As a relatively new member and contributor to Art For Progress I wanted to take this opportunity to explain what drew me to the organization and what it has meant to me over the past year and a half. I also, wanted to congratulate all of those who have helped the organization to serve the local community for 10 years. That is truly an amazing feat! As we look ahead to the second half of the summer, I thought it might also be a good idea to give a little preview of what to expect for the rest of the summer from our local music scene in NYC.

Firstly, any great organization is made up of great people and I realized early on that AFP was no exception. The dedication of the teachers and volunteers was evident from the first event I attended and has not waned since.  This first event was a workshop at the gallery of an AFP artist called NOoSPHERE ARTS. The workshop was aimed at introducing young children from the LES to music, art and photography. At one point in the day two young kids started making music, one on the cowbell and one on the keyboard. It was at this moment that I truly understood the impact of what AFP was doing and the passion of the teachers who dedicate their time to this organization.

AFP is a true grassroots effort and that was one of the things that attracted me to it. This past fall and winter we organized a monthly live music event called “Homegrown,” that featured local acts from the NYC area, ten in total. The quality of the music was a testament to the amazing music scene we have in this city. This was one of my first forays into event organization and it was a really positive experience; one that makes me look forward to many more years of supporting NYC artists.

Below is a short calendar of shows that will be worth catching over the next two months. Thanks for reading!

July:

7/7/14:  Glass Animals @ Mercury Lounge – Their song Pyslla has quickly become one of my favorites. This will be a great chance to catch them before they step up to larger rooms.

7/16/14:  Flume @ Terminal 5 – One of three shows they are playing at Terminal 5. I am still enjoying his 2012 self-titled album.

7/24/14:  Sun Kil Moon @ Town Hall – Playing in support of their 6^th studio album. I have never seen them, but I have heard lead singer and guitarist, Mark Kozelek, puts on a great show.

7/28/14:  Born Cages @ Mercury Lounge

7/29/14:  Conor Oberst w/ special guest Dawes @ SummerStage

August:

8/14/14:  The Midnight Hallow @ Mercury Lounge

8/20/14:  Frances Cone & The Novel Ideas @ Knitting Factory

8/23/14:  Ski Lodge @ Glasslands

-Peter Trombino