive Jackpot 6:15pm Early Bird 6:20pm Start

Electronic Bingo Aval. Snack Bar, Open Seating, Handicap Restrooms

Min. Entry Package $15

“At a time when many festivals around the country are struggling and postponing festivals outright, we are looking forward to our biggest crowd ever this year.”

partner at DSP Shows, producers of the Green River Festival.

or at a session, could go in any direction. The arrangements are really what create the genre. I think my first three albums were pretty country because I was working with some incredible fiddle and lap steel players. The arrangements we created were very traditional county, but the feel of the songs for me are kind of like rock or pop or folk. What I really want to do with my writing is to say something I haven’t heard or that you haven’t heard. When I started writing it was extremely simple because I hadn’t written anything yet. Now, as I go from album to album, what I’m mostly interested in is the ideas presented in the lyrics, that’s where I exist right now. As for the tone, I’m folk, country, rock through and through.

going to be a great addition to our lineup,” Sanders said. Known for her evocative storytelling skills and her distinctive voice, Rose began her career in New Orleans, collaborating with her former husband guitarist Luke Winslow-King. She gained prominence with the release of her well-received first album, 2017’s “This Time Last Night,” and has gone on to record four additional albums, “You Made It This Far,” “How Many Times,” “Safe To Run,” and 2025’s critically-acclaimed “Want,” an emotional, deeply introspective album often referred to as “The Therapy LP,” which Uncut magazine described as “letting it all hang out in raw but witty style.” She continues to tour regionally and internationally.

Festival gates open at noon on Friday with music from 12:30 to 10:30 p.m. On Saturday and Sunday, gates open at 11 a.m., with music running from noon to 10:30 p.m. on Saturday and from noon to 9 p.m. on Sunday.

Tickets, available in advance on the Green River Festival website, range in price for single, two-day and threeday passes from $120.74 to $222.99. Advance tickets can

Q. When you finished touring for your fourth album, “Safe To Run,” you have been quoted as saying you wanted to quit touring and writing and making music? That has changed now with the release of your current album, “Want.” Why?

A. It was a transitional moment for me which I equate to moving into my next phase of adulthood at age 37. It

only be ordered until 11:59 p.m. on Thursday, June 18. After that, tickets will only be available at the door for an increased price.

On-site parking is already full — however, the City of Greenfield is waiving parking fees during the weekend beginning at noon on Friday at the Olive Street Parking Garage, Greenfield City Hall parking lot and the Chapman/Davis, Ames Street and Miles Street parking lots. Free shuttle buses to and from the festival will pick up riders outside the Olive Street Parking Garage.

In an exclusive interview with The Republican, Rose talked about her life, music and current album “Want” ahead of her performance at the Green River Festival. The following interview has been edited for length and clarity.

Q. Your music has been called everything from country, retro country, rock, alternative and more. Where do you see your music?

A. The songs I write, before I introduce them to the band

Wine, and Literature Friday, June 26 • 6-8 pm Enjoy curated wines, summer reads, art, and guided tours of Book of Wonder, Cover to Cover, co-presented with Rumspringa Books and Provisions. Light fare by NOSH.

My re-creation of ‘Judgment of Paris’ wine tasting

Half a century ago this summer, a single wine tasting started a revolution.

For centuries, many wine experts considered France the pinnacle of the wine world, the best of the best.

Then, in 1976, a British wine merchant held a blind wine tasting in Paris in honor of the United States’ 200th birthday. The tasting featured some of the best French wines versus some of the best American wines.

Nicknamed the “Judgment of Paris,” the results became their own shot heard round the world … or perhaps the pop of a cork that shattered everything.

The judges who participated in the tasting declared two California wines the best in both categories — red and white.

Suddenly, there were new kings of the wine world. And both of them could be found in Napa Valley, north of San Francisco.

This was big news at the time. The New York Times and Time magazine both reported the results.

Recently, I thought it would be fun to re-create that iconic wine tasting.

This time, there were two clear winners in both categories in my recent tasting.

The results? Keep reading.

More background

British wine merchant Steven Spurrier organized the famous wine tasting with the help of his American colleague Patricia Gallagher. They invited nine people to participate in the tasting — all French and all involved in the French wine industry in some way, including winemakers, sommeliers, wine writers and several top Paris restaurant owners.

