Shine COTA Shine

Where shall I begin? While I was a student at East Stroudsburg University of PA, one of my professors distinguished himself by utilizing actual author composed books to teach his course rather then the conventional text books clinically written and designed to be frequently “updated” so students would have to constantly purchase the new editions at the inflated prices. The professor began his course by assigning us to read the preface of the books before venturing into their first chapters. He answered the unasked question of “Why?” by explaining the preface of a book often creates the mood of the work and allows the reader to explore insights he or she may never had considered without the additional passages introducing the words one was about the read. So, I began my adventures of  the 36th Annual Celebration of the Arts (COTA) Jazz and Arts Festival held in Delaware Water Gap, PA on the weekend after Labor Day from Friday September 6th through Sunday September 8th not with the official beginning of the event but prefacing the experience with the Indie Fridays event held at The Shoppes at The Castle Inn on Friday September 6th.

The Indie Fridays event is held at The Shoppes at The Castle Inn the first Friday of every month. The event is designed to help promote the businesses that are part of the shopping complex while providing art and entertainment to those who come to visit. Along with the many vendors who shared their creative endeavors along with the offerings of the established shops, The Chuck Cooper Trio with Erin McClelland on Guitar, Ryan Leaver on Base Guitar, and Chuck on Drums performed a number of songs from the genre of music known as Jazz to enhance the gathering and prepare many for the official festival offerings yet to be enjoyed. You’ll be able to learn more about The Indie First Fridays by exploring their Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/IndieFirstFridays?ref=ts&fref=ts.

The monthly events are always an enjoyable occasion to partake of but what made this month’s installment of the series even more so is the realization The Castle Inn hosted the very first Celebration of the Arts Festivals upon their steps prior to the grand resort suffering from a fire that destroyed most of its structure during the late 1970s. In fact, one can see remnants of the Castle Inn and it’s part of COTA’s history upon the steps leading to the festival’s back stage area. The remaining structure is now owned by Theresa Veltri and Frank Paccione who continues their endeavors to bring the Inn back as an asset to the community and all who visit it. Beginning my COTA journey at The Castle Inn and reflecting upon its contributions to COTA’s beginnings proved to be an insightful preface to the festival I was about to enjoy. You’ll be able to learn more about The Shoppes at The Castle Inn and all they have to offer by exploring their Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/historiccastleinn?ref=ts&fref=ts.

So, after leaving The Castle Inn, I walked down the street until I reached The Antoine Dutot Museum and Gallery who were about to open their doors so the many art lovers who gathered in it’s parking lot could experience the Artists’ Reception of their Music Motif Show which feature the work of numerous artists who shared their love for music and the festival through their creative endeavors. Those who were awaiting entry to the gallery were treated to a number of classical pieces performed by the ensemble known as Calliope which featured Gina Bertucci and Barbara McMahon on Flute along with Laura Goss on Bassoon. Their presence enhanced the elegance of the event and prepared many for the wonders they were about to experience.

An overwhelming amount of wonderful colors and images met each visitor to the gallery once its doors were open. The modest sized venue was almost instantly filled with artists, musicians, and art lovers who shared loving conversations with one another about the incredible work being presented along with memories of past festivals with the anticipation of the one about to be fully experienced flavoring each word. But, beyond these conversations about the art and the festival that inspired it, there was also a noticeably profound joy heard in the voices and seen in the eyes as established friendships were renewed and new ones were made.

The Annual Exhibition is a juried one with representatives from the Music, Educational, and Visual Arts Community who have shown a great degree of distinction in their fields serving as Jurors for the exhibit. This year’s jurors were Sylvestre Leon who has shown his work in numerous galleries and is the owner of the Zen Fusion Restaurant and Lounge www.facebook.com/ZenFusiondwg which is located in Delaware Water Gap, PA, Susan Frantz who has taught art to every grade level in the Stroudsburg, PA School District for the past 26 years and Jose Sanatmaria who is the curator of The Castle Inn Gallery www.facebook.com/pages/Castle-Inn-Gallery/159174520808670 located within the Castle Inn in Delaware Water Gap, PA. Awards were given to artists in several categories touching upon a wide variety of style and artistic approaches reflecting the overall beauty of the exhibit.

As with previous years, the task of selecting the recipients of the awards must have been a daunting one as the quality of each piece was astounding. These Award recipients included Jim Gloria who received The Bob Doney Award for his work which was considered “The Best of Show.” Many of the awards included prizes of cash and merchandise contributed by Andrew Moore's Stone Bar Inn, Carbon Oral Surgery Associates, A. C. Henning Enterprises, Judith A. Magann, DMD, Marshall Anders, Esq., McKeown Real Estate, Michael Cooke Carpentry and Contracting, The Minisink Hotel, Morning Glory Gardens, Inc., Sarah Street Grill, Shear Design Salon and Spa, Stone, Trembly, and Associates - CPA's, and Stroud Television and Appliances.

Along with the visual arts being presented during the reception, the culinary arts were well represented by a number of local restaurants and eateries who delighted the palate. Appetizers were again provided by Andrew Moore’s Stone Bar Inn www.facebook.com/pages/Andrew-Moores-Stone-Bar-Inn/276480950208 and The Deer Head Inn www.facebook.com/deerhead.inn?fref=ts who have become favorites to gallery goers throughout the years were present while The Garlic Restaurant and Bar www.facebook.com/GarlicRestaurantBar, Peppe’s Bistro www.facebook.com/PeppesBistro, The Quench Café and Juice Bar www.facebook.com/pages/Quench-on-6th-Cafe-and-Juice-Bar/214752245221024, and The Zen Fusion Restaurant and Lounge www.facebook.com/ZenFusiondwg introduced those who have frequented the Music Motif Artists’ Receptions of the past to new flavors to add to their lifelong culinary adventures. Tasty morsels were also provided by Christine Trembly (who also serves on the COTA Board of Directors and as the Music Motif Director), Susan Wilson (who serves The Antoine Dutot Museum and Gallery), and Mountain Savage - American made Custom Furniture. While much of the food was placed upon a table adorned with flowers provided by Donna Mason, several culinary temptresses flowed through the room offering more delights to those who eagerly picked out something good to eat while enjoying a conversation with those around them.

