Chelmsford Center for the Arts

100 Days, 100 minutes, 10 x 10!

2012-02-01T18:48:00.001-08:00

10 x 10 = 100: 100 Days, 100 Minutes, 10 x 10!

2012-01-19T17:15:00.000-08:00

CALLING ALL ARTISTS

THE CCA NEEDS YOU!

10 X 10 = 100*

Silent Auction to Benefit the CCA

WHO: 50 Artists

WHAT: Your donation of a work of art using a 10" x 10" canvas provided by the CCA to be silent auctioned for a minimum bid of $50 to raise funds for the Chelmsford Center for the Arts furnishings. You will receive two free tickets to the auction and a receipt for the final auction price of your work.

WHERE: To Be Announced (Stay tuned!)

WHEN: Saturday, March 24, 2012, 7 pm to 10 pm

HOW: Email your contact info and, if possible medium of work, to CCAatTownHall@gmail.com or call 978-256-5975 and Rita Thompson will deliver your canvas. You will be required to deliver the finished work ready for hanging between 3:00 and 6:00 pm on March 24. This is limited to 50 Artists.

*The Silent Auction is 100 day before the grand opening of the completely restored Chelmsford Center for the Arts in Old Town Hall. The auction will take place in 100 minutes and is sure to be fast and furious.

100 days, 100 minutes, 10 x 10!

Renovation Has Begun!

2011-08-03T03:47:00.000-07:00

CCA PRESENTS: Popular Music of the Gas Light Era

2011-06-13T20:23:00.000-07:00

The CCA will present "Popular Music of the Gas Light Era," a free concert by pianist and vocalist John Root, at 2:00 pm on July 3rd at All Saints' Episcopal Church, 10 Billerica Road. This program is supported by a grant from the Chelmsford Cultural Council, a local agency. This concert is the first event to be presented by the CCA at another venue while our home is being renovated.

Popular Music of the Gas Light Era (1890 - 1920) features a delightful repertoire of instrumental and vocal musical styles from the turn of the previous century. Everyone is invited to sing along and to experience the range of feelings evoked by this music.

The songs' lyrics offer insights into the customs and values of these bygone days. Audiences also learn how American's ethnic and racial diversity created unique musical styles that continue to delight and inspire audiences around the world.

For over 30 years, vocalist and multi-instrumentalist John Root has been presenting programs featuring popular music from the first half of the twentieth century for audiences of all ages throughout New England.

Please join us for this wonderful start to the 4th of July festivities in Chelmsford!

Contest for Tree Sculpture for Bruce Freeman Rail Trail in Chelmsford - 2011

2011-03-12T17:14:00.000-08:00

Boston has ice sculptures for their First Night. Chelmsford will have a tree sculpture for our July Fourth Country Fair in 2011.

 Jesse "The Machine" Green, http://TheMachineJesseGreen.com, will be bringing his chainsaw to Chelmsford on July 3rd!  Come watch him carve a sculpture for the Bruce Freeman Rail Trail on the lawn next to the Chelmsford Center for the Arts at Old Town Hall in Chelmsford Center, http://www.chelmsfordcenterforthearts.org.  What will he be sculpting? Where will it be installed on the trail?  You can help with ideas and win bragging rights by submitting the winning entry using the form below.  The sculpture will be carved from a tree trunk. It will be around 6 feet tall. The subject should have something to do with Chelmsford.  The deadline for submissions is April 15, 2011. Winners will be announced on June 15, 2011.

Click Here to Enter Sculpture Contest

UPDATE ON WINTERFEST (Note CANCELLATION)

2011-02-04T11:56:00.001-08:00

Due to illness of the performer, the Music of the Gas Light Era program originally scheduled for 2:00 pm SATURDAY has been cancelled.

You are invited to attend the Cultural Council Photo Exhibit from 11 am to 4 pm on SATURDAY and the reception from 2 pm to 4 pm on SUNDAY.

While you are in the center, please visit the Chelmsford Fire Department from noon to 4 pm SATURDAY for a hot drink and a tour of the building.

Join Us for Our Act I FINALE!

2011-01-05T05:37:00.000-08:00

Join us for our finale events before taking an "intermission" for renovation. We close our doors on February 15 and will reopen in January 2012 with a fully renovated building complete with kitchen, elevator, new performance space, theatrical lighting, cinema and more!

image copyright Gregory John Maichack

Feb. 7 , 7:00 pm Adult Workshop in Pastel Painting with Award-winning Gregory John Maichack. Free hands-on workshop, "The Pastel Art of Georgia O'Keeffe: Moern American Abstraction" with all supplies provided. Become inspired to create beautiful pastel paintings by exploring America's foremost modernist pastel painter of flowers. Focusing on the calla lily, participants work in tandem with the artist. Also, topics such as O'Keeffe's landscapes, shells and more will be covered. From sheer beginners with no experience to advanced students, all will experiment with hundreds of Mr.Maichack's pastels learning pastel handling techniques O'Keeffe used in her pastel art. All materials will be provided, including an array of professional grade pastels, pastel pencils,Rembrandt pastels, and assorted Canson pastel paper.
This workshop is supported in part from a grant from the Chelmsford Cultural Council, a local agency which is supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency.