The blind tasting was held in Paris on May 24, 1976. In these types of tastings, the judges have no idea what wines

they’re tasting. That way, the judges are not influenced or biased towards certain wines. The best ones win based simply on taste.

The 1976 results

The 1976 tasting featured 20 wines — 10 white wines and 10 red wines. Judges assigned a score to each wine on a scale of 0 to 20, with 20 being the best score.

The white wines featured Chardonnay wines from California’s Napa Valley against ones from France’s Burgundy region. The winner was the 1973 Chateau Montelena Chardonnay from California with a score of 132 followed by the 1973 Roulot Meursault Charmes from Burgundy with a score of 126.5

The red wines featured Cabernet Sauvignon wines from Napa Valley against blended red wines featuring Cabernet Sauvignon grapes from France’s Bordeaux region. The winner in this category was the 1973 Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars (127.5) from California, which narrowly defeated the 1970 Chateau Mouton-Rothschild (126) from Bordeaux.

Recent wine tasting

In a perfect world, I would

two great white wines and two great red wines — one each from California and France — and pitted them against each other.

And instead of 11 judges, there were just three of us — myself and two other judges. And instead of assigning a score, we each picked our favorite red and white wines. Let me add that the identities of the other two judges will remain anonymous at their request. (I told you that you could trust me, Leo and Brad.)

My recent blind tasting featured two Chardonnay white wines — the 2019 Flowers Sonoma Coast Chardonnay ($50 suggested retail price) from California’s Sonoma County against the 2015 Joseph Drouhin Puligny-Montrachet ($100 SRP) from France’s Burgundy region.

The 1976 tasting featured 20 wines — 10 white wines and 10 red wines. Judges assigned a score to each wine on a scale of 0 to 20, with 20 being the best score.

have recreated the 1976 tasting with more recent vintages of the same 20 wines. Unfortunately, I didn’t recently win the lottery, and my editor would probably need an oxygen mask if I submitted receipts for such a decadent tasting. (Some of the wines now cost thousands of dollars per bottle.)

So, instead, I did my best and recently put together a blind wine tasting that closely resembled the original one — on a smaller scale. I picked out

Puligny-Montrachet.

Let me add that all three of us agreed that this wine was our favorite wine of the tasting. I’m not surprised. The village of Puligny-Montrachet produces some of the best white wines in the world in my opinion.

The 2019 Flowers Sonoma Coast Chardonnay had brighter, livelier, tart fruit flavors at first, followed by hints of lemon and other citrus flavors.

The second judge described the wine as “acidic — in a good way,” herbal and milk like. The third judge found the wine floral-like with hints pear, butter and rubber. Yes, you read that correct. Rubber.

As for the red wines, the tasting featured two Cabernet Sauvignon-based wines — the 2019 Beaulieu Vineyard (BV) Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon ($40 SRP) from California’s Napa Valley against the 2019 Chateau Gloria ($55 SRP) from France’s Bordeaux region.

And the winners are … Myself and the other two judges spent nearly two hours tasting all four wines. Let me add right up front that all four wines were outstanding. So, while there were definitely two clear favorites, the other two wines more than held their own and would be a pleasure to drink anywhere, anytime.

So which wines won the tasting?

For the two whites, by score of three to zero, the 2015 Joseph Drouhin Puligny-Montrachet took top honors. This wine’s flavors began with hints of apricot, lemon and other vibrant citrus fruit flavors. Over time, though, those flavors became more subtle, denser and took on foggier, mist-like notes.

The second judge described the wine as flinty, citrus-like and buttery. And the third judge used words like citrus, lime, olive and “mold — in a good way” to describe the

As for the red wines, the wine that won by another unanimous vote of three to zero was the 2019 Beaulieu Vineyard Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. I was thoroughly impressed by this California wine’s flinty, vibrant flavors with hints of pepper and black licorice. An hour or so later, those flavors were spicier, then smoother and even more subtle and vibrant.

Judge two praised the wine’s very dry, ripe plum-like flavors along with hints of sage. Judge three described the wine as lovely, velvet-like, inviting and filled with strong fruit flavors, especially plum.

