DARKE COUNTY — Greenville Mayor Steve Willman and Greenville City Council President John Burkett presented the Darke County Center for the Arts with proclamations naming June 21, 2021, “Make Music Darke County Day.” The event, inspired by the French holiday, “Fete de la Musique,” which started in 1982 is now celebrated on June 21 in more than 1,000 cities in 120 countries.

The one-day festival, presented by the Darke County Center for the Arts, involved musicians, bands and ensembles of all ages, ability levels and genres.

“DCCA is grateful for the support from our local officials and all those making possible these festivities celebrating music in Darke County, on our first annual Make Music Day,” said Andrea Jordan, DCCA Executive Director. Following the proclamations, the Darke County Employee Choir performed for a delighted audience on the Darke County Courthouse steps singing patriotic and sing-along favorites concluding with “God Bless America.”

Additional performances took place on the Greenville Library lawn featuring 2-4-U Winds, Tami Tennison/flute & Mike Houser/clarinet performing classical, jazz, to popular music; followed by Providence Road Duo, Jerry & Chris Asbury performing 60s and 70s Gospel and Country; Kim Bohler on flute; concluding with Percussion Storytime featuring Greenville Children’s Librarian Miss Joanna reading Going On A Bear Hunt while youngsters played percussion instruments along with the story.

Evening performances at YOLO Park in downtown Greenville featured Joseph Helfrich; followed by Peggy Emerson on old fashioned autoharp playing folk/gospel; Carter Qualls on guitar and vocals; vocalist Katelyn Hanes; Zachary Perry hip-hop artist; and concluding with a Drum Circle performance. Make Music Darke County was presented by Darke County Center for the Arts a non-profit organization whose mission is to present and promote performing and fine arts encouraging cultural enrichment. For more information visit DCCA’s website www.darkecountyarts.org.