February 5 & 6 Chelmsford WinterFest Events:

Annual Photography Competition sponsored by the Chelmsford Cultural Council in the CCA Gallery. Feb. 5, 11 am to 4 pm; Reception Feb. 6, 2 pm to 4 pm.

February 12, 7:30 pm The Wendee Glick Quartet: "Wine, Chocolate and Jazz." Ticketed event: $15 in advance, $20 at the door. (Send checks payable to "Wendee Glick", 19 Green Heron Lane, Nashua NH 03062. Please include your name.)

February 13, 3:00 pm GALA CABARET FINALE before the CCA's "Intermission"

Illumination Opera Presents Favorite Opera Scenes. Tickets $15 Adults, $10 Seniors/Students purchase online at www.mktix.com/ioc or at the door. Relaxed Cabaret seating.

GNOME HUNT!

2010-11-23T07:22:00.000-08:00

The GNOME HUNT is on! A group of Gnomes is hiding in Chelmsford. Some you can find now, some on December 4th and 5th only. Pick up a hunt list at the CCA, All Saints' Gingerbread Village, or the Java Room. Find the Gnomes and write down their names. Return the list to the CCA on December 5 by 5:30. Participation is free!

Kriskindlmarkt Artisans' Holiday Market at the CCA

2010-11-15T07:10:00.000-08:00

Welcome the season at the Chelmsford Center for the Arts Kristkindlmarkt Artisans' Holiday Market on Sunday, December 5 from 2 to 6 pm. Local artists will be selling ceramics, cards, jewelry, ornaments, goodies, and more. Chelmsford Women of Today will have children's activities and a gift room just for kids to shop. Please join us to supports the CCA and arts in our community. Watch for news about the GNOME HUNT!

FASHIONISTAS GET YOUR TICKETS NOW!!

2010-11-01T11:59:00.001-07:00

Seen at the Farmers' Market Opens in the CCA Gallery Nov. 7

2010-11-01T11:56:00.000-07:00

Opening November 7 at the CCA Gallery is "Seen at the Farmers' Market," plein air painting on the Common.

The Gallery is open from 2-4 pm on Sundays.

Friends of the Bruce Freeman Rail Trail

2010-10-24T09:17:00.000-07:00

Friends of the Bruce Freeman Rail Trail

October 2010 Meeting

TOPIC: Kranks for Kids
DATE: Wednesday, October 27, 2010
PLACE: Chelmsford Center for the Arts
(Old Town Hall)
1A North Road
Chelmsford, MA 01824
Lower level
TIME: 7:30 PM

GUEST SPEAKER: Jeff Ilg

Kranks for Kids is a new organization dedicated to
helping expose youth to the joy of the outdoors,
the value of mechanical skill, physical fitness,
and the importance of developing and maintaining
the environmentally sustainable modes of
transportation. This mission is accomplished
through the combination of collaborative and mentored
assembly, riding and the sheer fun of bicycles.

For more information see:
www.kranksforkids.org
www.facebook.com/kranksforkids

Light refreshments will be served.

ABOUT THE SPEAKER:
Jeff Ilg is a founder of Kranks for Kids and a Sudbury,
MA Pe Teacher. He feels passionately that ALL kids
should have the joy of riding a bike, learning about
the environment, contributing to their communities,
and learning about the benefits of physical fitness
at a young age.

CALLING ALL ARTISANS!

2010-10-15T18:50:00.000-07:00

KRISTKINDLMARKT ARTISAN HOLIDAY MARKET APPLICATION

NAME _________________________________________________

ADDRESS ______________________________________________

TELEPHONE _________________ E-MAIL ___________________

ENCLOSE $30.00 CHECK PAYABLE TO: Chelmsford Center for the Arts

Mail to OR Drop Off:

Chelmsford Town Offices, 50 Billerica Road, Chelmsford, MA 01824 (This is NOT the building where the market will be.)

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE ITEM(S) YOU WILL BE SELLING:

_______________________________________________________

The Kristkindlmarkt Artisan Holiday Market at the CCA will be Sunday, December 5, 2 pm to 6 pm. Set up will begin at Noon. 6 Foot tables are available on a first come first serve basis. Vendors will be responsible for their own set up and clean up.

There are limited spaces. The Organizing Committee will notify you of your acceptance. Question? Call Susan Gates 978-250-9161

Celebrate United Nations Month at the CCA!

