EC-CHAP Acoustic Artist Series: Singer/Songwriter Frank Viele (Americana)
Sep
20
7:30 PM19:30
Acoustic Music, Live Music, Americana

EC-CHAP Acoustic Artist Series: Singer/Songwriter Frank Viele (Americana)

EC-CHAP Acoustic Artist Series: Singer/Songwriter Frank Viele (Americana)

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

EC-CHAP MEMBER DISCOUNTS & FREQUENT FLYER PROGRAM AVAILABLE

Doors 7:00pm / Show: 7:30pm

NOTE: Frank Viele’s performance was rescheduled from May 3, 2025 due to storm conditions. Please join us on September 20th as Frank kicks-off the 2025-2026 Performance Season at The Packing House!

Listen to Frank Viele’s April 23rd interview with Mark Ramone, host of “Something Different” WECS Radio 90.1FM

New England musician FRANK VIELE’S authenticity and road-tested storytelling is redefining and revitalizing heartland rock.

Raised in a single-parent household and inspired by America’s greatest rock n’ rollers like Bruce Springsteen, Bob Segar, and Tom Petty, Viele composes songs that tug at the heartstrings. His music pulls the listener in with poignant lyrics, soulful guitar playing, and an expansive vocal range that segues between gravelly digs and high-stamina belt-outs. Viele is the rare artist who is not afraid of wearing his heart on his sleeve, blending elements of folk, blues, and rock into a unique sound that feels relevant and relatable.

Viele’s latest full-length album, The Trouble With Desire, encapsulates the heart and soul of a road warrior chasing his dreams, while reflecting on his hardships and hopes. Written and cultivated over several years between his Hamden, Connecticut, home base and the rock n’ roll mecca of Muscle Shoals, Alabama, The Trouble With Desire is the culmination of a years-long writing-and-recording journey with Jimmy Nutt (Jason Isbell, American Aquarium) and James LeBlanc (Travis Tritt, Will Hoge, Tim McGraw) of Nutthouse Studios.

After a number of bands, Viele now a national touring artist as a solo act, is supporting multiple artists, including Allen, Mack, Myers, Moore (featuring Zach Myers of Shinedown), Howie Day, Tony Luca, Lee DeWyze, and Pat McGee. Living on the road and sleeping in hotel rooms for two years, 2017 brought Viele’s sophomore solo album, “What’s His Name?” a transitional album that ultimately bridged Viele’s horn driven, jam/soul-infused past with the Americana, Southern Rock, and folk music that Viele had begun to gravitate toward. Earnest ballads like “Pomegranate” and “If You Could Only Read My Mind” — combined with blues-rock-infused drivers like “’Til The Bourbon’s All Gone” and “It” — pushed this album onto the Americana Radio Charts and garnered Viele his first “Songwriter of The Year” Award from the New England Music Awards.

In January 2024, Viele founded Bigger Beast Records, a full-service boutique independent record label and management company striving to promote music that inspires the world around it and leaves a lasting impact. In conjunction with the label, Viele also launched All Boats Rising Entertainment, a concert promotion outlet. Bigger Beast Records’ first major event, the 21 Songwriters Music Festival in September, highlighted emerging Connecticut artists, while benefitting Musical Intervention, a 501C3 organization that uses music and songwriting to help create a safe environment for the recovery of mental health and addiction.

In 2025 and beyond, Viele hopes to unleash more new material, including collaborations from some of his closest musical comrades and unexpected guests, while touring and working to give back to the music communities that have supported him throughout his journey.

Viele’s album The Trouble With Desire hits all digital music platforms early in 2025, followed by live performances throughout the U.S. in the Spring.

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EC-CHAP Jazz Series: Greg Abate Quartet
Sep
27
7:30 PM19:30
Acoustic Music, Jazz

EC-CHAP Jazz Series: Greg Abate Quartet

EC-CHAP Jazz Series: Greg Abate Quartet

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

EC-CHAP MEMBER DISCOUNTS & FREQUENT FLYER PROGRAM AVAILABLE

Special Note: It’s a privilege to have Greg Abate return to The Packing House as part of the EC-CHAP Jazz Series! Join us for an evening of exceptional jazz improvisation.

