www.nundahistory.org

The Nunda Historical Society presents internationally known musician Dennis James with an entertaining exploration of the history of glass music. The illustrated musical lecture-demonstration will feature the glass armonica, a recreation of the 18th century musical instrument invented by Benjamin Franklin. Rotating on a mechanized spindle and rubbed with water-moistened fingers, the glass armonica bowls produce notes and chords of remarkable sonority. Franklin's armonica is thought to be the first truly American musical instrument. "A not-to-be-missed lecture demonstration . . . Dennis James is not only one of the world's foremost glass armonica virtuosos but also an unusually diverting lecturer," writes The New Yorker. A popular feature is the distribution of tuned brandy snifters to members of the audience who are instructed how to play and then perform spontaneous music together in a harmonic choir. “Glass-ical Musick” has been prepared for a general audience with a carefully balanced content of music and historical information. As one reviewer wrote, "James has to be heard to be believed. His way with the instrument is virtually magical . . . it glitters, it soothes, it seduces.” This program is handicapped accessible, free, and open to the public. Donations gratefully accepted.