From pitch-perfect whistling to elegant French to heartfelt poem recitations, “Songs From Here” had it all. Since 2021, “Songs From Here” has brought Maine melodies to life.
What makes “Songs From Here” especially unique is the implementation of so many art songs. For those unaware, an art song is “a song composed with a view to aesthetic or artistic effect, typically a setting of a poem for solo voice with piano accompaniment” (Oxford English Dictionary).
The performance was nothing short of spectacular. Poems by the very talented Tyler French were interwoven with songs beautifully performed by Sarah Tuttle, not to forget the ever-so-impactful piano accompaniment from Bridget Convey. Tuttle, a Bard College and Gettysburg College graduate, boasted a voice that filled the room.
The performance was highly professional, but was also sprinkled with quaint and quirky aspects in the best way. While the concert had many themes, there was a strong emphasis on their goal: supporting Maine artists.
My personal favorite had to have been the selection from “Creatures in Place” by John Newell. I found the piano melodies to be vivid and atmospheric, as I let my mind wander. An audience member also said, “It was a beautiful live performance and one that I will continue to attend for years to come.”
There is no better feeling than supporting and acknowledging the talent of your community, and that is what “Songs From Here” is all about. Tuttle says that the project was always meant to be a platform for Maine’s musicians and poets, and one that reminds audiences that “creativity is not reserved for certain people in certain places.”
That mission has translated into real and encouraging growth. Over the past five years, the series has worked alongside eight Maine composers and has commissioned over 25 new vocal pieces. Multiple return invitations from venues like Greene Block + Studios suggest that there is an audience, and it is growing too. Tuttle mentions how the crowd is a fun mix: music and poetry lovers are able to come together and share a passion for the arts.
Each season is built around a certain theme. Past programs explored various topics such as “Woods and Water” and “Trades and Crafts of Maine.” While these themes are essential, the music does come first. Tuttle, alongside her pianist, Convey, assemble the existing songs around a common theme, then commission Maine composers to write possible new ones. This gives the artists a theme and target length, but also plenty of freedom.
Looking ahead, Tuttle hopes to bring “Songs From Here” to more concert spaces farther north and west in Maine. She is also considering expanding the ensemble to include more instruments such as winds or strings, or perhaps collaborating with visual art or dance, hoping to mentor young composers through workshops.
As the school year continues, I highly encourage people to attend arts performances. The College has an abundance of talent and it is so inspiring to be able to witness all that Colby has to offer.
~ William Maasbach `29
Be First to Comment