Greg Abate jazz saxophonist, flutist, composer continues as an International Jazz/Recording Artist with 225 days a year touring the globe.

In the mid 70’s after finishing a four year program at Berklee College Of Music, Greg played lead alto for the Ray Charles Orchestra for 2 years.

In 1978 Greg formed his group Channel One which was a favorite in the New England area and from there had the opportunity to play tenor sax with the revived Artie Shaw Orchestra under leadership of Dick Johnson from 1986 to ’87.

Following this experience Greg ventured out as post hard bop soloist playing Jazz Festivals, Jazz Societies and Jazz Clubs throughout the U.S. Canada and abroad, including most of Europe, UK, and Moscow and Georgia Russia.

Greg recorded his first CD Live At Birdland NYC in 1991 on the Candid Jazz Label with the trio of James Williams, Rufus Reid and Kenny Washington. To this date Greg has recorded over 17 other recordings as leader.

Greg’s recent release Gratitude, with the Tim Ray Trio has received glowing reviews and a lot of international airplay. The project includes eleven original featuring Greg with members of the Tim Ray Trio - Tim Ray (piano), John Lockwood (bass), and Mark Walker (drums). 

Greg is currently a Whaling City Sound recording artist. His newest album, Magic Dance is planned for release April 2021.

Greg is also an adjunct professor of Jazz Studies at Rhode Island College and is also a very active jazz clinician with co. sponsorship from the Conn-Selmer Instrument Co., conducting workshops and master classes through the U.S and abroad. Greg was inducted into the RI Music Hall of Fame in 2016.

Greg will be joined at The Packing House by Matt deChamplain on piano, Jeff Fuller  on bass, and Ben Bilello on drums.

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 Advance / $30.00 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 call 518-791-9474.

About the Artists:

Matt deChamplain

Matt deChamplain grew up in Wethersfield, Connecticut attending the Greater Hartford Academy of the Arts during high school, obtaining his bachelors degree from the Jackie McLean Institute of Jazz at the Hartt

School of Music and graduated magna cum laudecademy of the Arts during high school, obtaining his bachelors degree from the Jackie McLean Institute of Jazz at the Hartt School of Music and graduated magna cum laude with his masters from the University of Toledo in Ohio in 2012. He has opened for Wynton Marsalis’ Quintet, Dave Brubeck and Hank Jones, played with Dave Brubeck, Shawnn Monteiro, Nat Reeves, Steve Davis, Javon Jackson Jose Feliciano, Paul Keller and Jon Hendricks and has appeared at the JVC Jazz Festival, the Monterey Jazz Festival, the Kennedy Center, Jazz at Lincoln Center and jazz clubs such as the Regatta Bar in Boston, Smalls in New York City and Yoshi's in San Francisco.

Matt was selected for the Betty Carter Jazz Ahead Program where he engaged in a two week intensive composition and performance workshop led by Dr. Billy Taylor and Curtis Fuller culminating with three performances filmed live from the Kennedy Center in Washington D.C. He has participated in the Martial Solal Jazz Piano Competition in Paris, France, toured New Ross, Ireland with bassist Nat Reeves, and released two albums as a leader, "Stride Bop" and "Pause". He has also been featured on guitarist Norman Johnson's album "Get It While You Can" (2011), jazz violinist Jason Anick's album "Tipping Point" (2012) and recorded several songs with vocalist Jon Hendricks for "Holiday Wishes II: River of Stars" (2013). Matt currently holds a faculty position at the Hartt School of Music (University of Hartford), teaches piano at the Greater Hartford Academy of the Arts and is a visiting clinician for the Glastonbury High School Jazz Ensemble. While maintaining an active performance schedule, he continues to teach and compose.

