Noises at The Depot

Photography by Paparazzi Paul.

The Eastburg Community Alliance presented Joyful Noises at The Historic Dansbury Depot in East Stroudsburg, PA on Monday August 29^th during their Music on Mondays Series. I arrived slightly late to the performance and was greeted by the enchanting sounds of the quartet. The anxiety one feels when there isn't enough time alloted to make it somewhere on time was lifted by their voices as their songs led me to an era when a relaxation permeated the human condition.

The Joyful Noises consists of Peter Wilson on Lead Vocals, Doug Malefyt on Bass Vocals, Bob Rosenberger on Baritone Vocals, and Tom Salmon on Tenor Vocals. Together, the A Capella harmonies reminiscent of Barbershop Quartets which originated during the late 1800s and early 1900s. Traditional compositions reflecting the musical era of the barbershop genre were presented as were songs written and made famous by the Beatles and other modern day musicians. A number of folk tunes from a variety of cultures also populated the performance which enhanced the enjoyment of it.

While the quartet was performing outside the Depot, Photographer and Digital Artist Dave Sandt of the Star Mountain Studio shared his considerable talents through the images he captured. A number of individuals perused the interiors of the structure and were touched by the beauty they discovered in the subjects residing within their frames. The glass that protected the photographs and paintings from the elements and dust soon became mirrors allowing the viewer to be a part of depiction.

In other areas within and around the Historic Dansbury Depot, Hot Dogs, Ice Cream, and other delicious items were being sold and eaten throughout the concert. Elegant Jewelry created by Liz Smeltz were available for purchase as was some fresh produce and pastries provided by another merchant. The early evening proved to be a wonderful one filled with the enchantments of wonderful things. You'll find more photographs taken during the event in the Noises at The Depot Gallery at www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10155193319733761.1073742011.91146283760&type=3.

The vocalists of Joyful Noises met at The East Stroudsburg, PA United Methodist Church of which they are members and began performing together in 2010. They have performed in numerous venues and events including as guest of the Phillies Baseball team as they sung prior to a game. During the concert, it was announced that Tenor, Tom Salmon, would soon leave the area to live in Connecticut. It was speculated by the group that this change of residence may lead to the quartet's demise. However, it is hoped another tenor of Mr. Salmon's abilities and talents would be found and be welcomed to the group. In the meantime, you can learn more about Joyful Noises by exploring their Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/pages/The-Joyful-Noises-Quartet/358797744146716?fref=ts.

Dave Sandt is a Photographer and Digital Artist who has received numerous awards for his work which has been published worldwide. Mr. Sandt began photographing objects in 1976 and continued to develop his skills throughout the years. In 2011, he established the Star Mountain Studio in which he creates his visual wonderments. You can learn more about David Sandt and the Star Mountain Studio by exploring his Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/Star-Mountain-Studio-1489933174649856 or his Website at www.starmountainstudio.com.

The Eastburg Community Alliance (ECA) was established over 30 years ago by local leaders and business owners and is funded through a combination of local grants, direct fund raising, memberships, and local contributions. In addition to their Music on Monday Series, The Eastburg Community Alliance presents a number of events to delight and entertain the overall community throughout the year. The next Music on Mondays Concert will take place on Monday September 5^th beginning at 7pm featuring Guitarist Michael Kessler along with the work of Rafael Burgos Jr being shown within The Historic Dansbury Depot in East Stroudsburg, PA. You’ll be able to learn more about The Eastburg Community Alliance by visiting their Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/EastburgAlliance or their Website at www.eastburgalliance.com.