2010-09-30T05:30:00.000-07:00

Chelmsford Toastmasters Present Free Program October 14

2010-09-30T05:21:00.000-07:00

Learn How to Show Your Appreciation!

We always mean to tell the people in our lives how much they mean to us. How much we care. How much they’ve affected our lives.

We mean to – and then often we don’t.

Don’t wait until it’s too late to show someone your appreciation. Learn how to create your own Appreciation Project – a short, taped speech that you can give to someone as a lasting memory.

Chelmsford Toastmasters, a club dedicated to helping people speak better to improve their lives, is hosting a special meeting on Thursday, October 14 from 7 to 9 p.m. to share how to develop, give, and record an Appreciation Speech. It will be held at the Chelmsford Center for the Arts, 1A North Road in Chelmsford. The event is free and open to everyone.

At the meeting, members of the club will share their own speeches of appreciation. The founder of www.dontleaveappreciationunsaid.com will discuss the mechanics of writing, presenting, and recording a speech. And all attendees will receive a handout on how to create their own Appreciation Project.

For more information, contact Dan Barrett at 978.454.5019 or email him at djb01852@yahoo.com.

Celebrate United Nations Month at our Indian Folk Fest!

2010-09-21T13:19:00.000-07:00

Learn about Indian culture at the CCA's first "Indian Folk Fest" in honor of United Nation's Month.

Sunday, October 3 from 2:00 to 5:00 the CCA Gallery will be host to Indian vendors and artisans. The Marketplace is free to the public.

A program of story telling, music, and dance from a variety of Indian states will begin at 3:00. This is a ticketed event to support the CCA. $10 adults and $5 students/seniors. Purchase tickets securely on-line here: www.mktix.com/cca

CHELMSFORD ART SOCIETY FEATURES GLENN DAVISON

2010-09-21T09:54:00.000-07:00

Tuesday, Sep 28 at 7:00 pm FREE Open to the Public

"International Kite Art - A slide show of kites by inspired artists whose works range from fabric art to sculpture"

Presented by Glenn Davison

Glenn Davison is a kite designer, builder, lecturer, festival organizer and workshop leader. He is the Chairman of the Education Committee for the American Kitefliers Association. He is a Director of the Kites Over New England kite club and has been featured on HGTV, the Boston Globe, Kiting Magazine and many other publications.

Glenn has been a featured flyer at the Antigua Kite Festival, Bogota Colombia Festival de Verano, Dieppe Canada International Kite Festival, Verdun Canada International Kite Festival, Wildwood NJ International Kite Festival, St. Placide Winter Festival in Canada, Kites on Ice Winter Festival in Wisconsin, Taipei International Kite Festival in Taiwan and the International Kite Festival in Gujarat India.

In addition to the slide show, some amazing kites will be on display.

GET YOUR TICKETS NOW for the Indian Folk Festival!

2010-09-20T06:22:00.000-07:00

Support the CCA by coming to the Indian Folk Festival on Sunday, October 3. Marketplace free and open to the public at 2:00, Vendors, Music, Gallery Exhibit: World Traveler. Performance by local Indian Dance groups at 3:00. Tickets: $10 Adults, $5.00 children
Learn about another culture while having fun!
Tickets by phone 978-392-8429, on-line www.mktix.com/cca

Anna Dagmar and Friends at the CCA, September 30

2010-09-04T08:13:00.000-07:00

Now based in New York City, Anna has rapidly become known across the US and all the way to Stockholm for her virtuosity as a pianist, singer and songwriter. All Music Guide says, "...solid jazz-pop songwriting, bright piano playing, and earnest, honest vocals...Dagmar lays out her soul on every song." Join Anna with a full band featuring George Arsenault and Ed Spargo at the CCA. Tickets at the door $12 Adults, $8.00 Students/Seniors

More Fall Classes at the CCA

2010-09-03T20:04:00.000-07:00

TUNEFUL TODDLERS™ PRE-SCHOOL MUSIC CLASSES

Ruth Canonico BA MA Ed PGCE(UK) introduces infants and children ages 3 months to 4+ years to music classes designed to develop a love of music through singing, storytelling & movement. In addition to being enjoyable, Tuneful Toddlers classes enhance language skills, coordination & imagination.

Using traditional nursery rhymes, finger plays, singing and circle games, songs, stories and simple instruments, our classes become alive with the sights and sounds of the everyday world of family life, seasons, transportation, nature and & animals.

With over 25 years of experience as a music teacher, storyteller and child care provider on two continents, Ruth has designed a program easy to continue in your home with your infants and young children.

Classes run for 9 weeks beginning Monday September 20^th from 11-11:45am except for October 11, Columbus Day at the Chelmsford Center for the Arts in the carpeted Gallery room on the first floor. Children must be accompanied by parent/caretakers.

