EC-CHAP Acoustic Artist Series: Singer/Songwriter, Multi-Instrumentalist & CT State Troubadour Kala Farnham (Indie / Folk)

Tickets $20.00 in Advance (ONLINE) / $25.00 at the Door

EC-CHAP MEMBER DISCOUNTS & FREQUENT FLYER PROGRAM AVAILABLE

SPECIAL NOTE: We are excited to have Kala Farnham return to The Packing House this season! Kala has graced our stage annually since 2017, and has brought with her an incredible instrumental talent and powerful lyrics. It was clear from the first time I heard her that she was a very special artist. With a long list of accolades and numerous awards to her name, she has achieved the State of Connecticut’s highest musical achievement in 2022 as CT State Troubadour, a title well deserved.

KALA FARNHAM is a multi-instrumentalist singer/songwriter hailing from the Quiet Corner of CT. Kala's signature songwriting has been described as a reinvention of the folk tradition made popular by artists such as Joni Mitchell and Joan Baez.

She has been praised for her classical undertones and playful dose Broadway theatricality onstage, and a lyricism that springs to life with creative storytelling, cultural references, and rich metaphor. Her first full-length studio album, "Anahata: Wake Up Your Heart", was nominated for "Best Americana Album" in RI's Motif Music Awards alongside a nomination for "Best Female Americana Vocalist".

In 2015, she was selected to be an Official Showcase Artist in Folk Alliance International's SERFA Music Conference. October 2016 marked the release of her 2nd studio album, "Samadhi: Home Is Where You Are" as well as another Motif nomination for Best Americana Album. Kala is an alumni of the Johnny Mercer Songwriters Project and the winner of the 2017 Rhode Island Songwriters Association Performing Songwriter Contest.

Kala’s signature songwriting has been likened to a reinvention of the traditional folk with influences of pop, Broadway, and world music. Her affinity for poetry and creative writing is evident through lyricism that springs to life with heartfelt and creative storytelling, cultural references, and rich metaphor. Her work has garnered numerous awards and media attention, including 2020 Falcon Ridge Festival Emerging Artist, 2019 Rose Garden Performing Songwriter Contest winner, 2019 Rocky Mountain Folks Fest honorable mention

Farnham's 2020 album, "Your Spirit Is a Work of Art", is composed of thirteen musical vignettes exploring the imperfect beauty of the human condition; it has been described by Nick Noble of The Folk Revival as “a work of poetic insight… worth listening to again and again."

She studies Music Performance and Composition while also pursing Human Services and Mental Health. Together, these interests drive her passion for the healing and transformative power of musical storytelling. Kala also serves as a certified Crisis Counselor, and works with an array of populations such as at-risk youth, those who suffer from mental illness, and survivors of trauma. She has taught, performed for, and worked with youth programs, students with learning disabilities, individuals recovering from addiction, and those who have lost loved ones to suicide. Kala is currently studying sound healing and Nada Yoga and plans to She incorporate elements of the practice into her work.

As the Connecticut State Troubadour, Kala plans to apply her foundations and strong background in music performance and human service in this honorary role to foster healing and community connection through music.

Kala will be accompanied by Michael Albain on cello and Jay Margolin on djembe.

Join us for an evening of original works by this incredible artist! This program is hosted by the "Eastern Connecticut Center for History, Art, and Performance" (EC-CHAP). Doors 7:00pm / Show 7:30pm. Tickets $20.00 Advance (Online) / $25.00 Door.

Soft drinks and snacks available. We are pleased to offer our exclusive "BYOB&F" model - Bring Your Own Beverage & Food (Wine & Beer Only - I.D. Required).  You can also bring your paid ticket to Willington Pizza House (or WP Too) for eat-in or take-out the night of the show and receive 15% off your meal purchase. Ask for "The Packing House" special! Click here for secret recipe. 

For information, please call 518-791-9474.

EC-CHAP Acoustic Artist Series: An Evening with An Evening with Jon Pousette-Dart & Jim Chapdelaine

Tickets $30.00 in Advance (ONLINE) / $35.00 at the Door

DOORS: 6:30PM / PERFORMANCE: 7:30PM

Special Note: It is a privilege to have Acoustic Duo Jon Pousette-Dart and Jim Chapdelaine grace The Packing House stage! Jon Pousette-Dart has been a long-time favorite of the EC-CHAP family. Join us for this legendary artist – A show not to miss!

Alittle bit of time has passed between when JON POUSETTE-DART as a teenager started forging a path in the musical landscape that started in the 60’s and laid a foundation with the original Pousette-Dart Band. Throughout the 70’s and into the 80’s the band earned a loyal national following and produced 5 releases for Capitol that made a deep imprint in the world of album radio, when we all used to only listen to vinyl.

When the band parted ways, Jon continued working and slowly began navigating back to where he started writing and recording in earnest with many of Nashville’s finest.

Some twenty odd years ago Jon crossed paths with Jim Chapdelaine one of the more formidable musicians he crossed paths with. Jon continued touring as their musical collaboration continued to brew into a satisfying vital musical landscape of it’s own.

Turn the clock ahead some years and a few questions might be asked.

What do two left handed guitar players and the combined experience of rummaging around the music business since the early 1970’s equal? It could equal a squalid path of broken dreams, less than half paid mortgages, multiple marriages, many junked cars, and closets full of suitcases of clothes with the indelible after scent of Marlboro’s and Budweiser’s ground into the sinews of years in dark dressing rooms contained in gin joints where the holy grail and graduation degree was 5 sets a night till closing time.

And so it came to be.

Monsignor Pousette-Dart and Senor Chapdelaine discovered they shared a gift both in the studio and on the stage that rose above the hum drum drudgery of day to day existence, and were able to reach into people’s souls and pull out pieces of magic that created joy and fresh air, no matter which roads or towns their journeys took them.

And now as fate would have it, they have a renewed passion and vigor to explore the world of flats, sharps, repeats, words and crescendos to make small babies smile and precious mothers relax into their easy chairs and remember all the good that the world holds.

Men too.

So, no matter your predilections, or worries or concerns in your everyday life, consider taking a moment to breath, and buy a ticket when they come to your town.

It’s something to seriously consider to see and hear where little pieces of joy come to life.

Join us for a special evening of original music by these legendary artists! This program is hosted by the "Eastern Connecticut Center for History, Art, and Performance" (EC-CHAP). Doors 6:30pm / Show 7:30pm. Tickets $30.00 Advance (Online) / $35.00 Door.

Soft drinks and snacks available. We are pleased to offer our exclusive "BYOB&F" TM model - Bring Your Own Beverage & Food (Wine & Beer Only - I.D. Required).  You can also bring your paid ticket to Willington Pizza House (or WP Too) for eat-in or take-out the night of the show and receive 15% off your meal purchase. Ask for "The Packing House" pizza! Click HERE for secret recipe. 

 For more information, please visit: www.thepackinghouse/upcoming or call 518-791-9474.

EC-CHAP Acoustic Artist Series:Nina Romanenko AND Horizon Blue (Folk / Indie)

Tickets $15.00 in Advance (ONLINE) / $20.00 at the Door

EC-CHAP MEMBER DISCOUNTS & FREQUENT FLYER PROGRAM AVAILABLE

SPECIAL NOTE: Nina Romanenko originally performed with her band at our monthly Talent Showcase where she clearly displayed exceptional vocal and songwriting talent! She has continued to support EC-CHAP through her Membership, and played a critical role in sustaining our existence during the COVID pandemic through her participation, compassion, collaboration and leadership in our “Virtual Talent Showcase” offering. As a result, she was presented with the “Special Person Award” at the EC-CHAP 2022 Annual Meeting.

Horizon Blue was one of the first acoustic bands to perform at The Packing House in 2017. Not only are these folks accomplished musicians, they are outstanding human beings with big hearts. They were invited to be our opening band for a major 2019 Benefit concert with Tom Rush and Matt Nakoa at The Packing House, and remain in a special place in our evolving history.

We welcome these outstanding musicians back to The Packing House stage!

NINA ROMANENKO

NINA ROMANENKO is a CT singer, songwriter and guitarist who loves working with and performing for people of all ages. She performs original and standard tunes with her own take on old-timey jazz, country blues, folk and rockabilly. Shows are great fun and filled with connection, humor, meaning and conscience.

“Open These Doors” - By Nina Romanenko & Kent Aldrich (C) 2020

"This song was written as an Anthem for Residents and their Families - who were seeking safe and meaningful visitation with their Loved Ones in Nursing Homes, Healthcare and Assisted Living Facilities - where they had been Isolated and confined beginning March 10, 2020. The lock down was meant to protect them from COVID 19 during the Pandemic but many died of Covid anyway - and then began suffering and dying from the effects of the Isolation as well."

Nina provides therapeutic music programs at Healthcare Facilities to bring smiles, laughter, peace and comfort. She also performs at cultural events and venues - including the Harriet Beecher Stowe Center, Groton Sub Base, Cheney Hall and the famous Matt Malloy's pub in Ireland. She was a member of John Beardsley's Elvis Experience, which opened for Danny & the Juniors and for The Drifters - and she has opened solo for Tom Rush and Jeffrey Gaines.

Nina is excited to be performing at The Packing House and share the stage with Horizon Blue! She performs from 7:30 to 8:30 and will be accompanied by performing/recording artist, Brian Macdonald - with his unique, dynamic guitar style.” Monique Hill will join in on a few with her lovely harmonies, as well.

HORIZON BLUE

HORIZON BLUE captures the essence of California folk/country music and the singer songwriter. Their music is a harmonic eclectic blend with lush, acoustic arrangements. Horizon Blue’s sound features a variety of unique instruments including: lap steel guitar, resophonic guitar, mountain dulcimer, banjo, McNally “Strum Stick” and handcrafted Connecticut made Ovation guitars.

Horizon Blue features the songs of award winning, international singer/songwriter Monique Hill. The songs are heartfelt, melodic, thoughtful, sincere and tell stories of everyday life. Monique’s voice is described by fans as the voice of an angel, sparkling and pure as a bird in flight.

The band shares a genuine friendship and their performances are nothing short of inviting and captivating. There is no doubt that once seen, this band makes a lasting impression.

Horizon Blue is well received by audiences of all ages and has performed at a variety of venues and events, including: the Mark Twain House, Harriet Beecher Stowe Center, New Britain Museum of American Art, Wadsworth Athenium, Connecticut Historical Society, Hicks Stern Museum, Windsor Art Center, Cultural Commission of Somers, Marlborough Art Center, Arts of Tolland, The Buttonwood Tree Performing Arts Center, Milford Arts Council, and opened for Tom Rush at The Packing House.

Join us for an evening of original acoustic music with these local artists! This program is hosted by the "Eastern Connecticut Center for History, Art, and Performance" (EC-CHAP). Doors 7:00pm / Show 7:30pm. Tickets $15.00 in advance online / $20.00 at the door. 20% Discount at Door for EC-CHAP Members.

Soft drinks and snacks available. "BYOB&F" - Bring Your Own Beverage & Food (Wine & Beer Only - I.D. Required). You can also bring your paid ticket to Willington Pizza House (or WP Too) for eat-in or take-out the night of the show and receive 15% off your meal purchase. Ask for "The Packing House" pizza! Click here for secret recipe. 

For more information, please call 518-791-9474.

EC-CHAP Acoustic Artist Series:2016-2024 Talent Showcase Senior All Stars

Tickets $15.00 in Advance (ONLINE) / $20.00 at the Door

EC-CHAP MEMBER DISCOUNTS & FREQUENT FLYER PROGRAM AVAILABLE

SPECIAL NOTE: EC-CHAP Talent Showcase represents a platform for anyone of any age to share their talent before a live audience. We are much more than an “Open Mic”- as we encourage talent sharing across any genre; and provide the time and opportunity to do so.

We respect and support the talent of ALL participants. Since we initiated our Talent Showcase in 2016, there have been three individuals that have continued to support this program over the years, contributing and sharing their musical talent with all of us. As a result, we wish to honor them and feature their talent trough this new event.

We invite you to join us for the “Talent Showcase Senior All Stars” for EC-CHAP’s 2016-2024 performance Seasons!

Meet The Senior All Stars!