The Artists’ Reception proved to be a very satisfying one both aesthetically and gastronomically. A great deal of thoughtful work was put into the planning of the event which enhanced the presentation of the work. This presentation did much to showcase the individual qualities of each piece and created an artistic flow enabling each visitor to gently travel from one work to another while absorbing the beauty and essence of each object. Along with Christine Trembly, a staff of volunteers helped in the many aspects relating to exhibit including the placement of the work. They include Diane Fienemann, Sue Predl, Diane Marcus, Kelly Emley, Thomas Levy, Adon Reish and Melissa Stratton.

The Antoine Dutot Museum and Gallery in Delaware Water Gap, PA serves the area as an Art gallery and museum of local history housed in a charming brick school house which was constructed around 1850. The Music Motif exhibition completes its showing on September 22nd. The Gallery’s next exhibition features the works of Gordon and Jean Perry which opens with an Artists’ Reception on Friday September 27th and will continue to be displayed until October 13th. Please Explore The Antoine Dutot Museum and Gallery Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/DutotMuseumAndGallery?fref=ts  for more information in regards to their exhibitions and all they offer the community.

The first day of the official 36th Annual Celebration of the Arts (COTA) Jazz and Arts Festival continued across the street of The Antoine Dutot Museum and Gallery in The Presbyterian Church of the Mountain with a program titled, “The Other Arts” featuring an evening filled with classical music, theater, and dance. As the program’s title implies, the performances at the church allows the festival to honor these artistic forms prior to the commencement of the predominantly Jazz portion of its annual celebration. The church was filled to capacity as art lovers lent their ears and hearts to the particulars of the program’s offerings.

After some welcoming remarks given by the evening’s host and Friday Night Production Coordinator Denny Carrig, The Marsha Cahn Ensemble featuring Marsha Cahn and Chris Souza on Violin along with Agnieszka Rybska on Cello took the stage. The music of Mozart and other classical composers filled the church’s sanctuary along with the souls of those who listened to it. The performance inspired a great deal of appreciation from the audience as demonstrated through a well deserved standing ovation.

The Marsha Cahn Ensemble was followed by a theatrical performance presented by Ann Mathews and Jim Gloria of The Water Gap Players in a piece titled, “You Need Me.” The work touched the audience with laughter along with some reflection on the nature of relationships as they transition from flirtatious desire to dominance and later to independence. There were many noteworthy moments in the piece but the most significant one was that the presentation marked the theatrical debut of Jim Gloria who teaches art and serves as secretary to the Board of Directors at The Totts Gap Arts Institute (TGAI) located in Bangor, PA www.facebook.com/totts.arts. Mr. Gloria’s performance proved to be a very impressive and believable one.

The Water Gap Players were followed by The Totts Gap Dancers who originate from The Totts Gap Arts Institute in a piece titled, “Celebration” choreographed by Angeline Wolf who currently teaches dance at Totts Gap Institute with music from the Suite in G Major for unaccompanied Violoncello BWV 1007 by J. S. Bach as arranged for Viola. The selections presented from the suite were I. Prelude, II. Sarabande, and III. Gigue and were performed by Donald Dal Mazo on Viola. Dancers Laura Buzzard and Maeve Godstalk filled the stage with joy as every step and boundless leap expressed the exuberance of youth that proved to be quite contagious among those who experienced the performance. 

The Totts Gap Dancers were followed by The Sounds of Strings Quartet who made their debut during the 35th Celebration of the Arts Festival and were a welcomed addition to this year’s event. The quartet consists of Olivia Reed and Joe Snyder on violin along with Emily Geiger on Viola and Sophia Rostock on Cello. A number of complex classical pieces were played by these young musicians which moved the audience to a state of awe as they marveled at the precision displayed by their incredible talents. This sense of awe moved to surprised pleasure as the ensemble presented a piece composed by Van Morrison (born George Ivan Morrison) titled, “Moondance” which first appeared as the title track on an album released in 1970 but was not released as a single until 1977. The audience who attended experienced the performance given by The Sounds of Strings Quartet did not wait as long to release their singular expression of delight as an overwhelming applause accompanied by a standing ovation quickly ensued as the final notes were played.

The Sounds of Strings Quartet were followed by another performance given by The Water Gap Players. This time, David Hymes and Denny Carrig took the stage to present a classic Abbot and Costello comedy routine titled, “Who's on First?” The sketch is premised upon the once common practice of players on a baseball team adopting or being given unusual nicknames. The imaginary team in this skit has a first baseman named, “Who,” a second baseman named, “What,” and a third baseman named, “I don’t know” all of which could be interpreted as non-responsive answers to inquiries about the players’ identities. The humor of the piece mounts as the frustration of the person asking about the team increases throughout the course of the routine.

The origins of “Who's on First?” can be traced back to the late 19th and early 20th century’s theatrical forms of variety entertainment known as burlesque and vaudeville. The sketch was performed by Bud Abbot with a partner he had before meeting Lou Costello during the mid 1930s until they began performing it together after their pairing in 1936. The sketch was a mainstay in their routine pleasing the live audiences they encountered in the Vaudeville circuit. The sketch gained national attention when they performed it on The Kate Smith Hour radio program in 1938. It has since been performed countless times by the comedy team in a variety of mediums including radio, film, and television throughout the 1940s and 1950s.

