The Binghamton Philharmonic Orchestra has announced a new concert entitled “Thresholds,” the second event of the M&T Bank Symphonic Series. This event takes place on November 16 at Broome County Forum Theatre.
Composer Hilary Purrington
The program opens with young composer Hilary Purrington’s 2020 piece “Threshold,” an atmospheric soundscape of driving rhythms that explores the boundaries between motion and stillness. Next is Felix Mendelssohn’s evocative Hebrides Overture, one of the masterworks of 19th-century Romantic program music. Finally, the Philharmonic will conclude with the first performance of a symphony by Anton Bruckner in our region in 60 years, the Sixth Symphony in A Major, a monumental work long celebrated for the complexity of its harmonic language and the profundity of its emotional impact. The Philharmonic’s performance of Bruckner’s Sixth Symphony, coinciding with the 200th anniversary of the composer’s birth, will be an unforgettable experience for seasoned classical music lovers and new audiences alike.
The public is invited to a Pre-Concert Chat at 6:30pm, “Mist and Myth in 19th-Century Music,” led by the Philharmonic’s Director of Education and Community Engagement Dr. Julia Grella O’Connell, about the visual and historical imagination in Mendelssohn and Bruckner. The main event begins at 7:30pm. Tickets are $28 to $69. Kids 17 and under attend free, thanks to Symphonic Series Sponsor M&T Bank. Today, the Binghamton Philharmonic serves up to 10,000 people annually through innovative, engaging, and affordable programming, meeting its mission of “Building Community Through the Power of Live Music.” This upcoming “Thresholds” program encapsulates the organization’s mission statement beautifully.
For more information on the Binghamton Philharmonic’s upcoming “Thresholds” concert and to purchase tickets, click here.
Buffalo-based KISS Tribute band Kiss This! has announced the release of Buffalo Rock City box set slated for KISSmas – December 25.
Performing a full KISS tribute show (with makeup and costumes) under the guise of KISS THIS! – The Starchild, Kevin Blakita – lead guitar/vocals, The Space Ace, John Jeffrey – lead guitar/vocals, The Catman, Billy Eberts – drums/vocals, and the Demon, Taylor Stursa – bass/vocals; bring all of theatrics and bombast of a classic KISS show to fans all around the country. The Buffalo-based tribute band presents their Buffalo Rock City box set which releases on KISSMas – December 25.
A limited pressing of 100 copies of the “Buffalo Rock City” Boxed Set, and the entire “BRC” collection being made available digitally for the first time. “Not the Originals” is a 4-album collection featuring the 2 studio albums, the live recording, “Buffalo Rock City ALIVE! (Music Is Art & More),” plus a fourth bonus disc, “Solo Obsession.” “Solo Obsession” features 12 previously unreleased covers, specifically crafted for and exclusive to the Boxed Set.
While the first two “Buffalo Rock City” albums both featured recordings of songs done by the co-writers of the tracks they helped create, Boxed Set producers John Jeffrey, Dave Comer & John Peace decided that In addition to working with other great Western New York musicians, they wanted to push the envelope once again, and this time, actually recruit original performers who had played on some of the original tracks, to recreate their parts for “Solo Obsession.”
For more information on the upcoming release of the box set and to purchase digitally, click here.
Cooperstown Concerts has announced that indie rockers ‘Annie in the Water’ are performing their electrifying sound at the Otesaga Hotel on November 15.
Blending elements of Americana with indie rock and infusing their sets with acoustic guitars, synthesizers and a thunderous rhythm section, Annie in the Water transcends genres, offering fans an exhilarating musical journey. With influences spanning rock, soul, funk, reggae and hip-hop, the band’s live shows are a unique experience, with each performance a new adventure that evolves in response to the crowd’s energy. Their infectious grooves and feel-good rhythms are sure to get everyone on their feet, dancing the night away.
The audience at the November 15 show will be joining the band in celebrating the release of their latest album, Things to Do, which explores their deep connection to Upstate New York, the place the band calls home. Described as a “love letter” to the region, the album has garnered praise for its rich, multi-genre sound. Prior to this album, their latest full-length album was 2022 with Sun at Dawn. Between these two albums, the band released several singles in 2023 – “Sailing,” “Honeybee,” and “Frozen Lake.” Many of their singles, EPs and albums have amassed thousands of streams in only a short timeframe.
Because every show is different, experiencing the music of Annie in the Water live can be compared to paddling with a river. At times you may find yourself in the calm of the flow while at other times you may be deep in the rapids while the music churns and grows in energy. With the ebbs and flows you’re reminded of the constant that you are a part of something greater than yourself, working together with the forces around you and caught in the midst of a beautiful moment in time.