Curtis Brand, Rich DeBrito, and Dean Bolt

Since 2016 EC-CHAP has offered a monthly Talent Showcase, settling in on the 2nd Wednesday of the month. Over the past eight (8) years, we have enjoyed a lot of folks sharing a lot of talent! From original music - to visual arts; from comedy - to movement; and from spoken word - to hula-hoop artists, we have been fortunate to offer a platform for individuals and groups to share their passion for creative expression.

During the pandemic, we were able to keep the fire burning for over a year through a “Virtual” Talent Showcase model. Folks would submit their work as a video clip, and we compiled their work and streamed a “live” monthly session publicly on our YouTube channel. We are grateful and appreciate all those that contributed and continued to support this offering through the years!

The music of CURTIS BRAND starts with the words. In the tradition of singer songwriters like Harry Chapin, Jim Croce, and Willie Nelson, Curtis playfully jabs the listener with the existential absurdity of our everyday life. He tells tales of the human condition--the lost souls, the wounded veteran, the let down lover--and blends them with delightful ditties and love songs in a performance which not only touches the sensibilities but also lifts the spirit.

From Older than Dirt, a tongue in cheek celebration of the aging process which is the title song from his first album, to Dust on the Water, which memorializes the World Trade Center tragedy, Curtis' songs pull the listener across the full range of human emotions. Whether performing solo in coffee shops and house concerts or joining with the On Call Band in full concert shows, the songs of Curtis Brand reach out and speak of the people around us.

RICH DEBRITO came late to singing and performing. He liked and was inspired by the music he heard on the radio by the likes of Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, and TV and motion picture themes, like: Henry Mancini – “Peter Gunn” ,“Moon River”, “Charade” and Burt Bacharach “Alfie”, “The Look of Love”, etc.

Rich claims he used to sing along with the radio (and still does sometime). When he was about 25 he was introduced to the guitar, and though he didn't take formal lessons, he was able to hold his own. He learned from friends who showed him chords to pop songs along with strums and finger picking styles.

He started playing at open mics back in the 70’s though not that often. In the mid 90’s Rich began to play regularly at open mics and would seek them out over a 30 mile radius. Through the open mics he got to hear and sometimes know people who love to sing. The rest is history... Rich loves to sing and learn songs - and once in a while he'll create a song.

DEAN BOLT is a singer songwriter who grew up in Willimantic CT surrounded by local garage bands, Shaboo bands and other great musicians who went on to successful music careers. He wasn’t one of them. Many years later he found his way to acoustic guitar finger picking style and it clicked. His influences ranged from Leo Kotke, Doc Watson and Bonnie Raitt to James Taylor. There have been plenty of new and old influences. With songs spanning from the 1970’s to last week, it is likely he has written and will be singing about something that connects with your experience. From poignant to thought provoking to off beat, he has written for weddings, funerals, graduations and parties. He explores subjects from crop circles to suicide and, of course, love: good and bad.

He has played at The Sounding Board, Heartstone Winery, The Packing House and many other venues. Give him a listen at a show or download a song from Bandcamp. Enjoy the ride!

Join us for an evening of acoustic music with these Senior All Stars! This program is hosted by the "Eastern Connecticut Center for History, Art, and Performance" (EC-CHAP). Doors 7:00pm / Show 7:30pm. Tickets $15.00 in advance online / $20.00 at the door. 20% Discount at Door for EC-CHAP Members.

Soft drinks and snacks available. "BYOB&F" - Bring Your Own Beverage & Food (Wine & Beer Only - I.D. Required). You can also bring your paid ticket to Willington Pizza House (or WP Too) for eat-in or take-out the night of the show and receive 15% off your meal purchase. Ask for "The Packing House" pizza! Click here for secret recipe. 

For more information, please call 518-791-9474.

EC-CHAP Acoustic Artist Series:2023-2024 Talent Showcase All Stars

Tickets $15.00 in Advance (ONLINE) / $20.00 at the Door

EC-CHAP MEMBER DISCOUNTS & FREQUENT FLYER PROGRAM AVAILABLE

SPECIAL NOTE: EC-CHAP Talent Showcase represents a platform for anyone of any age to share their talent before a live audience. We are much more than an “Open Mic”- as we encourage talent sharing across any genre; and provide the time and opportunity to do so.

We respect and support the talent of ALL participants. Over the past year, we identified three individuals that have demonstrated a talent for writing original lyrics and musicianship and wish to highlight their talent trough this new event.

We invite you to join us for the debut of the “Talent Showcase All Stars” for EC-CHAP’s 2023-2024 performance Season!

Meet The All Stars!

Finn Rowan, Tom Turci & John Clark

Since 2016 EC-CHAP has offered a monthly Talent Showcase, settling in on the 2nd Wednesday of the month. Over the past eight (8) years, we have enjoyed a lot of folks sharing a lot of talent! From original music - to visual arts; from comedy - to movement; and from spoken word - to hula-hoop artists, we have been fortunate to offer a platform for individuals and groups to share their passion for creative expression.

During the pandemic, we were able to keep the fire burning for over a year through a “Virtual” Talent Showcase model. Folks would submit their work as a video clip, and we compiled their work and streamed a “live” monthly session publicly on our YouTube channel. We are grateful and appreciate all those that contributed and continued to support this offering through the years!

Finn Rowan is an indie folk singer/songwriter born and raised in CT. After learning to play guitar in high school, he quickly found his creative outlet in writing and have been using it ever since. In forever growing passion and love for music, he is working towards the creation of his first album. Until then you can follow his journey and listen to his sound on Facebook and Instagram @TheFinnRowan.

Tom Turci is a central Connecticut guitarist, singer and songsmith. His musical roots stem from bluegrass, blues, folk, rock and country. His original music echoes sounds from the 70's and earlier. Fingerstyle picking, downhome strumming, harmonicas singing and a voice all his own to give it life. Tom writes and performs solo around Connecticut. He also frequently performs with local Southington band "Shed Rats", and with musician Nathaniel Hintz. His mission is to bring community and authenticity back to music, providing the best and most genuine sound possible to his own music and performance. You can find out more about Tom's music on his website tomturci.com

John Clark has been a part of the local music scene in eastern Connecticut since he moved here from Florida at age seventeen. He has contributed vocals and rhythm guitar to several duos and various bands, including collaborations with his brother Marty Clark, as well as Nashville recording artist Sarah Lou Richards. All the while, he has been crafting a small trove of personal original songs composed of the various radical musings and eccentric observations of an unschooled creative and social dreamer. John gives voice to the inner workings of his heart and soul, and the excited anticipation of whatever comes next.

Join us for an evening of original acoustic music with these All Stars! This program is hosted by the "Eastern Connecticut Center for History, Art, and Performance" (EC-CHAP). Doors 7:00pm / Show 7:30pm. Tickets $15.00 in advance online / $20.00 at the door. 20% Discount at Door for EC-CHAP Members.

Soft drinks and snacks available. "BYOB&F" - Bring Your Own Beverage & Food (Wine & Beer Only - I.D. Required). You can also bring your paid ticket to Willington Pizza House (or WP Too) for eat-in or take-out the night of the show and receive 15% off your meal purchase. Ask for "The Packing House" pizza! Click here for secret recipe. 

For more information, please call 518-791-9474.

EC-CHAP Acoustic Artist Series: An Intimate Evening with Cheryl Wheeler and Kenny White

Tickets $35.00 in Advance (ONLINE) / $40.00 at the Door

EC-CHAP MEMBER DISCOUNTS & FREQUENT FLYER PROGRAM AVAILABLE

*** SHOW SOLD OUT ***

Call for Waiting List: 518-791-9474

Special Note: We are honored to have Cheryl Wheeler and Kenny White share The Packing House stage this spring! Both of these legendary artists have long been favorites of the EC-CHAP family. Cheryl has shared her talents on stage since she was 12 years old, captivating audiences with her outstanding vocals and honest lyrics. Similarly, Kenny has a long list of accomplishments as a singer songwriter and multi-instrumentalist since the 1970’s. You can often see these two artists performing together live in concert. As Forrest Gump would say, “"Me and Jenny goes together like peas and carrots." You could say the same of Cheryl and Kenny – they just complement each other. This is a show not to miss!

CHERYL WHEELER has to be seen to be appreciated. Nothing you read and nothing you hear from her albums prepares you for how good a performer she is.

You may not be familiar with Cheryl, but you have probably heard her music. She is very respected as a songwriter by her peers, which can be seen by how many of them record her songs. Chery's songs have been covered by artists as diverse as Dan Seals, Peter Paul and Mary, Kenny Loggins, Garth Brooks, Suzy Boggus, Melanie, Bette Midler, Maura O'Connell, Sylvia, Kathy Mattea, and Holly Near. If they think she is great, then you owe it to yourself to learn more if you aren't familiar with her.

From her albums you can tell that she is a gifted songwriter with a beautiful voice. From other people's comments about her you can learn that she is a natural story teller with a fantastic sense of humor. But until you see her in person, you never really believe what you've been told about her. Besides, almost half of the songs she does during her shows haven't been recorded!

Cheryl's first concert was to a captive audience. She found an old toy ukulele in a neighbor's attic and serenaded her mother who was taking a bath at the time. A year later she got a real ukulele, then finally got her first guitar. She learned guitar from a neighbor, who also taught a group of boys. Each week they would get together and play just about any song they could think of for hours on end. Her first public performance was at a Hootenany type show when she was 12. She started writing songs when she was 17.

In 1983, Cheryl released a self produced EP called Newport Songs. Her first two albums Cheryl Wheeler in 1986, and Half a Book in 1991 were on an independent label, North Star. That company also released a promo tape called Live and Otherwise in 1987. This was a bonus tape that was sent to anyone who filled out a survey form that was included in a number of the North Star albums.

These were followed by numerous recordings and in 2012, Cheryl finally released a live album Cheryl Wheeler Live at the Triple Door, featuring Kenny White. If you have seen these two in concert, you know how great this album is. The album has the complete concert, including the stories and patter between songs. If she doesn't perform in your area very often, here is a great chance to enjoy one of her shows.

KENNY WHITE comes to the world of the touring singer-songwriter following a long and successful musical journey.

An accomplished pianist, who also performs on guitar, Kenny has now become more known for his clever lyrics. LONG LIST OF PRIORS, his aptly named current album, is the latest collection of original songs: snapshots of the human condition. Audiences often comment that a Kenny White concert moves them to laughter and tears — sometimes within the same song! Kenny recently completed an 18-month tour performing his original songs while traveling as the opener for Stephen Stills & Judy Collins, and has toured for many years with Cheryl Wheeler. He is looking forward to returning to the road to perform his own full-length shows.

Born in New York City and raised across the river in Fort Lee, NJ, Kenny White began his career in the 1970s, touring exclusively as the keyboard player for Jonathan Edwards and later with Livingston Taylor, on Linda Ronstadt’s legendary, “Living in the USA” tour.

He became a fixture in the NYC studio scene throughout the 1980s and 1990s, producing and arranging hundreds of commercials for TV and radio, beginning with “The Unsinkable Taste of Cheerios,” nearly seven years of Chevrolet’s “Heartbeat of America” campaign, countless ads for Coca Cola and many others.

Commercial work enabled White to direct artists as renowned and varied as Linda Ronstadt, Gladys Knight, Mavis Staples, Ricky Skaggs, and Aaron Neville. White contributed to film soundtracks as writer/musician including Message in a Bottle, Where the Heart Is and four films by Indie-director laureate, John Sayles. Kenny also appears on dozens of recordings of other musicians, including Marc Cohn’s platinum debut.

Join us for a very special evening of original music and stories by these legendary artists! This program is hosted by the "Eastern Connecticut Center for History, Art, and Performance" (EC-CHAP). Doors 6:30pm / Show 7:30pm. Tickets $35.00 Advance (Online) / $40.00 Door.

Soft drinks and snacks available. We are pleased to offer our exclusive "BYOB&F" TM model - Bring Your Own Beverage & Food (Wine & Beer Only - I.D. Required).  You can also bring your paid ticket to Willington Pizza House (or WP Too) for eat-in or take-out the night of the show and receive 15% off your meal purchase. Ask for "The Packing House" pizza! Click HERE for secret recipe. 

 For more information, please visit: www.thepackinghouse/upcoming or call 518-791-9474.

