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The Rhinebeck-Rheinbach music exchange group will perform at three free concerts in Kingston, Rhinebeck, and at the Vanderbilt Mansion during the exchange.
During the July concert series, the German musicians will be joined by their American home hosts in performing a few numbers in each concert, and in singing the music exchange theme song, Handel's "The Brotherhood of Man," during the farewell concert. The song celebrates the program's commitment to fostering international friendships and cultural awareness.
The Rhinebeck-Rheinbach music exchange is celebrating its 30th anniversary. More than 1,000 students and 800 families have participated in the exchange since it was founded by Rhinebeck High School music teacher Jack Shackleton.
Last summer, 88 students from the Rhinebeck area traveled to Germany where they performed in five community concerts, visited historic sites, and lived with German families.
All concerts in the student series are free and everyone is welcome to attend.
The concert series is made possible, in part, through a grant from the Dutchess County Arts Council, and through generous donations from the Thomas Thompson Trust, The Robert A. Chapman Fund of the Community Foundation of Dutchess County, and The Stewart Foundation.
In addition to the free concerts, a special performance of classical music by world-renowned pianist Babette Hierholzer is planned. Hierholzer, a local resident, has performed extensively in recital and chamber music and as soloist in orchestras around the world.
Hierholzer will be joined by other talented performers, including soprano Nancy Allen Lundy. During this evening of classical music, the program will also include music by Franz Shubert, performed with some of the visiting German music masters. Tickets to this special performance may be purchased through Barbara Wolcott at 876-7475, and will also be available at the door.
In the spirit of this educational venture, the Rheinbach group will visit various cultural sites in Manhattan, Albany's capital building and museum, West Point, and the Culinary Institute of America, during their two-week stay in the Rhinebeck area.
During the July 4 weekend, all events at the Dutchess County Fairgrounds will be open to the visiting Germans. Additional enjoyable events, such as a barn dance at the fairgrounds later in their stay, is also being planned.
To learn more about the Rhinebeck-Rheinbach music exchange, visit the Web site at www.rhinebeckexchange.org.