Pre-registration is required and begins on Thursday, September 9^th at the Tuneful Toddlers ™ Showcase 10:30-11am at the Chelmsford Main Library.

Contact Ruth Canonico by phone: 978 319-9517 or

E-mail tunefullytoldtales@comcast.net

Kids Yoga Discovery (ages 4-7)
Kids’ Yoga Discovery is just that – a discovery of yoga, self and the world. ChildLight Yoga classes engage children through movement exploration, music, theme-related games and inspired Yoga-play to capture their attention and their imaginations as they refine their motor skills and understanding. Classes end with visual imagery and relaxation exercises, teaching children to quiet both mind and body. FMI, please contact Lauren Hajjar at 781-789-9080 or visit www.childlightyoga.com.

What to Bring/Wear: It is recommended that you bring your own yoga mat to prevent the spread of germs, as well as a water bottle with a spouted lid. Dress for movement.

Registration Fee: A one-time registration fee of $20 includes a t-shirt, yoga mat bag and pin earnings. Save $20 (fee is waived) when registering in advance for all 3 sessions (fall, winter, spring)!

Fall 2010
Thursdays 4:30-5:30 with Lauren- Chelmsford Center for the Arts, 1A North Road, Chelmsford, MA
September 30-November 18 , $96
No class on 11/11 (Veteran's Day)

Mark Your Calendars!

2010-08-05T16:54:00.000-07:00

Here’s a sampling of what is coming up:

August 28 - Great Jazz at the CCA! Moving Forward 7 - 10 pm, $10 at the door

September 24, 7 pm CALLING ALL CUBSCOUTS “The Pinewood Derby” Book signing and talk with Chelmsford author Cindy Reynolds. Books available for purchase at the event or purchase ahead on Amazon.com.

Sept. 30, Concert with Anna Dagmar and friends. Now based in New York City, Anna has rapidly become known across the US and all the way to Stockholm for her virtuosity as a pianist, singer and songwriter.

Tickets at the door.

The CCA is celebrating United Nations Month with programs from India and Estonia. Learn something new while having fun!

October 3, 2-5 pm Indian Folk Festival

Vendors, Food, Art Open to the public

Indian Folk Dance Concert 3:00, $10 Adults, $5.00 Children/Students/Seniors

Come learn more about Indian culture through dance, music, art, and food!

October 9, 2 pm

Screening of the acclaimed documentary “The Singing Revolution” with the film maker. Hosted by the Boston Estonian Society. Learn more about the

Estonian tradition of music and folk dancing.

October 16, 7:30 pm Westford Chorus Cabaret and Silent Auction

Enjoy an evening of show tunes, popular songs in a cabaret format. Tickets $15.00

December 5, Kristkindlmarkt Holiday Fair Start the holidays at the CCA and enjoy the annual Holiday Prelude. Vendors stalls open at 2:00.

December 11, 2:00 pm Illumination Opera Presents "Only A Miracle", a Christmas Opera for Children $10 adults, $5.00 children For tickets call 978-250-9161 or go to www.illuminationopera.org

December 12, 2:00 pm Merrimack Valley Chorale Holiday Concert

Ongoing –

CCA Gallery – Open Thursdays through October 14, Noon to 6 pm, and Sundays, 2 to 6 pm.

September – “Wandering Massachusetts and the World” photographs of Harry Taplin

October – “How I Spent My Summer Vacation, Travel photos and art”

November – “Seen at the Chelmsford Farmers’ Market” Plein Air Paintings and Sketches by members of the Chelmsford Art Society

December – “The Art of Crissie Murphy” Benefit to Support Wounded Veterans

Merrimack Valley Chorale, Tuesdays 7-9 pm

Do you like to sing? Come join the MVC. Make new friends while making music!

Toastmasters, 2^nd and 4^th Thursday, 7-9 pm

Chelmsford Art Society, Last Tuesday of the month 7-9 pm

JAZZ TONIGHT!

2010-07-24T12:50:00.000-07:00

Summer Jazz at the CCA with Moving Forward continues TONIGHT, July 24, 7-9 pm. Great Jazz quintet. Support these wonderful musicians. $10 at the door.

SUMMER JAZZ AT THE CCA

2010-06-22T06:07:00.000-07:00

JOIN US FOR SUMMER JAZZ!

Saturday, June 26, 7-9 pm, Veteran's Memorial Auditorium

$10 at the door

MOVING FORWARD at the CCA

The musicians of Moving Forward are masters of their art, each professionally trained with years of musical experience, they are the premier jazz quintet of the area. Their music is uplifting with a unique voice that is ideal for any occasion.

Now featuring a vocalist and a new drummer, Moving Forward is making a comeback in the Lowell and Boston music scenes. Keep your eyes and ears open for more to come from this incredible group!

