By Laura Bailey
The Indian Rock Nature Preserve offered visitors the idyllic summer day with their “Music on the Farm” event on Sunday. Guests partook in hot dogs, hamburgers, ice cream, wine and beer while they were entertained by local musicians. ELCCT (Environmental Learning Centers of Connecticut) Executive Director Scott Heth was happy to see visitors of all ages enjoying the festivities.
“It’s going well; we have a great group of musicians playing today,“ Heth said.
Heth played some jazzy tunes on keys with his band The Scott Heth Quartet, with Bonnie Marie providing soulful vocals to songs like “Blue Skies,” and “I Feel the Earth Move.”
Portrait Party delighted fans with their indie-rock sound and Radio Waves blasted out a mix of current top 40 hits as well as retro classics. During the act changes, Matthew Sperzel performed acoustic versions of classic rock songs including The Band’s “The Weight,” and The Allman Brothers Band’s “Ain’t Wastin’ Time No More.”
Right: Bonnie Marie provides soulful vocals for the Scott Heth Quartet. | Laura Bailey
“We have a great group of volunteers who come out for the events we have. It’s a beautiful day and everyone is having fun.”
The large crowd brought camping chairs and blankets to lounge under shady trees and take in the beauty of the 280-acre preserve. Guests had the opportunity to meet the resident animals of the Indian Rock Nature Preserve, including Jade the cow and Mabel the pig. Part of the profits from the musical event will be put towards the care of the farm’s 4-legged inhabitants.
“The profits will be used for education programs for school children and summer camp. They’ll also be used to support our farm animals. We’re having a special fundraising opportunity today to adopt a farm animal.”
Among the adoptable animals are the lovable avian couple Tom and Henrietta. Their adoption profiles show that Tom likes strutting and dancing the turkey trot, while Henrietta enjoys long strolls and presidential pardons.
Left: The farm at the Indian Rock Nature Preserve. | Laura Bailey
“They’re always together and they’re a cute couple,” said Heth. “Wherever Tom goes, Henrietta goes.” In addition to turkeys, the farm is home to about 40 chickens that Heth affectionally calls “the girls.” Their farm-fresh eggs are sold at the Barnes Nature Center on Shrub Road.
Heth was happy with the turnout and hopes that more will join in the festivities next year The sixth annual “Music on the Farm” will take place on the last Sunday in July 2023.
“It’s an awesome musical festival and a great community resource; keep us in mind for next year.”
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