Music series to help Columns Museum recover from winter damage

MILFORD — The Pike County Historical Society has had a rough winter, which included pipes bursting and water damage at the Columns Museum. Several musicians have rallied to help get the society back on track while offering top-notch performances to the public.
The historical society's "Sunday Soirees" begin at 5 p.m. on three consecutive Sundays, March, 11, 18, and 25, at the Columns Museum, 608 Broad St., Milford. The $30 admission cost includes wine and cheese and the cover charge. To attend all three shows, ask for a "season pass" at a discounted price of $75.
The music sponsor is Milford Presents. Local businesses — Fretta's, Hotel Fauchere and The Waterwheel — are supplying the cheese to accompany wine supplied by the Pike County Historical Society's board of trustees.
"So, why not enjoy a night out of New York City caliber right in your own backyard and help a good cause?" says the invitation.
The lineup Sunday, March 11, at 5 p.m. — Martha Lorin, accompanied by John Cook on the piano. Martha Lorin is a true gem among modern jazz vocalists. Her styling, phrasing, intonation and sense of swing all show she’s truly among the crème-de-la-crème of jazz singers today. Her wonderfully warm contralto, which she wields effortlessly, is where her craft comes in.
Sunday, March 18, at 5 p.m. — Ronny Whyte piano, vocals Boots Maleson, bass Sean Harkness, guitar. Ronny Whyte is considered a premiere interpreter of the classic American Popular Song, an outstanding jazz pianist, and a successful songwriter. He was featured on Marian McPartland’s Piano Jazz on NPR. An ASCAP Award-winning songwriter, his lyric "Forget the Woman" was recorded by Tony Bennett, and his music for The Party Upstairs won the MAC Award for Best Song of 2006. He produces and hosts Midday Jazz Midtown at Saint Peter’s in Manhattan, a weekly concert series.
Sunday March 25, at 5 p.m. — Patricia Durante's World War II tribute, "We'll Meet Again," with Deborah Martin, piano. The multi-talented Patricia Durante has put together a show consisting of the songs of World War II. She engages the audience and puts the songs in their historical context. Actress and songstress, she has an impressive resume and repertoire. Audience participation is encouraged.
For more information call 570-296-8126 or email pikemuse@ptd.net.