American Mural Project hosts Make Music Day events

WINSTED — The American Mural Project is hosting its summer donor event on Friday in conjunction with Make Music Day, a live, open-air, free day of music celebrated around the world on the summer solstice. AMP is one of the locations in Northwest Connecticut that will be hosting several performers.

Many local musicians will play outside of the American Mural Project and Whiting Mills from 4 to 9 p.m. From original and experimental pop to jazz and a community singalong, the lineup includes:

4 to 4:30 p.m. MJK Orbit, a young duo performing originals with guitar and vocals

4:30 to 5 p.m. Ryan Rivera, cool synthesizer experimental pop

5 to 6 p.m. Doug Mahard, singer/songwriter on guitar

6 to 7 p.m. Community sing-along with AMP’s Michelle Begley

7 to 8 p.m. Thomasina Levy, singer/songwriter/ composer on hammer dulcimer

8 to 9 p.m. The TJ Thompson Trio, jazz

The MC throughout the afternoon and evening is Jess Cain, vocal jazz and DJ.

AMP’s donor event from 5 to 7 p.m. takes place inside the newly renovated building at 74 Whiting St., Winsted, where visitors will see the mural installation progress, meet other AMP supporters, enjoy drinks and light fare from Hunny Bunns Bakery and Tulmeadow Farm, and listen to music both inside and outside the mill. Founder and Artistic Director Ellen Griesedieck will speak about the future of AMP, including updates on

More than 1,500 students have benefited from AMP’s programs in the last year.

the mural installation and education programs. Supporters can contribute online or via mail prior to the event or at the door.

Donations support the development of AMP’s education programming, including after-school enrichment programs, onand off-site school programs, summer camps, and internships for high school and college students. More than 1,500 students have benefited from AMP’s programs in the last year, and additional funding will allow AMP to meet increased demand in the local community and beyond.

“June 21 at AMP will be a whole new experience for our patrons and a wonderful introduction for those who are new to and curious about AMP. The scale of the project will be clear when guests see the first six mammoth painted panels that have just been installed,” said Amy Wynn, executive director. “Make Music Day at AMP that same evening adds to this opportunity to thank current donors and welcome new supporters.”

Contributed photo Make Music Day is being held all across Connecticut and internationally on Friday. People of all ages and cultures are encouraged to make and listen to music today.