EC-CHAP Acoustic Artist Series: ThePatty Tuite Band (Blues/Indie)

SPECIAL TICKET PRICING:

$15.00 in Advance (ONLINE) / $20.00 at the Door

Special Note: We are excited to have The Patty Tuite Band debut at The Packing House this season! This local/regional band with award winning musician, Patty Tuite at the helm, has been turning heads in our area with a blues vibe that just doesn’t quit. It’s a pleasure to have these exceptional artists grace our stage!

PATTY TUITE is a singer/songwriter who embraces the genre of blues, jazz and rock music, Patty started at a young age listening to her mom’s piano playing of hymns, musicals and Boogie Woogie and began playing piano before the age of 5.  Patty began playing guitar at 17 years old focusing on fingerpicking and rhythm and learning Folk music and singing.

Patty played with and led numerous bands and ensembles since those early days,honing her chops in the blues, jazz, and rock arena. The rest is history!

When Covid lockdown requirements started, Patty continued writing new songs and started “back-yard” practices in the summer of 2020 performing the new material and sharing videos with her fan base. This was the group that then went into the studio in December 2020-January 2021 to complete the new music for Patty Tuite “Consider This.” The recording features a fantastic array of new material all written and composed by Patty. Produced by Grammy award winner Paul Nelson, who also plays electric, slide and acoustic guitar on the album, to the excited expectations of her ever growing, world-wide fan base.

“Consider This has been featured in numerous magazine reviews, including “Making a Scene,” Blues in The South and charting for 6 weeks on Roots Music Reports top contemporary blues albums as well as charting # 171 for 2021.   Consider This also charted on the  Independent Blues Broadcasters Association’s top 40 in the UK.  This year Patty went back into the The Music Room, West Yarmouth's studios and worked again with Grammy Award winner PAUL NELSON and recorded a Blues Oriented Album featuring an All Start Cast, including 2021 Grammy Award winner BOBBY RUSH as well as many other notables in the music industry.  This album received praise from Frank Rozack,Gold and Platinum Manager and now Patty's publicist, who stated, "Wonderful album.  Whats to say? Just fantastic, fabulous."  It has gone on to chart on Roots Music Report's top 50 Blues Albums and top 50 Contemporary Blues Albums, reaching a high of number 3 as of this writing in early September 2022.

Join us for an evening of original music by these outstanding artists! This program is hosted by the "Eastern Connecticut Center for History, Art, and Performance" (EC-CHAP). Doors 7:00pm / Show 7:30pm. SPECIAL TICKET PRICE: $15.00 Advance (Online) / $20.00 Door.

Soft drinks and snacks available. We are pleased to offer our exclusive "BYOB&F" TM model - Bring Your Own Beverage & Food (Wine & Beer Only - I.D. Required).  You can also bring your paid ticket to Willington Pizza House (or WP Too) for eat-in or take-out the night of the show and receive 15% off your meal purchase. Ask for "The Packing House" pizza! Click HERE for secret recipe. 

 See Artist Profiles below.

For more information, please visit: www.thepackinghouse/upcoming or call 518-791-9474.

ABOUT THE ARTISTS:

PATTY TUITE

In the 1980’s she began listening to blues musicians and emulating their styles.

Patty began playing guitar out in public and singing at open mic sessions in Springfield, MA during the early the early 1990’s.  This led to her first well received live recording in 1996 “Live At The Tic Toc.”  

Her first blues-based band, The Patty Tuite Band, formed in 1999, playing throughout the Southern New England region, gaining fans at clubs, functions, and summer concert festivals.  This experience led to her second recording “Girls Night Out” in 2001 and then “Blond and Blue” in 2007.

The band competed in the finals of the Connecticut Blues Society (CTBS) “Blues Challenge” in 2001 and 2005. Due to her showing at the CTBS statewide competitions, two of Patty’s originals were included on the CTBS compilation CDs, “Local Flavor” (2003) and “Blue State Blues” (2007). She also became a judge for the CT Blues Challenge on two occasions.

As well as playing blues from 2007-2017 with two more bands, the Boilermakers and the Percolators, Patty branched out into jazz and played with an eastern CT band, Blue Steam, in 2012. It was a creative and expansive collaboration together, not only playing standards, but reinterpreting popular songs with a jazz bent.

In 2016, Patty created The Patty Tuite Group, playing a mix of originals, blues, jazz and rock favorites.   They played some of her original material live for the Northeast CT Musicians Collaborative which was aired on Spectrum TV in 2018.  The band became very active playing local clubs throughout Southern New England.

In 2021 Patty and her husband Jim formed a new independent record label, Thread City Productions, which the past two releases came out on.

In the summer of 2022, Patty has been sitting on the judges panel for the 2022 Connecticut Blues Society, Blues Challenge.

Since 2004 Patty has enjoyed playing in a children’s band called the Kidsville Kuckoo Revue, led by Bruce John, one of the founders of the famed Shaboo Inn. She thinks it is a fun and rewarding way to get children to appreciate and participate in music-making.

JAN JUNGDEN

Jan Jungden has been performing regionally for over 30 years. She developed her R&B roots with the eclectic “Jake and the Family Jewels” touring the Northeast and playing such clubs as the Bottom Line and Lonestar in NewYork City and Toad's Place in New Haven. In addition to performing regularly with the Patty Tuite Band, Jan currently plays jazz with the Jan Jungden Trio and funk with the band FUSE. Jan has recorded two albums of primarily original material – “Smooth Ride” with the Jan Jungden Trio and “Light it Up” with FUSE Funk Band.

Her early blues influences stem from hearing live concerts by many of the great blues bands at Willimantic’s legendary club, The Shaboo, including Muddy Waters, Freddie King, and Bonnie Raitt. She studied jazz at the University of Bridgeport, and has written music for musical theater. With Patty Tuite, Jan's keyboard versatility keeps things interesting whether she’s playing a funky rhythm on clavinet or or burning up a solo on piano or organ. Then she’ll surprise audiences by soaring on the flute or rockin’ out on the keytar. Jan & Patty have been friends for many years and continue to enjoy collaborating on new, original music.

MARK ANNULI

Mark Annulli, a versatile musician, brings the heartbeat to Patty Tuite's rhythm section as the bassist and backup vocalist since the 2016 season. His distinctive touch resonates on Patty Tuite's 2021 album "Consider This," showcasing his studio prowess.

Beyond this collaboration, Mark's musical journey unfolds through diverse projects with Eastern CT artists since 2008, spanning genres from original acoustic Americana with Horizon Blue to the rock and progressive sounds of Drop City, and the unique alt-Americana stylings of SepiaTone. Explore the rich tapestry of Mark's contributions to the regional music scene.

JUDI THOMPKINS

Judi Thompkins, drumming for the past 55 years. Starting at just 7, I knew I had what it takes. I came into this world pre-wired for drumming. So I fine tuned all thru school and found myself with "Landslide" a local Southern-Rock band. Drumming on and off for the next few decades finally finding my place in 2017 with Patty Tuite Band. Completely feelin' her style of music, I fit right in!

PEGGY ANN CONTOS HARVEY

Peggy Ann Contos Harvey is a multi-instrumentalist and harmony vocalist who brought a new dimension to the sound of the Patty Tuite Band beginning in 2022. Her musical journey began with classical piano and clarinet during the 60's and 70's and drifted through genres of big band music and a 25 year journey fiddling and singing with The Traver Hollow Bluegrass Band.

Peggy met Patty through solo artist Bruce John, who she credits with developing her knowledge and interest in rock music. In addition to more than10 recording projects, Peggy Ann has toured throughout the Northern, Southern and Midwestern USA and Canada, as well as several European tours. She continues to perform with The Hot Flashes , The Shady Creek Bluegrass Band and a dynamic duo with Bruce John and The Music Vault.

Her contribution to the distinctive sound of The Patty Tuite Band is expressed with her characteristic electric violin style, sassy soprano sax, and rock and blues style alto sax and harmonica. "Being able to contribute to the performance of Patty's fabulous original tune repertoire and dynamic cover tunes along with the very talented members of Patty's band is challenging, rewarding and a great pleasure".

EC-CHAP Acoustic Artist Series: Mad Agnes CD Release (Folk)

Tickets $20.00 in Advance (ONLINE) / $25.00 at the Door

EC-CHAP MEMBER DISCOUNTS & FREQUENT FLYER PROGRAM AVAILABLE

Special Note: We welcome Mad Agnes to The Packing House Stage! Their classic Folk sounds and unique harmonies will take us back to a place we remember in this debut performance. Join us for this special evening of original music by these outstanding musicians.

The genre-bending trio, MAD AGNES, delivers smart songwriting, passionate performances, and an ease with one another on stage that invites the audience into their world of human connection and spontaneous fun. They transport listeners with well crafted instrumentation, using guitars, mandolin, ukulele, piano, an inventive keyboard, and three-part harmonies as tight as jeans from the dryer.

Mad Agnes has won hearts on two continents with their signature intricate harmonies, compelling songwriting, and passionate delivery. The genre-bending trio—Margo Hennebach, Adrienne Jones and Mark Saunders—creates an exciting, inclusive performance, delivering new original songs, selections from their thirteen album catalog, story telling and impromptu vocal improv.

“A refreshing adventure for those who enjoy well-sung and well-written acoustic music. Margo Hennebach, Adrienne Jones and Mark Saunders cast an enticing spell. [They] manage to be smooth and edgy at the same time, a rare feat.” Rich Warren, Sing Our! Magazine

“A refreshing adventure for those who enjoy well-sung and well-written acoustic music. Margo Hennebach, Adrienne Jones and Mark Saunders cast an enticing spell. [They] manage to be smooth and edgy at the same time, a rare feat.” Rich Warren, Sing Our! Magazine

“If you’ve been struggling to find a link back to that addictive sound of progressive/alternative folk groups like Steeleye Span, Fairport Convention and Renaissance, listen up...Mad Agnes recreates with authenticity many of the musical qualities that adored us to those aforementioned groups. It’s definitely magic.” Robert A. Lindquist, Singer Magazine

In their current iteration, Mad Agnes uses primarily one microphone around which they form and re-form, early-radio style. Their ease with one another on stage invites the audience into their world of human connection and spontaneous fun. Well-crafted instrumentation – using guitars, mandolin, ukulele, piano, melodica, an inventive keyboard and three-part harmonies as tight as jeans from the dryer – enthralls audiences again and again. Mad Agnes is now recording their newest studio album, “Llikey Story”.

Join us for an evening of nostalgia and harmony with Mad Agnes! This program is hosted by the "Eastern Connecticut Center for History, Art, and Performance" (EC-CHAP). Doors 7:00pm / Show 7:30pm. Tickets $20.00 in advance online / $25.00 at the door. 20% Discount at Door for EC-CHAP Members.

Soft drinks and snacks available. "BYOB&F" - Bring Your Own Beverage & Food (Wine & Beer Only - I.D. Required). You can also bring your paid ticket to Willington Pizza House (or WP Too) for eat-in or take-out the night of the show and receive 15% off your meal purchase. Ask for "The Packing House" pizza! Click here for secret recipe. 

For more information, please call 518-791-9474.

EC-CHAP Acoustic Artist Series: Julia Autumn Ford with Jeff Howard (Folk / Indie)

Tickets $20.00 in Advance (ONLINE) / $25.00 at the Door

EC-CHAP MEMBER DISCOUNTS & FREQUENT FLYER PROGRAM AVAILABLE

JULIA AUTUMN FORD is an international touring artist that has been playing professionally since she was a teenager. After spending her senior year of high school recording her debut self-titled EP, she graduated and immediately went on her first tour. She has toured extensively throughout the USA playing festivals, TV & radio. As a member of Belle of the Fall, an indie folk duo comprised of JAF and Tracy Walton, she released 3 critically acclaimed albums; Earthbound, Rise Up, and The Bending of Light.

JAF has a knack for writing songs that explore the depths of human existence. She can make the heaviest of subjects seem light as a feather. She is most known for her unique and ethereal voice which has been described as "buttered chocolate" and "as if fairies and cotton candy were playing together in a fishbowl".

She currently resides in the northwest corner of CT where she has a private music teaching studio and works at On Deck Sound Studio in Northfield, CT as a videographer and assistant engineer.

Julia will be accompanied by guitarist Jeff Howard.

JEFF HOWARD is a Great Barrington, MA based music educator and professional guitarist. From an early age Jeff immersed himself in live music and professional recording circles. At 14, Jeff joined the successful jam-band The McLovins. The group’s viral fame led Jeff to share the stage with legends such as Buddy Guy and Wayne Coyne of The Flaming Lips. Currently, Jeff enjoys working as a music department head at Miss Halls School in Pittsfield, MA.

