WILMINGTON — What’s been celebrated in thousands of cities and countries since it started in 1982 is finally coming to Wilmington before the end of the month.
READ MORE: WHQR honors Black Music Month with free concert
International Make Music Day, founded in France, will take place Friday, June 21, as a summer solstice celebration. Amateur and professional musicians will perform for free for local audiences; the day is a commemoration to the art form of playing.
Open to the public, Make Music Day will take place at the Harrelson Center — both indoors and outdoors — on 4th and Princess streets, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. It’s sponsored by the Arts Council of Wilmington and New Hanover County, and paid for by a grant from the statewide arts council.
Wilmington is joining eight North Carolina counties and some cities — such as Statesville, Raleigh and Winston-Salem — to celebrate.
“We are thrilled to bring International Make Music Day to Wilmington, providing an opportunity for music that is performed by anyone and is free for everyone,” Rhonda Bellamy, CEO of Wilmington’s arts council, said in a press release.
Harrelson Center will host jam sessions, a “petting zoo” of musical instruments, choral groups and others to enjoy live entertainment.
One event planned is “Sousapalooza,” featuring amateur musicians with brass, wind or percussion instruments. They’ll sight-read the works of John Philip Sousa, an American composer and conductor known for his military marches.
Make Music Chicago started “Sousapalooza” in 2011. The 2024 event — including in Wilmington — aims to bring together people who played in a marching band in school previously to gather once again.
Other Wilmington venues interested in hosting free music performances on Friday, June 21, are encouraged to add to the offerings.
Musicians and vocalists — singers, church choirs, jazz combos, rock bands, glee clubs, DJs, marching and mariachi bands, all of any age group or skill level by — and venues can sign up here.
Tips or comments can be emailed to info@portcitydaily.com.
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