With decades of history and a reputation for excellence, Cooperstown Concerts has been a cornerstone of the local music scene, bringing together a community of music enthusiasts and hosting unforgettable performances. The 2024-2025 season continues this tradition of excellence, featuring a diverse lineup that invites audiences to explore new sounds, discover emerging artists, and enjoy timeless favorites.
Founded 55 years ago, Cooperstown Concerts has served as a home for live music – dedicated to bringing an eclectic mix of world-class live music to our community. With a commitment to diversity in programming and a deep connection to its audience, Cooperstown Concerts offers an opportunity for people to come together, experience and engage with high-quality music from around the globe and enjoy a great performance close to home.
Alice in the Water live at Funk n Waffles
For more information on Annie in the Water’s upcoming show in Cooperstown on November 15, their latest album Things to Do, and to purchase tickets or the album, click here.
Returning for their 21st year, the Native American Music Awards has announced the list of nominees for this year’s ceremony, in addition to opening the public voting ballot.
Originally debuting at Foxwoods in Connecticut in 1988, the Native American Music Awards has traveled the country in its celebration of Indigenous music, drawing in audiences from near and far as they honor the best of the best in today’s Native American musicians.
With over 200 artists in consideration each year, official nominees are selected by the national Advisory membership before being brought to the public.
Now over 20 years into the tradition, over one million people join the voting process through the public ballot forum in addition to the Advisory’s votes. In an exciting announcement, the NAMA has made the 2024 nominee list and opened voting to the public.
The public voting ballot is open now on NAMA’s official website. To learn more and cast your ballot, visit here.
NYC-based singer-songwriter Ren Genevieve has released her latest single “forts,” an extremely intimate track that illustrates the cycle of growing up and outgrowing relationships. “forts” delves into themes of nostalgia, sadness, and the heartfelt yet inevitable nature of change and growing up.
“forts” is the feeling one gets when they are deep in reminiscing about being a child and how it is to navigate life as a full-time adult. The track draws listeners in, tugging at their heartstrings and allowing them to connect with their deepest emotions. Ren Genevieve’s approach to songwriting and storytelling is what makes her stand out amongst many, “forts” is a prime example of her mastery. With its expressive and deep-seated lyrics, the track hits home for many listeners, while presenting a relatable angle on the struggles of adulthood and how it re-molds past connections people had. With the blend of soul-touching melodies and soft vocals, Genevieve captures all the elements perfectly.
Born in Boston and raised in New York, Michigan, and Bermuda, Genevieve has always been one for the arts. Genevieve started singing, acting, and dancing at a young age, her college years at NYU were what pushed her to pursue writing and sharing her music. She made a name for herself back when her single “I Like You (I Think)” dropped in February 2022 which was then followed by her second single “tongue-tied” in November 2022. Her first few projects were created to share with her friends and family, however, she took the idea and ran with it to perfect her producing skills. Genevieve’s singles helped pave her way as an ardent introduction to her story.
For more information on Ren Genevieve’s music including her latest single “forts” click here.
Malta restaurant and live music venue Nanola has announced its celebration of 11 years of service. The venue celebrates the milestone the week of November 11 with a slew of exciting menu deals and various live musical performances.
Nanola operates as a bar and restaurant open seven days a week for lunch and dinner. They provide some of the area’s best burgers and wings as well as some Cajun and New Orlean’s specialties. Jambalaya and even fried alligator from time-to-time graces Nanola’s menu. The restaurant has also hosted many events from weddings to funerals. They have a stage with professional sound and have had many acts take the stage over the years.
Local cover bands and solo acts tend to fill Nanola’s schedule these days, but they still pull out the big guns occasionally and have hosted acts such as White Denim, Rusted Root, Caroline Rose, Bob Moses, Tokyo Police Club, Dogs in a Pile. Owner Shane Spillenger has repeatedly kicked himself for turning down Goose on a random Wednesday one week. This week they will be hosting Shake Rattle and Roll Dueling Pianos and Saturday night 80’s cover band Aquanett.
Nanola also hosts weekly trivia, and all your sports viewing events with the NFL package. They also have open mic monthly and karaoke sprinkled in. In the warmer months they have three beach volleyball courts that have leagues almost every day of the week. The volleyball leagues are run by Spillenger’s partner Matthew Wink. US Olympic players have used the courts for practice.
To coincide with this week’s anniversary, they are refining the menu to Nanola’s tried and true favorites. For a limited time only Nanola will be bringing back its buy-one-get-one happy hour between 4 and 6pm seven days a week. They will also be offering 1-dollar wings for a limited time only.
For more information on Nanola’s 11-year anniversary celebration and to check out upcoming shows and menu changes, click here.