Join us for an evening of original music with these excellent musicians! This program is hosted by the "Eastern Connecticut Center for History, Art, and Performance" (EC-CHAP). Doors 7:00pm / Show 7:30pm. Tickets $20.00 in advance online / $25.00 at the door. 20% Discount at Door for EC-CHAP Members.

Soft drinks and snacks available. "BYOB&F" - Bring Your Own Beverage & Food (Wine & Beer Only - I.D. Required). You can also bring your paid ticket to Willington Pizza House (or WP Too) for eat-in or take-out the night of the show and receive 15% off your meal purchase. Ask for "The Packing House" pizza! Click here for secret recipe. 

For more information, please call 518-791-9474.

EC-CHAP Jazz Series: An Evening with Jacqui Naylor (vocal) and Art Khu (piano)

Tickets $25.00 in Advance (ONLINE) / $30.00 at the Door

EC-CHAP MEMBER DISCOUNTS & FREQUENT FLYER PROGRAM AVAILABLE

SPECIAL NOTE: It is a privilege to present an evening with Jacqui Naylor and Art Khu! Jacqui has been a favorite jazz vocalist for years - and the opportunity to collaborate with her is an true honor. Please join us for a very special performance with these outstanding artists.

Check out the interview with Jacqui Naylor by Mark Ramone - Host of “Something Different” on WECS, 90.1 FM aired Live Saturday, March 9, 2024.

Jazz vocalist and songwriter JACQUI NAYLOR returns to The Packing House following the pandemic hiatus. The singer is also the subject of a full-length documentary film, Lucky Girl. With a wide vocal range, she has made the mixing and "smashing" of genres and eras her stock-in-trade, gaining fans and notoriety throughout the world by singing the lyrics and melody of jazz standards over the grooves of well-known rock songs and viceversa. "Naylor has the chops and sensitivity to pull it oft;' writes New York Magazine.

"Naylor remains one of the most superbly arresting vocalists around. " JazzTimes

"She excels as a sensitive song interpreter with unerring intonation. " DownBeat

Naylor and Khu tour regularly, headlining at the world’s finest jazz venues and festivals, including Ronnie Scott’s London, Sunset-Sunside Paris, Birdland New York, Birdland Hamburg, Quasimodo Berlin, SFJAZZ Center, Monterey Jazz Festival, and Blue Note New York, Milan, and Tokyo.

Treasures of the Heart

Vocalist and composer Jacqui Naylor celebrates the release of her twelfth album, Treasures of the Heart, featuring her deeply rich, soulful voice on a signature mix of standards, covers, and original music. Known for her ability to interpret a diverse repertoire, the vocalist attributes her unique sound to tight and spontaneous interplay with long-time pianist, arranger, and co-composer Art Khu. What Naylor and Khu create on stage together is both sensitive and explosive!

Their concert features music from Treasures of the Heart and favorites from Naylor’s illustrious career.  Her albums have made exclusive "top-ten" lists in USA Today, Jazziz, The Washington Post and more, and her original music featured in ad campaigns, television shows, and films, including a documentary made about her.

Please join us for this rare opportunity to see and hear these incredible musicians! This program is hosted by the "Eastern Connecticut Center for History, Art, and Performance" (EC-CHAP). Doors 7:00pm / Show 7:30pm. Tickets $25.00 in advance online / $30.00 at the door. Discount at Door for EC-CHAP Members.

Soft drinks and snacks available. "BYOB&F" - Bring Your Own Beverage & Food (Wine & Beer Only - I.D. Required). You can also bring your paid ticket to Willington Pizza House (or WP Too) for eat-in or take-out the night of the show and receive 15% off your meal purchase. Ask for "The Packing House" pizza! Click here for secret recipe. 

For information, please call 518-791-9474.

EC-CHAP Acoustic Artist Series: An Evening with Sally Rogers and Howie Bursen (Folk)

Tickets $20.00 in Advance (ONLINE) / $25.00 at the Door

EC-CHAP MEMBER DISCOUNTS & FREQUENT FLYER PROGRAM AVAILABLE

Special Note: We are pleased to have Sally and Howie return the The Packing House this season! We are grateful to have these experienced musicians reside in our area as they represent a timeless authentic folk genre. These folks are the real deal! Join us for an evening of original song and sweet harmony.

Since their 1981 Greenwich Village coffeehouse encounter this duo has built a folk reputation throughout the U.S.A. and Canada, even appearing on Garrison Keillor's A Prairie Home Companion show. With 2 albums together on the Flying Fish label, they each have other recordings and musical adventures.

Frets magazine says Rogers’ voice is "clear as the queen's diamonds", and the Washington Post brands her instrumental work "sterling". Her second album was voted "Best Folk Album of the Year" by the National Association of Independent Record Distributors. Pete Seeger said she "has a beautiful voice and has written many extraordinarily good songs that are going to reach out and touch large numbers of people. They sure are great songs!"

Rogers was official 1997 Connecticut State Troubadour, and is a Master Teaching Artist for the Connecticut Commission on the Arts as well as a K-4 music teacher and adjunct professor at Lesley University. She wrote music for 4 Mennonite folk operas. Thrushwood Kids, her recording label, houses her 5 award-winning recordings for young people. She has songs in Quaker and Unitarian hymnals and two major national music textbooks and also has had a children’s picture book published.

Bursen is known for his warm baritone voice, devilish sense of humor, red-hot banjo wizardry and inventive guitar arrangements. Chicago Magazine said of him, "stunning guitar arrangements...easily one of the finest banjo players ever heard."

Feature articles in Banjo Newsletter and Frets followed the release of Bursen’s first solo album on Folk Legacy Records. His song “Small Business Blues” is included in Seeger’s book, Carry It On. Bursen holds a Cornell Ph.D. in Philosophy. A professor-turned-grape grower, he makes wine at Sharpe Hill Vineyards in Pomfret, CT. His last album “Banjo Mannikin” highlighting his banjo pyrotechnics received national airplay.

Join us for an evening of original music by these outstanding artists! This special program will include stories and songs of today and yesterday. This program is hosted by the "Eastern Connecticut Center for History, Art, and Performance" (EC-CHAP). Doors 7:00pm / Show 7:30pm. Tickets $20.00 Advance (Online) / $25.00 Door.

Soft drinks and snacks available. We are pleased to offer our exclusive "BYOB&F" TM model - Bring Your Own Beverage & Food (Wine & Beer Only - I.D. Required).  You can also bring your paid ticket to Willington Pizza House (or WP Too) for eat-in or take-out the night of the show and receive 15% off your meal purchase. Ask for "The Packing House" pizza! Click HERE for secret recipe. 

 For more information, please visit: www.thepackinghouse/upcoming or call 518-791-9474.

EC-CHAP Jazz Series:The Hall Monitors

Tickets $20.00 in Advance (ONLINE) / $25.00 at the Door

EC-CHAP MEMBER & HJS Member DISCOUNTS & FREQUENT FLYER PROGRAM AVAILABLE

Students: $10.00 (With I.D.) / Children Under 12: $5.00

Introducing THE HALL MONITORS, a group of top-notch New England jazz musicians brought together through the love of playing, composing, arranging, AND teaching. Steven Bulmer, bass; Nathan Edwards, saxes; Matt Parker, sax/flute; Jen Allen, Piano; Ben Bilello, drums.

The members are all honored to be jazz coaches at the prestigious Hall High School in West Hartford CT, as well as educators at numerous colleges and universities throughout the region. The group performs a variety of jazz styles from bop, hard bop and contemporary jazz genres. They program inventive originals i along with original treatments of not-so-standard jazz classics. The group features a classic piano-bass-drums rhythm section with two innovative and complementary saxophonists.

In May of 2023, the opportunity to launch the group came from an invitation to perform at the Blue Room in CitySpace, Easthampton, MA for Carol’s Jazz Night concert. The group presented a 90-minute set of 11 tunes, including 5 originals from 3 different band members. All that was needed now was a name. After pushing many failed pun-names around trying to work off of the word “Hall,” the Hall Monitors‘ moniker was adopted. The Hall Monitors have delighted audiences through engagements with Hartford Jazz Society, Black Eyed Sally’s, The Packing House, the Buttonwood Tree and CitySpace Easthampton. The group is also profiled on CreativeGround.org

Join us for a special evening of jazz with The Hall Monitors! This program is hosted by the "Eastern Connecticut Center for History, Art, and Performance" (EC-CHAP).Doors 7:00pm / Show 7:30pm. Tickets $20.00 in advance online / $25.00 at the door.

Soft drinks and snacks available. We are pleased to offer our exclusive "BYOB&F" TM model - Bring Your Own Beverage & Food (Wine & Beer Only - I.D. Required).  You can also bring your paid ticket to Willington Pizza House (or WP Too) for eat-in or take-out the night of the show and receive 15% off your meal purchase. Ask for "The Packing House" pizza! Click HERE for secret recipe. 

 For more information, please call 518-791-9474.

EC-CHAP Acoustic Artist Series: An Evening with Chris Smither

Tickets $35.00 in Advance (ONLINE) / $40.00 at the Door

DOORS: 6:30PM / PERFORMANCE: 7:30PM

SHOW

SOLD OUT

Special Note: It is a privilege to have Chris Smither grace The Packing House stage! Mr. Smither has been a long-time favorite of the EC-CHAP family and pre-pandemic efforts to schedule him with us have become a reality! Join us for this legendary folk artist – A show not to miss!

Listen to Chris Smither interviewed by Mark Ramone, Host of “Something Different”, WECS RAdio 90.1FM. January 8, 2024.

Having distilled his own signature sound of blues and folk for over 50 years, CHRIS SMITHER is truly an American original. A profound songwriter, Chris continues to draw deeply from the blues, American folk music, modem poets and philosophers.

From his early days as the New Orleans transplant in the Boston folk scene, through his wilderness years, to his reemergence in the 1990s as one of America's most distinctive acoustic performers, Chris Smither continues to hone his distinctive sound. He has always traveled his own road and stayed true to his musical vision.

He may be best known for writing "Love You Like A Man" which Bonnie Raitt and, more recently, jazz great Diana Krall have covered. His music has been covered by numerous artists and featured in soundtrack albums, independent film, television, and commercials. Reviewers continue to praise his dazzling guitar work, gravelly voice and songwriting. The New York Times: " With a weary, well-traveled voice and a serenely intricate finger-picking style, Mr. Smither turns the blues into songs that accept hard-won lessons and try to make peace with fate."

More From the Levee (2020 Signature Sounds) is a masterwork and companion release to the celebrated double-CD 50-year career retrospective Still On the Levee that came out in 2014. It sports the unmistakable guitar sound Chris has made his own meshed with spare, brilliant songs, delivered in a bone-wise, hard-won voice.

ASSOCIATED PRESS: Smither is an American original, a product of the musical melting pot, and one of the absolute best singer-songwriters in the world.

ROLLING STONE: Bathed in the flickering glow of passing headlights and neon bar signs, Smither's roots are as blue as they come. There is plenty of misty Louisiana and Lightnin' Hopkins in Smither's weathered singing and unhurried picking. So fine.

NEW YORK TIMES: With a weary, well-traveled voice and a serenely intricate finger-picking style, Mr. Smither turns the blues into songs that accept hard-won lessons and try to make peace with fate.

Join us for a special evening of original music by this legendary artist! This program is hosted by the "Eastern Connecticut Center for History, Art, and Performance" (EC-CHAP). Doors 6:30pm / Show 7:30pm. Tickets $35.00 Advance (Online) / $40.00 Door.

Soft drinks and snacks available. We are pleased to offer our exclusive "BYOB&F" TM model - Bring Your Own Beverage & Food (Wine & Beer Only - I.D. Required).  You can also bring your paid ticket to Willington Pizza House (or WP Too) for eat-in or take-out the night of the show and receive 15% off your meal purchase. Ask for "The Packing House" pizza! Click HERE for secret recipe. 

 For more information, please visit: www.thepackinghouse/upcoming or call 518-791-9474.

