Prepare for an unforgettable weekend of music, magic, and romance at the Mt. Gretna Playhouse as Gretna Music unveils a dynamic lineup of performances for July 7-9.
From the stirring rhythms of a jazz sextet and the high-flying stunts of circus performers, to the soothing, melodic touch of a world-class pianist, this weekend at Mt. Gretna promises to leave attendees inspired and delighted.
Friday, July 7
Jazz trumpeter brings sextet to the Mt. Gretna Playhouse
Gretna Music and Central PA Friends of Jazz presents Jazz trumpeter Etienne Charles and his sextet on Friday, July 7 at 7:30 pm, at the Mt. Gretna Playhouse, 200 Pennsylvania Avenue, Mt. Gretna PA. Trinidad born Etienne Charles is a performer, composer and storyteller, who is continuously searching for untold stories and sounds with which to tell them. He uses his unique sound to engage, enlighten, educate and enrich audiences with energized performances while wearing the snazziest of outfits. A firm believer in music and performance as a tool for provoking thought and dialogue, Etienne Charles speaks with a thoroughly contemporary voice while drawing parallels to history.
Doors will open at 6:30 p.m. and there is a First Listen performance at 6:45 p.m. Our First Listen program features local talented youth in free mini-concerts before our mainstage concerts. The Luca Savarino Quartet will perform.
Saturday, July 8
Awesome Family Fun to Support Local Fire Company
Bindlestiff Cirkus Event to Raise Funds to Help Purchase Fire Truck
Bindlestiff Family Cirkus will take the Gretna stage for one performance only on Saturday, July 8 at 7:00 pm. Known as “The Other Greatest Show on Earth,” this exciting family show is the perfect way to conclude your holiday week. As an added bonus, a portion of the ticket revenue will be donated to the Mt. Gretna Fire Department – Station 38 for the purchase of a new fire truck!
Spectacular magic and acrobatics dazzle in this thrilling show that features performers spinning, swooping and whirling in a variety of acts that will captivate the entire family.
And thanks to the generous support of the Mim Enck Charitable Foundation, ticket prices have been reduced for this event and are only $15 and $20!
Sunday, July 9
Pianist Natasha Paremski makes her Gretna Music debut
Gretna Music presents pianist Natasha Paremski on Sunday, July 9 at 7:30 pm
Russian born American pianist, Natasha Paremski, began her piano studies at the age of four at Moscow’s Andreyev School of Music.
At the age of fifteen, Natasha debuted with Los Angeles Philharmonic and recorded two discs with Moscow Philharmonic Orchestra. Known for dynamic performances. she wins over audiences with her powerful, flawless technique. Her Gretna Music debut will feature a Romantic program with pieces by Chopin, Ades, and more. Natasha was last seen in central PA in February as the featured artist with Harrisburg Symphony.
Natasha was gracious enough to answer some questions for us so we can learn a little more about her and her program:
5 Questions with Natasha Paremski
1. How would you describe your upcoming Gretna Music concert for someone who’s never seen or heard you before?
Natasha: As with all concert experiences, I hope this music brings a sense of escape and catharsis. I designed this program to slowly build and showcase the many colors and textures of the piano.
2. What is the most unique or memorable place at which you’ve performed?
Natasha: In the Alaskan “bush”. I played Brahms 3rd sonata on an electronic keyboard, and despite the obvious limitations of the instrument, it was one of the most rewarding experiences for me artistically. There are many villages in Alaska that have limited-to-no access to live music and the energy emulating from the audience was something I will never forget.
3. If you could collaborate with any artist, living or dead, who would it be and why?
Natasha: I would love to do a music/food/wine pairing with Gordon Ramsay . I’m a huge fan of his. He has made cooking accessible to all, yet when you visit any of his restaurants, there is so much nuance in his approach to food with a humble simplicity which I resonate with in my approach to interpretation.
4. What’s on your playlist when you listen to music?
Natasha: Silence.
5. The Jigger Shop ice cream shop is a Mt. Gretna institution. What ice cream treat would you order from their menu?
Natasha: Anything with salted caramel!
Doors will open at 6:30 p.m. and there is a First Listen performance at 6:45 p.m. Our First Listen program features local talented youth in free mini-concerts before our mainstage concerts. Violinist Daniel Huang will perform.
All performances are at the Mt. Gretna Playhouse, 200 Pennsylvania Avenue, Mt. Gretna PA. The pavilion-style Mt. Gretna Playhouse offers remarkable acoustics. It is open on the sides for summer breezes, allowing the occasional birds and cicadas to join in while the musicians play. Seating area is covered, as is the stage.
For tickets and more info, call 717-361-1508 or visit gretnamusic.org. Tickets are on sale now.
