Melodies and Masterpieces 2008, bringing music again to downtown Ashland.  This summer, beginning with First Friday, May 2nd, there will be a variety of musical styles and artists performing outdoor concerts for downtown shoppers, visitors, and workers. 

This year the program will include three Friday concerts at noon during the month of June, and evening concerts in conjunction with the First Friday Art Walk.  Winchester Avenue will be closed for the evening and there will be music from 6pm to 8:30 for your enjoyment as you visit Ashland’s fine arts venues, restaurants, and retail outlets.

Fridays, June 13, 20, and 27, “Melodies and Masterpieces” Concerts at noon on Judd Plaza. The Arts Council of Northeastern Kentucky is joining with Ashland Main Street to present this summer music and art series on Judd Plaza for downtown workers, shoppers, and visitors in Ashland, Kentucky.  These Friday lunchtime concerts feature musicians playing on the Plaza while our special Pendleton Artists demonstrate their art under the trees.  Look for these concerts on Fridays at Noon June 13, 20, and 27.

Melodies and Masterpieces—Plus.  Back again will be an expanded series of “Melodies and Masterpieces” on First Fridays beginning May 2.  City of Ashland will close Winchester Avenue for the two-hour concerts for an evening audience from 6pm to 8:30pm.  

Announcing May 2 First Friday

6pm  ETA—Eddie Riffe and Tony Maynard, will perform their unique style of Americana Music. 

7:15 to 8:30—Leslie Brooks is making her first appearance at First Fridays Art Walk, Leslie is thrilled to perform for her hometown.  She likes returning to Ashland to visit her Aunt and to play the various clubs and events surrounding the area.  Most recently, she has been asked to play her state song in Richmond for consideration before the Senate in May.  Leslie Brooks has played the best venues in a 16-state area, as well as in Norway and Monte Carlo.  She has opened for Heart, James Taylor, Willie Nelson and Bob Margolin to name a few.  In the genre of blues, jazz,folk,country and spiritual, she has produced six cd's to her credit."

June 6 First Friday

7:15 to 8:30pm  Joe Eddins

For Preschoolers and their caregivers:

Every Child is an Artist --Pablo Picasso said, “Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once he grows up.   These enjoyable sessions for preschool children ages 3 and 4 and their caregivers are an opportunity to nurture the artist and creativity in their child.  Each session is designed to explore different media and techniques with easy to find supplies.  Each session starts with a story to introduce the theme, hands on art, and time to enjoy the Museum’s Discovery Center. Wednesdays March 5 to April 30, 12:45 to 2:30, 8 sessions at the Highlands Museum and Discovery Center.

Watch this space for our summer schedule of “Every Child is an Artist.”

Spring Into the Arts, Saturday May 17,  will be a celebration of the Arts involving student performances and art from nine area school districts: Ashland Independent, Boyd County, Russell Independent, Greenup County, Fairview Independent, Raceland Independent, Holy Family School, Rose Hill School, and Lawrence County.

Area artists will also be participating, displaying their art and demonstrating their talents.  Plan to be in Central Park for a great combination of kid’s art, music, artist demonstrations, and hot dogs for everyone.

Poage Landing Days, September 19, 20, 21, the Arts Council NEKY will be participating again in this downtown heritage festival.  Look for us at the Kid’s Tent for free “make and take art”, and on the Heritage Stage with talented musicians from Boyd and Greenup Counties.

Paws Along the River Summer 2009, we will again present decorated animals on Ashland’s downtown streets.  Check the slide show to see the dogs and cats that spent the summer of 2007 on the street.