Ben Bilello

Ben Bilello received his Bachelors Degree in Jazz Studies at the Hartt School of Music, where he studied with Ben Toth, Glen Velez, Michael Carvin, and Tony Leone.  Since graduating from Hartt, Ben has performed and recorded with Mulgrew Miller, Eddie Henderson,

Branford Marsalis, Curtis Fuller, Jackson, George Cables, Joe Wilder, Anthony Braxton, Charles Flores, Steve Davis, Jimmy Greene, Wayne Escoffery, Dezron Douglas, New Jazz Workshop, and Shelton “Fatman” Laster, among many others.

In addition to performing with noted jazz musicians, Ben has toured with the South American folk groups Viva Quetzal and Markamusic. At this time, Ben can be seen performing with his own trio, Josh Evans and The Connection, bassist Jeff Fuller, and Earl MacDonald’s New Directions Ensemble, as well as many others.

Jeff Fuller

An integral part of the Connecticut, New York and international jazz scenes, Fuller has toured worldwide and recorded with saxophonists Lou Donaldson and Paquito D’Rivera. He has played with jazz masters from all styles and eras including such diverse artists as Dizzy Gillespie, Mose Allison, “Papa” Jo Jones, Gerry Mulligan, and Clark Terry.

Fuller has wide experience in both Afro-Cuban and Brazilian music, having toured with Paquito D’Rivera’s New York/Havana Quintet, the Hilton Ruiz Quintet, Daniel Ponce's Jazzbatá and Orlando “Puntilla” Rios’ Nueva Generación. He composes and arranges for the top salsa group, Irazú, whose CDs have featured soloists Arturo Sandoval and Tata Güines.

Fuller has received commissions from both the New Haven and the Hartford Symphony Orchestras and has twice received project grants from the Connecticut Commission on the Arts. In May 2023, his Afro-Cuban Suite was world-premiered by the Yale Concert Band.

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EC-CHAP Acoustic Artist Series: Ramblin' Dan Stevens (Blues)
Nov
1
7:30 PM19:30
Acoustic Music, Blues, Cultural Center, Performance, Live Music

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

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.

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EC-CHAP SPECIAL PROGRAM: AN EVENING WITH SPIRITUAL MEDIUM - MAURA GEIST
Nov
15
7:30 PM19:30
Medium, Spiritual Readings

EC-CHAP SPECIAL PROGRAM: AN EVENING WITH SPIRITUAL MEDIUM - MAURA GEIST

EC-CHAP Special Program: An Evening with Spiritual Medium Maura Geist

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

EC-CHAP MEMBER DISCOUNTS & FREQUENT FLYER PROGRAM AVAILABLE

The evening will begin with a discussion lead by Maura.  She will discuss when and how this unique ability began, what a Medium is and her understanding of the Afterlife.   She will also give an overview of how a reading is done, methods used in the process and what she will need from the audience. Maura will then make connections for the audience members and bring loving and healing messages from loved ones that have crossed over.

Based on experience and general audience attendance, approximately ten readings are typically able to be completed during an evening session. There will be a brief intermission ending with a Q & A.

 

Come be part of this inspirational, loving and healing evening in our intimate historic setting. 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. We are pleased to offer our exclusive "BYOB&F" model - Bring Your Own Beverage & Food TM (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.

