By Virginia Krueger

Chelsea District Library (CDL) brought music and joy to the community on June 1 and 2. Music in the Air originated to bring classical music out of the concert hall and away from the restrictions of expensive tickets and formal attire. This year’s event was unique in showcasing some very special local talent to fill the air with music as the Giacopuzzi siblings experienced travel delays.

Local teen Lauren Thompson stepped up to the baby grand and coordinated with Youth Librarian Jessica for a musical storytime in the library’s Reading Garden that delighted a 30-person audience. Lauren returned to open the afternoon’s music performances. Highlighting her afternoon performance was her rendition of Roll Out the Barrel played traditionally and in an astounding backwards position! Following Thompson’s performance was CDL Board Member, Friend, and musician Gary Munce with Kelly Schmidt. This duo brought familiar classic rock hits that kept everyone’s toes tapping and moods light as we awaited the arrival of the main act.

Jacopo and Maddalena Giacopuzzi have engaged with the CDL audience individually and together since 2017. Their warm demeanor and incredible talent have developed a following with regular attendees coming back year after year. They performed a range of pieces from classical masterpieces to modern compositions. On Sunday, June 2, the Giacopuzzis took their show onto the Chelsea roads visiting The Pines, Dancey House at Chelsea Retirement Community, and Silver Maples. Engaging with approximately 150 residents across the three retirement communities, the Giacopuzzi siblings demonstrated unique methods of evoking a variety of tones and melodies in their performances.

CDL Director Lori Coryell reflects on the impact of these outreach performances, “It was such a delight to accompany the Giacopuzzis around Chelsea. Connecting our treasured seniors to our library with such fantastic artistry filled me with pride and joy.” The weekend will be remembered as a wonderful example of our community coming together to address scheduling challenges with flexibility and good humor (as well as delicious cookies courtesy of the Friends of Chelsea District Library). Enjoying a variety of music styles without any barriers of ticket costs, age restrictions, or formal attire fulfilled the library staff’s goals of celebrating the arts and building community on a summer weekend.