Explore the distinct cultural identities of gospel, country, blues and other forms of American roots music by visiting the New Harmonies traveling exhibit at the Smithville Mansion Annex Gallery Open daily from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., June 13 to July 26. Admission is free.
The gallery in Historic Smithville Park in Eastampton will be one of only six sites in the state selected to host the exhibit. Sponsored by the New Jersey Council on the Humanities, the New Harmonies exhibit depicts the story of a nation through the music of its people with photographs, recordings, instruments, lyrics and artist profiles. In addition, artwork by Lady Bird Strickland of Willingboro and photographs by Alonzo Jennings of Moorestown will be showcased.
While the exhibit remains on display at Smithville, the County will also offer a variety of special programming designed to complement the roots music theme, including free live concerts in the park on select Sundays, a “Friday Night Soiree,” and an “Old Fashioned Sock Hop.”
The schedule includes:
Burlington County Earth Fair on Saturday, June 18 — Visit the New Harmonies Exhibit while attending the annual fair that will be held at Historic Smithville Park from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., rain or shine, free admission.
Sunday Summer Concerts at 2 and 3 p.m. –
June 26 — The Capitol City Gospel Singers, a multi-denominational gospel group performing sacred songs and spirituals.
July 3 — Singer/songwriter Spook Handy performing “Stand Up & Sing Out” folk music.
July 10 — County blues with John Golgan-Davis accompanied by guitarist Richard Ray Adler.
July 17 — Zydeco-a-Go-Go performing Zydeco, Cajun and New Orleans rhythm and blues, preceded by a special performance of Celtic maritime music by Charlie Zahm beginning at 12:30 p.m.
July 24 — Nationally-known storyteller Queen Nur along with Dwight James and Sarai Abdul-Malik presenting “Holla’, Shout and Turnabout.”
Friday Night Soiree on Friday, July 8 at 7 p.m. — The organization Keepers of the Culture will present an evening geared specifically for the grown-ups, including storytelling, music, poetry and more in the gallery.
Old Fashioned Sock Hop on Saturday, July 23 from 7 to 10 p.m. — Come to the park and dance the night away to those old 45s. The cost is $5 per person for this BYOP (Bring Your Own Party — food, friends and beverage) event. Space is limited. For reservations, call 609–265–5858.
Volunteer docents are needed to help keep the New Harmonies exhibit open seven days a week. Advance training and guidebooks will be provided.
For more information, call 609–265–5858.