Tag Archives: HMAC

Musical Notes: Vacation Vibes–Get away without going away.

May 31, 2018 | by Kait Gibboney

Ah, summer is upon us! While it may be hot, the days are long, and the nights are perfect for catching some peak performances around Harrisburg. You don’t have to plan an elaborate trip to have a fun time this summer. Get into vacation mode at home and check out some hot shows happening this month. The usual venues never fail to disappoint, and it’s always fun to check out the newer places bringing the noise. Look out for some of my favorites this month and kick off your summer right.

JASON RICCI AND THE BAD KIND, 6/1, 7PM, RIVER CITY BLUES CLUB, $10-12
Whatever you expected in music featuring harmonica, Jason Ricci’s about to blow your mind. This ain’t just blues, baby. This multi-genre artist is considered among many as a revolutionary and well-known harmonica player worldwide. Throughout his 10 years of touring, TV appearances and recording, he has built a recognizable name for himself, but, every once and awhile, he goes by his old nickname, “Mooncat.” His newest work, “Approved by Snakes,” was released last year with his band, The Bad Kind. When you listen to the first track, “My True Love is a Dope Whore,” you can feel his life experiences, his struggles and his triumphs all reflected into his soulful lyrics and smooth instrumentals. It’s like George Clinton met Jack White while touring the New Orleans golden age of jazz. I dig it, and I’m sure y’all will too.

OLDE TIGERS, 6/2, 8PM, THE UNDERGROUND BIKE SHOP, $5
Coming at you straight from your local bike shop is the hardcore fix you’ve been needing. Olde Tigers from York headlines a night of hardcore and punk featuring other PA bands, USVSW and L.M.I. Unapologetically loud and riffy, these guys describe themselves as “East Bay punk meets East Coast hardcore,” influenced by music from the Bay Area punk rock and New York hardcore music scenes. To get a better idea of their sound, check out their album “PennsylVANia” on Bandcamp. Their driving guitars and fast drums create heavy layers of sound to get lost in. Whether you’ve been in the scene for years, headbanging and throwing yourself to the mercy of the pit, or if you’re checking out a new sound, local DIY shows like this are the backbone of the music scene in Harrisburg and deserve a hearty shout out.

THE MOTET, 6/22, 9PM, H*MAC CAPITOL ROOM, $20-25
“Music and escapism go hand in hand.” This phrase, uttered by the band itself, perfectly encapsulates what The Motet is all about. “When you’re listening to us, I want your mind to be taken away from wherever you are during the day and into some other place,” said drummer Dave Watts. Specializing in bringing you the freshest funk, this Denver-based seven-piece is made up of Watts on drums, Lyle Divinsky on vocals, Joey Porter on keyboards, Garrett Sayers on bass, Ryan Jalbert on guitar, Parris Fleming on trumpet and Drew Sayers on saxophone. Since their start in 1998, they’ve released seven albums, toured and performed at festivals such as Bonnaroo and Electric Forest. H*MAC has been on a roll lately with big artists coming to our humble city, and this show will be one I hope you don’t miss. To warm up to their sound, check out their latest release, “Supernova.” This single kicks off their latest tour and will certainly get you in the mood to groove.

Mentionables:

The Nose, June 2, Little Amps Downtown;

Bumpin’ Uglies, June 7, The Abbey Bar;

The Posies, June 12, H*MAC Stage on Herr;

Beatlemania Now, June 15, Scottish Rite;

Emily’s Toybox, June 16, H*MAC Capitol Room;

Shawan and the Wonton, June 16, GK Visual;

Joe Olnick Band, June 16, River City;

KIX, June 16, Club XL;

The Trainjumpers, June 29, The Abbey Bar

Musical Notes: In spring, heartfelt performances peak in the Burg.

March 30, 2018 | by Kait Gibboney

It’s springtime in Harrisburg, which means that our hearts warm and our passions reignite. This applies equally in our musical lives. This month, I’ve selected bands that, while differing in genres, share a depth and a passion that show in their music. Be sure to check them out, returning some of the love they offer so abundantly.

JON MCLAUGHLIN, 4/6, 7:30PM, WHITAKER CENTER, $25-35
Pop music is a genre I don’t recommend all that often, but this show promises to be a treat. Jon McLaughlin is an Indiana native who is currently based out of Nashville, the home of some of the nation’s best songwriters. He released his first album, “Indiana,” in 2007, has performed with acts such as Billy Joel and Adele, collaborated and co-written with Sara Bareilles and Demi Lovato, and even performed at the Academy Awards in 2008. His piano playing and singing have evolved over the years, in a career he continues passionately today. This is an artist with a lot of soul to share with his audiences in an intimate setting. If you want to listen to something before the performance, check out his single “Summer is Over” featuring Sara Bareilles on vocals and piano. You can’t deny that it’s catchy.

