Lissa Schneckenburger and Corey DiMario will appear in concert at the Nelson Town Hall on Sunday, July 14 at 7 p.m. as part of their Amazing Bike Tour in conjunction with the Monadnock Folklore Society.
Schneckenburger, a Vermont based fiddler and folk singer, is well known for her anthemic interpretations of traditional New England fiddle tunes and her recent release of original songs for foster and adoptive families, but this summer she is pairing down and playing duo shows with her DiMario, her husband, a double bassist and tenor guitar player of Crooked Still.
Although both musicians are long time veterans of the stage, this tour marks the first time they will be traveling to each show via bicycle. Inspired by concerns about climate change, the couple wants to shift environmental conversations from that of fear and denial, to empowerment and creativity, in order to inspire others with ideas of how to move forward as a healthy society.
The musical couple will travel to each show on cargo bikes with electric assists, bringing their son, merchandise, and instruments with them. Audience members that follow suite and arrive at each concert via pedal power will be sold discounted tickets.
The music that Schneckenburger and DiMario make is inspired by other beloved musical duos (like Ani DiFranco and Todd Sickafoos, Chris Wood and Andy Cutting, and young new-comers Jenna Moynihan and Mairi Chaimpbeul). They have crafted an intimate show together with sparse interpretations of both traditional and contemporary music.
The two first met 18 years ago at The New England Conservatory in Boston, and have played and recorded together in a variety of ensembles ever since. As Schneckenburger explains, “although performing with a big band can be exhilarating, we’re looking for a deeper connection to our favorite music with this duo approach… stripping back the layers to find the bones of each piece and appreciate it’s simple beauty.”
“Many musicians are self conscious about the carbon footprint of their touring lifestyle, but uncertain how to make changes that will be sustainable both for their careers and for the environment. It’s certainly challenging, but we want to be part of the solution, and I’m certain we’ll have a lot of fun along the way,” she added.
Admission is $15, $12 for seniors, students, or in advance or $10 if you pedal, walk or run.
For more information, visit www.lissafiddle.com