EC-CHAP Acoustic Artist Series: Singer/Songwriter Jenna Nicholls with local artist John Clark (Indie / Folk)

Tickets $20.00 in Advance (ONLINE) / $25.00 at the Door

EC-CHAP MEMBER DISCOUNTS & FREQUENT FLYER PROGRAM AVAILABLE

PROGRAM CHANGE NOTE: Unfortunately Kala Farnham, 2022 as CT State Troubadour, is unable to join Jenna Nicholls for this performance due to illness. A solo show will be rescheduled with Kala Farham in the near future.

NYC based singer/songwriter Jenna Nicholls, will retun to The Packing House stage. Jenna blew us away with her unique style and fresh lyrics! We are fortunate to have the opportunity to have Jenna join us once again. Jenna will now be joined by local musician John Clark who will open the show. This is an acoustic performance not to miss!

Whether she’s crooning a jazz standard, belting out a New Orleans style dirge or plucking her 1920’s style original ballads on her Ukulele, she’s giving a vintage genre a new spin with her own lush nostalgic style and melodic sensibility.

Recently, Jenna has toured with Ingrid Michaelson, shared the stage with Oscar Winner Glen Hansard, Amanda Palmer, Lucius, Joan as Policewoman, Gerry Leonard (Spooky Ghost/David Bowie). She’s performed in venues all over the world including the Beacon Theater NYC, and Carnegie Hall.

“Home.” is a heart-wrencher, as she leaves behind all her vocal acrobatics. Frankly, this song doesn’t need them. Nicholls is a genius storyteller through her vocal inflections. This subdue ballad is reminiscent of Norah Jones but is distinctly Nicholls.

Jenna will be joined by local musical artist John Clark.

JOHN ANTON CLARK has been a part of the local music scene in eastern Connecticut since he moved here from Florida at age seventeen. He has contributed vocals and rhythm guitar to several duos and various bands, including collaborations with his brother Marty Clark, as well as Nashville recording artist Sarah Lou Richards.

All the while, he has been crafting a small trove of personal original songs composed of the various radical musings and eccentric observations of an unschooled creative and social dreamer. John gives voice to the inner workings of his heart and soul, and the excited anticipation of whatever comes next.

John Clark originally came to The Packing House to participate in our monthly Talent Showcase, where his vocals and songwriting impressed us all! He will be joining two other regional musicians at The Packing House on May 4, 2024 as the “2023-24 Talent Showcase All Stars”. Tickets on sale soon.

Join us for an evening of original works by these awesome acoustic artists!

This program is hosted by the "Eastern Connecticut Center for History, Art, and Performance" (EC-CHAP). Doors 7:00pm / Show 7:30pm. Soft drinks and snacks available. We are pleased to offer our exclusive "BYOB&F" model - Bring Your Own Beverage & Food (Wine & Beer Only - I.D. Required).  You can also bring your paid ticket to Willington Pizza House (or WP Too) for eat-in or take-out the night of the show and receive 15% off your meal purchase. Ask for "The Packing House" special! Click here for secret recipe. 

For information, please call 518-791-9474.

EC-CHAP Acoustic Artist Series: Twice Around (Folk / Indie)

Tickets $20.00 in Advance (ONLINE) / $25.00 at the Door

EC-CHAP MEMBER DISCOUNTS & FREQUENT FLYER PROGRAM AVAILABLE

SPECIAL NOTE: Tune in for two upcoming radio interviews with Twice Around this week!

• 1:00pm, Wednesday, January 10th, “Pan American Express” with John Murphy, WECS, 90.1FM

• 3:00pm, Saturday, January 13th, Something Different” with Mark Ramone, WECS, 90.1FM

Very Special Note: Acoustic Duo, “Twice Around” opened our Performance Season in September 2019. Then COVID-19 came on the scene to close The Packing House from March 2020 to September 2021. Once again, “Twice Around” opened our “Reopening” Season in September 2021, and again last Season in 2022.

Well… They’re back! EC-CHAP is pleased to present this warm and seasoned acoustic duo: “Twice Around”!

TWICE AROUND is an acoustic duo equipped with a couple of guitars, their voices and a grand love of music. Their self-crafted songs tell stories of the heart (sometimes broken, sometimes full) and walking your own path. Longtime friends Frank Veres and Luisa Tanno have been making music together since 1996. They started in a 10-piece Funk band, then in a harmonious trio that eventually became a duo. Much of their music-making has been in Frank’s basement recording studio where they tinker and play to their heart’s content revealing their efforts onstage and in three full length CDs of original music.

They may be considered a modern, yet semi-throwback duo with a sound that could be classified as singer/songwriter with an essence of Pop and Melancholy. The foundation of their music is acoustic guitar and vocals; often with harmonies and guitar interplay, sometimes just one guitar and one voice, raw and rich. Their latest CD "Here Before" features 12 original songs that explore the ups and downs of all matters of the heart with an optimistic perspective. We’ve all been “Here Before”. They play original music along with a selection of familiar and unexpected covers.

Over the decades they have gone through cycles of performing every weekend and cycles of performing a few times a year, but never have they been away from audiences, and each other, for this long. Like all of us, they’ve missed the singular connection that happens when sharing the experience of live music, especially in true listening spaces such as The Packing House. An evening with them includes original music, stories in between songs and a real affection for their audience. You can get a preview of their music by visiting the listening page of their website: https://twice-around.net/home

Join us for an evening of original music with Twice Around! This program is hosted by the "Eastern Connecticut Center for History, Art, and Performance" (EC-CHAP). Doors 7:00pm / Show 7:30pm. Tickets $20.00 in advance online / $25.00 at the door. 20% Discount at Door for EC-CHAP Members.

Soft drinks and snacks available. "BYOB&F" - Bring Your Own Beverage & Food (Wine & Beer Only - I.D. Required). You can also bring your paid ticket to Willington Pizza House (or WP Too) for eat-in or take-out the night of the show and receive 15% off your meal purchase. Ask for "The Packing House" pizza! Click here for secret recipe. 

For more information, please call 518-791-9474.

EC-CHAP Acoustic Artist Series: Sperry Creek (Bluegrass)

Tickets $20.00 in Advance (ONLINE) / $25.00 at the Door

EC-CHAP MEMBER DISCOUNTS & FREQUENT FLYER PROGRAM AVAILABLE

SPERRY CREEK bring fresh harmonies and instrumentation that hold true to the bluegrass genre. This five-piece band from Connecticut formed after some local pickers spent the height of the pandemic keeping each other sane through socially distant backyard jam sessions. It didn’t take the group long to realize that good sounds were happening. They soon adopted the name of a nearby creek, and the band was officially formed in the summer of 2020.

Sperry Creek is made up of longtime musicians Scott Freemantle (bass); Marilyn Toback-Reveley (guitar); Bill Reveley (fiddle); Corrie Folsom-O’Keefe (mandolin) and Dan O’Keefe (banjo), who all share a passion for bluegrass music. A culmination of musicians from other well known CT bands, Sperry Creek has allowed us to share our love of music with others throughout the New England bluegrass scene.

Please join us for an evening of classic bluegrass. This program is hosted by the "Eastern Connecticut Center for History, Art, and Performance" (EC-CHAP). Doors 7:00pm / Show 7:30pm.. Special Pricing: Tickets $20.00 in Advance (ONLINE) / $25.00 Cash Only at the Door.

 Soft drinks and snacks available. We are pleased to offer our exclusive "BYOB&F" TM model - Bring Your Own Beverage & Food (Wine & Beer Only - I.D. Required).  You can also bring your paid ticket to Willington Pizza House (or WP Too) for eat-in or take-out the night of the show and receive 15% off your meal purchase. Ask for "The Packing House" pizza! Click HERE for secret recipe. 

 For more information, please visit: www.thepackinghouse/upcoming or call 518-791-9474.

EC-CHAP Acoustic Artist Series: Ramblin' Dan Stevens (Blues)

Tickets $20.00 in Advance (ONLINE) / $25.00 at the Door

EC-CHAP MEMBER DISCOUNTS & FREQUENT FLYER PROGRAM AVAILABLE

At the young age of sixteen, DAN STEVEN's romantic streak was ignited by his first guitar teacher in small town central Pennsylvania who told him stories about the lives of traveling blues musicians like Mississippi John Hurt and Fred McDowell. After being inspired by Woody Guthrie’s book, “Bound for Glory”, the magnetic lure of the road captured his imagination and with a driving passion he hitchhiked and hopped freight trains, guitar in hand across the United States five times, eventually covering over 100,000 miles.

Always seeking diverse experiences, he has worked as a teacher in Pennsylvania and Arizona, a rock climbing instructor in New Mexico, broke his collarbone riding bulls in Colorado.and sailed schooners for a living on the Eastern seaboard. He lived full time on his own wooden sloop in Mystic CT for a couple of years while performing solo up and down the East Coast. A highlight of this period was sailing throughout Central and South America as mate aboard David Crosby’s (Crosby, Stills, Nash, and Young) sailboat, the Mayan.

Musically, Dan continued to hone his guitar skills taking lessons from renowned acoustic guitarist and W.C. Handy Award winner Paul Rishell, who taught him how to play slide. Later, he was blessed to study with Greenwich Village based folk/blues icon Dave Van Ronk during the last years of Van Ronk’s storied life. His repertoire reflects the influence of his revered teachers who actually knew and performed with many of the legendary blues masters. His tastes include delta blues “bottleneck slide” tunes, the more carefree piedmont style, and arrangements comprised of complex orchestration with plenty of chord changes up the neck in the spirit of Dave Van Ronk. His originals remain true to the traditional forces which powerfully shaped his early musical development and prompt listeners to praise the authenticity of his approach.

As a full time professional musician since 1991, Dan continues to tour incessantly along the East Coast, U.S. Virgin Islands, U.K., Germany and Canada. He has appeared with such artists as Johnny Winter, James Cotton, Charlie Musselwhite, Arlo Guthrie, Richie Havens, Charlie Daniels, Livingston Taylor, Ronnie Earl, and others. An irrepressible guitar collector, Dan surrounds himself with vintage and custom instruments acquired in his many travels. Usually packing three guitars, any given performance may find him choosing to play a Gibson J-200, 1950’s Sears Silvertone, a 1931 National Steel, a retro lime green Resophonic, and more.

Dan’s most recent CD, “Dirt Floor Sessions”, has been described as having a real, raw, rockin' feel with songs encompassing sounds from his major influences. Several cuts are interpretations of intricate finger style arrangements learned directly from mentor Dave Van Ronk. Others invoke the spirit of the delta through his newfound interest in primitive homemade instruments, specifically the 3 stringed cigar box guitar and one stringed diddley bow. Rounded out with Dan's originals and the addition in just the right spots of tuba, clarinet, lap steel and percussion, the disc is a true snapshot of his musical evolution.

Termed “Connecticut’s hardest working bluesman” by the New York Times in 2002, he plays over 200 engagements a year, including concerts, clubs, festivals, coffeehouses, community and private events and educational programs. He has appeared at Long Island’s Riverhead Blues Festival; the Berlin Blues Festival in Connecticut; was the closer in the acoustic section of the Fleet Blues Festival in Albany, New York and Pennsylvania’s Harry Smith Festival. Dan was a finalist at the International Blues Challenge '08 on Beale Street in Memphis TN with partner Chris D'Amato and has been chosen to be included on the roster of the Music Under New York program enabling him to perform in prime locations throughout the MTA system such as Times Square and Grand Central Station. He is also endorsed by Connecticut’s State Arts Commission and the New England Foundation for the Arts. He lives on the shoreline in Old Lyme, Connecticut with his wife Gail and daughter, Haley.

Join us for an evening of great stories and sassy blues with Ramblin' Dan. This program is hosted by the "Eastern Connecticut Center for History, Art, and Performance" (EC-CHAP). Doors 7:00pm / Show 7:30pm. Tickets $20.00 in advance online / $25.00 at the door.

Soft drinks and snacks available. We are pleased to offer our exclusive "BYOB&F" TM model - Bring Your Own Beverage & Food (Wine & Beer Only - I.D. Required).  You can also bring your paid ticket to Willington Pizza House (or WP Too) for eat-in or take-out the night of the show and receive 15% off your meal purchase. Ask for "The Packing House" pizza! Click HERE for secret recipe. 

 For more information, please visit: www.thepackinghouse/upcoming or call 518-791-9474.

