News Summary
The Kerrytown Concert House in Ann Arbor, Michigan, has undergone a remarkable transformation from a single-family home to a vibrant cultural venue. Initially threatened with demolition, community advocacy helped restore this historic property, allowing it to flourish as a key player in the local arts scene. With a rich calendar of events and a commitment to inclusivity, KCH now serves as both a concert venue and a community space, showcasing diverse musical genres and supporting artistic expression in the region.
Revitalizing History: The Transformation of Kerrytown Concert House
Right in the heart of Ann Arbor, Michigan, there’s an exciting tale of renovation and community spirit blooming at the Kerrytown Concert House (KCH). Built as a single-family home well before 1860, this spot has blossomed into a cultural treasure since its establishment in 1984 by Deanna Relyea. What began as a dream has blossomed into a critical piece of the local arts fabric.
A New Beginning
Picture this: Carl Brauer, the original owner, had thoughts of demolishing the historic property to make way for parking. But just when the walls of this historic building seemed to be closing in, the community raised its voice against the demolition. This unexpected resistance prompted Brauer to reconsider his plans and instead embark on a restoration journey that sparked the inception of KCH.
Relyea envisioned a lively space meant for artistic teaching, yet the enchanting aura of the house nudged her to create a cozy concert venue instead. Thus, the doors of KCH swung open, inviting music aficionados from every corner to relish intimate performances within its charming L-shaped concert hall.
Cultural Hub of Creativity
One of the venue’s crown jewels is its breathtaking German Steinway piano, which has become a magnet for talented musicians worldwide. KCH stands as a beacon of magnificent music that welcomes an array of genres, from classical to jazz and cabaret. The busy events calendar not only showcases musical talents but is also committed to fostering community engagement through the arts.
But KCH is more than just a performance space; it is deeply rooted in the fabric of the community, providing an affordable option for private events. Whether it’s weddings, memorials, or fundraising events, KCH has positioned itself as a preferred venue for various celebrations and gatherings.
A Legacy of Support and Growth
For over three decades, KCH has blossomed significantly to become a bedrock of the Ann Arbor arts community. The venue’s devotion to artist education and creative expression plays a vital role in its mission. Over the years, it has hosted prominent artists such as Bill Bolcom and Joan Morris, who stood on its stage during the inaugural gala.
With an unwavering commitment to inclusivity, KCH has embraced an eclectic mix of musical styles right from its inception, often collaborating with local businesses and community members. This collaborative spirit has fostered an enthusiastic support base for its programming, letting it thrive in an ever-evolving cultural scene.
Continuing the Journey
As it stands today, KCH is not just a historical remnant but a lively part of the current arts scene. The venue regularly hosts rotating arts exhibitions, delighting visitors and contributing richly to Ann Arbor’s artistic landscape. As Relyea steps into the role of Artistic Director, Lynne Aspnes is set to helm the position of director, aiming to broaden outreach efforts and expand KCH’s audience. Together, they intend to solidify KCH’s standing as a premier performing arts venue, both locally and nationally.
Creating cultural experiences is a marathon, not a sprint, but the Kerrytown Concert House serves as a shining example of how a community-driven vision, thoughtful renovation, and steadfast support can translate into an establishment that resonates deeply with hearts and nurtures artistic expression. With the journey of KCH still unfolding, one can confidently say that the most thrilling chapters are yet to be written!
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Additional Resources
- MLive: Kerrytown Concert House Founder
- Wikipedia: Kerrytown Concert House
- Detroit News: Artist Spotlight – Mr. B
- Google Search: Kerrytown Concert House
- Second Wave Media: Edgefest
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Live Music
- DownBeat: Edgefest Chicago Showcase
- Google News: Music in Ann Arbor