Band:
Dayna Brown: Vocals
Jared Holaday: Saxophone
Dan Sakkinen: Guitar
Maxxx Lewis: Bass
Mike Dettorre: Drums

Yoga for Kids with Lauren

2010-05-16T19:22:00.000-07:00

Yoga means to "unite" or "join together". Believe it or not, children are natural yogis. Through music, games, nature, and animal poses, children are guided to express themselves creatively and organically. Programs are offered for children and families ages 2 and up and will begin at the CCA on Wednesdays, beginning June 30, 9:30 - 10:30. There will be no class on July 7 or 8. Tuition: $68, 1/2 for second child. To register for classes please go to http://www.laurenhajjar.com/ Peace!

COMPASSION FOR KENYA CONCERT

2010-05-16T05:34:00.000-07:00

WHAT?

A CONCERT! FOOD! SILENT AUCTION!

WHEN?

MAY 22, 2010
7PM
WHERE?
CHELMSFORD
CENTER
FOR THE ARTS
1A NORTH ROAD,
CHELMSFORD, MA

$10 ADMISSION AT THE DOOR

JULY 15-31 TEN PEOPLE FROM NEW

COLONY BAPTIST CHURCH IN BILLERICA,

MA WILL BE FOLLOWING GOD’S CALL TO

KENYA. THEY WILL BE WORKING WITH

ORPHANS AND SCHOOL CHILDREN,

CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS, AND

FACILITATING MEDICAL CLINICS ON

MFANGANO ISLAND, AND WORKING WITH

WIDOWS, PATIENTS, AND MEDICAL

DOCTORS AT TENWEK HOSPITAL.

COME BE A PART OF OUR TEAM!

Custom Cookies for Your Event

2010-04-24T04:52:00.000-07:00

Having an event at the CCA? In celebration of the Chelmsford Center for the Arts Baking for Good has introduced this custom cookie designed to look like the historic Town Hall on Chelmsford Common. Each delicious, hand-iced cookie comes individually wrapped, and the whole set is packaged in a Baking for Good box tied with twine and personalized with manila tags. These cookies are the perfect favor for weddings, showers, meetings, and parties. Order on line from Baking for Good, just click on the photo of the cookie.

A CALL TO ARTISTS

2010-04-16T19:43:00.000-07:00

Sweet Land of Liberty A juried exhibition at the Chelmsford Center for the Arts.

In the Gallery: Art in any medium representing your America, ready for gallery presentation (make sure your work has a wire on it). This exhibit will run from July 2 through August 1 in the CCA Gallery. The Gallery will be open during its regular hours Friday, July 2, 5:30-7:30, Sundays 2-4 pm, July 5 during the CAS art show, and Thursdays 2-6 pm during the Chelmsford Farmers’ Market. Artists are asked to volunteer to gallery sit.

Submission: Information below e-mailed with a jpg attached or the form sent by mail with a photo of the work. Entries must arrive no later than June 15, 2010. Notification of acceptance will go out no later than June 22, 2010. Mail the entry below to: CCA, 1A North Road, Chelmsford, MA 01824 or e-mail the information to: CCAatTownHall@gmail.com

Name:_______________________

Phone_______________________

Address:_____________________

Title: ________________________

Medium: _____________________

Price (10% of sale price to be donated by artist to CCA): _______

Size: ___________________

E-mail______________________

Date available to Gallery Sit: ______________

First CCA in Bloom!

2010-04-10T16:10:00.000-07:00

Saturday, April 9, the first CCA in Bloom! opened with a gala benefit. Veteran's Memorial Auditorium is filled with flowers and art for one weekend only and the CCA Gallery is abloom with floral paintings and photographs through May 2. Entrance is free of charge, but your donations will help maintain the CCA.
The CCA thanks Classic Flowers, Feeney the Florist, Floral Arts, Scent of Flowers, Jones Farm, Mahoney's, Baking for Good, Chanel Lord & Taylor, Markus & Leslie, Music Academy of Chelmsford, and Harrington Wine & Liquors

for in-kind donations to the gala.

MAY 1, DANCE2SWING CANCELLED

2010-04-02T05:23:00.000-07:00

CANCELLED DUE TO MEDICAL

EMERGENCY

We hope to be able to reschedule and wish Alan a speedy recovery.

CELTIC NIGHT WITH TRI, APRIL 23

2010-03-26T18:45:00.000-07:00

Emerging Celtic music ensemble Trì includes 3 of New England’s most sought after traditional Celtic musicians. The trio consists of award winning bagpiper Matthew Phelps, highly acclaimed fiddler Doug Lamey, and the band’s MC and guitarist Cliff McGann. They can be seen and heard at festivals across North America, on the radio, and now at Veteran's Memorial Auditorium at the CCA!

Friday, April 23, 7:30 pm. $10 at the door.

MAKE YOUR RESERVATIONS FOR THE CCA IN BLOOM!