EC-CHAP Acoustic Artist Series: Poor Monroe (Bluegrass)

Tickets $20.00 in Advance (ONLINE) / $25.00 at the Door

EC-CHAP MEMBER DISCOUNTS & FREQUENT FLYER PROGRAM AVAILABLE

NOTE: Poor Monroe returns to The Packing House! We welcome Eric Lee (guitar/fiddle), Sean Davis (guitar), Gareth Buckley (bass), Chris Boucher (banjo), and John Benjamin (mandolin) to share their unique blend in our intimate Listening Room.

Formed at the start of 2021, POOR MONROE is a New England-based bluegrass collaboration of long-time friends with nearly a century’s worth of performing experience (cumulatively speaking).

In addition to receiving two New England Music Awards nominations, and enjoyed a tremendous break out year, with performances including the Green River Festival, Podunk Bluegrass Festival, Ossippee Valley Music Festival, Basin Bluegrass Festival, and Thomas Point Beach Bluegrass Festival. That’s no small feat, considering the band is less than two years young.

Drawing from distinct musical paths, this energetic group of seasoned players bring a unique approach to their performances, delivering unmistakably tight vocal harmonies and scorching tempos that form the benchmark of the genre.

Featuring songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Eric Lee, guitarist Sean Davis, bassist Gareth Buckley, banjoist Chris Boucher, and mandolinist John Benjamin, Poor Monroe is a collaboration of long-time friends whose dedication and expertly-honed performances catch the attention of every audience.

Performing original and traditional material with a deep sense of honoring the legacy of bluegrass music, this group of fiscally-bereft but spirit-full individuals shows how a love of music and good sense of humor can transcend trying times.

Please join us for an evening of original bluegrass music - from high energy foot-stompin’ tunes to emotional tear jerkin’ arrangements by this new bluegrass band. This program is hosted by the "Eastern Connecticut Center for History, Art, and Performance" (EC-CHAP). Doors 7:00pm / Show 7:30pm. Tickets $20.00 Advance (Online) / $25.00 Door.

 Soft drinks and snacks available. We are pleased to offer our exclusive "BYOB&F" TM model - Bring Your Own Beverage & Food (Wine & Beer Only - I.D. Required).  You can also bring your paid ticket to Willington Pizza House (or WP Too) for eat-in or take-out the night of the show and receive 15% off your meal purchase. Ask for "The Packing House" pizza! Click HERE for secret recipe. 

 For more information, please visit: www.thepackinghouse/upcoming or call 518-791-9474.

EC-CHAP Acoustic Artist Series: Bastards of Fine Arts (Indie/Folk/Rock)

Tickets $20.00 in Advance (ONLINE) / $25.00 at the Door

EC-CHAP MEMBER DISCOUNTS & FREQUENT FLYER PROGRAM AVAILABLE

NOTE: I had the opportunity to meet Steve Mayone, founding member of the Bastards of Fine Arts twice - when he accompanied Kate Taylor at The Packing House pre and post pandemic. Our most recent encounter led to his return with his acoustic duo including Matt Keating, the other original “Bastard”. It is with great pleasure that we present Steve and Matt as the Bastards of Fine Arts! Join us for these incredibly talented musicians as they fill our intimate listening room with their original acoustic works!

BASTARDS OF FINE ARTS are a new band with old roots: MATT KEATING and STEVE MAYONE are songwriting veterans, singularly releasing multiple albums and garnering rave reviews from around the world. Both began their careers in the 1990’s with bands and as solo artists, sharing the studio and stage with Levon Helm, David Bowie and Larry Campbell. NPR says of Keating "In a career spanning 20 years, Keating has established himself as one of America's great under the radar songwriters. His work is rife with clever incisive tunefulness." Of Mayone Americana UK says "The stark truth is Mayone is a master songsmith. He crafts and molds his stories eloquently and intelligently and there's not many that you can say that about".

Keating and Mayone joined forces in 2014 and began a productive songwriting collaboration. Joined by Jason Mercer on Bass (Ron Sexsmith, Ani DeFranco) and Greg Wieczorek on Drums (Norah Jones, Autumn Defense) they began playing gigs and creating a weekly music video series “New Song Forward Friday”. Their debut album A GOOD SIGN was released in 2022 to early rave reviews. Stereo Embers The Podcast calls it “… A joyous and jangly blast of hook-laden indie pop” while Dirty Rock proclaims A GOOD SIGN to be “one of the best albums of the year”.

“The band has filled out their sound with rhythm stalwarts bassist Jason Mercer (Ron Sexsmith, Oh Pep) and drummer Greg Wieczorek (Norah Jones, Autumn Defense). Fans of the Jayhawks, the Flying Burrito Brothers, and singer-songwriters in the vein of Lyle Lovett, Freedy Johnston, Lowell George and Michael Penn will find something to enjoy on A GOOD SIGN.” -ROCK CELLAR MAGAZINE

“Matt Keating and Steve Mayone met in New York in 2016, since then they haven't stopped playing together and call themselves Bastards of Fine Arts. The fruit of that friendship is a lush debut album called A GOOD SIGN. The result is a superb 14-song album of catchy American rock jam packed with fabulous melodies balancing power pop and upbeat folk with perfect arrangements to remote woods, perfect for casting an intimate campfire glow from New York. The band that accompanied Bastards of Fine Arts is bassist Jason Mercer (Ron Sexsmith, Oh Pep) and drummer Greg Wieczorek (Norah Jones, Autumn Defense) to make one of the best albums of the year.” - DIRTY ROCK

“… A joyous and jangly blast of hook-laden indie pop” - STEREO EMBERS THE PODCAST

Please join us for an evening of original acoustic music from these outstanding”Bastards”! A show not to miss! This program is hosted by the "Eastern Connecticut Center for History, Art, and Performance" (EC-CHAP). Doors 7:00pm / Show 7:30pm. Tickets $20.00 Advance (Online) / $25.00 Door.

 Soft drinks and snacks available. We are pleased to offer our exclusive "BYOB&F" TM model - Bring Your Own Beverage & Food (Wine & Beer Only - I.D. Required).  You can also bring your paid ticket to Willington Pizza House (or WP Too) for eat-in or take-out the night of the show and receive 15% off your meal purchase. Ask for "The Packing House" pizza! Click HERE for secret recipe. 

 For more information, please visit: www.thepackinghouse/upcoming or call 518-791-9474.

EC-CHAP Acoustic Artist Series: SONORO in Concert (Strings & Piano)

CANCELLED

ADVANCE TICKET HOLDERS WILL BE ISSUED A FULL REFUND.

FOR INFORMATION, PLEASE CALL EC-CHAP AT 518-791-9474 OR

SHARON RUCHMAN, FOUNDER OF SONORO AT 860-868-7434 OR 203-209-3022

Special Note: We are pleased to host this debut performance of Connecticut based string and piano trio of SONORO to The Packing House stage! A subset of the seven artist ensemble (SONORO), these accomplished musicians will fill our listening room with unique acoustic sounds and original compositions. Please join us in welcoming these classically trained artists!

The trio — piano, violin, and cello — is part of the musical ensemble, SONORO, formed in 2019 by composer and pianist Sharon Ruchman. They will be performing original compositions of classically-based blues, jazz, and Latin. The blend of styles offers an escape from the monoculture of formulaic musical genre boundaries, thrusting the listener into a world without rules, only exploration and innovation.

SONORO’s music is stretching boundaries of contemporary rhythms, creating a unique musical blend that showcases the personalities and talents of its highly skilled musicians. The ensemble aims to produce live, engaging concerts at venues throughout Connecticut and New England.

Join us for an evening of original music by these outstanding artists! This program is hosted by the "Eastern Connecticut Center for History, Art, and Performance" (EC-CHAP). Doors 7:00pm / Show 7:30pm. Tickets $20.00 Advance (Online) / $25.00 Door.

Soft drinks and snacks available. We are pleased to offer our exclusive "BYOB&F" TM model - Bring Your Own Beverage & Food (Wine & Beer Only - I.D. Required).  You can also bring your paid ticket to Willington Pizza House (or WP Too) for eat-in or take-out the night of the show and receive 15% off your meal purchase. Ask for "The Packing House" pizza! Click HERE for secret recipe. 

 For more information, please visit: www.thepackinghouse/upcoming or call 518-791-9474.

ABOUT THE ARTISTS:

SHARON RUCHMAN, Composer, Pianist, Violist and Founder of SONORO: A composer, pianist, and violist, Sharon Ruchman started taking piano lessons at the age of eight. She went on to receive a Bachelor of Music from New England Conservatory of Music and a Master of Music from Yale School of Music. In 2015, Ruchman’s life changes both professionally and personally when her great uncle Rudy’s viola finds its way to her. A virtuoso violinist who died tragically at the age of 25. Rudolph “Rudy” Fuchs’ story inspires her to rewrite her own. She begins to take viola lessons, writes her memoir, The Gift of Rudy, and starts to compose like never before. At the prompting of music producer Marc Wager Weisgal, Ruchman launches SONORO. Today, she is unleashing her mastery without restraint, creating modern genre-bending compositions exclusive to the contemporary ensemble.

Cellist MARY COSTANZA enjoys a multifaceted career as a teacher, performer and recording artist. She has developed a thriving private studio for students of all ages and currently serves as instructor of cello at the Kent School and the Gunnery. Costanza is also a teaching artist for the ASAP Inter-district Strings Project with the Waterbury Symphony; assistant principal cello in the Greenwich Symphony Orchestra; and performs with other regional ensembles such as the Hartford Symphony Orchestra, the Berkshire Lyric and the Windham Chamber Music Festival. For years, she played with the Hudson Valley Philharmonic and previously with the National Orchestra of New York, the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, and the Canton Symphony. Her recording of the complete Cello Suites of J.S. Bach (MSR Classics) has received critical acclaim, including Music Web International’s designation as a Recording of the Month. Costanza holds a Bachelor of Music from the Cleveland Institute of Music (Case Western Reserve) and a Master of Music from the Juilliard School, where she studied with Zara Nelsova.

JILL PELLETT LEVINE received her BFA from SUNY/Purchase, and her Master of Music and Artist Diploma from the Yale University School of Music. She plays the viola in several orchestras throughout Connecticut including the New Haven Symphony, Bridgeport Symphony and Waterbury Symphony. In addition, Jill enjoys teaching viola to students of all ages and levels.

EC-CHAP Acoustic Artist Series: Jocelyn Pettit & Ellen Gira in Concert (Fiddle & Cello)

Tickets $20.00 in Advance (ONLINE) / $25.00 at the Door

EC-CHAP MEMBER DISCOUNTS & FREQUENT FLYER PROGRAM AVAILABLE

Special Note: We are pleased to welcome Jocelyn Pettit & Ellen Gira to The Packing House stage! Their debut acoustic performance combines a unique instrumental sound and sweet vocals to open our 2023-24 performance season! Please join us for this fiddle & cello duo on tour from Western Canada and Eastern USA.

From Canada and the USA, Jocelyn Pettit & Ellen Gira are a dynamic fiddle & cello duo. Fusing traditional and contemporary music styles, they create a powerfully uplifting and soulful performance, weaving a rhythmically driving and textured sound. Complemented by lively step dancing, they bring life and fire into original tunes, songs, and high-energy repertoire from Scotland, Ireland, North America, and Scandinavia.

Each an accomplished musician in their own right, with extensive performance history and accolades, Jocelyn & Ellen first joined forces in Glasgow in 2018. Since then, the duo has been gracing stages and captivating audiences in both North America and the UK. They have been featured in live broadcasts on BBC Radio 3, and performed at festivals including Celtic Connections (UK), Harrison Festival of the Arts (CAN), Sutton Traditional Fiddle Festival (CAN), New World Festival (USA), and Northwest Folklife (USA).

"Wonderful, captivating... the most joyous and uplifting album in the entire galaxy.” - FolkWales Magazine

“A dazzling duo.” - FolkWorld Magazine

Join us for an evening of original music by these outstanding artist! This program is hosted by the "Eastern Connecticut Center for History, Art, and Performance" (EC-CHAP). Doors 7:00pm / Show 7:30pm. Tickets $20.00 Advance (Online) / $25.00 Door.

Soft drinks and snacks available. We are pleased to offer our exclusive "BYOB&F" TM model - Bring Your Own Beverage & Food (Wine & Beer Only - I.D. Required).  You can also bring your paid ticket to Willington Pizza House (or WP Too) for eat-in or take-out the night of the show and receive 15% off your meal purchase. Ask for "The Packing House" pizza! Click HERE for secret recipe. 

