Saturday – June 18 – 7:00 pm
Mount Toby Concerts
194 Long Plain Rd. (Rte. 63), Leverett, MA
SONGS OF HOPE, FREEDOM AND CONSCIENCE
Part of the role of the folk singer has been to get people to think about issues in society they might not – or might prefer not to – think about otherwise. Mara Levine with Gathering Time will present some of the best modern and classic folk songs on topics that call out for consideration – as well as thoughtful and inspiring originals penned by the members of Gathering Time
Mara Levine is called one of the best singers of her generation by Christine Lavin, internationally touring folksinger Mara Levine has been creating beautiful interpretations of fine traditional and contemporary folk songs for many years. Folk DJ Jim Marino has referred to her as “golden-voiced,” while Michael Stock calls her voice “full, rich and soothing.”
Mara and Gathering Time have been touring separately and together on the folk circuit for about 12 years, in the northeastern U.S. and beyond. They jointly released two socially conscious songs in September 2017, in response to the re-emergence of hate groups in America: “By My Silence” (Ellen Bukstel & Nick Annis) and “Too Far To Turn Back Now” (Markus).
“As I was selecting material for my third” CD Facets of Folk, I was inspired by the current political and social challenges facing us today, and thought a great deal about the importance of speaking out against injustice, both societal, and for people in our lives who are being wronged.” We will present a number of songs of social conscience from Mara’s recordings with themes of taking a stand, making a difference and considering the treatment of others. The songs written by popular contemporary songwriters include “Upstream” by Si Kahn, “Daughters and Sons” by Tommy Sands and “The Moment Slipped Away” by Christine Lavin. Songs by emerging talents include “You Reap What You Sow” by Susan Shann, “By My Silence” by Ellen Bukstel and Nick Annis, “Be the Change” by Arlon Bennet and “Immigrant Dream” by Bob Wright. https://maralevine.com
Gathering Time is an internationally touring folk-rock harmony AAA/Americana trio. Like a co-ed CSN, GT is known for astute songwriting, spirited and accomplished musicianship — and a stellar vocal blend. Stuart Markus, Gerry McKeveny (with Mara Levine standing in for Hillary Foxsong) evince deep roots in ’60s folk-rock, with a healthy dash of traditional folk in the mix.
Folk songs have a long history of being a way for ordinary people to protest injustice and oppression, demand freedom and rights, and inspire each other to action. Gathering Time’s selections include thoughtful and inspiring originals such as “Silver Star” by Gerry Mckeveny, “Too far to Turn Back Now” and “Songs of Hope and Freedom” by Stuart Markus, and iconic songs such as “Get together” by Chet Powers, “Turn Turn Turn” by Pete Seeger, “There but for Fortune” by Phil Ochs and “If I had My Way” by the Reverend Gary Davis ”, all songs that stir the soul to reestablish the common bonds of humanity we share with our neighbors and people throughout the world, and the responsibility we have to one another. https://www.gathering-time.com
Mara and Gathering Time have been touring separately and together on the folk circuit for about 12 years, in the northeastern U.S. and beyond. They jointly released two socially conscious songs in September 2017, in response to the re-emergence of hate groups in America: “By My Silence” (Ellen Bukstel & Nick Annis) and “Too Far To Turn Back Now” (Markus).
Suggested donation: $20 to $30
For reservations, contact diacrowe@yahoo.com or call 413-336-2589
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This concert will be held outdoors, weather permitting. There are no limits to audience size. Masks are optional. In case of rain, the concert will move indoors where the usual COVID policy will apply:
COVID Policy: Masks are required indoors. Proof of Vaccination for the virus is required or a negative test taken within the previous 2 days. Additional safety measures include reduced room capacity to 50 people, distanced seating from others, and the use of room purifiers.
Mount Toby Concerts 