Make Music Appleton is a live, free musical celebration on June 21, the longest day of the year, with concerts on streets, sidewalks, and parks across the city.
About
Make Music Day Appleton
Make Music Day Appleton is an annual event celebrated worldwide as part of the FĂŞte de la Musique. The FĂŞte de la Musique is a festival that takes place in over 1,000 cities in more than 120 countries on the summer solstice, which falls on June 21st each year. This day is set aside to celebrate music in all its diverse forms and encourages people to come together and play free public concerts.
In the United States, Make Music Day is presented by The NAMM Foundation and coordinated by the Make Music Alliance. This year, on Wednesday, June 21st, 2023, Appleton will host a variety of events at various locations in the heart of our beloved city, along College Avenue.
Make Music Day Appleton is open to anyone and everyone! All ages, skill levels, and musical categories are welcome to participate in this exciting event. The range of events that have been featured in previous years is diverse and extensive, from Ghanaian bucket drumming to ukulele jams, early childhood music programming to a blues workshop. All events are welcome and celebrated.
If you’re interested in leading an event or volunteering for Make Music Day Appleton, don’t hesitate to reach out to Education@heidmusic.com for more information. This is an excellent opportunity to showcase your musical talents, learn from others, and make new connections in the community.
How did Make Music Day begin?
It all started 40 years ago in France.
In 1982, France’s Ministry of Culture dreamed up an idea for a new kind of musical holiday. They imagined a day where free, live music would be everywhere: street corners and parks, rooftops and gardens, store fronts and mountaintops.
And, unlike a typical music festival, anyone and everyone would be invited to join and play music, or host performances. The event would take place on the summer solstice, June 21, and would be called Fête De La Musique. (In French, the name means both “festival of music” and “make music!”)
Amazingly enough, this dream has come true. The FĂŞte has turned into a true national holiday: France shuts down on the summer solstice and musicians take over. Almost 8% of the country (5 million people) have played an instrument or sung in public for the FĂŞte de la Musique.
Four decades later, the holiday has spread throughout the world and is now celebrated in more than 120 countries. In the U.S., the presenting sponsor is the NAMM Foundation.
Schedule
NOTE: Many events at Heid Music have moved indoors. Please refer to the signage in the building for event locations. Happy Make Music Day!
Make Music with us on June 21!
Make Music Day Appleton Schedule
All events will take place in downtown Appleton on College Ave.
In the case of inclement weather (rain, humidity, heat, etc.), events will move indoors so we can keep the music going!
At Heid Music, events will move into the store and there will be signage with directions for participants.
At Lawrence University, events will move to either room 163 or 156. For room locations, please click HERE.
11:00am-12:00pm
In Harmony
In Harmony is a program of the Fox Valley Symphony which focuses on music, movement, and connections. Our music therapy-informed sessions encourage enjoyment and collaboration! The goal of In Harmony quartet musicians is to bring the joy of quality, live music to all individuals, regardless of background or ability. In Harmony encourages participation and engagement with music, by offering a variety of musical styles and genres,combined with physical, emotional, mental, and social interactions. (https://www.foxvalleysymphony.com/music-for-everyone/in-harmony/)
Location: Heid Music Appleton – 308 E College Ave – In Back Lot
11:30am-12:00pm
Make Music Together: Early Childhood Session
Designed for children from birth – age 6 and their families or caregivers, this participatory session will have young musicians and their grown-ups singing, dancing and making music together. No experience needed, all ages welcome.
Location: LU-Chapel Green – 510 E. College Ave on Chapel Lawn
12:00pm-1:00pm
Performance by Kate Stenson
Don’t miss Kate Stenson’s performance at Houdini Plaza on June 21 from 12-1pm. She’s a talented singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, skilled in violin, guitar, and piano. With heartfelt lyrics and a soulful voice, she takes listeners on an unforgettable journey. Kate’s performances include both original compositions and cover songs, infused with her unique interpretations. Her mesmerizing vocals and instrumental prowess create an immersive and dynamic experience. Prepare to be captivated!
Location: Houdini Plaza
12:00pm-1:00pm – CANCELLED
Ghanaian Drumming – CANCELLED
12:00pm-3:00pm
String Together
Heid Music is proud to partner with the Make Music Day Alliance, Alfred Publishing & D’Addario for sharing the introductory steps to guitar care & how to re-string your acoustic guitar with complimentary strings from D’Addario. And learn the basics fundamentals of playing guitar (including a complimentary chord chart while supplies last) & a 20 minute strumming/playing overview. Don’t have a guitar yet? Don’t fret – you can borrow one of ours for the session. Care/Re-string overviews will take place at Heid Music Appleton from 12-12:30; 1-1:30; 2-2:30. Introduction to playing sessions will also take place at Heid Music Appleton from 12:30-1p, 1:30-2p; 2:30-3p. Getting started playing tips & chord overviews from – Tyler Raddant; 12:30-1; 1:30-2; 2:30-3; small group – run 20-30 minutes; and on the hour, we will start the restring/care workshop. D’Addario is donating free acoustic strings to our stores! The first 20 guitarists at each location will get a FREE string change that day (and learn how to do it). Plus get a free guitar chord chart from Alfred Music, and a free lesson – no strings attached. Please RSVP to save your spot HERE.