With anything as well known as the “Who’s on First?” sketch is, it’s very difficult to present it in a fresh and relevant manner to an audience who either heard it many times before or to an audience who may not understand the timely references the piece refers to. However, the timeless elements of the skit along with the considerable talents of David Hymes and Denny Carrig renewed the piece and the laughter that it inspires. The duo deftly managed to make the skit their own as each word uttered seemed as if it was spoken for the very first time.

The Water Gap Players performance of “Who’s on First?” was followed by another performance given by the theatrical troupe. It featured a return of Ann Mathews to the stage accompanied by Betsy Jackson in a piece titled, “Two Women Talking.” As the titled suggests, the play explored the dimensions and aspects embodied in the state of womanhood and proved to be an enlightening duo monologue to both genders inhabiting the audience. A thoughtful applause accompanied the final words spoken in this piece well written by the performers.

Ms. Jackson’s and Mathew’s performance was followed by the return of The Totts Gap Dancers in a piece titled, “Invitation” choreographed by Angeline Wolf with music by Edgar Meyer and Mark O’ Connor. Laura Buzzard and Maeve Godstalk returned to the stage fluttering like the birds they represented themselves to be while teasingly inviting their fellow dancer Sophia Villano to join them in flight. The audience who witnessed the winged escapades soared along with the performers as the timid attempts by the younger fledgling were met with a loving ridicule until the strength of the wind lifted her up above the ground.

The performance given by The Totts Gap Dancers was the final one presented during “The Other Arts” program at The Presbyterian Church of the Mountain. As Mr. Carrig noted in his closing remarks, the choreographed piece served as an appropriate invitation to everyone present to continue enjoying the festival during the upcoming weekend. Many eagerly embraced the invitation as the music, theater, and dance entreated them to continue the sensation of flight these and other elements of the arts inspires the soul of every living being to do. The Friday Night Production Coordinator was Denny Carrig who was assisted by Mike Collins, Jim Gloria, and Jonno Rattman.

In addition to lending its sanctuary Annually to The Celebration of the Arts Jazz and Arts Festival, The Presbyterian Church of the Mountain in Delaware Water Gap, PA offers a weekly Summer Gazebo Concert Series presenting secular music in a variety of forms. They also offer a variety of spiritual programs for those who practice the Christian faith. These include worship services and missionary endeavors to the nations of Kenya and Cuba. They also have retreat facilities available for those hiking the Appalachian Trail which has a section of its route nearby. Please explore The Presbyterian Church of the Mountain Facebook Page at  www.facebook.com/pages/Presbyterian-Church-of-the-Mountain/234593743269661 to gain more information about the church and all it has to offer the community.

When I went home after the first night of the festival, my mind wandered among the many sights and sounds I’ve experienced. These wanderings were coupled with the growing anticipation of beginning another day at the festival. Although I knew I would begin my day as member of the festival’s security staff during the early hours of the morning, I’ve found little desire to sleep as memories of the event thus far mischievously entreated my consciousness to relive it over and over again. Yet, after an hour’s sleep, my alarm clock rang to half awaken me so I could continue my festival adventures at the outdoor site.

I arrived at the festival site to find it vacant except for a few vendors finishing their preparations for the number of people they hoped would venture into their tent. I moved my way backstage to meet with my fellow members of the security team of whom I was eager to become reacquainted with as well as to discover who has been added to the roster of volunteers. I found the table to be empty except for a box of donuts that traditionally was made available to the staff. So, while I waited for my comrades to arrive, I gave a quick look around to see if the Doctor who forbids me to eat such sugary morsels was around before I opened the box to partake of one. There were some coated with white sugar while others were clearly dipped in chocolate. I sought to eat of the white ones as the others are known to be more fattening.

The opening of the box seemed to sound off a signal as it wasn’t a moment after did many of the security team arrive. The look each had in their eyes moved me to place the box of donuts down. It was fortunate that I did as I might have lost a finger if I hadn’t placed the box at a safe distance. After discovering the work schedule for the day was not yet completed, I left the backstage area to venture toward the food court to partake of my annual treat of a ham, egg, and cheese on a croissant made at The Presbyterian Church of the Mountain’s booth. My Doctor was nowhere in sight which was fortunate as I had no desire to share.

When I returned to the security table (aka command center), I was introduced to my partner, Kate, and we were given our first assignment for the day. It was at a place known as the intersection which is located in a rectangular area near what is known as the back parking lot. The station requires one to direct those who come to the festival as to where to park their cars. Those who are musicians and other authorized personnel are directed toward the back gate area while those who come to enjoy the festival are directed to the back parking lot where other security personnel are waiting to guide them to spaces for them to park. It was great being able to help those (especially new comers to the festival) to find areas in which they could park their car so they could enjoy the festival. I met a lot of nice people. However, from my vantage point, I could not experience the opening performances of the day.

The first group to perform was The Generation Gap who were new to the festival. The group consisted of Paul Hubbell on Saxophone and Clarinet, Ray Schweisguth on Guitar, David Lantz IV on Piano, David Lantz, Jr. on Bass, and Alan Hubble on Drums. The second performance of the day was Kim Parker and friends which featured the vocal stylings of Kim Parker along with Spencer Reed on Guitar, Skip Wilkins on Piano, Evan Gregor on Bass, and Bill Goodwin on Drums. As I mentioned earlier, I could not experience the performances due to my vantage point. However, with line ups like the first two act had, it would be difficult to imagine the experience of hearing the music they played would be anything less than a stellar one.

