Nancy Atlas wants you to Howl, and do so at the Talkhouse like you really mean it; like you understand that arts programming for local kids is as important as algebra.
That’s the gist of her new music series, The Howl Concert, slotted for 7 p.m., June 28 at the Stephen Talkhouse (161 Main Street., Amagansett, 631-267-3117) — the first in a series of four concerts through her not-for-profit, Atlas for the Arts — and she’s bringing along all of her spectacularly talented friends to help.
“It’s very exciting,” says the local chanteuse. “I have a line up that’s legit!”
Indeed, the show is jam-packed with a who’s who of local talent, including:
- GE Smith and Taylor Barton
- Gene Casey
- Mama Lee and Rose
- Jettykoon Thomas
- Inda Eaton
- Silas Jones and Faith Mullaly
- Klyph Black
- Bosco Michne
- Cash Muse
And many more, including members of Atlas’s band (Johnny Blood, Brett King, Denny McDermott, Joe Delia and Greg McMullan).
“I’ve had the concept in my head for three years and always wanted to do it,” says Atlas. Over the years she’s donated tons of time, talent and money to local music programs to encourage arts programming for local kids and teenagers, but with The Howl, she’s taking it to a new level. “I went to the Talkhouse and talked to Peter [Honerkamp, owner of the Stephen Talkhouse] and told him I wanted to do this concert.” Well understanding the power of music, Honerkamp was in from the get-go.
And that’s exactly the gist of the fundraising: to sponsor programs that inspire local kids to make music, be it with musical instruments or their own voices and lyrics. Meant to be a booster to help underwrite the good work of local teachers, Atlas has already been using funds raised through Atlas for the Arts for events like East Hampton High School’s Jazz Night this past April.
The funds have also gone to send kids from Montauk High School’s jazz band to perform at Hershey Park. She’s also working toward expanding the program to Sag Harbor and Springs schools as well, and perhaps beyond. “I’m looking to find ambassadors to represent each school and fund it,” she says.
With federal funding cut to organizations like the National Endowment for the Arts and other grant-giving, arts-forward institutions who are having to do more with less (or nothing), as well as funding withheld by the Office of Management and Budget to programs such as the Assistance for Arts Education, which has received zero of the $37 million it was initially apportioned, or the Javits Gifted and Talented Program, which has only been meted out $165,000 of the $17 million it was apportioned, times are tough for foundational arts programs (not to mention local town school budgets facing tough choices in general).
Atlas saw the writing on the wall, and with this June concert is looking to fill the gaps for young musical talent. That good work is extended to the musicians who support the cause, too: Not only is Atlas bolstering future musicians and music appreciators on the East End, she’s making sure that those who contribute their time and effort to the cause get paid.
“It’s difficult to see my friends who are professional musicians give of themselves and their craft constantly; they show up time and time again. Some don’t have health insurance and are living hand to mouth,” Atlas says. “It’s hard out there. I wanted to have a concert series that also pays them what they deserve, and also support the arts out here. It’s going to be barn burner, man!”
Tickets to The Howl are $72.84 and $93.84. To get yours, click here.