Testimonials

"The experience with you is always nothing short of amazing. The accuracy of the information you bring to us from them simply cannot be denied or dismissed. One comes away from you knowing....not wondering, but knowing that they have just been in the company of a departed loved one.  For us, your simply our key that opens the door to the place where they now dwell. Your are what allows us to have..... Continued family reunions..... That result in healing, and a complete feeling ofpeace, resolution, and well being. Thank you Maura, just for being there." - Stephen, NY

"Maura has a truly special gift. Maura provided me with closure on an issue I have been struggling with for 25 years. Her approach and her readings are thoughtful, honest, and full of love and empathy. Maura allowed me to forgive and begin the healing that I so desperately needed. There is a comfort that I know have. For this, I am so thankfu to Maura for sharing her gift with me! " - Jill, NY

"Maura is 'the real deal'. I have spoken with, met with and spent many hours with other mediums over the last 20 years or so. No one has ever made me feel or given me the amount of helpful information that Maura delivered. I felt comfortable, confident and relaxed in speaking with her. I wish everyone I knew would have a chat with her so they can feel what I felt! Thank you times a million! " - Adrienne, CT

"Maura, when I came to see you with Karan, I did not expect anything. You made a believer out of me, and for that I will be forever grateful. I felt like I was talking to my grandparents right in front of me. You gave me a comfort that I can't express. I am just happy to know that there are people who watch out for us, and that we do "live" forever." - Cathy, NY

About Maura:

Growing up I was just like any other child except I would feel and hear things that I did not understand,  and that truly frightened me. In my teen years I tried very hard to ignore it but it always managed to work its way into my life.

When I was in my mid twenties my connection and faith to God, Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit became very strong, along with my belief in Angels.   I started to feel, hear and see things more often.  Twelve years ago when someone whom I loved very much passed away, I then could no longer ignore this ability.  I was forced to acknowledge this and learn how to use this to help others heal and this is the path I believe I am meant to follow.

I have studied with various Mediums such as Lisa Williams, Tony Stockwell and John Holland but most of my learning has come from my Archangels and the God energy. I have been sharing this gift with others and in group settings for the past five years.

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EC-CHAP Acoustic Artist Series: An Intimate Evening with Musician and Actor Alicia Witt
Apr
26
7:30 PM19:30
Acoustic Music, Folk, Live Music

EC-CHAP Acoustic Artist Series: An Intimate Evening with Musician and Actor Alicia Witt

EC-CHAP Acoustic Artist Series: An Intimate Evening with Musician and Actor Alicia Witt

Performance Tickets: $30.00 Advance (Online) / $35.00 Door

Doors Open: 6:30pm - Performance: 7:30pm

“Meet & Greet” Tickets Also Available!

5:30pm - 6:30pm - $50.00 (additional)

SPECIAL NOTE: We are honored to have Musician and Film Actor Alicia Witt grace The Packing House stage this season! Her career as a TV/Film Actor and musical Performer spans nearly 4 decades. My recollection of first seeing Alicia in film was her portrayal of the high school clarinetist (Gertrude) in “Mr. Holland’s Opus”. This is a very special evening, and as such, we are offering an additional Ticket for a Special “Meet & Greet” session for a private session with Alicia from 5:30pm to 6:30pm - prior to doors opening to the public. This is certainly a show not to miss!

TDB

 Listen to Alicia Witt’s March 7th interview with Mark Ramone, host of “Something Different” WECS Radio 90.1FM

““This is a voice to treasure””
— Broadway World

Singer-songwriter and award-winning actor ALICIA WITT starred in last summer's smash hit horror movie Longlegs, opposite Nicolas Cage - earning $129M at the box office and becoming 2024's biggest independent film.

Witt's full length self-produced Christmas album, “I Think I'm Spending Christmas With You”, came out in November 2024. Witt has performed on film, TV and stage for four decades. A classically trained competitive pianist, Alicia's music has been described as 'sharply personal, boldly melodic pop originals in the Carole King/Billy Joel vein' (Philadelphia Inquirer).

 In 2023, Witt appeared on Fox's The Masked Singer, winning her first episode with her rendition of Over The Rainbow. She is also a familiar face to Hallmark Christmas movie fans, with 9 original Christmas movies (2013-2020), many of which feature her original music.