When my first shift of the day concluded, I eagerly returned to the festival site to enjoy a performance of The Eric Mintel Quartet www.facebook.com/pages/Eric-Mintel-Quartet/67884606805 which consisted of Eric Mintel on Piano, Nelson Hill on Saxophone, Jack Hegyi on Bass, and Dave Mohn on Drums. It was during their performance that my second shift began but I and my fellow COTA Security staffer was able to listen to their performance as we were stationed at the front steps leading up to the Stage.

This position requires a great deal of vigilance as it entails only allowing those who are authorized to enter the back stage area to do so. These individuals include musicians, stage crew members, and other security personnel. Personally, this is one of my favorite stations as it not only helps the back stage area from becoming so congested no one can function creatively with so many people interrupting their ability to practice their craft, but it allows one to experience what is occurring on stage as well.

However, the vigilance the position requires often supersedes the ability to focus one’s attention upon the music being performed not alone every nuance the musicians bring to the pieces they expertly play. So, I didn’t hear all that much of The Eric Mintel Quartet as I felt their gentle and soul soothing performance. This feeling the musical effects coupled with the memories of the performances I’ve experienced in the past of the group brought something to my being that enhanced my existence and proved to be very satisfying.

The same lack of attentiveness on my part that I’ve experienced at the front steps continued for the remainder of my shift. The bands that played included newcomers to the festival Sui Generis featuring Joe Lovano on Woodwinds, Judi Silvano on Vocals, Jerome Harris on Bass and Guitar, and Michael Stephans on Drums, The Jazz Artists Repertory Orchestra (JARO) with its numerous musicians paying tribute to the big band era of the 1930s and 1940s, and The Hal Galper Trio www.facebook.com/pages/The-Hal-Galper-Trio/116975761721062 with Hal Galper on Piano, Joris Teepe on Bass, and Bob Meyer on Drums. Each performance gave off a sensation of intricacies little known throughout the course of ones life which could be easily embraced even by those who, like me, could not be attentive to their musical talents.

It was soon after The Hal Galper Trio performed did my shift at the Steps come to an end and I could devote my full attention to the upcoming performances. Tom Whaley and The Marlers took the stage with Tom Whaley on Drums, Billy Drewes on Saxophones, Bill Washer on Guitar, and Greg Eicher on Bass and I was eager to partake of the musical delights. I did for a time and during that brief respite I experienced improvised beats that inspired my mind to move with them. Yet, as I was listening to the music, my stomach began to growl so I decided to go visit some of the many food vendors at the festival grab some lunch.

The most difficult decision I or anyone else has to make during the festival is to choose from which food vendors to partake a meal from. There were restaurants such as The Willow Tree Inn www.facebook.com/willow.inn?fref=ts who offered salads, wraps, and rice and bean dishes, Leon’s Fireside Café who offered a Middle Eastern cuisine, Buddy’s Barbeque who offered some great ribs, and Zoe’s Ice Cream who offered, well, Ice cream along with a newcomer to the court offering a Japanese Cuisine that includes Sushi known as The Wabi Sabi Kitchen www.facebook.com/pages/Wabi-Sabi-Kitchen/339380652831182. There were also several non profits organizations who offered their variety of foods such as The Delaware Chamber of Commerce, The Presbyterian Church of the Mountain, The East Stroudsburg Lions, The Notara Dance Theatre, and Scout Troop No. 84. Although the decision was a difficult one, I was assured by past experiences that I would be eating something good no matter whom I chose my meal from.

After my meal of Black Bean and Rice with Chicken mixed with some sour cream and hot sauce I got from The Willow Tree Inn (at this point, I didn’t care if my Doctor was watching over me or not), I walked over to the children’s area to watch Rick Peoples perform on his guitar. I then went back to sit upon my chair for the first time during the festival and found The Dixie Gents with Bob Levie on Trumpet, Rick Chamberlain on Trombone, Ray Schweisguth on Banjo, Paul Hubble on Clarinet, and Paul Scott on Tuba playing in front of the hill where the majority of the audience congregated enjoying some toe tapping Dixieland Jazz.

As soon as my toes let me, I sat down as the to capture the current performance that was taking place on stage. But, instead, I’ve become the captivated one as another newcomer to the festival enchanted the stage. A Brazilian Jazz Siren by the name of Clarice Assad www.facebook.com/clarice.assad who cast a spell upon me and everyone in the audience with the first note uttered from her incredible voice. She also played Piano while performing alongside her friends which included Adam Niewood and Sue Terry on Saxophone, Bill Washer on Guitar, Adrian Moring on Bass, Richard Burton Piano, Bill Goodwin on Drums, and Nancy Reed who vocally accompanied Ms. Assad for several songs which were enhanced by their combined talents. As beautiful the duo  was, the solo performance of Ms. Assad either standing in front of a microphone or sitting behind a Piano moved throughout one’s being until the essence of each song become one with the person who is fortunate enough to embrace it. Established lyrics flowed with some scat singing (a vocal improvisation consisting of wordless vocables, nonsense syllables, or no words at all) so seamlessly one needed to bring one’s attention to the reality where words matter to tell when a lyric ended and a scat began.

For me, although the performance ran the allotted time all other sets were given, the time Ms. Assad spent on stage was too short a time. Her performance left me spellbound and I stood up from my chair to join several others in applause. It was during that putting together of my hands did I develop a desire to visit the artists and artisans who adorned the runway leading from my seat in front of the outdoor stage to the gate where entry to the festival is provided.