COLEBROOK ROAD, 4/7, 7:30PM, HARRISBURG SCOTTISH RITE, $15
I first saw Colebrook Road years ago at a bar just outside of Harrisburg with my bluegrass-loving dorm floormates, back before I had moved to Harrisburg. I was initially hesitant to go since I had decided beforehand that I didn’t enjoy bluegrass music. Much to my surprise and pleasure, these guys had an infectious sound that had me dancing by the evening’s end. Even if you think that bluegrass isn’t your thing, Colebrook Road will delight you with their upbeat traditional style and lively performances. Over the years, this band has won “best-of” awards at numerous bluegrass festivals and contests all around the mid-Atlantic region. Or just take it from me—you won’t be disappointed if you attend this show.

SEMPRE DOLCE: A NIGHT OF CHAMBER MUSIC, 4/28, 7:30PM, H*MAC STAGE ON HERR, $10
Back in the day, I used to play flute. I enjoyed playing with an ensemble and creating meaningful and beautiful music with them. So, I’m looking forward to a night of chamber music at H*MAC with Sempre Dolce. This five-piece out of Harrisburg is still relatively new, but, in a short time, they’ve performed widely, creating a buzz. Those who have seen Sempre Dolce speak of their sweet music and passionate, poignant performances. I recently discovered their cover of the opening music for the television show “Game of Thrones,” and, as a fan of the show, I loved the soulful strings and their unique interpretation of the theme. Before the concert, check out their music on Bandcamp, and you may discover the classical sounds you’ve been missing in your life.

Mentionables:
Nashville Unplugged, April 5, Whitaker Center
Mountain Road, April 7, H*MAC Stage on Herr
Frenchy and the Punk, April 11, The Abbey Bar
Sweet Maple Singers, April 13, H*MAC Stage on Herr
And The Kids, April 19, H*MAC Stage on Herr
Dr. Slothclaw & Goose, April 20, The Abbey Bar
Bubba Sparxxx, April 27, H*MAC Capitol Room

Music Mania: Warm up and get out.

February 28, 2018 | by Kait Gibboney

As the winter winds die down, it’s time to break free from your hibernation and get the energy flowing again. Shake off that slumber with some rockin’ music brought to you by locals and touring bands alike. Check out some bluesy folk, artsy cover music, spicy rock and, of course, annual St. Patty’s day cheer. The cold’s not stopping you any longer, so go explore all the sounds that Harrisburg has to offer.

START MAKING SENSE – TALKING HEADS TRIBUTE, 3/1, 8PM, THE ABBEY BAR, $12-15
As I’m writing this article, I’m enjoying the sounds of one of my favorite albums on vinyl—“Speaking in Tongues” by the Talking Heads. My parents used to play it for me while I was growing up, and I was lucky enough to score a copy recently. So it’s only fitting that, this month, I make a tribute to a great tribute band covering one of my childhood favorites. Start Making Sense hails from Bethlehem, Pa., and they want to bring back the ‘80s with a bang. Don’t miss their hot performance as they take on some classic Talking Heads tunes. Front man Jon Braun, backed by a six-piece band, rocks the stage, masterfully creating their own versions of legendary David Byrne works. Look for crowd favorites like “Burning Down the House,” “Life During Wartime,” and, hopefully, my favorite, “Slippery People.” If you’re like me and wish that you had the opportunity to see the Heads in their glory days, you don’t want to miss this show.

MARTIN GROSSWENDT & SUSANNE SALEM-SCHATZ, 3/2, 7:30PM, FORT HUNTER CENTENNIAL BARN, $12-24
Harrisburg’s been getting real bluesy lately, and, frankly, I’m on board. Hectic city life can bring out a part in people that yearns for slower, heartfelt tunes from another time and place. Martin Grosswendt’s focus lies in prewar blues and roots styles, internationally recognized for his traditional renditions of southern acoustic music. His fiery fingerpicking and soothing voice combine with the honky-tonk liveliness and soulful blues of Susanne Salem-Schatz. A native of Boston and its roots music scene, Susanne brings her love of classic, American-born music to the stage and performs it with mastery, joy and poignancy. Together, you get a tour de force of skill and passion that is worth experiencing.

JOHN NOLAN, 3/4, 7PM, H*MAC STAGE ON HERR, $15-20
For a moment, transport yourself back to the early 2000s, to the emo and indie rock era. Taking Back Sunday was getting its start and making waves on the growing scene. During their career, the band has released seven albums, toured extensively, appeared on many shows, including “Jimmy Kimmel Live,” and even scored music for films, such as “Spider Man 2.” Return to the present day, and we’ve got a treat for you. John Nolan, current guitarist for Taking Back Sunday, is bringing his solo works to H*MAC for a night of something nostalgic and something new. During his recording process, Nolan has shaped his sound into an exciting, fresh new genre brought together by his many music connections. Relive your punk days and try something new with an iconic guitarist at a favorite local spot. What’s not to love?