As for the 2019 Chateau Gloria, this wine took me for a wild ride. At first, the flavors were almost too light, too soft. But as the wine started to open up, there were subtle, pepper-like notes that just kept building over the next hour or so.

Judge two loved the hints of anise, spice and rosemary in the wine. Meanwhile, judge three noticed a leather-like taste, along with hints of chocolate and oregano.

Judge three also found the Chateau Gloria to be a little standoffish. I know exactly what this judge meant. This wine — and frankly all of them to some degree — made me wonder what they’ll taste like in another 10, 20 or even 50 years. Which is a long way of saying I’m all up for another France versus California wine face-off in the future. Cheers!

FRIDAY

Gaga Dance Class: Fri., Arts and Industry Building-Florence, Gaga dance classes are predicated on a deep activation of the body and physical sensations. Invitations are curated to increase awareness of and further amplify sensation, and rather than turning from one prompt to another, information is layered, building into a multisensory, physically enlightening experience, $16. 221 Pine St., Florence; 413-348-7503 or www.artsindustryopenstudios.blogspot.com.

Green River Festival: Fri.-Sun., Franklin County Fairgrounds, For tickets and more information, visit greenriverfestival.com. Tickets start at $109.98 for one-day pass. 87 Wisdom Way, Greenfield.

Nurses Rock: Fri., 5:30 p.m. Penthouse 650 at Tower Square,

Holyoke Medical Center will host Nurses Rock ’26, a free appreciation concert for all nurses, regardless of where they work. The event, free for all nurses, will include food, drinks, giveaways, a DJ, dance party, and live music featuring MiniKiss — the hottest littlest band in the world. Doors will open at 5:30 p.m. Nurses interested in learning more and registering for the event are encouraged to visit HolyokeHealth.com/ nursesrock, 1500 Main St. Suite 650, Springfield.

Springfield Symphony Orchestra presents Juneteenth Freedom Concert: Fri., noon-6 p.m. Tower Square. Concert starts at 3 p.m. in Center Court and will feature Kevin Sharpe, conductor, the Avery Sharpe Quintet, SSO String Players, Extended Family Choir, and Springfield Symphony Chorus. The event will also feature small

CALENDAR

business vendors and a creative innovation panel. Free. 1500 Main St., Springfield. 413-733-2171 or www.visittowersquare.com

Summer Craft Beer Tasting and BBQ Fundraiser: Fri., 6-9 p.m. Capt. Charles Leonard House. The event will take place rain or shine, and will benefit preservation efforts at the 1805 former stage tavern, which has served as Agawam’s Community House since 1939. The event will feature a wide variety of local and craft beers, live music, raffles, and food. Joey’s Deli & Market will provide barbecue and Captain Leonard House Trustees will grill hot dogs and hamburgers. Advance tickets are $50 per person, available at McCarthy’s Liquors, 430 Main St., and Phipps Discount Liquors 1350 Springfield St. Ticket price includes food. Tickets will also be available at the door

for $55 per person. 21 and older only; must have valid ID. 663 Main St., Agawam.

‘The Tempest’: Fri.-Sat., 6:30 p.m.; Sun., 5:30 p.m. Black Birch Vineyards, Valley Players present a music and dancing-filled production of Shakespeare’s “The Tempest,” going up as a picnic-theater performance on the lawn at Black Birch Vineyard (108 Straits Road in Hatfield), June 19 and 20 at 6:30 p.m. and June 21 at 5:30 p.m. Half of net ticket sales will be donated to the Center for New Americans to support immigrant and refugee families in the Valley. Tickets are on a pay-what-you-can scale starting at $15 and can be booked at valleyplayers.org. Guests can bring a meal to enjoy during the show or can grab an artisanal pizza from The Vintner’s Slice food truck, as well as choose from a selection

of fine wines and other drinks (including non-alcoholic options) from Black Birch Vineyard. 108 Straits Road, North Hatfield;

SATURDAY

Green River Festival: See Friday listing ‘The Tempest’: See Friday listing

SUNDAY

Green River Festival: See Friday listing ‘The Tempest’: See Friday listing

Quadrangle

George Walter Vincent Smith Art Museum: Currently closed for SEE CALENDAR, PAGE D10

