Forty-two years ago a man called Jack Lang, who worked for the ministry of Culture in France, got an idea to start a new kind of musical holiday to be held on June 21, the summer solstice.
The celebration, called Make Music Day has spread world-wide since the first event four decades ago, and Platte City embraced the concept four years ago and will carry on the musical holiday this Friday from 7 to 8 p.m. at the Platte County Courthouse on Main Street in downtown Platte City. Free parking is available all around the event.
“Launched in France in 1982 as the Fête de la Musique, (festival of music). Make Music Day has become a global phenomenon, celebrated by millions of people around the world,” Susan Anderson, Platte City Friends of the Arts, Board Vice President said.
Platte City Friends of the Arts is providing this opportunity for all in Platte City, Platte County and the surrounding areas to participate. Some musicians of the Platte City Community Band will be participating and the PCCB director, Jim Edwards, will be leading the event.
The creators of Make Music Day originally imagined a day where free music would be all around, played everywhere in cities and towns. Their vision was that street corners, parks, rooftops, gardens, and storefronts would be filled with musicians who played all types of instruments, and who filled the air with all types of music.
Traditional music festivals have always been popular, but Make Music Day was initiated to include anyone, and everyone who wanted to play music. The festivals are free and open to anyone who wants to participate.
Make Music Day continues to gain popularity around the world because put simply, most people love music. The idea of turning cities and towns into stages and including every type of musician continues to bring people together for summer solstice celebrations. The young, old, amateurs and professionals continue to gather annually to share their music with friends, neighbors and strangers, to bring their communities together for a melodic tradition.
Throughout the last 42 years the festival has spread throughout the world and is now celebrated in more than 1,000 cities in 120 countries.
“As the world’s largest annual music event, it celebrates and promotes the natural music maker in everyone, regardless of age or skill level,” Anderson said. “Bring your instrument, chair and music stand to the courthouse lawn this Friday evening and join others in making some music together, knowing that others around the world are doing the same.”
Sheet music will be provided at the event and all performers will sight-read the simple, enjoyable music together. There will be no rehearsal ahead of the event.
Chilled water bottles, frozen treats and clothespins to secure music to the music stands will also be provided. The event is free for all who attend.
“If not playing an instrument, you are welcome to bring your lawn chair and listen,” Anderson said.
For more information email Jim Edwards, with any questions you might have about participating, at pccbdirector@gmail.com. You can also email PCFA at pcfanews@gmail.com. See more information at www.PlatteCityFriendsoftheArts.com.