Mentionables:
Hot Jam Factory, March 9, H*MAC Stage on Herr;
Buckcherry, March 11, H*MAC Capitol Room;
Six Bar Break, March 16, Capital Gastropub;
Kilmaine Saints, March 16, The Abbey Bar;
Erica Everest Duo, March 17, Ad Lib Craft Bar & Kitchen;
The Tommy D Trio, March 24, River City Blues Club

3/1
START MAKING SENSE
THE ABBEY BAR
50 N. CAMERON ST., HARRISBURG
STARTS AT 8PM

3/2
MARTIN GROSSWENDT & SUSANNE SALEM-SCHATZ
FORT HUNTER CENTENNIAL BARN
5300 N. FRONT ST., HARRISBURG
STARTS AT 7:30PM

3/4
JOHN NOLAN
H*MAC STAGE ON HERR
1110 N. 3RD ST., HARRISBURG
STARTS AT 7PM

3/17
ERICA EVEREST DUO
AD LIB CRAFT KITCHEN & BAR
1 N. 2ND ST., HARRISBURG
STARTS AT 9PM

3/24
THE TOMMY D TRIO
RIVER CITY BLUES CLUB
819 S. CAMERON ST., HARRISBURG
STARTS AT 9PM

Musical Notes: Feels & Fun–In February, Dig the Love.

January 31, 2018 | by Kait Gibboney

Love is in the air, dear readers.

Whether or not you follow Valentine’s Day traditions, I’ve got you covered if you’re looking for a date idea or maybe just something fun to do. If you want to find a great show to entertain your love this month, we have a lot of variety coming your way. The Millennium Music Conference returns for another year. New venues continue to pop up with new acts. Bluegrass makes a big move on the city. Rock n’ roll musicians surprise us with something new. There’s something here for everybody and every occasion. Feel the love around you this month and be sure to listen for it in the music around you, too.

RODDY WALSTON & THE BUSINESS, 2/5, 8PM, THE ABBEY BAR, $15-20
This band is amped up and more than ready to give you the business through their rock n’ roll vibes. J. Roddy Walston & The Business are four guys—Billy C. Gordon on guitar, J. Roddy Walston on piano and guitar, Steve “The Sleeve” Colmus on percussion and Logan Davis on bass—heavily influenced by both old and new rock sounds. In their latest and upcoming releases, the band explores a brighter, poppier sound. Their single “The Wanting” draws inspiration from the new—keeping their sound “D.I.Y. but hi-fi,” says band leader Walston. Departing from their original classic rock-inspired sound, their fourth LP and latest release, “Destroyers of the Soft Life,” is worth a listen if you’re looking for something fresh and new among the community of progressive rock n’ roll artists. “Nostalgia is a cancer,” Walston warns. “Acknowledge that you are in the present.”

JIM HURST, 2/10, 7:30PM, FORT HUNTER CENTENNIAL BARN, $10-22You really don’t want to miss out on this unconventional but amazing venue featuring a true master of his craft. Bluegrass and country music virtuoso Jim Hurst will bring his velvety smooth vocals and incredible guitar skills to the Fort Hunter Centennial Barn for an evening that’s sure to be memorable. For two years in a row, Hurst won the International Bluegrass Music Award for “Instrumental Performer of the Year” on guitar. Starting his solo career in 2010, he has previously played with Holly Dunn’s Rio Band, Claire Lynch, Trisha Yearwood, the Front Porch String Band and Missy Raines, among others. If you want an idea of Hurst’s skills, look up his video for “Long and Lonesome Old Freight Train” and listen for those sweet southern vocals paired with the nimblest fingers plucking away complex melodies on his guitar. Even if you’re not that into bluegrass and country, you’ve got to admire his style.

TIGERS JAW, 2/24, 7PM, H*MAC CAPITOL ROOM, $15-18
There’s a lot of hype about this show, and, since it’s in the Capitol Room, you know it’s going to be a good time. Tigers Jaw is a Scranton-born, indie-rock emo band originally consisting of frontman and vocalist Adam McIlwee, Mike May, Dennis Mishko and Pat Brier. In 2013, the band split apart when the four members announced that they couldn’t continue because of personal reasons. The band then transitioned from being a larger group to a two-piece act with remaining members Ben Walsh on vocals and guitar and Brianna Collins on vocals and keyboards, backed by guest musicians. Since then, Tigers Jaw has opened for co-headliners New Found Glory and Yellowcard during their U.S. tour, as well as working with Basement on tours together. Check out their latest album, “Spin,” for a taste of what these two have going on.

Mentionables:

Deletions & Good in the Dark, Feb. 3, The Underground Bike Shop

Manian Van Hacker, Feb. 10, River City Blues Club

Al Di Meola, Feb. 13, H*MAC Capitol Room

Lucy Isabel, Feb. 16, Little Amps Uptown

The Flat Wheels, Feb. 16, Midtown Scholar Bookstore

The Mellowship Slinky, Feb. 17, Joe K’s Brewhouse

Millennium Music Conference, Feb. 23-24, various venues

Wide-Ranging Discussion: Harrisburg officials tackle multitude of issues at community forum.