CONTINUES FROM PAGE D7

was all about how hard I was touring, and I felt like I had been pushing a rock uphill for many years to support every album and my dream and my love of the songs. It was a really rough tour and as many musicians know it is crazy out there. Your life is on the line every day. I needed to protect my life. So, I went home and felt that I really didn’t want to make any decisions at the time about what to do. I just needed space and, in that moment, I quit drinking and started to go into therapy extra hard. We dove into EMDR (Evidence-Based Psychotherapy which is designed to help the brain heal from trauma) and more experimental avenues such as KAP (Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy which combines medically supervised ketamine to induce a dreamlike, introspective state with traditional talk therapy). It was like “everybody leave me alone” while I was going through all of this. And for six months I really dove in and found that my connection to music and writing is the deepest thread inside of me.

It’s what connects me to the world.

Q. In ‘Want’ you really opened up and exposed yourself in the sense of what you have gone through and who you are. Do you feel it is more introspective than your previous albums?

A. It’s funny. The other night I was hanging out with friends. They’re huge fans of my first record and they were talking about the new one. And they’re like, “Man, it’s tough, it’s almost like eating your vegetables.” And that’s a great metaphor. You know you have to eat your vegetables because they’re good for you. But it’s (“Want”) not like candy pop stuff. I’m very proud of “Want” and I feel it is a completion of the journey that I’ve been on. I feel proud of the fact that I could just name things, because that’s what I was doing. I was really working with the trauma of my life, and I think that is hugely related to recovery. You can’t recover without really taking a look at what has happened, and why we are, how we are, why we behave the way we do. So, it was essential for this record to be so exposed. Now,

I am in a phase where I’m really trying to abstract and really zoom out and see the bigger picture as opposed to with “Want,” where it felt like everything was very close and confronting. And now it feels like a little bit of a distance, which feels really great.

Q. Among the many songs you have written, do you have any favorites?

A. It’s either “Spider” or “Always Changing.” They have a wisdom in them that I was able to tap into. I wrote both songs so fast. They continue to guide me to this day, and I love to play them because it’s

almost like I’m doing karaoke. I know exactly where these songs came from, but I feel really grateful for them.

Q. What music are you listening to today?

A. I listen to a combination of my friends’ (music). I’ve been really loving the new Kiki Cavazos record. It’s incredible. She’s a legendary songwriter that made a huge impact on our New Orlean’s songwriting scene. And I have been revisiting Twain’s album called ‘Solar Pilgrim.’ I feel like there’s still so much wisdom in the music of my friends. It’s

“Festivals

like

Green River

are

an opportunity for people to discover new artists, and as an artist myself, I get exposed to new sounds, just as some people will discover my music.”

Esther Rose

really comforting. As for new artists, new albums, I love the new Gia Margaret record and Morby’s new album is incredible. I also listen to a lot of neoclassical solo piano for which Josiah Steinbrick is one of my favorites.

Q. What’s next for you?

A. I’m on the verge of something really new. I’m living in New Mexico right now but moving to Los Angeles in the fall. I’ll be working with a new producer out there and I’m very excited about the unknown and all of the challenges that will be coming along with it. It’s a new chapter for me.

renovations. Permanent exhibitions include Asian decorative arts, Japanese arms and armor, Chinese cloisonné, American and European paintings, antiquities, and rare decorative objects.

Lyman and Merrie Wood Museum of Springfield History: “Declaration of Innovation: Springfield’s Revolutionary Ideas,” through Sept. 27. Permanent exhibits include vintage automobiles, Indian motorcycles, historic firearms, Hasbro GameLand, and other industrial and cultural artifacts.

Michele and Donald D’Amour Museum of Fine Arts: Permanent exhibitions include American and European prints, paintings, drawings, and sculpture. Current special exhibition: “Book of Wonder, Cover to Cover: A Hands-on Journey with Donna Castellanos,” through Sept 6. Museum a la Carte. June 18, 12:15 p.m. “One Foot in Two Places: Artist Talk with Olwen O’Herlihy Dowling.” Cost $4, free for members. Presented by Olwen O’Herlihy Dowling, artist.