I’ve met with many friends who’ve presented their talents at the festival in previous years along with several newcomers to the event. The vendors who shared their talents and skills with those who come to the festival included Ingrid Blackert (Jewelry), Patrice Jiunta (The Jeweler’s Workbench), Susan Bradford and Anita Bondi (Madala Design Works), Rachel Val Cohen www.facebook.com/RachelValCohenArt (Polymer Clay and Knitting), Don Conklin (Music Lamps), Tim Helman (mixed media), David Coulter (Photography), Linda Newswanger (Git Lit Stained Glass), Bud Nealy (Knives), Lynette Rodriguez O’Brien (Lynoopie Creations), Penny Ross (Artist), Susan Lange (Massage Therapist), Daniel Shaffer (Handmade Ceramics), Shawn Queenan www.facebook.com/pages/Shawn-queenan/255381301155533 (Artist), Andrei Protsouk www.facebook.com/AndreiProtsoukArt (Artist), James Lilly (JML Clayworks) who share their talents and insights to their endeavors with those who visited their space. There were also representatives from The Al Cohn Memorial Jazz Collection, Wish Designs (Festival Sportswear), and The Shoppes at The Castle Inn who were also present to share their wares and endeavors. It was great to visit them all.

It was while I was in conversation did I hear one of the announcers introduce the final band to perform for the day. So, I made my adieu and made my way back to the stage to enjoy some dancing. I arrive just as another newcomer to the festival known as Funk Xpress welcomed the crowd saying when Phil Woods, one of the festival founders, asked them to come play at the festival, he wanted them to play some dance music. “So,” continued Bass player Gene Perla, “I wanna see some asses moving.” A cheer rose up from the gathering as Mr. Perla was joined in music by Clay Jenkins on Trumpet, Adam Niewood on Saxophone, Bill Washer on Guitar, Jon Ballantyne on Keyboards, and Vern Mobley on Drums. And, the you know whats began to move as the music was wild and loud and great and, and Funky.

I moved among the dancers taking pictures and occasionally joining a woman or two in a few steps. I also came upon some children who brought a smile to my heart as they jumped up and down in their youthful excitement. It was a fun way to end the day and I eventually departed from the festival to make my way home to sleep in preparation for another day at COTA.

Once home, I again experienced a night filled with thoughts and reflections of my day at the festival. Some of these thoughts centered around the weather conditions of this year’s festival. The Friday and Saturday segments of the event were rain free containing many moments of warmth and sunshine. The forecast for Sunday’s festival called for the same. In this recounting of the meteorological conditions, I recalled many who have been with the festival for quite some time share how it took place over a twenty year span without a drop of rain until five years ago when it rained at least one day of the festival causing the stage to be flipped over and the concert continuing under the large tent that houses the backstage area. It was hoped by some the current conditions will set off another twenty year trend of glorious weather so the festival can be enjoyed fully as it was intended throughout its three day duration. It is during these and other thoughts did I fall asleep until the my alarm clock rang to begin another festive day.

After arriving at the festival site and obtaining my customary Ham, Egg, and Cheese Sandwich on a croissant made at The Presbyterian Church of the Mountain’s booth, I met up with my co-patriots at the Security Command Center where my partner, Kate, and I received our first assignment of the day. We soon discovered it was to be at the Front Steps area during the Annual Jazz Mass. We arrived at the station as the Jazz Mass Choir were gathering and performing vocal warm ups in preparation to the service.

The Annual Jazz Mass has become a favorite among festival goers for the music and for the meaningful messages conveyed through the insights shared by the clergy who participate. The service began with a Gregorian Chant arranged by Wolfgang Knittel who composed, conducted, and orchestrated much of the service which translates from the Latin to read “The Just shall spring as a Lily and shall flourish forever before the Lord.” The service continued with a call to worship led by The Reverend Karen Nickels (Retired from The Presbyterian Church of the Mountain) who served as Worship Leader along with Reverend Bill Schram (Interim Pastor of The Church of the Mountain) who served as Liturgist and presented music composed by Rich Chamberlain (co Founder of COTA).

The service is also loved for it’s multitude of harmonious voices found within the JazzMass Choir who are too numerous to mention but are inspirationally directed by Teresa Marino along with choral coordinator Robert Hartman (Choral Director Emeritus) who assists her. Michele Bautier, Denny Carrig, and Bonnie Childs also offered their voices in solo performances enhancing the service a great deal. Musicians contributing their talents to the worship service were Nelson Hill, Pat Turner, and Richard Barz on saxophones, Jonathan Searfoss, Vanessa Meggiolaro, Peter Hyde, and Danny Cahn on trumpets and flugelhorns, Rick Chamberlain (who also composed a number of pieces in the mass) on trombone and euphonium, Jim Daniels on bass trombone and tuba, Spencer Reed on guitar, Tony Marino  on bass, and Bob D'Aversa on drums along with Ed Hudak and Bud Nealy on percussion.

As enjoyable and uplifting as the music was, the days meditation (aka Sermon) given by Reverend Bill was more so and was titled “I Dreamed Last Night” exploring how the issues facing the modern ages such as healthcare, gun violence, war, and others are “Kingdom Issues” as ascribed in the words of the 8th century BCE prophet Isaiah ben Amoz as recorded in the Bible in the Book of Isaiah which, if these admonishments were adhered to, predicted the nations of the world “shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruning hooks: nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war any more.” Isaiah 2:3-4. The funds collected during the mass went to benefit Linda Kozic who survived the violent tragedy that took place during the Monday August 5th, 2013 Ross Township, PA Supervisors’ meeting when a gunman entered the building it was being held and began indiscriminately shooting those who were present. It was noted Jazz Pianist Jerry Kozic moved to protect his wife during the shooting and was killed in the act while Linda received multiple severe injuries and continues receiving medical attention for them. A Facebook Page created for those who would like to help her in her time of need at www.facebook.com/HelpLindaKozic.