 Alicia was on the Billboard Top 30 chart for 5 weeks with 2021's piano power ballad Chasing Shadows, off her album The Conduit, which she co-produced. A competitive classical pianist as a child, she supported herself by playing piano in the restaurants and bars from the age of 10, including in the lobby lounge of the famed Beverly/Wilshire Hotel from ages 16-19. The Nashville Scene said of her Ben Folds produced album Revisionary History: "... a piano-pop gem that sounds by turns like Grey Seal era Elton John, an alt-universe Fiona Apple and a film-noir chanteuse notching her nights in cigarette burns on the fallboard."  She has played all over the world, including at Nashville's Grand Ole Opry, and has opened for Ben Folds Five, Rachel Platten, Bob Schneider, Jimmy Webb and John Fulbright. 

Alicia has performed her original piano-driven pop music all over the world, including at the renowned Grand Ole Opry. She has also opened for Ben Folds Five, Rachel Platten, and Jimmy Webb, to name a few. Her 2018 release, 15000 Days, was produced by Grammy-winning producer Jacquire King (James Bay, Norah Jones, Kings of Leon, Dawes). Witt’s previous album, Revisionary History, was produced by Ben Folds and was described as ‘Grey Seal era Elton John, an alt-universe Fiona Apple, and a film noir chanteuse notching her nights in cigarette burns on the fallboard' (NASHVILLE SCENE).

Alicia's career as a TV/film actor began with David Lynch's DUNE at age 7. Her over 100 credits include Netflix's 2022 hit I Care A Lot; Orange Is The New Black; The Walking Dead; ABC's Nashville; FX's Justified; Twin Peaks; Two Weeks Notice; Mr Holland's Opus; The Sopranos; Cybill; Urban Legend; and Fun, which earned her acting awards at the Sundance Film Festival and the Gijon International Festival, and an Independent Spirit Award nomination. She has also been nominated for Screen Actors' Guild and Saturn Awards. 

 Witt has played multiple roles combining her skills as a musician and an actor, including as country singer Autumn Chase on ABC's Nashville. She can be seen playing the piano in David Lynch's original Twin Peaks in 1990 - a role she reprised in the return in 2018. Alicia's skills on the piano were also worked into her character, Zoey, on the sitcom Cybill (1995-1998) and in the film Playing Mona Lisa (2000). She also sang on the hit series Ally McBeal, including a performance with Randy Newman, and twice portrayed singer-songwriters in her Christmas movies, including Christmas Tree Lane, which she wrote the story for and produced, as well as contributed two original songs.

“ ’...her skilled fingers flying over the keys and her rangy, honeyed voice, clear as crystal, pretty as a stained-glass window, carrying the audience into the ether, as an audible cloud, heaven bound. Patrons around the room could be seen to clasp hands over hearts... a voice to treasure, wrapped around visceral visuals, and memorable melodies. “ ”
— Broadway World

Join us for a special intimate evening with Alicia Witt! 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.

Private “Meet & Greet” segment with ALicia Witt - 5:30pm to 6:30pm. Additional ticket $50.00.

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.

 
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EC-CHAP Special Event: "Songs for Ukraine II" - A Benefit Concert
Apr
12
8:00 PM20:00
Acoustic Music, Live Music, Americana, Benefit Concert, Folk, Indie, Art

EC-CHAP Special Event: "Songs for Ukraine II" - A Benefit Concert

EC-CHAP Special Event: "Songs for Ukraine II" - A Benefit Concert for the People of Ukraine

Tickets: $40.00

Doors: 7:00pm / Performance: 8:00pm

*** THIS IS NOT A “B.Y.O.B.&F.” EVENT ***

NO FOOD OR BEVERAGE ALLOWED INTO THE VENUE

FULL BAR - SOFT DRINKS - PACKAGED SNACKS AVAILABLE WITH TICKETS

Tickets for Alcoholic Beverages, Soft Drinks, and Snacks may be purchased in advance below or at the event.

If you are unable to attend the concert, or would like to make an additional donation, please click below!

The People of Ukraine Need Your Support!