Springfield Science Museum: Permanent exhibits include dinosaurs, African wildlife, interactive STEM labs, Earth’s ecosystems, and immersive planetarium shows. Current special exhibition: “Game On!,” through Sept. 13. “Games On!” is a hands-on, bilingual exhibit that brings the fun of gameplay to life in big, bold ways.

The Amazing World of Dr. Seuss Museum: Permanent exhibits include immersive, hands-on stations that explore the author’s whimsical characters and stories and childhood influences; and displays of his original studio, art, and family memorabilia.

Visit springfieldmuseums.org for more information. Quadrangle admission (includes all 5 museums) — $27.50 for adults, $18 for seniors and college students, $15 for ages 5-17, free to children under 5, museum members, and Springfield residents. On the first Wed. of every month through the end of 2026, admission is free for all visitors. Tues.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

Museums

Amelia Park Children’s Museum: Permanent exhibits include spaceship, construction site, library, grocery store., and weekday activities. Visit ameliaparkmuseum.org for information. Hours: Tue.-Tue, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Open for groups

CALENDAR

The book of wonder

Artist Donna Castellanos is pictured inside of her exhibit — “Book of Wonder, Cover to Cover” — in the D’Amour Museum of Fine Arts in Springfield. The exhibit, which is open through Sept. 6, showcases old and forgotten books that the artist transforms into creations that inspire thought and interaction. (DOUGLAS HOOK / THE REPUBLICAN)

Wed. Admission is $8 adults, $8 children (12 months and older), $4 grandparents/seniors (60+), and free for members/infants. Military personnel and teachers receive a 10% discount off the price of regular admission. 29 South Broad St., Westfield.

Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art: “Cooking with Eric Carle,” through Aug. 23. “Under the Cork Tree: The Story of Ferdinand,” through Nov. 8. “Soul, Sound, And Voice: The Art of Jerry Pinkney,” June 20–Jan. 3. Exhibits included with museum admission. 125 West Bay Road, Amherst or www.carlemuseum.org.

Mead Art Museum: Permanent exhibit includes various American and European paintings, Mexican ceramics, Tibetan scroll paintings and more. Museum hours: Tues.-Thurs. and Sun. 9 a.m.-midnight; Fri. 9 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sat. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. 220 South Pleasant St., Amherst or www.amherst.edu.

Norman Rockwell Museum: Online exhibit: “Imagining Freedom.” The fee for accessing “Imagining freedom” is $5 for the general public, available on the museum’s website at NRM.org. “Norman Rockwell’s Stockbridge Walking Tour,” June 20 & 27 at 1 p.m. Take a guided walking

tour of downtown Stockbridge and discover how the town and its inhabitants both inspired Norman Rockwell and appeared in some of his most iconic works of art. Tours do not take place at the Museum; meet in front of the Old Corner House, 48 Main St.; public on-street parking or at designated spaces at Town Hall. Tour route is mostly flat, and on sidewalks. Tour cost is $20, separate from Museum admission. 9 Route 183, Stockbridge or www. nrm.org.

Smith College Museum of Art: SCMA Exhibition “Crafting Worlds,” through Aug. 23. This installation explores how artisans in Japan utilized materials and handcrafted techniques to forge social relationships and engage with the world around them. It features lacquerware, ceramics, bamboo baskets, and metalwork from the 18th through 21st centuries. “Don’t Mind if I Do” exhibit, through June 28. Artists include Lukaza Branfman-Verissimo, Pelenakeke Brown, Sky Cubacub, Emilie L. Gossiaux, Felicia Griffin, Joselia Rebekah Hughes, Jeff Kasper, and Finnegan Shannon. Curator is Lauren Leving. Exhibits at Smith College are free and open to the public. Elm Street at Bedford Terrace, Northampton or

p.m. Closed Mon. Last admission is 30 minutes prior to close. Admission is $8 adults, $5 seniors 65 and older, $5 students, active and retired military, and free for children 12 and under. Group rates also available online. 444 Dwight St., Holyoke or www.volleyhall.org.

