The canal is open for navigation. Soon (fingers crossed), the Brockport Main Street bridge will reopen, and a new, sweeping pedestrian bridge will kick-start a new chapter of adventures in the village. To celebrate, get ready to dive into an afternoon of music that’s sure to float your boat. Both divisions of The Erie Canal Ringers – The Red Door Ringers and The Heavy Metal Ringers – will present a free community concert, The Erie Canal Ringers Ring the Erie Canal, on Saturday, May 31, 4 p.m., at St. Luke’s Church, 14 State Street, Brockport.
With conductor Elaine Holt, this one-time-only performance will offer a buoyant blend of songs celebrating water, history, and adventure. Audiences will drift through stirring songs like “The Water is Wide,” “Toccata for a Joyous Day,” and “Let the River Run,” arranged by bell choir member Gretchen Spittler.
The concert also features tenor Ben Monacelli, whose soaring vocals will grace such selections as “The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald,” a cheery tune recounting a tragic maritime disaster – because nothing says “light entertainment” like a ballad about a doomed freighter. There’s also the ever-popular “Erie Canal Song,” where audience participation is encouraged.
There will be whimsy – “Puff the Magic Dragon” makes an appearance, as does the swashbuckling “Pirates of the Caribbean,” for those who enjoy a little cinematic drama with their bells.
Bring your friends and your love of all things nautical and musical. Whether you’re a seasoned canal cruiser or simply testing the waters, this concert is sure to buoy your spirits.
Admission is free, but donations will be gratefully accepted to support the St. Luke’s Music Fund – helping keep the music flowing for years to come. Non-perishable food donations will be gratefully accepted for the Brockport Ecumenical Food Shelf.
Provided information and photos