January 22, 2018 | by Lizzy Hardison

Harrisburg Mayor Eric Papenfuse makes a point while City Councilmen Dave Madsen, Westburn Majors, Cornelius Johnson and Ben Allatt listen in during tonight’s community forum at HMAC.

A mayor and four council members walked into a bar tonight, but it wasn’t the start of an old joke.

Mayor Eric Papenfuse, along with City Council members Ben Allatt, Cornelius Johnson, Dave Madsen and Westburn Majors, fielded questions in a town hall meeting tonight at the House of Music, Arts & Culture (formerly the Harrisburg Midtown Arts Center). The forum, which was organized by Capital Region Concerned Citizens and moderated by CRCC organizer Brandon Flood, brought 40 people to HMAC’s upstairs Capitol Room.

Flood said the event was inspired by discussions on a Facebook page called Concerned Citizens of the Harrisburg Community, which counts more than 2,000 members.

“We want to take some of the energy on that page and turn it into face-to-face dialogue,” Flood said.

The wide-ranging discussion was organized in a question-and-answer format, with city officials commenting on topics ranging from blight and crime to minority business participation and housing. Here are some of the highlights.

Community Policing
Flood asked the panelists about the timeline for hiring a new community policing coordinator and the possibility of increasing community policing initiatives in the city. The city’s previous community policing coordinator, David Botero, was reassigned to desk duty and later fired after he was charged with possessing drug paraphernalia in May 2017.

Papenfuse reported that the city has begun interviewing candidates and hopes to select a new coordinator by the end of February. He said that the Police Bureau’s long-term goal is to overcome staffing shortages and develop a community policing division. The bureau currently employs one full-time community policing officer and five officers who were recently trained in community policing techniques through a federal COPS grant.

Johnson also offered an update on the community policing task force that council offered to convene last fall. He said that legislation to convene a task force consisting of citizens, council members, city employees and police representatives was pushed into the new year to make time for other legislative priorities. He said that council hopes to pass a task force resolution later this year, after council members have time to research different models and revise legislation.

Development and Inclusivity
Madsen, chair of the community and economic development committee, shared ideas to get more residents into the workforce. He said that Harrisburg has a 7 percent unemployment rate. The national unemployment rate stood at 4.1 percent in Dec. 2017, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Madsen hopes to start partnerships with Careerlink and the STEP program at HACC, training programs in which participants can learn interview skills, get assistance writing resumes and work with counselors to transition into full-time employment.

“A lot of our residents don’t know about these programs, but, if we can communicate and inform them, we can invest in our residents,” Madsen said.

Papenfuse also affirmed the city’s commitment to partnering with minority-owned businesses and women-owned businesses on publicly funded projects. He said that city hall maintains a list of local MBEs and WBEs and encouraged any small business owner to join the list by registering their enterprise with the city.

“We want to make sure all residents are part of Harrisburg’s growth,” Papenfuse said.

Growth
The panelists also discussed Harrisburg’s need to attract new residents from outside the city. Papenfuse pointed out that the city has half the population it did in the 1950s.

The mayor claimed that Harrisburg would not be able to sustain its development unless its population grows, and he took the opportunity to assuage fears about creeping gentrification in parts of the city.

“I understand the fear that newcomers will displace old residents, but I don’t think that’s happening in Harrisburg yet,” he said.

Papenfuse noted that some recent development projects in Midtown, such The Millworks restaurant or HMAC itself, revitalized vacant or abandoned properties. Those projects didn’t displace any residents or business owners, he said, but that might not always be the case.

“As the city continues to grow, we will see the redevelopment of buildings that are serving a purpose,” Papenfuse said. “We need to make sure we have affordable housing in all neighborhoods and work to ensure prosperity benefits everyone.”

Allatt added that central Pennsylvania needs to overcome its entrenched parochialism, which emerges locally in the perception that life-long Harrisburg residents resent newcomers.

“There’s a lot of resistance to working together as a region,” Allatt said.

More Art, Music: H*MAC gets state grant to help complete Midtown facility.

December 22, 2017 | by Lawrance Binda

H*MAC partner John Traynor stands on the restored balcony overlooking the Capitol Room.

A major Harrisburg arts venue is the big winner locally in the annual competition for state redevelopment funds.

The House of Music, Arts & Culture (H*MAC) will receive $1 million from the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP), a state program that provides grants for the acquisition and construction of projects deemed important for their cultural, economic, civic and historical significance.

John Traynor, a founding partner, said that the money will help H*MAC (formerly known as the Harrisburg Midtown Arts Center) complete the restoration of its building at N. 3^rd and Herr streets in Harrisburg.