Windsor Historical Society: Permanent exhibit: Explore the people, places and events that have shaped Windsor for over four centuries. Hours: Wed.-Sat., 11 a.m.-4 p.m. with house tours at 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. General admission to the library and historic houses is $10 for adults, $8 for seniors, $6 for students and free to children under 12 and WHS members. Visitors are free to browse the museum store and exhibit galleries at no additional charge. 96 Palisade Ave., Windsor or www. windsorhistoricalsociety.org.

Wistariahurst Museum: Permanent exhibit: Gardens and grounds open daily from dawn to dusk. Carriage House and gift shop open Mon.-Fri. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. For information about house tours, group tours and upcoming events visit www.wistariahurst. org. Admission is $7 Holyoke residents; $5 seniors; $5 youth (under 18); and free for museum members, active military and family members. 238 Cabot St., Holyoke or www. wistariahurst.org.

www.scma.smith.edu.

The New England Visionary Artists Museum: The New England Visionary Artists Museum in Northampton has five exhibition showrooms hosting N.E. artists’ work in all media and is home to Anchor House of Artists, the region’s subsidized studio and representation support to artists living with neurodiverse conditions. Hours are Wednesday through Saturday, 2-6 p.m., with regular free public receptions on the second Friday of the month, from 5-8 p.m. Find them at 518 Pleasant St. For more information, go online to NEVA-museum. org or call 413-588-4337. There is a $10 suggested day-of admision at the door. Pleasant St., Northampton Ventfort Hall Mansion and Gilded Age Museum: Permanent exhibit: Guided tours of the first and second floors weekdays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and weekends from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Self-guided tours are on the hour with the last self-guided tour weekdays at 2 p.m. Admission is $18 adults; $17 seniors (65+); $10 students with ID; $7 children 5-17; and free for children 4 and younger. 104 Walker St., Lenox or www. gildedage.org.

Volleyball Hall of Fame: Permanent exhibit. Open Tues.-Sun., 11 a.m.-3

Yiddish Book Center: Permanent exhibit, “A Velt mit veltelekh: The Worlds of Jewish Culture.” The center will be open to the public on Thurs, Fri, Sun, and Mon. from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Closed Shabbos (Saturday) and Jewish and legal holidays. Admission is $8 adults, $6 seniors, and free for members, students and children. 1021 West St., Amherst or www.yiddishbookcenter.org.

Markets

Farmers Market at Forest Pak: Held every Tuesday, through Oct. 27, 12:30-6 p.m., rain or shine, at the historic Monkey House. 200 Trafton Road, Springfield, or free entry at main entrance on Sumner Ave. for market shoppers. 200 Trafton Road, Springfield or www.farmersmarketatforestpark.com.

Amherst Farmers’ Market: Sat. from 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. through Nov. 21 on the Town Common. 4 Boltwood Ave., Amherst Downtown Springfield Farmers Market: Fri. through Sept. 25, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., The Landing at The MassMutual Center, springfielddowntown.com/farmers-market/ Northampton Farmers Market: Sat. through Nov. 14, 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Rain or shine. 8 Gothic St., Northampton

The Landing at The MassMutual Center will be transformed into an outdoor rock party ahead of a concert featuring Yellowcard, Plain White T’s and New Found Glory on Saturday.

(DOUGLAS HOOK / THE REPUBLICAN)

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T’s and New Found Glory, will take the stage Saturday night as part of the Up Up Down Down Tour, being presented by MGM Springfield.

After forming in Florida in 1997, Yellowcard became known as one of the most influential pop-rock bands of the early 2000s scene with their 2003 breakthrough hit, “Ocean Avenue,” achieving two-time platinum certification.

To date, the band has sold more than 4 million albums worldwide and has over 1 billion streams on their music. Their latest album, “Better Days,” was released this past October.

“Every time we think this part of our career couldn’t possibly get any better, somehow it does,” said Yellowcard frontman Ryan Key in a statement announcing the tour. ”’Ocean Avenue,’ ‘My Friends Over You,’ and ‘Hey There Delilah’ at the same show?!”

They will be supported by Chicago quartet Plain White T’s, whose signature 2005 single “Hey There Delilah” went quadruple-platinum and earned the group a pair of Grammy nominations, and New Found Glory, a band that’s been making music for nearly 30 years after their founding in 1997. Additionally, New Found Glory has had multiple gold and platinum albums, including 2000’s “New Found Glory,” 2002’s “Sticks and Stones,” and 2004’s “Catalyst.” Their 11th studio album, “LISTEN UP!” came out in February.