Mach-Hommy, the enigmatic Haitian-American rapper, will be performing in New York City for the first time ever on Wednesday, November 27 at The Appel Room at Lincoln Center. Presented by Live Nation, the performance will see Mach-Hommy bring his (most recently) heralded album #RICHAXXHAITIAN to life in its entirety. This rare, intimate show promises an unforgettable fusion of raw talent, rich storytelling, and the magic of live music at one of the city’s most iconic venues with the city skyline as the backdrop.
Mach-Hommy will offer a glimpse into his enigmatic persona.
About Mach-Hommy
Moreover it will offer a glimpse into the Mach-Hommy persona that has buzzed about throughout hip hop’s underground scene for nearly a decade. That is until his 2021 album Pray For Haiti (executive produced by Westside Gunn) broke through on a larger scale, earning him looks from the likes of Black Thought and Jay-Z. Nonetheless, the Mach-Hommy persona operates like a successful, family-owned business. Using the principals of quality control, Mach is intentional in not over-saturating himself or his product. How else would one gain a loyal following while keeping their lyrics off of lyric decoding websites, only granting a handful of interviews since debuting on the music scene over a decade ago, maintaining no social media presence, and covering their face with a bandana featuring the Haitian flag?
The answer lies in how Mach-Hommy treats each project like a culture-shifting piece of art, worthy of a place at the Louvre, delivering exclusive vinyls and artwork to go along with each project. After all, Mach—who established a fund to support social, economic, and technological growth in Haiti with his 2021 classic, Pray for Haiti—views #RICHAXXHAITIAN as a small musical antidote to the political strife that has long plagued his cultural homeland, intensified since the assassination of former president Jovenel Moïse. “Within two months of releasing Pray for Haiti, the president was assassinated by a paramilitary hit squad,” says Mach. “Now we’re talking about a place with no central governing body. Haiti was the world’s first free Black republic, but now it’s in free fall.”
Mach-Hommy’s first ever performance in New York will see him perform his latest album #RICHAXXHAITIAN
Fans can purchase tickets for Mach-Hommy’s historic debut performance in New York City here.
Ashokan Center in Olivebridge, NY has announced Banjo Concert 2024 which is to be held at Esopus Lodge Performance Hall on November 15.
Banjo Concert 2024 takes place on Friday, November 15 at 7:30 PM at Ashokan Center’s Esopus Lodge Performance Hall. The concert is an evening of 5-string bliss with Scott Hopkins, Hilary Hawke, BB Bowness, Maggie Shar, and Keith Billik. This concert kicks off a weekend workshop and will be filled with many styles, stories, and beautiful banjo music for the community to enjoy.
This event is part of Ashokan Center’s Banjo Weekend where eventgoers can enjoy a weekend of banjo-centric bliss with a stellar lineup of teachers in a warm and supportive environment. Dive into daytime classes, evening jam sessions, and an inspiring opening-night staff concert. Whether you’re into Bluegrass or Clawhammer (or both!) and whether you’re an advanced banjo-player or just getting started, you won’t want to miss this good-time get together with friends old and new at Ashokan, a stunningly beautiful location.
Based out of NYC for the past 12 years, and originally from upstate, NY, Hilary Hawke has been composing, writing, teaching and performing music she loves in solo and collaborative projects, both as a multi-instrumentalist/vocalist and as a creative and versatile banjo player. Hilary performed in the Tony award winning revival production of Oklahoma! on Broadway, and Steve Martin’s production of Bright Star on Broadway. She’s devoted herself to performing and teaching old-time, and American traditional music but also brings her love of all types of music into creating her own unique sound.
BB Bowness hails from New Zealand and has made a home in Boston for the past decade. She co-founded the band Mile Twelve who have toured intentionally and won numerous awards from the International Bluegrass Music Association. BB was awarded the 2020 Steve Martin banjo prize. She loves teaching and stays busy with a full roster of students in Boston and online. Her euphoric energy and love of the banjo are readily apparent in any of her live performances.
Keith Billik is best known as the creator and host of The Picky Fingers Banjo Podcast, a show listened to by banjo enthusiasts worldwide, and which earned Keith a 2022 International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) award nomination for his involvement in the bluegrass industry. As a player, Keith has performed and recorded professionally for nearly twenty years, including stints with Lindsay Lou & the Flatbellys, Mark Lavengood’s Bluegrass Bonanza, and his current project, Wilson Thicket. In addition to private banjo students, Keith has been a faculty banjo instructor at both Great Lakes Music Camp and Midwest Banjo Camp and is thrilled to be a part of the Ashokan Banjo Weekend.
For more information on the upcoming Banjo Concert 2024 and to purchase tickets, click here.
Ostego 2000’s Glimmerglass Film Days’ returns for its 12th season from November 7 to 11 in Cooperstown.
