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06/27/2017 05:30 PMThe 20th season of the George Flynn Classical Concert Series kicks off Sunday, July 16 at 4 p.m. when the world-famous Michael Feinstein takes the stage in The Morgan School auditorium for a free performance.
Feinstein, who has played in such esteemed locations as the White House, Buckingham Palace, and the Sydney Opera House, is described in a press release as “one of the most important musical forces of our time.”
Elaine Godowsky, the president of the George Flynn Classical Concert Series, compared Feinstein to Frank Sinatra and Tony Bennett and said he’s “so much in tune with those older songs.”
In addition to his songs, Godowsky also said Feinstein puts on an entertaining show by telling stories and interacting with the audience.
“I think he has such an appealing personality,” Feinstein said.
While Feinstein is the biggest name on the schedule for the 20th season, there are other performances that offer a unique blend of musical styles that will intrigue audiences.
“We try to make it something appealing for the whole family,” Godowsky said.
In addition to Feinstein, the concert series will offer The Wallingford Symphony on Oct. 1, The Yale Whiffenpoofs on Dec. 17, The Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain on April 22, 2018, and the Pittsinger Family on June 10, 2018.
The Wallingford Symphony performance is notable because it will perform music from Leonard Bernstein in honor of the famed composer’s 100th birthday. Bernstein composed the scores for such movies as West Side Story and On the Waterfront.
Godowsky was also excited to have the Whiffenpoofs return to Clinton.
“The last time we had them we had to turn people away,” said Godowsky.
The majority of the shows in the 2017-’18 season will take place at The Morgan School auditorium, which Godowsky called “very beautiful,” citing the acoustics and high ceilings. The auditorium fits more than 600 people, and Godowsky anticipates another season of sellouts.
Reflecting on the changes of the series over the last 20 years, Godowsky said, “We’ve gone from 100 people in the audience to sold-out houses.”
All the concerts in the series are provided for free thanks to a trust established by the late Clinton resident George Flynn in 1997.
According to georgeflynnclassicalconcerts.com, “The George S. Flynn Concerts are made possible by a trust fund Mr. Flynn established in his will. It was his great desire to provide ‘classical music concerts for the benefit, education, and pleasure of the inhabitants of the town of Clinton.’ It is in his honor and to his memory that we dedicate these concerts.”
Godowsky mentioned that the trust has “been fortunate with donations.” Godowsky said the trust views itself having a “service to provide to the town.”
Attendees must reserve tickets by sending a self-addressed, stamped envelope to: George Flynn Classical Concerts, P.O. Box 473, Clinton, CT 06413, or calling 860-669-1208.
Editor's Note: This story was changed on June 30, 2017 to accurately represent the day of the concert.