“Anytime we’re able to bring nationally recognized artists like Yellowcard, New Found Glory, and Plain White T’s to Springfield, it’s a huge win for our community,” said Sean Dolan, executive director of the MassMutual Center, in a statement. “These are iconic bands with passionate fan bases, and we’re proud to have the MassMutual Center included on a tour of this magnitude.”

Prior to the concert, which starts at 6 p.m., The Landing — MassMutual Center’s outdoor event space — will transform into a rock party with live music, food trucks, drinks and giveaways. Hosted by Lazer 99.3 & 98.5, “Rock the Landing” will take place from 3 to 6 p.m. Radio personality Leah Rantz will MC the event.

“What makes Rock the Landing especially meaningful is that it extends the experience beyond the arena and into downtown Springfield. By incorporating local bands and creating a community-focused event at The Landing, we’re able to celebrate not only the artists on stage that night, but also the incredible talent and energy that exists right here in our own backyard,” Dolan said. “That’s what makes events like this so impactful for our city.”

There is no charge to enter The Landing for the party, but tickets are required for venue access for the nighttime concert. Tickets to the concert, which start at $60, are available for purchase on the MassMutual Center’s website.

community-centered programming, expanding access to live music, and ensuring The Iron Horse remains a gathering space where everyone can come together to share memorable experiences.

In addition to celebrating Juneteenth by filling the Iron Horse with Black voices, this event celebrates the release of Indë’s forthcoming album “Role Model,” a coming-ofage story, which was due out on June 15, the artist’s 26th birthday. The collection of songs on the album draws listeners through stories of mentorship, idolatry and

community through songs like “COME ON HOME,”

“I TOLD U (don’t),” and “DPMB (free my pride),” featuring choir harmonies by The Ujima Singers.

Juneteenth with Indë will celebrate Black ancestors, abolitionists, gay and transgender rights activists, women’s rights activists, and other community role models. The evening will feature an opening set by Springfield-based artist PARRIS, who will later join Indë’s ensemble on drums and trumpet.

Tickets to the Juneteenth celebration at the Iron Horse Music Hall, starting at $24, can be purchased on the venue’s website at ironhorse. org

scene where everyone has a platform.

and I never wanted it to end.”

Over the years, Miraglia has built a solid reputation and audience throughout New England, both as a solo artist and with her band, The Glory Junkies. She also has toured across the United States and beyond, playing events such as including the New York State Blues

“I’ve been doing it for so long, and I’ve got a little bit of a grassroots thing going, so I don’t push that hard, if I’m being honest,” she said with a laugh. “I just do what I do and of course I push the shows when they’re happening. But it is oversaturated, and people have all these strategies for how to get ahead, but I have no strategies.”

Although Miraglia mixes

As a solo act, she also has opened for such renowned names as Buddy Guy, Johnny Winter, Bettye Lavette, Joan Osborne, John Mayall, Robert Cray, George Thorogood, Sonny Landreth, and Taj Mahal.

Festival, New Bedford Summerfest, as well as esteemed venues like The Birchmere in Alexandria, Virginia, The Ramshead in Annapolis, Maryland and the Sellersville Theater in Sellersville, Pennsylvania.

As a solo act, she also has opened for such renowned names as Buddy Guy, Johnny Winter, Bettye Lavette, Joan Osborne, John Mayall, Robert Cray, George Thorogood, Sonny Landreth and Taj Mahal.

Despite that level of success, Miraglia has an even-keeled approach to staying competitive in the increasingly crowded music

and blends both folk and blues traditions in her music, her influences expand far beyond those genres. She lists Prince, Janis Joplin and The Rolling Stones as having a major influence on her work. As far as her songwriting, she names Bob Dylan, Paul Simon and Joni Mitchell. Her most recent record, 2020’s “Bright Shining Stars,” debuted at No. 15 on the Billboard Blues Charts. While the wait has been long for fans, Miraglia revealed she has a new record in the works.

“I’m just not sure when,” she said with a sheepish chuckle.