Harmony Hall’s South Salon was rejuvenated on Saturday, May 20th by the magical Arias & Art Songs 2023 “The Music of Spring” concert produced by Carolynn Whitford. For one night, the essence of Carnegie Hall was brought to Sloatsburg. The South Salon was brought to life as it was intended when Jacob Sloat built his mansion with live music in mind. In the 1840s, guests were entertained in the South Salon without the benefits of electronic enhancements. The room, which was structured to be acoustically glorious, was evident when soprano Carolynn Whitford and baritone Dan Cohen accompanied by pianist Tom Hoetzl took the stage. The audience was dazzled by their performance.
The sold-out concert welcomed many first-time visitors to Harmony Hall who fell in love with the mansion as did Carolynn Whitford the first time she saw it. Carolynn approached the Friends of Harmony Hall late last year asking if she could perform in the spring. She and the other musicians graciously donated the total proceeds from the concert including their talent, staff, and reception delicacies to the Friends of Harmony Hall’s “Not Just a Front Porch” Campaign to raise money to restore the front veranda. The veranda is in dire need of restoration. The Friends are actively seeking donations so they may be able to apply for matching grant opportunities.
“We were blessed to have Carolynn produce and organize such a successful event on behalf of the Friends of Harmony Hall,” said President of the Board of Trustees Andrea LaMantia, “I felt like I was a guest in my own home!”
Carolynn and Dan have expressed their desire to return for more events. For a listing of our events, see www.fohh.org.