On September 24, 2022, EC-CHAP planned and executed a benefit concert, “Songs for Ukraine” at The Packing House. 100% of all proceeds raised were provided directly to support the people of Ukraine. We felt a need to support these people then; and with the recent issues and developments, we feel a need to respond again in these uncertain times.

As a result, we are offering a second benefit concert, "Songs for Ukraine II" featuring outstanding performances by five past CT State Troubadours including: Kala Farnham, Kate Callahan, Lara Herscovitch, Pierce Campbell, and Thomasina Levy.

We are honored to have Alexander Kuzma serve as our Master of Ceremony for this event.

Alex Kuzma is a community leader, fundraiser and activist in the Ukrainian American community. A lawyer by training, for 15 years, he served as Development Director for the Children of Chornobyl Relief Fund and Development Director for the Hartford-based organization, Aid to Artisans, that promoted fair trade and economic development for artisan collectives in Haiti, El Salvador, Mexico, South Africa, and other countries.

He also serves as the Chief Development Officer for the Ukrainian Catholic University Foundation and Cofounder and Choral Director of the Yevshan Ukrainian Vocal Ensemble based in Connecticut.

During the evening, resident artist Jack Broderick will be creating a drawing of the performance “live”. This original drawing will be given to a raffle winner at the end of the concert.

Jack paints every day using both image and feeling in developing his paintings. To him, painting is a conversation between artist and subject whether the subject is a model, a landscape or a still life. He has traveled and painted extensively in Ireland, Argentina, Spain, Cuba and Italy. He has exhibited internationally in Paris, Tokyo, Buenos Aires, Palermo and Tilcara.

We are grateful for these incredible and talented individuals for sharing their knowledge and creative talents for this important cause.

Please join us for an evening of original acoustic works and arrangements by these talented artists. This program is hosted by the "Eastern Connecticut Center for History, Art, and Performance" (EC-CHAP). 100% of ALL proceeds generated through Ticket and Merchandise sales, Donations, Sponsorships, and Raffle will be forwarded to our partner Direct Relief for distribution to Ukraine.

View Interviews with CT State Troubadours Thomasina Levy and Lara Herscovitch April 7, 2025 by Mark Ramone, host of “Something Different” WECS, 90.1FM radio.

MEET THE TROUBADOURS (click their photos for more information):

Kala Farnham crafts folk songs with roots and wings, weaving age-old truths into modern grooves. Drawing on a background in classical piano and musical theater, she reimagines the folk tradition, infusing fairytales, historical fiction, and mantra-based narrative medicine into vivid portraits of the familiar world. Her intimate, fireside-style sonic tapestries—featuring soul-stirring vocals and mystical folk harp, piano, and guitar—invite listeners on a transcendent journey that lingers long after the final note fades.

Kate Callahan is an American singer-songwriter and member of In Trine, a vocal harmony trio based in Connecticut. Her latest album, Lay it Down, is a welcome reprieve for anyone who needs a deep breath. She takes listeners through the mountains of China, to the front lines of the climate crisis, and into a state of compassion as only Kate knows how: by embodying her songs with every cell.

Lara Herscovitch is a singer-songwriter-poet-performer-author gem. As described in The Boston Globe, she brings "a luminous voice and a buoyant stage presence... big-hearted lyrics embrace the sum of life...Herscovitch's music blows on the embers of a lagging spirit or a dormant creative life." Lara leads with authenticity, integrity, humor and heart. Sound Waves Magazine described her music as "expertly written prose... songwriting at its best... good for your ears AND your soul."

Pierce has been playing guitar and singing most of his life, receiving high praise for his dazzling guitar work, superb songwriting, and powerful vocals. His performances are versatile, humorous and engaging as he jumps from guitar instrumentals, to vocal ballads, to Irish sing-alongs, all of which take the listener down a road of unexpected twists and turns. Pierce is a full time musician and has released five solo CD’s. He plays over 260 shows a year throughout the Northeast at municipalities, libraries, festivals, Irish pubs, coffeehouses, and senior centers.