As the Jazz Mass came to an end, the customary act of asking those attending the service to leave the site so the front gate would be able to meet the festival’s financial needs to determine who paid to enjoy the rest of the event. I left my post at the steps to join my security colleagues to help in the process. While the process was being enacted, The Lost Ramblers performed near the front gate area entertaining everyone with their well known renditions of bluegrass and country music making the necessary process an enjoyable one. The lost Ramblers consists of John Updike on the Five String Banjo, Neil Morris on Guitar, Jim Schaffer on Bass Fiddle, H. David Husic on Fiddle, and Anthony Hannigan on Mandolin. Later in the day, the group was joined by Jillian Bronsan who lent her wonderful voice along with her talents upon the Flute and Pennywhistle to enhance the musicians’ performance. Those who reentered the festival site regained their seats upon the wonderful hill that serves as a natural amphitheater to await the first notes of the day’s lineup begin to play.

The first performance of the day was The Bill Goodwin Four Plus One which consisted of Bill Goodwin in Drums, Adam Niewood on Saxophone, Bill Washer on Guitar, James Weidman on Piano, and Adrian Moring on Bass. The group proved to be a gentle beginning of a sun filled day allowing its beats and rhythms to shine its energies throughout the souls of those sitting upon the hillside. It was during this performance that I took my mother to the food court so we could enjoy a meal with one another (I could be a good son at times). I then traveled to the Security Command Center where I learned my next assignment would be the Back Gate Area.

The Back Gate area is a point of reception for the musicians and a few other designated individuals who are authorized to park behind the main stage. Kate and I sat and chatted with the Back Gate workers who welcomed those who drove up by providing them the proper credentials allowing them to park and go back stage along with Tee Shirts to wear during their performances. We also welcomed festival goers who were walking to the Front Gate from the Back Parking Lot where the majority of music lovers left their car.

Among these individuals was my Kindergarten Teacher who somehow recognized me and commented upon the photographs I have taken which were on display at The Pocono Community Theater and Cultural Center located in East Stroudsburg, PA. It was a treat seeing her and we chatted briefly as I recalled the experiences I had in her class. It was there I was introduced to the Beatles as “I Wanna Hold Your Hand” came to be what I perceived at that young age to be “our song.” I was also smitten by a classmate named Vicki Taylor with whom I shared my Oreo Cookies with during the daily brake time. I still enjoy Oreo Cookies as well as taking naps which were also part of the Kindergarten Curriculum. It was nice to look back upon those times and to reflect upon all that happened since.

During my time at The Back Gate, there were a number of performances taking place upon the main stage I could not experience due to my vantage point. The first was The Dave Lantz Trio with David Lantz IV on Piano, Raviv Markovitz on Bass, and Jimmy MacBride on Drums, The second performance I couldn’t see were given by COTA Cats Volume XXXIII who were formed during the 4th year of the festival in 1981 by COTA Co Founders Phil Woods and Rick Chamberlain who saw a need for area high schools to develop their music programs to include instruction in the art of Jazz.

COTA Cats Volume XXXIII were directed by Ryan Churchoe, Tom Fadden, Kayte Clogg, and Lance Rauh and were hosted by The East Stroudsburg High School South. The compositions performed included “Bluz for U” written by Jumaane Smith, “How Can You Lose?” written by Benny Carter as arranged by Bob Curnow, “I‘m in the Mood for Swing” written by Benny Carter as arranged by Dave Wolpe, “The Schizophrenic Squirrel” written by Andrew Yozvia, “There’s a Boat Dat’s Leavin’ Soon for New York” written by George Gershwin as arranged by Bill Potts, and “While I’m Away” written by David Springfield. The clinicians for COTA Cats Volume XXXIII were Matt Vashlishan, Vanessa Meggiolaro, Rick Chamberlain, Jim Daniels, John Olscese, Sherrie Maricle, Spencer Reed, and Bob D'Aversa along with invaluable guidance given by Patrick Dorian, Bob Dorough, David Liebman, and Phil Woods. The students participating in the orchestra were Patrick McGee, Henry Cable, Christina Huddleston, Elias Frantz, Willy Mullen, and David Marachi on Saxophone, Mike Brown, Jason Feakins, Amanda Hopsom, Megah Kaplan, Jonathon Searfass, Andrew Sorton, and Shinaya Torres on Trumpets, Ian and Ilijah Denny, Charlie Peeke, and Shannon Rosser on Trombones, Chayton Woods on Guitar, Mollie Burns and Stephanie Fritz on Piano, Anna Speer on Bass, and L. Tyler Williams on Drums. Although each COTA Cat possess exceptional talent, there are some who are recognized for having special promise and are awarded scholarships so they may continue their musical education. This year, the recipients were Kaitlyn Weiss who will be attending Chester University to study music, Mitchell Cheng who will be attending The Manhattan School of Music to study Jazz piano Performance, and Chris potter who will be attending Duquesne University to study music technology and composition.

When I returned to the festival site, Skip and Dan Wilkins Quartet featuring Skip Wilkins on Piano, Dan Wilkins on Saxophone, Scott Lee on Bass, and Jeff Hirshfield on Drums were on stage while the students who performed as COTA Cats were backstage excitedly reliving their experiences through their conversations. This collection of chatterings contrasted with the gentle chords being played by the Quartet creating a calm within all who heard them. They were followed by Expansions: The Dave Liebman Group with David Liebman on Saxophone, Matt Vashlishan on Reeds, Bobby Avey on Piano, Tony Marino on Bass, and Alex Ritz on Drums.

