The Rochester Music Guild has embarked on a transformative journey to foster musical enrichment within the community. This initiative, known as "Listen and Learn," offers free concerts that not only entertain but also educate audiences about diverse musical traditions. Since its inception in 1963, the guild has been instrumental in supporting local music endeavors, including scholarships for musicians and collaborations with civic organizations. Today, under the leadership of Linda Edd and Ben Gateno, the program continues to thrive by presenting monthly performances from September through May, excluding December. These events aim to provide accessible, high-quality musical experiences that are both informative and engaging.
Established over two decades ago, the "Listen and Learn" series initially began as "Lunch and Learn" in 2003, offering catered lunches alongside musical presentations. However, due to changes brought on by the pandemic, the program was rebranded in 2021, eliminating the food component yet expanding its musical repertoire. Under the guidance of Ben Gateno, the education chair since 2019, the series showcases an eclectic mix of genres ranging from Western classical music to world music traditions. Performances have included jazz ensembles, traditional Korean instruments, flamenco artists, and even demonstrations of early 20th-century recording technology.
Gateno emphasizes the importance of diversity in programming, striving to feature underrepresented cultural sounds or those personally intriguing to him. For instance, Thi Lalum, a Vietnamese folk musician based in the Twin Cities, captivated audiences with her March performance. Another highlight includes Dan Schwartz, a fingerstyle guitarist playing a harp-guitar, scheduled for April 25, 2025. Schwartz’s instrument combines guitar-like qualities with additional lower strings akin to a harp, creating a unique auditory experience.
In May, attendees can look forward to Cléa Galhano and Rene Izquierdo, a recorder and guitar duo renowned for their exceptional skills. Their performance at Zumbro Lutheran Church promises to be nothing short of extraordinary, especially given Izquierdo’s reputation as a world-class virtuoso. Such events underscore the guild’s commitment to providing enriching musical experiences accessible to everyone.
Audience engagement remains a key indicator of success for these concerts. Many participants linger after performances to interact with presenters, asking questions and expressing admiration for the artistry displayed. Both Linda Edd and Ben Gateno find immense satisfaction in witnessing this level of interest and learning among attendees. They invite the public to join the Rochester Music Guild, either as members or contributors, to further support its mission of promoting music education and appreciation.
Through the "Listen and Learn" series, the Rochester Music Guild aims to elevate community spirit by making quality artistic and cultural experiences more accessible. As the calendar year progresses, upcoming events promise to bring together diverse audiences, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of global musical heritage. With each concert, the guild continues to inspire and connect individuals through the universal language of music.