Hudson Village goes live

Guess whose turning two this year? The Hudson Music Festival is! And what a beautiful age it is when you’ve got an outstanding selection of local, national, and international talent invited to your party.

The Hudson Music Festival (Friday to Sunday) and street fair (Saturday) have teamed up once again to ensure this annual attraction is more than just a co-operation between thriving musicians, volunteers and venues, but also a group effort amongst local craft vendors; not to mention a little food tasting for those with hearty appetites.

Amidst the clamouring anticipation, it’s the festival’s series of Grands Concerts and Salon Concerts showcased throughout the weekend that are steadfastly becoming the core of the events’ appeal. With the help of a generous grant from Heritage Canada and the community’s willingness to come together, preparation is well underway.

The Hudson Musical Festival’s artistic director, Blair Mackay, has realistic expectations for the festival considering how young it is, but is none the less elated with the quality and quantity of acts lined up for the weekend,

“I think it’s fantastic that we have shows going on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. I think there is a lot more awareness and enthusiasm about the event,” Mackay said.

Michael Klaiman, Hudson’s recreation director, foresees this annual event will attract tourists to Hudson’s unique atmosphere, not only for the weekend and street festival. When asked about last year’s festival he said “it was a huge success, the weather co-operated, and it was great for local merchants and restaurants.”

Speaking of quality, the world renowned, Hudson-raised jazz singer Karen Young is coming home to headline the festival’s Grands Concerts with bassist Eric Auclair (known as the Electro-Beatniks) at St.Thomas Aquinas Church on Friday.

The second Grands Concerts will feature the Cuban piano styling of Yoël Diaz with Alex Bellegarde on double bass – both Montreal International Jazz Festival sensations — plus a percussion and string quartet at St. James Church on Saturday.

The Festival’s “Salon Concerts” series are set in intimate heritage homes, and are sure to offer a relaxed, unplugged atmosphere. Expect to see the blues man Bobby Cameron at the Mullan’s house Saturday, and the singer/songwriter Jeff Smallwood at the Riversmead B&B on Sunday.

Acoustics are a big part of the appeal of these chosen venues, but while you’re at the festival, do not forget to feast your eyes on the esthetic details of these over 100-year-old buildings. “We want to emphasize local talent and architecture,” Mackay said.

To cap off the street fair, the late night rock and roll show “Jim’s Jam” at the notorious Chateau du Lac is the best way to salute a day of fun amongst 100 different vendors.

The joint festivals are not too hard hitting on the pockets, either. All concerts cost $20 for entrance (those 16 and under can attend for free) except “Jim’s Jam,” which costs $5. Festival passes are $60 and all tickets are available for pick up at Stephen Schaar Community Center, Jim’s Video (60 Cameron), and at the door of every show.

For more information, call the Festival Line at 450-458-5633.