David Liebman’s long and illustrious career has led him to play along such icons as Frank Sinatra, Miles Davis, and Chick Corea while being presented with numerous awards including the National Endowment for the Arts Jazz Masters lifetime achievement award in June of 2010. Those who are fortunate enough to experience his performances upon the COTA Stage never fail to find themselves transfixed by his innovations and inventiveness as he goes beyond the harmonic boundaries of Jazz in order to delve deeper into its essentials and redefining the musical art form as evident in the performance this year. There are many ways he achieves this and it’s a sheer pleasure to be a witness to it all.

One method Mr. Liebman employs to achieve this effect is to incorporate musical instruments in a composition unrelated to what many associate with Jazz. The Bodhrán is a percussion instrument which evolved in the mid-20th century from the tambourine and is commonly played by Irish and Celtic musicians as it enhances the melodies associated with these cultures. However, Drummer Alex Ritz of the Dave Liebman Group utilizes the instrument to provide a nuanced quality to the music performed by the other musicians sharing the stage with him.

Another method Mr. Liebman utilizes is his sheer presence as he quietly sits while another musician gives a solo performance. One can sense a certain ethereal communication taking place in which a flow of unknowable information is being received and deciphered so it can later be brought together in a cosmic orchestration that will culminate into an unforgettable climax which will linger in the subconscious thoughts of those who experience it for quite some time. In other words, Mr. Liebman appears to allow the music play out as it will while simultaneously directing its flow so it can become something greater. I’m sure there are numerous technical terms for this but I prefer to call it, “Magic.”

It was shortly after Expansions: The Dave Liebman Group’s set did I return to the Security Command Center to learn of my next assignment. I learned my partner, Kate, and I were stationed at the Intersection as we were the previous day with the opportunity to assist those seeking information on where to park. During this time, newcomers to the festival The Organik Vibe Trio plus One www.facebook.com/OrganikVibeTrioFanPage featuring Dave Samuels and Joel Frahm with Dave Samuels on Vibraphone, Ron Oswaski on The Hammond B3 Organ, Marko Marcinko on Drums, and Joel Frahm on Saxophone. They were followed by Phil Woods and the COTA Festival Orchestra www.facebook.com/CotaFestivalOrchestra who whose huge cast of musicians performed selection from their new CD released by Chiaroscuro Records titled, “New Celebration.” Unfortunately, I was unable to experience the music of these two groups from my vantage point but I was able to see its wondrous effects in the countenance of those I met at the festival when I returned to the site after my shift.

I arrived just as Phil Woods and the COTA Festival Orchestra were playing the final selections in their performance. After their set, I decided to walk around the festival to take in its twilight beauty as the final performance of the festival was about to take place. An illuminating glow filled the air accompanied by a quiet hum of conversations evolving around reflections of the festival along with expressions of how it and those they were conversing with will be missed. It was then a clarion call rang out throughout festival site as an announcer announced the final band for the festival was about to take the stage.

Zen for Primates www.facebook.com/pages/Zen-For-Primates/412294685459190 with T. Roth on Vocals, Mike Krisukas on Guitar, Pete Fluck on Saxophone, Jodi Maloney on Cello, and Shelaigh Maloney on Violin never fails the please the crowd with their standoffishness interpretations of the songs they nonchalantly hand down to the audience seemingly not caring if they’re liked or not. Their “You paid to see us. We didn’t pay to see you.” aura proves to be a delightfully refreshing one adding a sense of charm to their presence. There wasn’t much dancing going on during the final performance of the festival but a great deal of laughter and ahas were seen about those sitting upon the hill while they took every song and utterance made by the performers in.

It was during the Zen for Primates performance did I make my way toward home. The sounds, sights, conversations, and all the other aspects that can’t be retold as it’s too ingrained in one’s being to communicate moved freely between my conscious and subconscious thoughts. I’m sure many who are reading this have their memories to share and I invite you to share yours by adding a comment to this article. I look forward to reading them and in seeing you next year. In the meantime, I took nearly 600 photographs during the festival and they could be seen in The COTA 2013 Gallery at www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10151883615120421.1073741869.636000420&type=1.

In other happenings taking place during the final day of the festival, SheilaMark which consists of Mark Hamza playing accordion while Sheila Stratton on vocals performed throughout the festival site while musicians prepared for their performances. Accompanied by Mark’s deftly played accordion, Sheila belts out one song after another with her incredible voice. The children’s area also experienced some musical delights as children and adults participated in a drumming session orchestrated by Sherrie Maricle who collectively shared their joy for sound by banging away on plastic buckets and anything else that could be utilized as a percussion instrument. It was a joy to watch.

In addition to the music and art presented during the festival, there are many people who help make the event the wonderful asset to the community it is. These include the Board of Directors who constantly seek to make every festival even more memorable than the one preceding it such as Lauren Chamberlain, Bill Goodwin, Sherrie Maricle, Tim Helman, Rich Madigan, Karen Nickels, Sue Terry, Christine Trembly, Sue Terry, Garth D. Woods, and Kathryn M. Rudolph (Executive Director). They are often known to inspire those who attend the Volunteer meetings with their dedication and the knowledge they have obtained throughout the festival’s 35 year existence. However, they are inspired by an Advisory Board consisting of Susan Bradford, Rick Chamberlain, Carol Dorshimer, Shirley Gilmore, Jill Goodman, Lois Heckman, Allisen Trotter, and Phil Woods.

In addition to these outstanding individuals, there are a multitude of volunteers without whom the festival could not take place. Although they are too many to mention, COTA Volunteers were easily seen throughout the festival site performing various tasks and providing information to many festival goers to enhance their experience. As you well know by now, I’ve been a part of the Security team performing many of the functions the designation suggests since 2003. Every year has been more awarding than the previous one and I look forward to the 2014 festival as I’m sure many of the volunteers serving the festival in other areas are.