“I’m very, very pleased,” he said. “This grant is more than a grant to us. It’s a stamp of approval to all the hard work that’s gone into finishing this project.”

A decade ago, Traynor and two partners bought the dilapidated building at 1110 N. 3rd St., formerly the home of the Harrisburg Jewish Community Center and, later, the Harrisburg Police Athletic League.

They initially built out a small performance space and bar on the lower level and opened it as Stage on Herr. They later completed a restaurant and larger bar, the Kitchen at H*MAC, on the main level and then a larger performance space on the upper level now called the Capitol Room.

Traynor said that the RACP grant will allow them to finish restoration of the 10,000-square-foot basement level, turning it into a music school, studio and production facility that he likens to a “School of Rock” concept. It also would permit H*MAC to build a semi-enclosed bar and restaurant area on the roof of the building and complete patio and façade improvements.

“We believe this will be the gem in the crown of Harrisburg, “ he said, adding that this next phase of work would proceed through 2018.

H*MAC received only about one-third of the $3.3 million it applied for, though few projects that are awarded funding receive the full amount. Traynor said that he believed the grant could be leveraged to give him access to additional funds so that the center would be functionally complete.

When H*MAC is finished, Traynor expects to employ more than 80 people, compared to about 30 currently, he said.

In Dauphin County, only two other projects were selected in this round of RACP funding.

Hershey Towne Square received $750,000 for a three-story parking garage. It had requested $2.5 million for the project.

The Salvation Army, Harrisburg Capital City Region, was given $500,000 for its new 39,000-square-foot facility at 29^th Street and Rudy Road. It had requested $4.5 million.

“It wasn’t our full request, but we’re very happy to receive this grant,” said Kathy Anderson-Martin, director of resource development.

The grant also may help the Salvation Army leverage other matching funds, she said, raising more money.

Anderson-Martin said her organization has raised about $8 million of a total construction cost of $11 to $12 million. This should allow them to break ground on the facility in the spring or summer of 2018. Already, the site has been cleared and most design work completed, she said.

In all, there were 10 applicants in Dauphin County in this round. The eight applicants denied funding so far are:

The City of Harrisburg, $14.3 million for a bridge over the railroad tracks at Division Street
Harrisburg City Islanders, $5 million for a new stadium in Lower Swatara Township
Harristown Enterprises, $3 million to construct a six-story building at 21 S. 2nd St. in Harrisburg
Christian Recovery Aftercare Ministries, $650,000 for renovation of its Uptown Harrisburg building
Tri-County Housing Development, $1 million for Hummel Street redevelopment
Mulberry Street Properties, $322,311 for Allison Hill revitalization
Hawthorne SPE, $5 million for its Progress and Linglestown Traditional Neighborhood District project in Susquehanna Township
Whitaker Center, $5.5 million for a major renovation of its building in downtown Harrisburg

In Cumberland County, the Carlisle Family YMCA was the only successful applicant among five total, receiving $1.5 million, half of its request, for an addition to its facility.

Projects denied funding in the initial round sometimes receive funding in a later round or reapply for the following year.

In all, the state funded 149 projects for almost $188 million in this round, compared to requests for 399 projects worth $1.7 billion.

Here Too: Yes, Harrisburg can have nice things.

November 30, 2017 | by Lawrance Binda

Illustration by Rich Hauck.

The whispers began well before the official opening last month.

Hmm . . . do you think Harrisburg will support this place? Can it survive here? Will it last longer than a month, a year?

It seemed too hip, too different—maybe even a little radical. Too—should I say it—nice? Sure, it might work in Philly or Pittsburgh or D.C., but certainly not here in dumpy old Harrisburg.

In this case, I’m talking about Provisions, the snug, urban-style grocery that opened its doors downtown in Strawberry Square. But it could equally apply to a bunch of other businesses that have started over the last decade.

A huge, independent bookstore on a forlorn block in Midtown? No way. A vast arts center in a dilapidated wreck of a building? Yeah, right. An upscale French bistro? Ha!

I refer to Midtown Scholar, H*MAC and Rubicon, respectively. But it could equally apply to so many other places that have opened in recent years: Little Amps (Harrisburg wants cheap coffee); the Millworks (too artsy, too pricey); Note Bistro (doomed location); Zeroday ($6 pints??); LUX, Union Lofts, Flats at Strawberry Square (too big-city, too expensive).

All have proven the haters and trolls wrong. They are still in business. Most are thriving.

The armchair critics also roared over the new Harrisburg Bike Share. But it had about 500 sign-ups in its first month in operation, according to sponsor Communities in Schools PA. The sturdy white bikes with the front baskets are now a common sight along the riverfront and City Island. Chalk up another success.

Therefore, I’m calling time on “old Harrisburg.” This is the Harrisburg with little more to offer its residents than cut-rate goods, unhealthy food and substandard housing. This is the Harrisburg owned by people who flee each night to the suburbs, snug in subdivisions where their blighted buildings and dangerous bars would never be tolerated. This is the Harrisburg with an inferiority complex, where anyone hoping for better is shouted down as an outsider or an idiot.