 For more information, please visit: www.thepackinghouse/upcoming or call 518-791-9474.

ABOUT THE ARTISTS:

From the West Coast of Canada, Jocelyn Pettit is a vibrant fiddle player, stepdancer, and singer. As a 4-time Canadian Folk Music Award Nominee (including 2023 “Solo Artist of the Year”), and Western Canadian Music Award Nominee, Jocelyn has released three albums, including her latest, Wind Rose. She has toured across Canada and internationally, appeared on national television and radio, and performed with The Chieftains.

From the East Coast of the USA, Ellen Gira is establishing herself as one of the most versatile cellists in the Scottish and American Traditional music scenes. Currently based in Glasgow, she has performed throughout North America and the UK, collaborated and recorded with numerous acclaimed traditional musicians, and is undertaking doctoral studies in Trad Cello Pedagogy at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland.

Jocelyn Pettit & Ellen Gira

EC-CHAP Jazz Series: Leala Cyr Quartet

Tickets $20.00 in Advance (ONLINE) / $25.00 at the Door

EC-CHAP MEMBER DISCOUNTS & FREQUENT FLYER PROGRAM AVAILABLE

LEALA CYR is fast becoming one of the most sought-after jazz vocalists of her generation. A rare “double threat,” Cyr complements her impeccable vocals with a warm, golden tone on the trumpet. As a member of Esperanza Spalding’s “Radio Music and Chamber Music Societies,” she has performed around the world and has appeared on The Late Show, The Tonight Show, The View, The Daily Show, Jimmy Kimmel Live, Austin City Limits, and more.

In February 2019, Cyr released her debut album, First Instinct. A blend of originals and standards, the album showcases her unique talent for vocal improvisation as well as her ingenuity as a songwriter and arranger.

Leala has appeared with her own group at highly regarded venues such as Cornelia Street Café, National Sawdust, Zinc Bar, and Rockwood Music Hall in New York City; Ryles Jazz Club, the Bee Hive, and the Beat Brew Hall in Boston; the Egg in Albany, NY; the Blue Opus in Green Bay, WI; and at the Baby Grand Jazz Series in Hartford, CT.

Her current collaborations range from membership in Jody Redhage Ferber’s group Rose and the Nightingale to an upcoming album with Milton Nascimento, Ricardo Vogt, and Pedro Bernardo.

Over the years, Leala has shared the stage with the likes of Milton Nascimento (in front of 100,000 people at “Rock in Rio”), Terri Lyne Carrington, Ivan Lins, Jamey Haddad, Jeff “Tain” Watts, James Genus, Paul Winter, Guinga, Tia Fuller, Darmon Meader, and Ray Angry.

Highlights from Cyr’s college and high school days include being named Down Beat Magazine’s 2005 “Best Jazz Vocalist” in the college division, receiving the World Tour Scholarship to study at the Berklee College of Music in Boston, and performing with her high school jazz band at the prestigious Essentially Ellington Competition at Lincoln Center in NYC.

A native of Pulaski, WI, Leala now resides on the East Coast, where she is actively involved in a number of music scenes. Leala will be joined by Jen Allen on piano, Will Goble on bass, and Ben Bilello on drums.

Join us for a special evening of jazz with the Leala Cyr Quartet! This program is hosted by the "Eastern Connecticut Center for History, Art, and Performance" (EC-CHAP).Doors 7:00pm / Show 7:30pm. Tickets $20.00 in advance online / $25.00 at the door.

Soft drinks and snacks available. We are pleased to offer our exclusive "BYOB&F" TM model - Bring Your Own Beverage & Food (Wine & Beer Only - I.D. Required).  You can also bring your paid ticket to Willington Pizza House (or WP Too) for eat-in or take-out the night of the show and receive 15% off your meal purchase. Ask for "The Packing House" pizza! Click HERE for secret recipe. 

 For more information, please call 518-791-9474.

EC-CHAP Acoustic Artist Series: Amy Rigby in Concert (Indie)

Tickets $20.00 in Advance (ONLINE) / $25.00 at the Door

EC-CHAP MEMBER DISCOUNTS & FREQUENT FLYER PROGRAM AVAILABLE

Special Note: We are pleased to welcome Amy Rigby to The Packing House stage. We attempted to schedule her performance prior to the COVID 19 Pandemic, but as things go, we had to pause... Consider Amy’s debut performance as a fine wine… certainly worth the wait!

A teenage denizen of CBGB who fell in love with country songwriting, AMY RIGBY is best known for her album Diary Of A Mod Housewife. She started bands Last Roundup and the Shams in NYC’s East Village before launching a solo career. From a Nashville publishing deal to Little Steven’s Underground Garage Coolest Song (“Dancing With Joey Ramone”) to guest on NPR’s Fresh Air with Terry Gross, World Cafe and Mountain Stage, Amy Rigby has never outgrown her manifesto from that 1996 debut: “She still wants to rock, and still knows how. She understands compromise, but she’s not…ready…to…give in…yet.”

Amy tackles themes often associated with country and folk— getting by; getting older— from an ardent rock music fan’s perspective. Her passion for punk, psychedelia, garage and good old songcraft spill out on record and across the stage.

A longtime online diarist and podcaster, Rigby has contributed writing to the Village Voice, Talkhouse and Slate. Her first book, Girl To City: A Memoir was published in 2019. She lives, writes and records in Catskill, New York with her husband and sometime bandmate Wreckless Eric and tours regularly in the US and UK.

“Singer-songwriter…doesn’t fully describe Rigby’s immense gifts and her devotion to the kind of pop and rock music that singer-songwriters often neglect." — Nashville Scene

“Her whimsical, often autobiographical songs are masterful. Funny and enticing, she is up there with the likes of Paul Simon and Randy Newman.” — New York Times

“Rigby combines formidable aural craftsmanship with blunt, self-deprecating honesty.” — Village Voice

Join us for an evening of original music by our long awaited guest artist! This special program will include stories and songs of today and yesterday. This program is hosted by the "Eastern Connecticut Center for History, Art, and Performance" (EC-CHAP). Doors 7:00pm / Show 7:30pm. Tickets $20.00 Advance (Online) / $25.00 Door.

Soft drinks and snacks available. We are pleased to offer our exclusive "BYOB&F" TM model - Bring Your Own Beverage & Food (Wine & Beer Only - I.D. Required).  You can also bring your paid ticket to Willington Pizza House (or WP Too) for eat-in or take-out the night of the show and receive 15% off your meal purchase. Ask for "The Packing House" pizza! Click HERE for secret recipe. 

 For more information, please visit: www.thepackinghouse/upcoming or call 518-791-9474.

EC-CHAP Acoustic Artist Series: Singer/Songwriter, Multi-Instrumentalist & CT State Troubadour Kala Farnham and Jenna Nicholls (Indie / Folk)

Tickets $20.00 in Advance (ONLINE) / $25.00 at the Door

EC-CHAP MEMBER DISCOUNTS & FREQUENT FLYER PROGRAM AVAILABLE

SPECIAL NOTE: We are excited to have Kala Farnham return to The Packing House this season after a long COVID Hiatus! Kala has graced our stage annually since 2017, and has brought with her an incredible instrumental talent and powerful lyrics. It was clear from the first time I heard her that she was a very special artist. With a long list of accolades and numerous awards to her name, she has achieved the State of Connecticut’s highest musical achievement in 2022 as CT State Troubadour, a title well deserved.

KALA FARNHAM is a multi-instrumentalist singer/songwriter hailing from the Quiet Corner of CT. Kala's signature songwriting has been described as a reinvention of the folk tradition made popular by artists such as Joni Mitchell and Joan Baez.

She has been praised for her classical undertones and playful dose Broadway theatricality onstage, and a lyricism that springs to life with creative storytelling, cultural references, and rich metaphor. Her first full-length studio album, "Anahata: Wake Up Your Heart", was nominated for "Best Americana Album" in RI's Motif Music Awards alongside a nomination for "Best Female Americana Vocalist".

In 2015, she was selected to be an Official Showcase Artist in Folk Alliance International's SERFA Music Conference. October 2016 marked the release of her 2nd studio album, "Samadhi: Home Is Where You Are" as well as another Motif nomination for Best Americana Album. Kala is an alumni of the Johnny Mercer Songwriters Project and the winner of the 2017 Rhode Island Songwriters Association Performing Songwriter Contest.

Kala’s signature songwriting has been likened to a reinvention of the traditional folk with influences of pop, Broadway, and world music. Her affinity for poetry and creative writing is evident through lyricism that springs to life with heartfelt and creative storytelling, cultural references, and rich metaphor. Her work has garnered numerous awards and media attention, including 2020 Falcon Ridge Festival Emerging Artist, 2019 Rose Garden Performing Songwriter Contest winner, 2019 Rocky Mountain Folks Fest honorable mention

Farnham's 2020 album, "Your Spirit Is a Work of Art", is composed of thirteen musical vignettes exploring the imperfect beauty of the human condition; it has been described by Nick Noble of The Folk Revival as “a work of poetic insight… worth listening to again and again."

She studies Music Performance and Composition while also pursing Human Services and Mental Health. Together, these interests drive her passion for the healing and transformative power of musical storytelling. Kala also serves as a certified Crisis Counselor, and works with an array of populations such as at-risk youth, those who suffer from mental illness, and survivors of trauma. She has taught, performed for, and worked with youth programs, students with learning disabilities, individuals recovering from addiction, and those who have lost loved ones to suicide. Kala is currently studying sound healing and Nada Yoga and plans to She incorporate elements of the practice into her work.

As the new Connecticut State Troubadour, Kala plans to apply her foundations and strong background in music performance and human service in this honorary role to foster healing and community connection through music.

Kala will be joined by NYC based singer/songwriter Jenna Nicholls.

Whether she’s crooning a jazz standard, belting out a New Orleans style dirge or plucking her 1920’s style original ballads on her Ukulele, she’s giving a vintage genre a new spin with her own lush nostalgic style and melodic sensibility.

Recently, Jenna has toured with Ingrid Michaelson, shared the stage with Oscar Winner Glen Hansard, Amanda Palmer, Lucius, Joan as Policewoman, Gerry Leonard (Spooky Ghost/David Bowie). She’s performed in venues all over the world including the Beacon Theater NYC, and Carnegie Hall.

Join us for an evening of original works by these incredible artists!

This program is hosted by the "Eastern Connecticut Center for History, Art, and Performance" (EC-CHAP). Doors 7:00pm / Show 7:30pm. Soft drinks and snacks available. We are pleased to offer our exclusive "BYOB&F" model - Bring Your Own Beverage & Food (Wine & Beer Only - I.D. Required).  You can also bring your paid ticket to Willington Pizza House (or WP Too) for eat-in or take-out the night of the show and receive 15% off your meal purchase. Ask for "The Packing House" special! Click here for secret recipe. 

For information, please call 518-791-9474.

EC-CHAP Acoustic Artist Series: A Special Evening with Lyricist and Composer Crys Matthews (Indie)

Tickets $25.00 in Advance (ONLINE) / $30.00 at the Door

EC-CHAP MEMBER DISCOUNTS & FREQUENT FLYER PROGRAM AVAILABLE

SPECIAL NOTE: EC-CHAP is excited to welcome prolific lyricist, composer, and performing artist Crys Matthews to The Packing House! Crys's debut performance in our intimate setting will confirm the truth of her words and power in her messages - leaving you wanting more. From her home in Washington DC to Lincoln Center and Carnegie Hall, Crys Matthews is on a trajectory for national recognition. This is a performance not to miss!

CRYS MATTHEWS is nothing if not ambitious. In August 2019, she simultaneously released both a new full-length album, The Imagineers and an EP, Battle Hymn For An Army Of Lovers. These collections showcase two sides of Matthews’ dynamic songwriting; The Imagineers is a selection of thoughtful songs about love and life while Battle Hymn For An Army Of Lovers tackles social justice themes. Songs from both projects have already won her recognition and awards. She was one of ten finalists (from a pool of 5,000) in the year's New Song Music Competition and, after performing at Lincoln Center on November 30th she was named grand-prize winner. Matthews also won the People Music Network's Social Just Songs contest at the Northeast Regional Folk Alliance.

