Classical Gazebo

The Presbyterian Church of the Mountain (PCOM) in Delaware Water Gap, PA held another installment in their 2012 series of Summer Gazebo Concerts on Sunday July 1st featuring Calliope performing Classical and Americana compositions with Laura Goss on Bassoon and Steve Mathiesen on Marimba along with Barbara McMahon and Gina Bertucci on Flute and Piccolo. Due to a meteorological threat of severe thunderstorms, the concert was held within the church’s sanctuary which gave it a more intimate flavor. It was if the group came to perform on one’s living room.

The church bells rang indicating they have reached the 6 o’clock hour and, after some welcoming words were given by church member George Munn, Gina Bertucci shared some introductory comments on the piece the group was about to play. Similar introductions were presented throughout the concert adding a sense of history and appreciation for the selections. In fact, there was one particular song I decided to learn more about thanks to their performance.

I’ve always wondered what the line in the song, “Yankee Doodle” meant when is stated, “He stuck a feather in his cap and called it ‘Macaroni.’” Why did he call it “Macaroni.” Why not fettuccini? Macaroni was great with cheese when I was a kid, but I like fettuccini now. I digress.

So, thanks to my trusty Wikipedia, I found out it was the custom of the day for men to wear powered wigs and a “Macaroni” was a very cheap one and those wearing it was considered to be very low on the social totem pole. I also found out the song was originally written by a British officer to express his and his men’s ridicule of the Colonial soldiers who fought along side them in the American Theater of  the global Seven Year War which is better know to us as The French and Indian War. The irony that a song that began as a disparaging observation by the British on their colonial counterparts became one of our country’s most celebrated patriotic songs struck an interesting chord in me.

Anyways, the concert was a very enjoyable one as the ensemble’s interpretation of each piece honored the work and provided a soft calming atmosphere serving as a respite from the hustle and bustle of modern life. The sun shining through the stained glass windows added to the effect of the performance as the hues and the moods they gently created corresponded with the musical measures. You’ll be able to find more photographs taken during The Calliope Concert in The PCOM 2012 Gallery at www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10151016062390421.483748.636000420&type=1.

According to their website, The Presbyterian Church of the Mountain is "… a community of disciples illuminated by God’s love who care for others spiritually, emotionally, physically, and financially as we explore new avenues of grace and grow in faith through worship and service." In an endeavor to manifest the goals of this statement, they hold weekly services every Sunday beginning at 10am, providing a hostel for those hikers who travel along the Appalachian Trail as well as holding a Hikers’ Dinner every Thursday evening throughout the Summer Months to replenish their energies, supporting the Kenyan village of Amilo by providing a school feeding program for 15 orphans, a well, housing, and simple medical care and information to the villagers, and by sharing a partnership with the Reformed Church located in Cardenaz, Cuba. They also support the local Fire Company and Women’s Resources Center as well as provide community aid funds for residents who are suffering economic burdens. The size of the congregation is approximately 200 people.

The Summer Gazebo Concert Series began in 1990 and is presented every Sunday evening throughout the Summer months until the end of August in order to support the local musicians and provide a venue where all ages could learn to appreciate Jazz and acoustic music. In reflection of Delaware Water Gap, PA being considered a Mecca for Jazz, the concerts has a great number of Jazz performances in their schedule. However, all musical styles are showcased during the summer which includes Blue Grass and Classical Music. The next installment in The Presbyterian Church of the Mountain Summer Gazebo Concert Series is scheduled for Sunday July 8th featuring The Marty Wilson Trio. The concert is free to the public and begins at 6pm. Please Explore The Presbyterian Church of the Mountain Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/pages/Presbyterian-Church-of-the-Mountain/234593743269661 for more information.