WESTFIELD-As the Westfield Farmers’ Market continues to evolve, the presence of local musicians has added to the ambiance of the Thursday afternoon festivities.
A Showcase Concert is planned March 12 from 3 to 6 p.m. at the Episcopal Church of the Atonement on Court Street, featuring musicians familiar to customers of the market. The benefit concert, with a suggested donation of $10, will support the “Music at the Market” program. Refreshments will be available.
“We are holding the concert to support Music at the Market,” said Peter Langmore, assistant manager, Westfield Farmers’ Market. “We would be very happy with any amount raised, but if we could come up with $1,200 to $1,500 that would be wonderful.”
Langmore noted he had been approached by musician Ed Bentley about the need for a sound system that could be used by all musicians during the market year.
Ed Bentley is organizing the Showcase Concert slated March 12.
“In addition to filling the gap between what we pay the musicians and the generous award by the Westfield Cultural Council, we would like to try and purchase a sound system,” said Langmore. “This would mean that they would not have to haul all of their own equipment to the market, set up and take down. It would also provide a smooth transition between performers and end up with more music for the customers to enjoy.”
Bentley echoed those sentiments.
“The city is very fortunate to have this farmers’ market and the volunteers who are so helpful each week,” said Bentley, who has performed several times at the market. “Purchasing the PA system will allow a smoother transition between each performer and will allow for more continuous music during the market.”
Musicians scheduled to perform at the benefit concert include: 3 p.m., Bobby D, local singer/songwriter; 3:30, country music by Whiskey Traveler with Bernie Dion; 4, Irish/folk music by Rua Bean, Linda O’Neill and Tom Boidreau; 4:30, Ed Bentley and Men of a Certain Age, performing Americana and bluegrass tunes; 5, Marion Dunk performing blues, country and originals, and at 5:30, the Westfield High School Jazz Band performing American standards.
With 19 weeks designated for the farmers’ markets, featuring six hours of music at each market, 114 hours of music awaits customers in the coming months.
“It is important to support the Showcase Concert because, in addition to supporting the Music at the Market program, people are also supporting the local musicians,” said Langmore. “These musicians are very generous with their time and talent, and go out of the way to please their audiences.”
Langmore also credited Bentley for organizing the concert and arranging for all of the musicians who are donating their time to the benefit.
“Ed Bentley has also provided us with a lot of insight into the music scene in Westfield,” said Langmore.
For more information on the family friendly event, visit http://westfieldfarmersmarket.net or call (413) 562-5461, ext. 101.
