‘Family Friendly Fridays’ returns to S.E. music center

See why many families are coming here, from all over outer East Portland, to enjoy concerts geared for folks with kids …

Whistlin’ Rufus entertains at the CMC’s Family Friday Concert Series.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
As the music group Whistlin’ Rufus – rooted in classical, Irish, folk, bluegrass, rock and roll, and jazz – took the stage, another season of Community Music Center’s “Family Friendly Friday Concerts” series was underway a few weeks ago.

“We’re really excited about the new season,” exclaimed one of the volunteer coordinators, Veronica Dujon. “For example, we’re looking forward to a presentation of the Portland Opera Company’s ‘Opera to go’ programs here in March.”

These programs, which take place in Portland Parks & Recreation’s only music-specific facility, don’t just happen by accident, assured volunteer Carolyn Landsverk.

The CMC volunteer Events Committee members Veronica Dujon and Carolyn Landsverk host a Family Friday Concert event.

“We start preparing for the season in the summer,” Landsverk said. “It’s a matter of selecting artists and groups, and then trying to make all of their schedules match.”

A benefit of now being in the fourth season, Dujon pointed out, is “a number of groups enjoyed their experience here so much, they tell us – before we ask them – that they want to come back.”

“And now, we also have new groups call us,” Landsverk added, “once they’ve heard about the programs and the audiences the they’ll attract. This is just so nice for families.”

-3 Everyone seems to enjoy Whistlin’ Rufus as they kick of CMC’s Family Friday Concert Series.

Community Music Center’s Family Friday Concert Schedule:

January 20 – Classical Revolution PDX
February 10 – Portland Cello Project
March 2 – Portland Opera ‘To Go’
April 13 – Oregon Renaissance Band
May 11 – Ezra Weiss Quartet

Programs start at 7:15 p.m. end at 8:30 p.m. Admission is free – with a suggested donation of $5.00 ($15 for a family of any size); tickets available at the door only.

Fresh popcorn, snacks and refreshments are sold at the door for a minimal price. Landsverk and Dujon also wanted us to know that all proceeds from these donations benefit scholarships and other programs at the Community Music Center, at 3350 S.E. Francis Street. Visit them online: CLICK HERE or call (503) 823-3177.

Comments are closed.