One of the summer's pleasures in the Litchfield Hills is attending a concert at the Norfolk Chamber Music Festival. This summer concert series began in the 1880s and has become a treasured tradition in this hilltop town. There are several wonderful places to stay in Norfolk to add to the fun including the Manor House Bed and Breakfast, and Husky Meadows Farm, a unique 300-acre certified organic farm that offers farm stays and cooking classes.
 |
| The Historic Music Shed |
What is the Norfolk Chamber Music Festival?
Hosted in Norfolk on the grounds of the Ellen Battell-Stoeckel Estate, this summer music festival traces its roots to the 1880s when the Battell family started to host concerts on the village green. Today, it is part of the Yale Summer School of Music and Art, and it hosts more than 30 concerts each summer featuring musicians, conductors, guest artists, and performers from around the globe, as well as Yale students and Fellows.
The Music Shed
The Music Shed was commissioned by Ellen and Carl Stoeckel and was designed by New York architect, E.K. Rossiter. The Music Shed opened in 1906 and went on to host performances by such renowned artists as Rachmaninoff, Sibelius, and Padrewski. The Music Shed is built of cedar and lined with hand-picked California redwood. The Shed’s amazing acoustics and beautiful patina is attributed to the redwood. Today it comfortably seats 1500 people and is air-conditioned.
 |
| Beautiful Grounds to Enjoy |
Dress comfortably. Your experience is what is most important so wear whatever makes you comfortable; whether it is a suit and tie or blue jeans and a button-up shirt. The choice is yours!
Arrive Early. The grounds of the Battell-Stoeckel Estate are beautifully landscaped and it is fun to explore them. There is a picture-perfect stone bridge over a fresh mountain stream, a rock grotto, a hilltop gazebo, and chairs scattered about the lawn. An added benefit of arriving early is that it gives you time to park and make your way to the Music Shed.
Be Social. A big part of the summer concert experience is the social aspect. Many people bring a picnic to enjoy before the concert begins, as the grounds are absolutely idyllic. Husky Meadows Farm is happy to pack a special gourmet picnic for you to enjoy, or you can buy snacks on the grounds of the Estate. There are large areas of grass and stands of shade trees that offer perfect picnic spots. Bring a blanket or use one of the picnic tables on the grounds…and enjoy!
 |
| Shaded Wooden Pavilion |
Get a Snack. There is a concession booth located just outside the Music Shed that opens at 6 p.m. and remains open through intermission. They offer baked goods, ice cream, tea, and sparkling water.
Applause Etiquette. Holding one’s applause until the end of a complete work evolved in music halls around the world in the early 20th century. As a rule of thumb, wait until the performers stand and face the audience, signaling the end of a performance.
Social Etiquette. Cell phones, cameras, and tablets are prohibited in the Music Shed. Naturally, talking over the music and other distracting noises is discouraged.
No comments:
Post a Comment