Of course, I realize that change, as is its nature, is distributed unevenly across the city, with some neighborhoods progressing and others not. But we need to realize—simply because it’s a fact—that Harrisburg’s economy has changed. Over the past decade, it’s deepened and diversified, and it should no longer surprise anyone that the city can support nicer and, yes, sometimes more expensive goods and services.

A couple of years ago, a friend told me that he was thinking about opening a business and asked me what I thought. My advice was this—go higher end. By higher end, I didn’t mean Gucci or Givenchy. I meant “mass market nice,” something a notch or two better than conventional wisdom in this town seemed to believe would work.

I reached this conclusion not based on my own personal likes or aspirations, but by looking around at what was already succeeding: Café Fresco, Stage on Herr, Suba, Cork & Fork, Federal Taphouse. “Something better” seemed to be where the market was moving in Harrisburg. I told him that that’s what we did with TheBurg—and it worked for us, too.

In contrast, you know what’s not working? People who treat the city like it’s still old, ramshackle Harrisburg, who seem stuck in the past. In the decade I’ve been here, countless convenience stores, cell phone resellers and used goods shops have opened and closed just along 3rd Street in Midtown. It simply doesn’t seem to be a successful business strategy any longer.

I also urged my friend to heed what I call the “three C’s” of success: capitalization, competence and commitment. As a small business owner and enthusiast, I’ve seen even good ideas flop due to owner malpractice. I told him that, if he chose to open a store, he had to ensure that he was well capitalized, deeply understood his product and business and was willing to work 12-hour days (he wasn’t and didn’t).

So, here’s to Provisions, Harrisburg’s newest small business. It’s a little funky, a little urban, a little fun. And it offers a completely different, superior food-shopping experience for anyone accustomed to the numbing, cold sterility of the suburban supermarket. May it have a long, long life!

Lawrance Binda is editor in chief of TheBurg.

Musical Notes: Musical Resolutions–End the year without ending your wallet.

November 30, 2017 | by Kait Gibboney

Amidst the snowy days and holiday prep, it’s that time again to contemplate New Year’s resolutions. One thing that’s on my mind for next year is better money management, especially when it comes to a night out in Harrisburg. To help you make your own list and check it twice, I’ve highlighted shows this month that are all under $20. It is possible to save some money for the holidays while still seeing quality shows around the city, and we’ve got your hookup for a fun winter. Have a wonderful and safe holiday season, stay thrifty, and I’ll see y’all in the new year!

DON’T SLEEP, 12/1, 6:30PM, H*MAC STAGE ON HERR, $8-10
We’re kicking off the column this month with some Harrisburg natives with a taste for high-octane performances. Don’t Sleep is a hardcore band featuring frontman Dave Smalley, former singer of Dag Nasty, Down by Law, ALL and DYS. Other members of the band, guitarist Tom McGrath, drummer Jim Bedorf, bassist Garrett Rothman and guitarist Tony Bavaria have played with groups such as Very Americans, The Commercials and Junction. Talented and passionate, Don’t Sleep stays humble, defining themselves as “five friends playing hardcore and trying to make a positive impact on the world.” If you haven’t been through a hardcore phase, these guys are sure to get you hooked. The band is celebrating their new record release at H*MAC featuring performances by Steel Nation, Tonka Tuff and Bitter Taste.

R. ARIEL, 12/2, 7PM, LITTLE AMPS UPTOWN, $5
Coming to you through Harrisburg’s DIY scene, Phoenix, Ariz., native R. Ariel will play at Little Amps for a special show in the Olde Uptown neighborhood. Rachel Ariel is a self-described experimental electronic femme artist currently touring North America. She is also known for her work as a photographer, videographer and author. Her creative energy, soulful lyrics and dreamy instrumentals are sure to create a cozy evening of heartfelt musical expression. Joining her are Kafari from Portland, Maine, and Weird Year, a favorite local band from here in the city. Catch R. Ariel’s album, “Identified Demon,” on Bandcamp before the show. I like the song, “Her,” for the minimal sound and soulful lyrics.

MIDDLETON BROTHERS BAND, 12/15, 9PM, RIVER CITY BLUES CLUB, $5-8
Rounding out the featured shows this month is a bona fide family band bringing back rock n’ roll. The Middleton Brothers started out in the ‘70s when Stan and Charlie Middleton, two teenaged brothers, decided to start a group together. Going by many names and consisting of different members throughout the years, the Middleton Brothers added Stan’s two sons to the group, living the dream as a rockin’ family band. The sound of the ‘60s has been rich in the Middleton Brothers’ repertoire since the brothers started, and it is still going strong. Drawing influences from their rock n’ roll roots, funk and R&B, the group brings their soulful yet accessible vibe for a groovy time. Find live tracks on their website for a sample of their feel-good, classic sound.

