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Concert Lights Up Solstice Theme

Soon, global warming could melt our summer solstice joy but, historically, this merry celebration of the year's longest day and shortest night has included dancing and specially composed music. On June 26, Musica Plenti, Greenwich Audubon Center's artists in residence, performs a concert of solstice-inspired musical selections from different eras and locales.

An award-winning vocal chamber ensemble, Musica Plenti's Greenwich Audubon concert introduces works that often burst with the symbolism of summer sun and growing. Alma Hamilton, the group's conductor, says, "From the famous medieval carol, 'Sumer Is Icumen In' to settings of Shakespeare songs from 'A Midsummer Night's Dream' and 'The Tempest' by early 20th century composer Amy Beach, (our) program is suffused with the music of nature."

English madrigals and a variety of American works, such as Kirke Mechem's "He's Gone Away," "Kansas Boys," and "New York Girls" and songs of Aaron Copeland are also on the program. The audience also will be transported by the elegant and lyrical music of English composer Ralph Vaughn Williams -- and then laugh out loud at "Seasonings," by P. D. Q. Bach, otherwise known as inveterate prankster Peter Schickele.

For this concert, enjoy the alchemy of music and nature when Musica Plenti's "sensitive ensemble singing," as critics have called it, brings a special musical mix to summer solstice. The concert takes place from 3-5 p.m. Tickets are $20. For more information, visit Audubon Greenwich's website.

What are your summer solstice plans? Let us know by posting below.

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