Those who have been with COTA as volunteers throughout the years can attest to the meaningful friendships they have developed during their time with the festival. Along with the joys inherent with the experiences of being a part of something truly incredible, there are times for tears to be shed. One of these times relates to the lost of some dear friends of the festival who passed away during 2013. These include Virginia Waring whose husband, Fred Waring, made numerous creative contributions to the art of music that still inspires music lovers to this day and, as mentioned earlier, Jerry Kozic who died of gunshot wounds received when a gunman entered the August 5th, 2013 Ross Township, PA Supervisors’ meeting and began shooting at the attendees. He and his musical skills will be missed. These wonderful people have done so much for so many all because they love the arts and those who come to the festival.

Those who would like to lend their time and talents to The 36th Annual Celebration of the Arts Jazz and Arts Festival are welcomed to attend COTA’s Volunteer Meetings. They are held at The Deer Head Inn in Delaware Water Gap, PA during the Spring and Summer Months. The festival and all its functions is organized and run by volunteers. Numerous volunteer positions are available and they include Program Ad Sales Manager, a Program Ad Salesperson, Back and Front gate workers, Security, and Marketing/PR personnel. I hope to see you at a future meeting so we can serve the festival together while creating some wonderful memories.

In addition to supporting the community and the arts through its annual festival, COTA expands its mission as it seeks to recognize exceptional individuals who contribute to the endeavors COTA aspires to through their awards program. These awards are distributed throughout the festival. The 2013 Sterling and Dorothy Strauser Award which honors an individual’s contribution to the visual arts was given to Penny Ross, The 2013 Joanne Mayer Award was given to Constance Walck in honor of her Volunteer endeavors for COTA, and The 2013 Fred Waring Award was held in honor of Virginia Waring for her outstanding contributions to the arts and the community. Each of these awards reflect an intricate aspect of the spirit that moves COTA to be what it is to so many people.

The Celebration of the Arts (COTA) Jazz and Arts Festival began in 1978 by Phil Woods, Rich Chamberlain, and the late Ed Joubert and takes place every year the Weekend after Labor Day. From its humble beginnings which consisted of a 4 hour concert held on risers near the steps of an Annex of the Castle Inn with an audience of just over 500 people which was mostly made up of friends, family, and some ardent jazz fans, the festival has evolved to become a Mecca for jazz enthusiasts throughout the world. The three day festival is presently presented in cooperation with the Borough of Delaware Water Gap, PA, The Castle Hill Development, Inc., and the Delaware Water Gap, PA Joint Toll Bridge Commission. Music presented at the festival is recorded by Chiaroscuro Records for later release. In addition to it’s annual festival, The Celebration of the Arts (COTA) also supports the arts and the music of jazz in all its forms and historical breadth through youth education, performing arts presentations, scholarship opportunities, and community outreach throughout the Pocono area. One of these avenues of support is their Annual Summer Jazz Camp.

The Celebration of the Arts (COTA) Camp Jazz is offered every summer to those who seek an intensive, week long immersion in jazz music and technique mentored by renowned jazz greats. It was formed in 2007 by Phil Woods and Rick Chamberlain (co-founders of COTA) as an extension of the festival and its educational arm to foster and encourage local talent in a more relaxed environment than that found in a school. In addition to Phil Woods and Rick Chamberlain, the camp’s staff of mentors guiding the talents of  the campers include Sue Terry, Jay Rattman, Spencer Reed, Evan Gregor, Bobby Avey, Matt Vaslishan, Michael Stephans, Vicki and Eric Doney, Bob Dorough, Caris Visentin, Jim Daniels, and Sherrie Maricle. This year an Annual Scholarship has been established by the family of Ethan Mayer who attended the camp in 2007 and was killed in an automobile collision in 2010. COTA Cats Ian and Ilijah Denny were repaints of the scholarship and performed in this year’s festival. Enrollment is open to all aspiring musicians and information about the camp and all it has to offer can be found by exploring The Camp Jazz Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/Campjazz.

As you can see, The Celebration of the Arts is an organization that is more than it’s annual festival. I am pleased, honored, and humbled to be a part of what has been a life changing endeavor for me. In 1986, I went to my first festival and fell in love with it. However, every year after that experience, I had jobs in which I had to work during the time the festival took place. But, in 1999, I had an opportunity to attend the festival and decided I was too old not to experience things that enhance my joy. So, whenever I’m apply for a job, I make sure I share in the interview I need to take the Friday, Saturday, and Sunday after Labor Day off so I can go to the festival. I haven’t been employed much since then, but the opportunity to attend the festival every year more than compensates me.

As difficult it is to believe, this article merely scratches the surface of what happened during The 36th Annual Celebration of the Arts Jazz and Arts Festival and all the organization has to offer. More can be learned through their website but even more can be learned through the sharings from those of you who were there. So, please explore The Celebration of the Arts (COTA) Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/pages/COTA-Celebration-Of-The-Arts/234094683405815 for more information about the festival, what the organization has to offer the community, and how you can be involved in all they do and feel free to share your comments and reflections of the festival. Thank you for reading this article.

Oh, and before I forget, this year’s poster design for The 36th Annual Celebration of the Arts Jazz and Arts Festival was created by Adiamarie who has had her work presented in the Hughes Library and was an awards finalist at the Pocono Arts Council’s 2013 Member's Exhibition. She is also a regular fixture at the annual Newark Arts Council's Strong Women Exhibit. The design appears not only on the festival’s poster but upon its brochure and program guide as well.