FARMFEST MUSIC FESTIVAL: A Rainy, Rockin' Rollercoaster Ride!

As we round the corner into the Spring of 2024, we’re reflecting back on some of the recent musical milestones that have shaped our organization! Today, we’re remembering fondly a rockin’ and somewhat rainy afternoon last September 9, 2023 when we joined forces with our dear friends at The Ross Farm for our very own FARMFEST MUSIC FESTIVAL. Hidden away just off On North Maple Avenue in Basking Ridge, the bucolic Boudinot-Southard-Ross Estate is easily one of the most majestic backdrops for outdoor musical performances in the Somerset Hills region of New Jersey.

The 1770s colonial farmhouse with lovely gardens and ancient trees set the stage for an eclectic and wonderful group of musicians. Starting at 2 PM, the line-up included Billy Webster, Stacia Thiel, The Joe Cirotti Quartet, and Fire & Grace. The repertoire spanned many genres, including original rock, Americana, folk, bluegrass, and classical. Also included were young students from the Octopus Music School, who filled in the gaps between sets with original tunes and covers of their favorite songs!

Despite a brief period of showers, the musical festival continued until well after 7 PM, with the setting sun and dramatic house lighting adding to the beauty of the outdoor venue. The relaxed atmosphere allowed young children to play lawn games alongside the music and for adults to socialize while enjoying high caliber talent, right in the heart of the Somerset Hills.

All in all, it was a wonderful day full of music, community, and all the excitement of the highs and lows that Mother Nature is capable of! Our first collaboration with The Ross Farm was The Summer Solstice Music Festival in June 2022, featuring a riveting outdoor performance of Carl Orff’s Carmina Burana. In addition to this classical masterpiece, there was also Americana and 60's rock from Just Married and modern pop with Nick Ryan and the Mess. Throughout the day there will be family activities, food trucks and vendors, and featured art by local artists. 

As we enter the welcoming warmth of Spring 2024, we can’t help but find ourselves daydreaming of all the future outdoor concerts to come in the Somerset Hills! Our next big event is indoors, however, at the enchanting St. Mary’s Abbey of Morristown, NJ, where we will be putting up a grand performance of Purcell’s Dido and Aeneas. We hope you will join us there on May 4!