EVENTS AT

THE HYDE PARK FREE LIBRARY

by Greg Callahan                                      June 2006
 

Upcoming Events At Hyde Park Free Library
 

Upcoming Concerts: Dorothy Scott, Peter Fletcher, the Lipps

We will be hosting two concerts in early June, and the music doesn't stop there. Music and special events will be held throughout the summer--both in conjunction with our summer reading program and as special events for adults, teens and children alike.

We're particularly excited to be holding two concerts on the first weekend of June. On Saturday, June 3rd, singer-songwriter Dorothy Scott will make a rare area appearance here at the library annex. Ms. Scott, who hails originally from the region, is now based in Wisconsin, so it is indeed a special event to be able to bring her back to the area. Often compared to such diverse artsists as Kate Bush, Ani DiFranco and Richard Thompson, Dorothy is actually a unique artist whose work is rather difficult to categorize. Yes, there is an element of folk there, but also a distinct jazz flavor as well.

Billboard Magazine has praised her "feather light melodies and impressive hooks" and found her songs "as intellectually stimulating as they are emotionally empathetic."

Her music can be sampled by visiting her website at www.dorothyscott.com.

Ms. Scott appears here on the 3rd at 8:00 PM. General admission is $10.00. Reservations can be made in advance by calling 229-7791.

One of the highlights of last year's season was the visit by classical guitarist Peter Fletcher. Peter has released four CDs, the most recent devoted to the works of Erik Satie. He studied under Jose Tomas, David Leisner, David Russel and took part in Christopher Parkening's master classes, for which he performed in recital for two successive years. He holds a Master of Music degree from the Eastman School of Music in Rochester, and was twice the recipient of the Eastman Graduate Award.

Peter Fletcher offers a diverse program at each of his concerts. The upcoming event on June 4th at 2:00 PM will feature works by composers as diverse as Satie, Ravel, Sor, Bach and Mompou. Admission is free to this event. It is advised that those interested in attending arrive as early as possible.

Also returning to the Hyde Park Library a bit later in the month is regional singer-songwriter Alan Lipper. Alan appeared as a solo act here a little less than a year ago. This time he shares the billing with son Dan. Together they will focus on their patented jazz tinged compositons, featuring Alan's warm vocals and fluid guitar. It is a fine occasion to support some of our local talent.

This concert will be held on June 24th at 8:00 PM.

Defensive Driving Class Offered

In conjunction with the Empire Safety Council, we will be offering another in our series of defensive driving and point reduction classes on June 4th and 5th in the library annex from 6:00 to 9:00 PM. Participants will need to attend both sessions to receive credit and to be eligible for insurance reduction. To enroll, contact Rey Maharaj at 774-4465 or visit www.digitaldefesnsivedriving.com.

Babysitting Workshop to be Held

On Saturday June 10th from 9:30 Am to 1:30 PM, we will be sponsoring a babysitting workshio for students aged 11 and older. Preregistration is required for this popular workshop. Call 229-7791 to pre-register or to get additional information.

Summer Festival Planned

When we ran our first summer festival two years ago, we weren't sure that it would become an annual event. It has been successful enough over the past two years, however, that we can safely say that a new tradition has been born.

This year, however, instead of the August date we have scheduled for the previous two events, we are moving the festival up to July 15. The festival will now coincide with our Summer Reading Program and will complement some of the activities and events planned for that period. Once again, we will be having live music and other entertainment, lots of inexpensive treats, games and surprises. Keep your eye on this column for further information as the date draws near.

Auction Scheduled - August 12

Looking ahead to August, we have an exciting fundraiser planned. We will be holding an auction on August 12 at 7:00 PM. Auctioned items will include artworks, antiques and collectibles. We are actively seeking donations for this event. Artists, artisans and "antiquers" are encouraged to donate items by July 1. Donated works and antiques will be on display in the library annex throughout the month of July. Those who would like to make a charitable contribution are asked to call 229-2559 or 229-2296 for more information and to arrange to drop off their donations.

For more information on library events and other library news, check out the library website at www.hydeparklibrary.org.