2010-03-22T08:00:00.000-07:00

THE ART OF THE ART SONG SEMINAR

2010-03-21T18:52:00.001-07:00

Dr. Nancy Leinonen Howells and Collaborative Pianist Thomas Dawkins will teach a two-week art song seminar at the Chelmsford Center for the Arts, Monday through Friday, July 12 – 23, 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm.

The seminar will cover the language, the performance practice, and style of the art song. Two songs, one in English and one in French, Italian, or German will be assigned by Dr. Howells upon admittance to the class.

These songs can be done by more than one voice type - most art song (not all) is not gender specific, and can be found in multiple keys. Voice classification is usually not of consideration, unless the song is orchestrated, or one of those cycles that is exclusively male or female. Every singer will work on two pieces, but will learn about the rest of the songs, in a sort of "tasting menu" that allows them to have thoughts about whether these are things they'd like to do themselves in the future. Participants will gain knowledge of 10 or more art songs.

The seminar is limited to 10 singers. Tuition is $180, payable with application.

To apply send check made payable to “Chelmsford Center for the Arts” with your name, address, telephone number/email address, voice category to:

Chelmsford Center for the Arts

1A North Road

Chelmsford, MA 01824

Dr. Nancy Leinonen Howells, originally from Michigan, began her voice training at Central Michigan University, where she earned the Bachelor of Music in voice. She continued her voice studies at The University of Michigan (Ann Arbor), where she earned the Master of Music in voice, and the Doctor of Musical Arts in voice, with studies in vocal pedagogy. While at the University of Michigan, Nancy served as adjunct faculty, and taught degree candidates in the BFA program for Music Theatre, and in the BME program for music education. She also served as co-teacher of the vocal pedagogy class. Dr. Howells has appeared as soloist with the Boston Cecilia, the Assabet Valley Mastersingers, Mass Theatrica, and The New England Light Opera, and the Ocean Park (Maine) Association. She has performed as a recitalist in Boston, Cambridge, Sudbury, and Newton. In 1996, she received a grant from MIT to premiere a new work by composer Matthew Fields (Crossroads), and in 1997, received an “Artists Behind the Desk” grant from MIT. Prior to moving to Massachusetts, Nancy sang with the North Central Symphony Orchestra of Michigan, the Central Michigan University Orchestra, and the Bay View Opera. Operatic roles include Fiordiligi in Cosi fan tutte, Kathleen in Riders to the Sea, Nella in Gianni Schicchi, and the title role in Suor Angelica. In addition to performance, Dr. Howells teaches at Indian Hill, in the Weston High School after-school arts program, and in her private studio. Recent students have gone on to pursue voice degrees at Boston Conservatory (Bachelors and Masters programs), Duke University, Brigham Young University, Carnegie Mellon University, Elon University, Boston University and The University of Michigan.

Mr. Thomas Dawkins, collaborative pianist and vocal coach, has worked with many top teachers in and around Boston. He was the Vocal Seminar pianist at The Longy School of Music for instructors Jean Danton and Lynn Torgove, among others. He has played for masterclasses at Longy and New England Conservatory (including for Sondra Kelley), and last summer taught a class with D’Anna Fortunato focusing on audition prep for singers. He is currently Robert Honeysucker’s studio pianist at the Lexington School of Music. A graduate of Brandeis University with Highest Honors, he is also a classical singer with such groups as the Handel and Haydn Society, Longwood Opera, and New Hampshire Opera Theater. He is the organist and choir director of the Congregational Church of Harvard, UCC.

WELCOME TO BROADWAY! Summer Music Theatre Program for Students

2010-03-20T21:25:00.000-07:00

Are You 14-18 Years Old and Looking for Professional Music Theatre Coaching This Summer?

Do you want to polish your audition skills? Do you want to try something new and fun? Chelmsford Center for the Arts is presenting a two week “Welcome to Broadway”music theatre program, Monday through Friday, July 12 – 23, from 9 am to 3 pm.

Students will work on solo and ensemble pieces with voice teachers/coaches, Dr. Nancy Leinonen Howells, Mr. Rob Woodin, and Mr. Joe Rondeau. Prof. Alisa Bucchiere will be our pianist. This program will teach basic musicianship, movement and performance. Students will work with all four instructors individually and in groups. The class will culminate in a Broadway revue at the CCA on July 23. All students will audition for placement purposes April 25 at 2:00 pm at the CCA. Cost for the two weeks: $480 payable to Chelmsford Center for the Arts

For registration e-mail CCAatTownHall@gmail.com or call 978-250-9161

About our teachers...

Rob Woodin has recently performed with Opera Providence, Opera Boston Underground, Metro West Opera and with Boston Opera Collaborative in many fully staged operas, concerts and recitals. In addition to his operatic career, he has performed in many musical theater productions with companies in the Midwest. Rob has his Masters in Voice Performance from Boston University and his Bachelors from Drake University in Des Moines, IA. Rob is a private voice teacher at Indian Hill Music, BB&N High School in Cambridge, Powers Music School in Belmont, and at the Music Academy of Chelmsford.