Mentionables:

Benjamin Vo Blues Band, Dec. 1, River City Blues Club
John Brown’s Body, Dec. 2, The Abbey Bar
Ben Brandt Trio, Dec. 8, River City Blues Club
Start Making Sense: Talking Heads Tribute, Dec. 15, The Abbey Bar
Kilmaine Saints, Dec. 16, H*MAC Stage on Herr
Colebrook Road, Dec. 22, The Abbey Bar

Musical Notes: November Jumble–this month, something for every ear.

October 31, 2017 | by Kait Gibboney

Well, we’re nearing the close of another crazy year. The end of fall is near and, as Jon Snow would say, winter is coming. November’s my birth month, and I’ve always loved fall, so it’s a special time of the year to me.

This month, venues across Harrisburg will host some equally special shows for you to enjoy. This month’s featured shows are a few that I’m pretty excited about. Some pysch rock, some indie rock and some post punk top my list, but be sure to check out the chamber music, festivals and local shows also going on around town. Happy birthday to my fellow November-born readers—and happy listening.

BIRDS, 11/6, 7PM, LITTLE AMPS DOWNTOWN, $5
About a year ago, I saw Birds play a show at Zeroday with a few local bands, so trust me when I say that these dudes are cool enough to see twice. The Brooklyn-based band is a self-described “psychedelic weird pop” group consisting of guitarist/vocalist Duane Lauginiger, drummer Tim Plunkett, guitarist Jess Rees and bassist/vocalist Jessica Reynoza. If you’re a sucker for some energetic psych rock with spacey guitars and dreamy vocals, don’t miss out on this show. Joining them at downtown Little Amps is fellow Brooklyn band Stuyedeyed, specializing in their own brand of “sike garbage spunk” and local beach boys Concrete Beach, bringing you some surfy garage rock. Check out Birds’ latest album, “Running Water,” on Bandcamp if you want a sneak preview. “Coming Up” is definitely worth a listen.

THE DISTRICTS, 11/18, 7PM, H*MAC CAPITOL ROOM, $20-25
There’s definitely a lot of hype around the city for this show. That’s probably because these Litiz natives have perfected their shoegaze-inspired indie sound throughout their relatively new career. The Districts was started by vocalist/guitarist Rob Grote, bassist Connor Jacobus and drummer Braden Lawrence while they were high-schoolers. After working the local scene, they released their debut, “Telephone,” in 2012 and worked with producer John Congleton, known for his work with acts such as St. Vincent and Kurt Vile. After writing extensively and experimenting with their sound, the Districts have achieved quite the reputation with their newest album, “Popular Manipulations.” Check it out if you get the chance, or check out my favorite album of theirs, “A Flourish and a Spoil.” I get the feeling that this show’s gonna sell out fast, so get your tickets while you can!

RADIAN, 11/27, 7PM, DER MAENNERCHOR, $8
I love a good show at Der Maennerchor, and, luckily, we’ve got a powerful performance coming our way. Near the end of the month, Harrisburg’s art group, Moviate, is hosting Radian, a post-rock/post-punk band from Austria. Moviate is all about bringing unique music and art to Harrisburg, and this group is no exception. Radian is comprised of Martin Brandlmayr on drums and electronics, John Norman on bass and Martin Slewert on guitars, lapsteel and electronics. Together, they create a dynamic electronic experience that you have to hear to understand. They have been reviewed by The Wire and BBC, and called “…a band with impressively original density and texture” by Will Montgomery, a writer for The New York Times. If you want a taste, look up the video for their song “Transistor” for the full art punk experience.

Mentionables
RAQ, Nov. 2, The Abbey Bar
A Night of Chamber Music, Nov. 3, H*MAC Capitol Room
Steven Courtney Band, Nov. 11, River City Blues Club
PennsylMania Music Fest, Nov. 11, H*MAC Capitol Room
Country Music Festival, Nov. 11 & 12, Spring Gate Vineyard
Crystal Haze, Nov. 18, River City Blues Club
Consider the Source, Nov. 30, The Abbey Bar

Chamber Made: Sempre Dolce reimagines traditional chamber music.

October 31, 2017 | by Gillian Branstetter

“Are you familiar with Nirvana?” asks Mary Gardner-Firestone, one of two violists in Sempre Dolce.

The quartet—Gardner-Firestone, fellow violist Marie Valigorsky, violinist Greg Glessner and cellist Matt Masek, with guest violinist Sjrsten Siegfried—is rehearsing on a Tuesday evening amid the gymnasium-style Capitol Room of the Harrisburg Midtown Arts Center (H*MAC).

Glessner closes his eyes while trying to identify one of the most famous rock bands of all time.

“I’ve heard the name.”

Glessner, raised on classical music, has only a passing familiarity with the musical culture most others could not avoid if they tried.

