November 2023
Dear Friends of Kneisel Hall –
While winter brings quiet to the Kneisel Hall campus, our memories are alive of gorgeous music from just a few months ago. We invite you to enjoy and celebrate again the faculty’s final performance of Dvorak’s Sextet, below. What a heartfelt reminder—especially with Thanksgiving and the holiday season upon us—of how much we have to be thankful for as we celebrate our spectacular 2023 season and look forward to 2024.
We are thankful for having brought chamber music to so many people in so many places: 50 public performances over nine weeks, including four outreach concerts in surrounding communities; joyful weekly performances at the Parker Ridge Retirement Community; and amazing outreach experiences for children and families in our partnership with the Blue Hill Public Library.
“Kneisel Hall was the best musical experience of the entire year for my children. It built their confidence, expanded their musical repertoire, and helped them find like-minded friends who prioritized music as much as they do.” – Parent of two 2023 Maine Students
“The Library performances were truly magical. The children and adults were totally engaged in the music, and were in awe of the warmth and talent of the Young Artists.” – Blue Hill Public Library patron
We are thankful for our beautiful setting on the flank of Blue Hill Mountain. In addition to preserving it for generations of musicians and audiences to come, we are moving forward on our application for historic landmark status.
We are thankful for the truly extraordinary faculty and administration who bring magic to our summers.
We are thankful for our Young Artists, who arrive every summer with brilliance and talent, and leave as even better musicians, as stronger and more engaged human beings, and with life-long friendships.
“Kneisel Hall is the ultimate place to spark a transformation into the most honest musician that lives inside of you.” 2023 Young Artist (violin)
“I truly loved my summer at Kneisel. From the gorgeous location to the inspiring faculty, it is an experience that will change your life!” 2023 Young Artist (cello)
Above all, we are thankful to you, our audiences, and our benefactors. Without audiences, great art is only a shadow. Without your support, we cannot do this. Please dig deep for us once again.
You can contribute by credit card here; or you can just mail us a check made out to Kneisel Hall to P.O. Box 648, Blue Hill, ME 04614. If you would like your gift to be recorded in honor or in memory of someone dear to you, just let us know.
With profound gratitude, and on behalf of the Board of Trustees, the faculty and administration, our wonderful young musicians, and the whole Kneisel Hall community, we wish you joyous holidays and a healthy, happy 2024!
Laurie Smukler, Artistic Director / Meredith Amado, Executive Director / Jeffrey Kehl, President, Board of Trustees
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