Thomasina Levy, is an award-winning songwriter, poet, and internationally recognized mountain dulcimer player whose performances weave together the best of traditional and contemporary folk music. She is a popular virtual workshop leader whose workshops frequently sell out. Her music has been aired in over twenty countries across the globe. Described as a charismatic performer, she touches audiences with a simplicity, humanity, and strength drawn from the deep roots of the folk tradition.

Thank You For Your Support!

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EC-CHAP Acoustic Artist Series: An Intimate Evening with Grammy Nominee Guy Davis (Blues / Americana)
Apr
5
7:30 PM19:30
Acoustic Music, Live Music, Blues, Americana

EC-CHAP Acoustic Artist Series: An Intimate Evening with Grammy Nominee Guy Davis (Blues / Americana)

RESCHEDULED FROM FEBRUARY 15, 2025.

EC-CHAP Acoustic Artist Series: An Intimate Evening with Grammy Nominee Guy Davis (Blues / Americana)

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

EC-CHAP MEMBER DISCOUNTS & FREQUENT FLYER PROGRAM AVAILABLE

Doors 6:30pm / Show: 7:30pm

SPECIAL NOTE: It’s an honor to have two-time Grammy Nominee Guy Davis share The Packing House stage! In addition to his Blues vocals and memorable stories, this accomplished multi-instrumentalist will be hailing 6 & 12 string guitar, harmonica, 5 & 6 string banjo, didgeridoo. This debut performance will just have you wanting more!…Join us for an intimate experience to remember!

GUY DAVIS is a two-time, back-to-back Grammy nominee for Best Traditional Blues, a musician, actor, author, and songwriter. Guy uses a blend of Roots, Blues, Folk, Rock, Rap, Spoken Word, and World Music to comment on, and address, the frustrations of social injustice, touching on historical events, and common life struggles. His background in theater is pronounced through the lyrical storytelling of songs “God’s Gonna Make Things Over” about the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre, “Welcome to My World”, and “Got Your Letter In My Pocket”. His storytelling is sometimes painful, deep, and real, an earthy contrast to modern-day commercial music, meant to create thought, underlined by gentle tones from his guitar or banjo fingerpicking.

Guy won “Keeping The Blues Alive” Award, and was nominated by The Blues Foundation for Best Acoustic Album of the Year, Best Acoustic Artist of the Year, and Best Instrumentalist. In fact, he's been nominated nearly two dozen times by the Blues Foundation.

Among hundreds of newspaper appearances, he's also been featured in articles or reviews by New York Times, Village Voice, Boston Globe, Pulse Magazine, Blues Magazine, Acoustic Guitar, Dirty Linen, Songlines, Blues Blast Magazine, Living Blues, Down At the Crossroads, The San Francisco Chronicle, Association For Independent Music (formerly NAIRD), Playboy Magazine, National Public Radio (NPR), "Folk Alley", and Sirius.

When asked about his experience as a performer, Guy has replied, “There is no tale so tall that I cannot tell it, nor song so sweet that I cannot sing it.”

Join us for an evening of original works by this Grammy Nominated Blues artist!

This program is hosted by the "Eastern Connecticut Center for History, Art, and Performance" (EC-CHAP). Doors 6:30pm / 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.

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SOLD OUT - EC-CHAP Acoustic Artist Series: The Patty Tuite Band (Blues/Indie)
Mar
29
7:30 PM19:30
Acoustic Music, Live Music, Blues, Jazz

SOLD OUT - EC-CHAP Acoustic Artist Series: The Patty Tuite Band (Blues/Indie)

SOLD OUT

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

Doors: 6:30pm / Performance: 7:30pm

Special Note: We are excited to have The Patty Tuite Band return to 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.  What’s 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 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 6:30pm / Performance 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. 

 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".

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The Packing House  |  156 River Road, Suite 1301, Willington, Connecticut 06279  |  (518)791-9474