Matthews blends Americana, folk, jazz, blues, bluegrass and funk into a bold, complex performance steeped in traditional melodies and punctuated by honest, original lyrics. Having been compared to everyone from Toshi Reagon to Tracy Chapman to Ruthie Foster, Matthews’ eclectic infusion of genres has won her honorable mentions at the 2013 and 2014 Mid-Atlantic Song Contest and extensive radio play from Woman of Substance radio to WTJU-Charlottesville and WMRA-Harrisonburg to KBOO-Portland.Matthews has shared stages with Melissa Ferrick, Chris Pureka and Liz Longley, as well as several regional artists such as Owen Danoff, Eliot Bronson, and Heather Mae.

Equally at home in an acoustic listening room as she is on stage at large music festivals, Matthews has quickly gathered a loyal following on the east coast playing such prestigious venues as The Birchmere, The Hamilton, and Jammin' Java. Matthews’ festival and showcase roster has included BMI's Island Hopper Songwriter Festival, the 40th Michigan Womyn’s Music Festival, Folk Alliance International, 30A Songwriters Festival, Northeast Regional Folk Alliance and many more.

A prolific lyricist and composer, Matthews has found inspiration in her surroundings; from driving through the Blue Ridge Mountains to the compelling and heart-breaking love story of Richard and Mildred Loving. Thoughtful, realistic and emotional, Matthews’ songs speak to the voice of our generation and remind us why music indeed soothes the soul.

Join us for a special evening with this powerful singer-songwriter. This program is hosted by the "Eastern Connecticut Center for History, Art, and Performance" (EC-CHAP). Doors 7:00pm / Show 7:30pm. Tickets $25.00 in advance online / $30.00 at the door.

Soft drinks and snacks available. We are pleased to offer our exclusive "BYOB&F" TM model - Bring Your Own Beverage & Food (Wine & Beer Only - I.D. Required).  You can also bring your paid ticket to Willington Pizza House (or WP Too) for eat-in or take-out the night of the show and receive 15% off your meal purchase. Ask for "The Packing House" pizza! Click HERE for secret recipe. 

 For more information, please call 518-791-9474.

CONCERT RESCHEDULED FROM MARCH 4TH TO MARCH 11TH

EC-CHAP Jazz  Series: Luke Hendon with Jack Soref - An Evening of Gypsy Jazz

Tickets $20.00 in Advance (ONLINE) / $25.00 at the Door

EC-CHAP MEMBER DISCOUNTS & FREQUENT FLYER PROGRAM AVAILABLE

SPECIAL NOTE: EC-CHAP is excited to have Luke Hendon return to The Packing House stage this spring Luke brings his own original qualities to the Gypsy Jazz tradition of Django Reinhardt. 

LUKE HENDON has had success in the world of Django music, performing with top players from around the world. A Veteran guitarist, Luke has had many successes in his career. He has opened for legendary acts such as Al Green, Sun Ra, and Los Lobos, performed on Broadway, composed and recorded for television and film, worked with dance ensembles, cruise ships, theatre companies, and many, many bands. 

Luke is among the notable guitar staff/artist instructors who have taught at the acclaimed Django in June Gypsy Jazz event held at Smith College, North Hampton, MA. 

Hendon travelled to Europe to a Sinti camp to study with Paulus Schafer and Fapy Lafertin.  Upon his return to the U.S. he recorded Silk and Steel, an album of original gypsy jazz compositions.   Silk & Steel, Luke Hendon draws from the tradition of the legendary gypsy guitar of Django Reinhardt and comes out swinging, soulful, funky, fresh, and innovative with his own project. In this stripped down acoustic setting, Luke's guitar takes center stage.   "I sort of got obsessed with learning a bunch of Django Reinhardt solos note for note-which took me several years-Now I try to take the technique I gained into creating my own music!"

In his acoustic project, Luke Hendon cooks up a gumbo of old and new. He playfully mixes modern influences and traditional gypsy jazz with virtuosity and style. In other arenas Luke has worked professionally as a composer, a session musician and guitarist in many different styles of music.

"This a must have for those with the heart of a gypsy." -George Harris, Jazz Weekly

"Hendon’s take on the style is to inject some very modern energy along with judiciously placed non-jazz undertones. That’s the crucial difference between maintaining and enriching a legacy." -Mark Keresman, New York City Jazz Record

"Django's music always brings a smile to the lips and transports one back 1930s France, and the best compliment here is that Hendon's music does the same, but also with a foot planted firmly in the here and now in this too short, extremely well done recording."  -Budd Kopman,  All About Jazz

Luke will be joined at The Packing House by JACK SOREF. Jack became captivated by the music of Django Reinhardt after attending the International Django Reinhardt festival in Samois-sur-Seine France as a teen. Ever since, he has been studying and teaching Django's music, and performing all over the United States, and abroad playing concerts, pubs, Jazz clubs, and festivals.

In 2011, he spent half a year living in Paris France, to study and absorb the music of Django Reinhardt at its source. Jack got to jam with legendary musicians like Boulou Ferré, and Florin Niculescu, as well as the young phenom's then storming the Paris scene.

Jack has performed as an accompanist for Jazz Manouche luminaries such as Joscho Stephan, Tim Kliphius, Gonzalo Bergara, Jason Anick, Olli Soikkeli, Adrien Moignard, Ben Powell, Richard Sheppard, Aurélien Bouly, and Titi Bamberger. He has been a perennial favorite at Wisconsin's Midwest Gypsy Swing Fest, and has been a guitar instructor at Django in June's week long Jazz Manouche music Camp in Northampton almost every year since 2009.

Join us for an amazing evening of acoustic jazz original works and arrangements by these outstanding artists!  This program is hosted by the "Eastern Connecticut Center for History, Art, and Performance" (EC-CHAP). Doors 7:00pm / Show 7:30pm. Tickets $20.00 Advance (Online) / $25.00 Door.

 Soft drinks and snacks available. We are pleased to offer our exclusive "BYOB&F" TM model - Bring Your Own Beverage & Food (Wine & Beer Only - I.D. Required).  You can also bring your paid ticket to Willington Pizza House (or WP Too) for eat-in or take-out the night of the show and receive 15% off your meal purchase. Ask for "The Packing House" pizza! Click HERE for secret recipe. 

 For more information, please visit: www.thepackinghouse/upcoming or call 518-791-9474.

EC-CHAP Acoustic Artist Series: Poor Monroe (Bluegrass)

Tickets $20.00 in Advance (ONLINE) / $25.00 at the Door

EC-CHAP MEMBER DISCOUNTS & FREQUENT FLYER PROGRAM AVAILABLE

NOTE: Eric Lee, (fiddler extraordinaire) returns to The Packing House with “Poor Monroe”. - a fresh authentic bluegrass project. We welcome Eric Lee (guitar/fiddle), Sean Davis (guitar), Gareth Buckley (bass), Chris Boucher (banjo), and John Benjamin (mandolin) to share their unique blend in our intimate Listening Room.

Formed at the start of 2021, POOR MONROE is a New England-based bluegrass collaboration of long-time friends with nearly a century’s worth of performing experience (cumulatively speaking).

In addition to receiving two New England Music Awards nominations, and enjoyed a tremendous break out year, with performances including the Green River Festival, Podunk Bluegrass Festival, Ossippee Valley Music Festival, Basin Bluegrass Festival, and Thomas Point Beach Bluegrass Festival. That’s no small feat, considering the band is less than two years young.

Drawing from distinct musical paths, this energetic group of seasoned players bring a unique approach to their performances, delivering unmistakably tight vocal harmonies and scorching tempos that form the benchmark of the genre.

Featuring songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Eric Lee, guitarist Sean Davis, bassist Gareth Buckley, banjoist Chris Boucher, and mandolinist John Benjamin, Poor Monroe is a collaboration of long-time friends whose dedication and expertly-honed performances catch the attention of every audience.

Performing original and traditional material with a deep sense of honoring the legacy of bluegrass music, this group of fiscally-bereft but spirit-full individuals shows how a love of music and good sense of humor can transcend trying times.

Please join us for an evening of original bluegrass music - from high energy foot-stompin’ tunes to emotional tear jerkin’ arrangements by this new bluegrass band. This program is hosted by the "Eastern Connecticut Center for History, Art, and Performance" (EC-CHAP). Doors 7:00pm / Show 7:30pm. Tickets $20.00 Advance (Online) / $25.00 Door.

 Soft drinks and snacks available. We are pleased to offer our exclusive "BYOB&F" TM model - Bring Your Own Beverage & Food (Wine & Beer Only - I.D. Required).  You can also bring your paid ticket to Willington Pizza House (or WP Too) for eat-in or take-out the night of the show and receive 15% off your meal purchase. Ask for "The Packing House" pizza! Click HERE for secret recipe. 

 For more information, please visit: www.thepackinghouse/upcoming or call 518-791-9474.

EC-CHAP Acoustic Artist Series: A Special Program with Claudia Schmidt, Sally Rogers and Howie Bursen (Folk)

Tickets $20.00 in Advance (ONLINE) / $25.00 at the Door

EC-CHAP MEMBER DISCOUNTS & FREQUENT FLYER PROGRAM AVAILABLE

This is a rare opportunity to hear these three incredible musicians on one stage. You may remember Sally Rogers, Howie Bursen, and Claudia Schmidt separately and together, from NPR'S "A PRAIRIE HOME COMPANION", or from concerts performed across the nation over the last 40+ years.

Put the three together and their brilliant, spine-tingling harmonies are recalled long after they've left the stage. They are a trio not to be missed on the rare occasion that they perform together.

Claudia and Sally have four joint recordings, and their many solo albums have been praised and played by loyal listeners, radio DJ's and concert venues.

Howie Bursen is known for his warm baritone voice and he is recognized as one of the finest clawhammer banjo players in the nation. He has joined his wife, Sally Rogers, on two duo recordings as well as on several of her solo albums. He has four solo albums of his own, two of which are on Smithsonian/Folkways. Sally and Howie frequently perform as a duo as well.

Join us for an evening of original music by these outstanding artists! This special program will include stories and songs of today and yesterday. This program is hosted by the "Eastern Connecticut Center for History, Art, and Performance" (EC-CHAP). Doors 7:00pm / Show 7:30pm. Tickets $20.00 Advance (Online) / $25.00 Door.

Soft drinks and snacks available. We are pleased to offer our exclusive "BYOB&F" TM model - Bring Your Own Beverage & Food (Wine & Beer Only - I.D. Required).  You can also bring your paid ticket to Willington Pizza House (or WP Too) for eat-in or take-out the night of the show and receive 15% off your meal purchase. Ask for "The Packing House" pizza! Click HERE for secret recipe. 

 For more information, please visit: www.thepackinghouse/upcoming or call 518-791-9474.

EC-CHAP Acoustic Artist Series: Sperry Creek (Bluegrass)

Tickets $20.00 in Advance (ONLINE) / $25.00 at the Door

EC-CHAP MEMBER DISCOUNTS & FREQUENT FLYER PROGRAM AVAILABLE

SPERRY CREEK bring fresh harmonies and instrumentation that hold true to the bluegrass genre. This five-piece band from Connecticut formed after some local pickers spent the height of the pandemic keeping each other sane through socially distant backyard jam sessions. It didn’t take the group long to realize that good sounds were happening. They soon adopted the name of a nearby creek, and the band was officially formed in the summer of 2020.

Sperry Creek is made up of longtime musicians Scott Freemantle (bass); Marilyn Toback-Reveley (guitar); Bill Reveley (fiddle); Corrie Folsom-O’Keefe (mandolin) and Dan O’Keefe (banjo), who all share a passion for bluegrass music. A culmination of musicians from other well known CT bands, Sperry Creek has allowed us to share our love of music with others throughout the New England bluegrass scene.

Please join us for an evening of classic bluegrass. This program is hosted by the "Eastern Connecticut Center for History, Art, and Performance" (EC-CHAP). Doors 7:00pm / Show 7:30pm.. Special Pricing: Tickets $20.00 in Advance (ONLINE) / $25.00 Cash Only at the Door.

 Soft drinks and snacks available. We are pleased to offer our exclusive "BYOB&F" TM model - Bring Your Own Beverage & Food (Wine & Beer Only - I.D. Required).  You can also bring your paid ticket to Willington Pizza House (or WP Too) for eat-in or take-out the night of the show and receive 15% off your meal purchase. Ask for "The Packing House" pizza! Click HERE for secret recipe. 

 For more information, please visit: www.thepackinghouse/upcoming or call 518-791-9474.