For The Friends of Cedarmere, an “exciting new era” is set to begin for the organization, one dedicated to the restoration of the home of the famed poet, William Cullen Bryant.
On Saturday, June 28, starting at 3:30 p.m., the Friends will host an outdoor concert. Following on a successful fundraising event in May, this is the first musical offering in the group’s inaugural culture series known as Seasons at Cedarmere.
To celebrate the new era, the Friends have invited a Balinese gamelan ensemble to perform in the Sunken Garden on the Cedarmere grounds. The group, known as Yowana Sari, plays a variety of traditional and non-traditional pieces, under the direction of Professor Michael Lipsey of the Aaron Copland School of Music at Queens College.
Also on view will be the orchestra’s golden instruments crafted by I Pande Sukarta in Bali, consisting of gongs, metallophones and drums, which will be individually demonstrated for their sound and technique, immediately after the concert.
The tradition of the gamelan ensemble is a world-renowned cultural treasure, and its influences can be heard in music of some of the most vibrant artists of our time. Its textured sound can be energetic and poised, time stopping and jaw dropping.
Performances by Yowana Sari are reputed to be a once in a lifetime musical experience. The setting for the Friends’ concert, in an historical garden overlooking Hempstead Harbor, ensures that the concert will be a highlight of the summer season.
Tickets are $15 and may be purchased at the door, and include a porch-side reception as well as full access to the property. Guests are advised to come early, and to bring a chair or blanket.
Things have been looking up for Bryant lately. In addition to fundraising activity, the renovated viaduct overlooking Hempstead Harbor was renamed in honor of the poet-journalist who once edited The New York Evening Post, while commuting from his home in Roslyn.
Questions about the event can be addressed to events@friendsofcedarmere.org or by calling 1-800-763-7190.
Cedarmere is located at 225 Bryant Ave. in Roslyn Harbor.