“The only pop culture I’m in tune with is old TV shows,” says Glessner, citing “The A-Team” and “ALF” as favorites.

With a prompt from Gardner-Firestone, Glessner lifts his instrument to his chin and sprints into a lively version of “The A-Team’s” signature theme song.

“Well, I think you’ll like this one,” says Gardner-Firestone before passing over sheet music for her own arrangement of “Smells Like Teen Spirit.”

A regular feature at the MakeSpace, Sempre Dolce will have its third performance of chamber music at H*MAC early this month, featuring a combination of original pieces by Valigorsky, arrangements by Gardner-Firestone and selections from a range of canonized composers such as Philip Glass and Johannes Brahms. Largely an invention of Valigorsky, the group is a product of an underground classical music scene kept alive by challenging where classical music does and does not fit.

Arrangements of contemporary works have become a centerpiece of Sempre Dolce’s performances, with Gardner-Firestone shifting the band AWOLNATION, the “Game of Thrones” theme by Damon Djawadi, and the White Stripes into classical notation. Upon seeing “Seven Nation Army” in the set list, cellist Massek bemoans, “Not this one—the Ravens song? They play it at Ravens games all the time.”

It’s a tactic the violist is used to for introducing newbies to the sounds and themes of classical music. Gardner-Firestone regularly creates arrangements on request for a variety of private students—ranging in age from “5 to old enough to be my grandparents”—when she’s not playing for Sempre Dolce.

Early Starts
The group began from a chance meeting between Gardner-Firestone and Valigorsky in 2015 when the latter attended a performance by the former at the MakeSpace in Harrisburg.

“I’ve been playing chamber music and forming groups since graduate school,” said Valigorsky. “It started small but really grew as we went along.”

Gardner-Firestone introduced Valigorsky to Glessner, whom she had met through a private chamber music group hosted by Camp Hill bassoonist Jan Jekel.

Glessner, like most members of Sempre Dolce, began playing as a child. After nursing a jealousy towards an older brother who began piano, Glessner sought out the violin by age 6.

“They so wanted it to be piano,” Glessner said of his parents. “We already had a piano, we already had a teacher. But no, it had to be the violin. From there, I took it up quite naturally.”

Valigorsky introduced the pair to Matt Masek, with whom she had an existing musical relationship. Masek stands out among the group for his experience in the rock band Shadow Scream.

“We actually put out three albums,” said Masek. “The last album was based on Madeleine L’Engle’s ‘A Wrinkle In Time.’”

After the band went bust, Masek began playing for Valigorsky and her original compositions at the MakeSpace.

New to the November performance is violinist Sjrsten Siegfried, whom Valigorsky met through the West Shore Symphony Orchestra.

“My mom started me on the fiddle when I was 5,” Siegfried said. “My first instrument was built my by great grandfather. I went to university on a scholarship and was paid to play for a while.”

The casual setting of H*MAC is nothing knew to Siegfried, who played violin in bars while studying abroad in Beijing.

“They really liked when I played George Michael’s ‘Careless Whisper.’ They liked when I ripped into it like a saxophone.”

The group’s inclusion in H*MAC’s fall lineup (which includes a reunion of punk legends The Dead Boys, a My Chemical Romance tribute band, and the venue’s annual “The Rocky Horror Show” production) might seem strange to some, but not to co-owner John Traynor.

“A lot of people don’t understand exactly what H*MAC really is,” said Traynor. “When we first announced H*MAC as a project back in 2009, it was always to be multi-faceted. We do theater. We do rock. We do classical.”

Traynor cites a joint project with Elizabethtown College to bring opera to H*MAC as well as last year’s performance of the Broadway show and classic rock masterpiece, “Tommy.”

“Partnering with chamber music and classical music is just an extension of all of that,” he said. “The goal is really to offer something to everyone in the community and not just have one genre in our focus.”

In Touch
For most members of Sempre Dolce, working as classical musicians in central Pennsylvania mostly means hunting for the rare opportunity to play with others, thereby raising the complexity of music they can pursue.

“It’s meditative by yourself and that’s great,” said Siegfried. “But there’s just something about making music with other people. It’s like conversation with instruments.”

The connections of private groups, public symphonies and live bands that brought together Sempre Dolce is emblematic of the links that keep the genre alive and well in the midstate.

“It’s mainly through finding a group and networking through there,” said Glessner. “I feel like it’s kind of an underground network of sorts.”

Classical musicians are hidden throughout public life, Masek added.

“The flipside is, for the members of this group, there are fantastic players out there who are probably sitting at home—doctors, lawyers, engineers—who can play these instruments like crazy but haven’t touched them in years,” he said.

“Families know families,” said Gardner-Firestone. “And just staying in touch with people helps.”

Sempre Dolce performs Nov. 3 at the Harrisburg Midtown Arts Center, 1110 N. 3rd St., Harrisburg. For more information, visit www.harrisburgarts.com.

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