Glimmerglass Film Days presents a slate of independent films—25 features plus three shorts programs— November 7-11 in multiple Cooperstown locations, including the Grandstand Theater at the National Baseball Hall of Fame and The Farmers’ Museum (now known as Fenimore Farm & Country Village). A program of Otsego 2000, Film Days also offers filmmaker talks, an art exhibit, parties, film and food pairings, and guided walks.
The Film Days program team of Peggy Parsons, founder of the film program at the National Gallery of Art in Washington, DC; Xander Moffat, an independent film producer; and Joey Katz, a film programmer; selected this year’s films based on the theme “Boundaries.”
Filmmakers attending Glimmerglass Film Days include: Michael Gitlin (The Night Visitors), Jef Sewell (All Illusions Must Be Broken), Thomas Piper (We Start With The Things We Find), Daphne McWilliams (A Boston R(E)volution), Becca Brooks Morrin (Good One), Andrew Nadkarni and Katie Schiller (Between Earth and Sky), Ryoya Teraro and Elisabeth Gareis (13 Driver’s Licenses), and Olympia Stone (Under the Hat: The Complicated History of the Pith Helmet).
In addition, Giuseppe Lignano and Ada Tolla, principals of LOT-EK who are featured in We Start With The Things We Find, Thomas Edison Film Festival executive director Jane Steuerwald, and scholar Mikayla Brown (Dahomey) will attend. Musicians Donald Sosin and Joanna Seaton will attend and provide live musical accompaniment to the 1928 silent film Speedy.
Grandstand Theater at National Baseball Hall of Fame
Films will be shown at multiple Cooperstown locations: the National Baseball Hall of Fame & Museum (25 Main Street), The Farmers’ Museum Louis C. Jones Center (5775 State Hwy 80), the Village Hall (22 Main Street), Templeton Hall (63 Pioneer Street), and new for this year, Cooperstown Coworks (6 Doubleday Court). The 2024 Film Days companion art exhibition, In Play: Borders & Edges, presents the work of four established artists who live in the region and exhibit locally, nationally and/or internationally: Richard Barlow, Amy Cannon, Mark Mastroianni, and Gail Peachin.
Free guided walks will be held during the festival, including a bird walk led by the Delaware-Otsego Audubon Society, a kid-friendly walk with the Otsego County Conservation Association (held after the free kids’ film Flow), a guided forest walk with the Otsego Land Trust and Black Land Ownership, and a walk on boundaries and land use in Cooperstown with Otsego 2000. Film Days Trivia will be held on Saturday, November 9 at 7:30 pm at Cooperstown Coworks, just prior to the screening of Secret Mall Apartment.
Farmers’ Museum in Cooperstown
For more information on the Glimmerglass Film Days festival and to purchase tickets, click here.
NYC-based musician, producer and multimedia artist Stranger Cat has announced her sophomore album Slow Jam Love Letters To My Body In Pieces due out November 15 on North Street Records.
The resonant forthcoming album allowed the artist to feel it all. Putting the pieces of their body back together, both physically and emotionally, produced a collection of work that required careful reflection and complete surrender. Confined to a bed, the ten tracks that emerged was an accumulation of the pain, frustration and yearning for a brighter future. The result is a cornucopia of orchestral synth pop with layered vocals, sparkly synths and 808 beat driven dance parties.
The project’s first single, out now, “Witness” is a raw, lush pop song that came together in a particularly painful period. The “Witness” lyric video captures the desire to be seen and the beauty of capturing one’s joy. While the track was created amidst deep pain, the video is a chance to display the artist on the other side. Recorded at the historic Guillaume Tell studio where everyone from Radiohead to Serge Gainsbourg recorded, the final vocals were done on vintage mics, and the musician played all the additional instruments heard on the track including: B3 organ, electric and grand piano, the echo effects and more.
Stranger Cat is Brooklyn-born, Miami-based vocalist, producer, composer, light artist, video maker, DJ, dancer, and sound healer Cat Martino. She has collaborated with the likes of Sufjan Stevens, Sharon Van Etten, Son Lux, Lucius, and The Shins and as well as supporting Empress Of, Marissa Nadler, and performing at iii Points Festival and Art Basel in Miami. Stranger Cat’s self-produced, vulnerable second album, Slow Jam Love Letters To My Body In Pieces, sees the artist surrender, only to find beauty in her own healing. Its first single, “Witness” is out now, and the full project is due out November 15.
In The Wilderness, the artist’s soulful electronic art-pop debut album, arrived in 2015. Earlier this year, Stranger Cat collaborated bringing captivating vocals to author and musician’s Scott Guild’s debut albumPlastic: The Album which now has over 250K streams across platforms. Despite such substantial setbacks in recent years, Stranger Cat is more than ready to bring her healing second album into the world, one that turns her isolation into hope and pain into power.
For more information on Stranger Cat and her upcoming album Slow Jam Love Letters To My Body In Pieces, click here.
