Masters’ Back Porch Chautauqua August 2024

Wild Columbine plays parlor music from the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries. Drawing on Celtic, English, and American traditions, the quartet performs the history of early American music, both entertaining and educating audiences on the roots of our national songbook. Members include Sally McDaniel-Smith, Emily Wheeler, Megan Turner Thornberry, and William “Bill” Furry, all residents of the Springfield area, whose passion for local history is reflected in their music. Audiences will enjoy the sounds of traditional tunes played on the guitar, violin, mandolin, flute, and more and get a glimpse into the music Masters would have heard in his youth in central Illinois.

Do you have what it takes to write poetry like Petersburg’s bard? If you do, join the Back Porch Chautauqua for this public performance and show off your poetic talents!

Following the performance by Wild Columbine, the Back Porch Chautauqua will be hosting a Poetry Open Mic, which invites members of the community to perform short, original or cover works before a listening audience.

Family-friendly performances should be 3-5 minutes to assure equal time for all performers.

Register for the poetry open mic in advance at elmmemorialmuseum@gmail.com by August 15th. Walk-ins welcome, time permitting.

Please Note: all of the Masters on the Back Porch Chautauqua performances will take place on the 2nd floor of 1st & 3rd Boutique and Wine Bar, which does not have an elevator.