Joseph Rondeau, tenor, graduated from UMass Lowell with a degree in vocal performance in 2007. Joe has taught voice students for two years and has worked as a vocal coach at the Summer Drama Workshop in Hudson, MA on their production of "Grease." As a performer recent credits include "Sweeney Tood" with The Vokes Theater; concert performances with Illumination Opera; "The Mikado" and concert performances Mass Theatrica; and "How to Succeed...," "Fame," "Godspell," and concerts with The Arts Alliance. Currently Joe resides in Dracut, MA.

Alisa Helene Bucchiere - Prof. Bucchiere received her Bachelor’s of Music cum laude degree from the University of Lowell, her Masters of Music degree from Westminster Choir College and is pursuing her Doctorate of Musical Arts in Music Education at Boston University. Presently, she holds teaching positions at Northern Essex Community College since 2004, as both the Choral Director and professor of music history & music theory, and at Indian Hill Music Center, in Littleton, MA where she has been on the piano faculty since September of 1996. Currently, Prof. Bucchiere is a member of ACDA, the American Choral Directors Association and is also a member of the Merrimack Valley American Guild of Organists where she serves as the organist at the First Church Congregational in Methuen, MA. Presently, Prof. Bucchiere is the Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival Accompanist for Region One which includes all of New England and parts of New York State. In her spare time, Prof. Bucchiere has performed as music director/accompanist for over forty theater shows.

HOW TO GET YOUR NEWS STORY IN THE PAPER

2010-03-16T09:08:00.000-07:00

Do you have an event or a news story you’d like to share but don’t know how to get the word out?

On Wednesday, April 7, from 7 to 9 p.m. there will be a free public relations/publicity seminar at the Chelmsford Center for the Arts. Come learn the basics of getting your message out through the Chelmsford Independent and wickedlocalchelmsford.com. Meet Managing Editor Jesse Floyd, reporter Chloe Gotsis, Arts & Calendar Editor Margaret Smith, and columnist Joanne Stanway, get tips and find out the appropriate contacts for the news you want to get published and join us for light refreshments.

We look forward to seeing you.

Please RSVP by April 5 to chelmsford@cnc.com or call 978-371-5751.

CELTIC MUSIC SESSION OPEN TO ALL!

2010-03-06T13:29:00.000-08:00

Dan LeBlanc will be hosting the CCA's first Celtic Music Session on Sunday, March 28 from 4 pm to 7 pm in Veteran's Memorial Auditorium. All are welcome. Bring your instrument and join the fun! Piano is available. Suggested Donation at the Door $5.00

Your attendance at CCA events brings our only public arts institution alive. Check back often to see what we have planned. Join our facebook group and e-mail list to keep up to date.

Chelmsford TeleMedia Cinema Presents...

2010-03-06T13:17:00.000-08:00

Chelmsford TeleMedia presents Fred Barzyk's and Dan LeBlanc's documentary, "Celebrate Music, Chelmsford Style" on March 27 at 7:00 pm in Veteran's Memorial Auditorium. Free, but donations will be gratefully accepted. See the diverse musical programs and groups in your own backyard.

Appropriate for all ages.

c 2009 Bob Stegmaier photographer

SIGN UP NOW FOR MORPHING PAPER WORKSHOP!

2010-02-28T18:22:00.000-08:00

Jennifer Heater will be teaching the collage class as part of our Morphing Paper Workshop on March 20. Here's a sample of her great work. This is your chance to learn from this wonderful artist. The daylong paper workshop includes three classes: collage with Jennifer, kite-making with Glenn Davison, and origami with Gustavo Garcia Barragan. This is a wonderful opportunity for kindergarten through adult for $20. E-mail us at CCAatTownHall@gmail.com for a registration form. The workshop will run from 9:30 to 3:00 pm. Bring your own bag lunch or order one supplied by Carven Catering.

CRYSTAL SINGING BOWL JOURNEY MEDITATION, Monday, March 1, 2010

2010-02-26T17:35:00.000-08:00

Crystal Singing Bowl Journey Meditation, 7-8pm, $14

Through the beautiful sounds of the quartz crystal singing bowls, Tibetan bells, rattles, rain sticks and other harmonious percussion instruments Bindy leads you on a soul journey through the chakras where the gifts are as endless and abundant as we desire them to be.

Please bring a yoga mat or blanket to lay on, pillows or bolsters for comfort, and a blanket for cover.

