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On June 21, Bethel joined communities around the world in celebrating Make Music Day, an annual international event that invites people of all ages and abilities to share their love of music.
From the Municipal Center Gazebo and P.T. Barnum Square to Molten Java, Notch8, the Bethel Public Library patio, Shakedown Street Eats, Bethel Photoworks, and Wade’s Music Studio, music could be heard throughout town.
The day showcased an eclectic mix of performers and genres. Visitors enjoyed the country-rock sounds of Mark Mark Mark, the energetic performances of The Bad Slugs and The Pub Slugs, the blues-infused music of Zeke, the indie-rock sounds of DLT, and the folk-inspired music of Wry Guy. Singer-songwriters Jessie Rose and Bourbon & Britches shared original music, while Tony Rende brought jazz to P.T. Barnum Square. Choral music from the B-Vocal Singing Group added another dimension to the day’s lineup, and Larry Deming brought classical and folk music to the patio at the Bethel Public Library.
One of the day’s highlights was the bucket drumming and harmonica session led by Kyle Ledoux. Young participants enthusiastically created rhythms, shared smiles, and discovered the joy of making music together. It was a wonderful reminder that music belongs to everyone, regardless of age or experience.
With blue skies overhead and sunshine throughout the day, the weather could not have been better. As I wandered from venue to venue, I found myself drawn not only to the music but to the sense of connection it created. People lingered a little longer, tapped their feet to unfamiliar songs, struck up conversations with neighbors, and cheered on local musicians. It was a day where music became the common thread weaving its way through town.
Everywhere I went, people were smiling, listening, singing along, and genuinely enjoying themselves. There was an easygoing, welcoming energy throughout the day that made the event feel personal and connected. Rather than a large festival, it felt like a community gathering where musicians and audiences shared a genuine appreciation for live music.
A tremendous amount of work goes into coordinating an event like Make Music Day, and Bethel is fortunate to have passionate advocates for the arts leading the way. A huge thank you goes to Janice Adamcik Chrzescijanek, Bethel Arts and the Town of Bethel for organizing this special event and bringing live music to our community.
Thank you also to the many musicians who generously donated their time and talents, the businesses and organizations that hosted performances, the volunteers who helped behind the scenes, and everyone who came out to support the arts.
One of the most wonderful aspects of Make Music Day is that participation is open to everyone. Professional musicians, students, hobbyists, and first-time performers all have a place. That spirit of inclusion is what makes the event so special.
As the final notes faded and the day came to a close, one thing was clear: music has a remarkable way of bringing people together.
Here’s hoping even more people discover the magic of Make Music Day next year.
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