News from Britt Hill – June 2025
ANOTHER SEASON BEGINS this month, and I couldn’t be more excited! There’s a lot to look forward to, starting with The Hill is Where the Heart Is annual kickoff party on June 6. As always, this admission-free event is not only our thanks to you, our neighbors, but is also a collaboration with ACCESS. Food insecurity is on the rise in our community, so I hope you’ll pick up some non-perishable goods and join us for Miko Marks and 33 String Drive. Miko’s blend of country, blues, southern rock, and gospel has been lauded by the Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, NPR, and more. Opening for her is local bluegrass band 33 String Drive, resulting in a show that touches many of the genres you love to hear at Britt. Doors open at 5:45, and I hope you’ll celebrate the start of the season with us!
On June 8, we welcome the Yacht Rock Review, a cover show that has been selling out large venues all over the country. For those unfamiliar with the term “yacht rock,” there’s a good reason for that! Yacht rock was coined in 2005 to describe the soft rock of the late 1970s and early 1980s. Artists you’ll recognize from that category include Hall & Oates, Michael McDonald, Steely Dan, Christopher Cross and more.
Most of June is, of course, dedicated to the beloved Britt Festival Orchestra, and this year we’re in for a special treat as we experience four conductors in three weeks! Three of these conductors are finalists to become the BFO’s next Music Director, and all four bring unique perspectives and star power to the podium. The music they’ve selected this year is also wonderful—Ravel’s luscious musical storytelling, Beethoven’s grand melodies, Brahms’s ability to draw you in. The BFO season ends with Aaron Copland’s Appalachian Spring suite, which is one of my all-time personal favorites. This year’s soloists are fabulous, and with tickets starting at only $5 for patrons who receive SNAP benefits, a night with the BFO should absolutely make your June to-do list. Orchestra patrons, please be advised: the OLCC is prohibiting us from allowing you to bring in your own beer and wine for the BFO as of this season, so please leave your fancy bottles at home. Britt worked hard this year to partner with our on-hill vendors to bring the price of beer and wine down significantly, and we’re passing those savings on to our patrons. Thank you for your grace as we all navigate this surprise change.
There’s plenty more coming up in July and August, so visit britt.org (our new website!) to learn more and purchase your tickets. It’s time! I can’t wait to see you on the hill!
All best, Abby
Featured image: Britt Festival Orchestra. Photo: Matty H.