concert

a concert in the park

in

We were already planning to attend The Ballroom Thieves' concert at Prescott Park in Portsmouth, NH, having known the band for almost five years now and seeing them perform at least annually, as well as photographing them. So when I let them know that we were looking forward to attending, they invited me backstage after the soundcheck to hang out and photograph. (I had my small camera kit with me, fortunately.)

The situation became even more exciting when they mentioned that Gentle Temper, the opening band (one of whose members is a sibling to a Thief), needed a photographer for their show. Their manager (whom I also know) and I quickly made logistical arrangements, and we were set.

The evening couldn't have been better, with perfect weather, great seats, wonderful music, and even some artmaking.

(Two galleries below: first, Gentle Temper; second, The Ballroom Thieves.)

a house concert

in ,

I met The Hickory Horned Devils last year when I hosted a performance at Amoskeag Studio; since then, I've also gotten to know most of the band members. So when we were invited to a house concert (hosted by their lead singer, Jen) with other friends and family, we gladly accepted. Located on a hill in Pembroke, their property has a tremendous view and overlooks Concord (we could see the state capitol building miles away).

From the porch, the band performed three sets throughtout the evening before guests with chairs and blankets. The potluck was varied and plentiful, along with the grill and beverages. Dozens of children wandered and played in the yard. Adults strolled in the field past the stone wall. We visited with friends we didn't expect to see there. The band finished at dusk, and we lingered for a couple hours more while our children eeked out as much time in a new house with new friends as they could.

I didn't have a plan for photographing. I relaxed and ate (and drank) first while listening to the music and waiting for the light to improve. The resulting work is an eclectic collection of the day: friends lounging, musicians performing, corn and grass growing, suns setting. They do not convey the high spiritedness of the music, the sounds of conversation and laughter, the smells and tastes of the food, the serenity of a location felt in the midst of dozens of other people. They are moments, scenes worked over (with many failed attempts), and an opportunity to create something different and new.