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Good morning! Merry Christmas, everyone! (And a belated Happy Hanukkah!) I'm sitting on my couch with Princess Jasmine and Oliver (my two feline roommates) and reflecting on this day that is so important for so many people... I've long ago realized that growing up Jewish in Louisiana made religion a more prevalent part of my being than it otherwise might have been. Religion made me a minority, but it also gave me a community and a distinct sense of self. Regardless of belief system, I'll always feel Jewish, and I'll always be thankful to have that firmly rooted cultural identity. So, when I think about what else makes me feel 'like myself,' I immediately envision my childhood house filled with art, music, and love. I remember the summertime trips to Vermont, and I feel a sense of urgency to create. I realize now that the Pikes Falls Chamber Music Festival was born out of those aspects of my upbringing. I hope that I've helped to create an environment filled with art of all kinds; I hope new friendships have blossomed, and old acquaintances are renewed; most importantly, I hope inspiration and love fill my favorite place in the world, Jamaica, VT.  Playing "The Seagull and the Star" at the Latchis Theater in Brattleboro last summer This is all to say... PFCM is moving into our 7th Season! As always, I'm grateful and honored that this festival has been successfully funded each year. I'll be updating the website with 2018 Personnel, Concerts, Events, and Repertoire over the next couple of weeks. As you might have noticed, this is the first fundraiser for this year. I skipped Giving Tuesday because I felt inundated with requests from other worthy non-profits and thought PFCM's request wouldn't be effective or appreciated. But, 2017 is winding to a close and I would be remiss to not remind everyone that we need your help. We currently have about $8000 raised out of our $24,000 budget; our goal is to be at the halfway mark by the end of the year... a lofty request, I know, but I hope that as you finalize your year-end donations, you'll consider PFCM for a tax deductible gift. (If you prefer snail mail, the address is below.) As you'll notice, I included a progress thermometer on the donation site; I'll update it daily. Regardless of whether you feel you can contribute right now, I hope you have a wonderful holiday season. I'm looking forward to the extra few minutes of sunlight each day, and eventually, another wonderful summer of music and art.  Comments are closed.
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