To register please send an e-mail to bindy@bindy.org or call me directly at 508-517-2291. *And please feel free to share this with anyone who would connect*

SUMMER MUSIC THEATRE PROGRAM FOR AGES 14 - 18

2010-02-24T06:06:00.000-08:00

The CCA wants to know if there is community interest in a two week Summer Music Theatre Program, July 12 - 23, 9 am to 3 pm, Monday through Friday, for students 14 through 18 years old. Auditions would be in early April. More details to come, but let us know if you would be interested. Students would receive professional coaching and other musical studies.

If interested send us an e-mail: CCAatTownHall@gmail.com

SPRING VACATION PROGRAM APRIL 19-23 FOR MIDDLE SCHOOL GIRLS

2010-02-24T05:01:00.000-08:00

Not going away for Spring Vacation? A team of area experts have designed a unique program to address the challenges facing girls entering grades seven, eight and nine. Cost of $275 includes healthy snacks, hands-on demonstrations and more. The program runs from 9 am to 3 pm. For details, curriculum overview, other vacation and summer weeks, please e-mail Kathleen@KathleenVeth.com, call 978.256.9391 or visit www.aweekofselfdiscovery.com.

SIGN UP NOW FOR MORPHING PAPER WORKSHOP!

2010-02-19T05:49:00.000-08:00

There's something for everyone at the CCA...

2010-02-17T15:12:00.000-08:00

TUEDAY EVENINGS AT AT THE CCA

The Merrimack Valley Chorale was conceived in the summer of 1982, for the purpose of presenting classical and popular choral music. It is the expressed wish of the membership to enjoy to the fullest the music they sing, and to preserve and expand the strong bonds of friendship that exist in the Chorale. Membership is open to all interested, with no auditions are required. Rehearsals for 2009-2010 are on Tuesdays at the Chelmsford Center for the Arts. The Merrimack Valley Chorale is celebrating 25 years of bringing light, fun music to the Merrimack Valley. No Audition Required Reasonable Membership Dues For further information call 978.256.7915

THE CHELMSFORD ART SOCIETY AT THE CCA

All residents of Chelmsford, Massachusetts and its surrounding communities who have an interest in the arts and crafts are invited to become members of the Chelmsford Art Society. Membership is open to any person who produces art or craftwork or has an active interest in the arts and crafts. Go to the calendar for meeting dates.

WEDNESDAY MORNINGS AT THE CCA

Music Together classes are playful, educational, music and movement classes for the whole family! Come join a class as Music Together celebrates 21 years of family music making! We create a community of active music makers! Both adults and children are actively engaged in the musical activities. We explore rhythm with our bodies, shake instruments, sing songs and have a great time! Children are allowed to move freely around the room. We like to let the children explore freely at their own level. Children play with rhythm instruments like egg shakers, drums, triangles, etc. Everyone has a really good time at the end of class "jam sessions". To Register Call Karen Pokross, Director at (978)589-1161

http://www.joyfulmusic.com/

TOASTMASTERS AT THE CCA, 2nd AND 4th THURSDAYS AT 7 PM

In June 2009 Chelmsford Toastmasters celebrated its 30th anniversary as an active club. For the past several years, thanks to our vibrant members, we have achieved Presidential Distinguished status by reaching our annual membership and achievement goals! What's the secret to Toastmasters' success? Practice. Instead of passively listening to lectures by communications experts, Toastmasters believes that people can only truly improve their public speaking skills by actually speaking in front of others regularly. Our club provides a proactive and supportive atmosphere for members to speak at club meetings. By taking advantage of our ongoing speaking opportunities, you'll find yourself becoming more and more at ease when you are called upon to speak in public! Be a guest at an upcoming meeting.

APRIL VACATION WEEK FOR 7TH - 9TH GRADE GIRLS

Not going away Spring Vacation week, April 19 - 23? A team of area experts have designed a unique program to address the challenges facing girls entering grades seven, eight and nine. Cost of $275 includes healthy snacks, hands-on demonstrations and more. The program will run from 9 am to 3 pm. For details, curriculum overview, other vacation and summer weeks, please e-mail Kathleen@KathleenVeth.com, call 978.256.9391 or visit www.aweekofselfdiscovery.com.

Happenings at the CCA

2010-02-16T08:18:00.000-08:00

The CCA Gallery officially opened on February 13 with "Cupcake Art" in conjunction with The Great Chelmsford Cupcake Fest. We are just getting started and will open the Gallery on Sundays from 2 - 4 pm and on the first Thursday of the month from 5:30 - 7:30 pm.

VOLUNTEERS are needed to welcome visitors during Gallery hours. Let us know if you would like to be part of the newest art scene! Just go to the first page of our website, www.ChelmsfordCenterfortheArts.org and SIGN UP!

A fun time was had by all at the first Great Chelmsford Cupcake Fest. See photos at right of some of our entries. The cupcakes may be gone, but you can still see the cupcake art in the gallery, including Donna Berger's diptych shown above.