Classical, chamber, and honky-tonk?

Mechanics Hall’s diverse fall season is in full swing

Mark Erelli

November 2004 – 321 Main Street — no, it’s not the site of a new night club, shop or restaurant. Mechanics Hall has been a center of culture and performance arts in Worcester since 1857. Restored in 1977, the hall is an elegant setting for an evening or afternoon of entertainment.

Music Worcester Inc., the facility’s most active client, is celebrating its 145th anniversary music series. The non-profit organization will host a variety of incredible performers, reaching its inspired climax this November.

The Dresden Philharmonic will be showcased on November 9. They are comprised of an astounding group of musicians conducted by the legendary Rafeal Frühbeck de Burgos. The incredibly talented and surprisingly young violinist Julia Fischer will accompany the orchestra.

The 85 artists of the highly acclaimed Virsky Ukrainian National Dance Company will present a night of humor, fantasy, folk music and dancing on November 16.

On November 29, the Boys Choir of Harlem will open the Christmas season, promising to delight audiences with their ever-popular and truly majestic choral abilities.

Tickets for Music Worcester Inc. shows range from $35 to $45. However, discount student rush tickets are usually available — so get there early and don’t forget your ID. Shows start at 8 p.m.

Mechanics Hall also offers great performances for free! This fall, WICN public radio will present the 21st annual Brown Bag Concert series, sponsored by Fleet. All performances are scheduled for noon on Wednesdays.

Dublin’s Draiocht will kick the series off on November 10, featuring Michael Rooney and June McCormick playing traditional Irish music on the harp and flute.

On November 17, the Tin Hat Trio, a young acoustic chamber group, will leave audiences reeling with their fresh sound that defies categorization.

Rising star and New England native Mark Erelli will bring to town his honky-tonk inspired music on November 24. Although country folk songs may not be everyone’s favorite afternoon treat, his mixture of wit and melody may be just what you need to laugh a little on your lunch break.

On December 1, Boston’s sexy jazz vocalist Cassandre Mckinley will perform songs from her recent album Baring My Soul, a “jazz influenced” celebration of the music of Marvin Gaye.

Other great events are coming to Mechanics Hall, like the traditional Worcester Men of Song Annual Barbershop Concerts on November 19 and 20, the Central Massachusetts Symphony Orchestra Annual Holiday Pops Concert on December 11, and the Nutcracker performed by Dance Prism on December 12.

Be sure to check out the Mechanics Hall calendar for prices and event listings at www.mechanicshall.org and for further events and tickets from Music Worcester Inc. at www.musicworcester.org.