Location: Heid Music Appleton – 308 E College Ave – In Back Lot
12:15pm-12:45pm
Lunchtime Sing-Along
Come make music by singing all of your favorite songs with Jennifer, our Piano Specialist. She will play, so we can sing all of your favorites, from Disney to pop standards. Bring your voice and clap your hands to some of your timeless favorites with loved ones. This singalong will have you toe-tapping all the way home!
Location: Heid Music Appleton – 308 E College Ave – In Back Lot
1:00pm-2:00pm
Bucket Drumming
Get ready to unleash your inner rhythm and join us for an exhilarating bucket drumming event in the heart of downtown Appleton! As part of the Make Music Day festivities, we invite you to grab a drumstick and a bucket and join our energetic community of music enthusiasts. No drumming experience? No problem! This interactive session is open to all ages and skill levels, so whether you’re a seasoned percussionist or a curious beginner, come and discover the power of making music with everyday objects. Let the beats resonate through the streets as we create a symphony of rhythmic sounds together. Don’t miss this chance to drum up some fun and be part of the infectious energy of Make Music Day in downtown Appleton!
Location: LU-Chapel Green – 510 E. College Ave on Chapel Lawn
2:00pm-2:45pm
Music and Dance Program presented by IndUS
Experience a classical Kathak Dance by Anindita Neogy Anaam, Indian drums and violin by Sutanu Sur and his students and a Bollywood Medley by Mahima Grover and ensemble.
Location: Fox Cities PAC – 400 West College Ave. – Kimberly-Clark Theater – Enter through the valet entrance on Division Street.
2:15pm-2:45pm
Children’s Jam Session: Elementary Session
Designed for children 4K – age 10 along with their families or caregivers, this participatory session will have elementary age musicians and their families moving and grooving and making music together. No experience needed, all ages welcome.
Location: LU-Chapel Green – 510 E. College Ave on Chapel Lawn
3:00pm-4:00pm
Ain’t Too Proud Dance Workshop
Join a cast member from the touring Broadway production of Ain’t Too Proud – The Life and Times of the Temptations, winner of the 2019 Tony Award for Best Choreography, for a dance workshop.
Location: Fox Cities PAC – 400 West College Ave. – Kimberly-Clark Theater – Enter through the valet entrance on Division Street.
3:00pm-4:00pm
Introduction to Harmonica
Come learn about the Harmonica in this introductory harmonica workshop led by Rod Maccoux. We will have harmonicas available as supplies last. A variety of topics will be covered to begin your harmonica journey. All ages welcome in this fun and interactive session!
Location: Heid Music Appleton – 308 E College Ave – In Back Lot
4:30pm-5:30pm
Uke Jam
Uke Jam, hosted by Greg Forton, member of Forte and the Pianissimos. We recommend bringing your own uke, but Heid Music will have a limited supply of ukuleles available to be used if you do not own a uke! All ages and abilities welcome in this fun and interactive session.
Location: Heid Music Appleton – 308 E College Ave – In Back Lot
5:30pm-7:00pm
Mile of Music Performance and Sing-Along
Join us at the Hilton Appleton Paper Valley Courtyard for an unforgettable evening of music at the Mile of Music Sing Along! Camille Rae from Nashville and Chris Haise from Milwaukee will take the stage, leading an electrifying set that will have the audience singing along and dancing with pure joy. Get ready to raise your voice, unite with fellow music lovers, and create magical memories as we come together in a harmonious celebration of music. Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to be part of the Mile of Music Sing Along—mark your calendars and get ready to experience the magic of live music in the heart of Appleton.
Location: Hilton Paper Valley Courtyard – 333 W College Ave. – Front Courtyard
Participate
Come and celebrate Make Music Day Appleton with us on Wednesday, June 21, 2023, and be a part of this exhilarating event! We welcome everyone to join us, regardless of their age, skill level, or music preference. Keep yourself informed of the latest happenings by frequently checking back.
If you’re interested in performing, teaching, or collaborating, please complete the Make Music Day Participation Form. Additionally, feel free to email Education@HeidMusic.com if you have any inquiries.
Make Music Day Appleton has featured a diverse range of performers over the years, with solo artists, bands, interactive music-making sessions, and jam sessions all making an appearance. Musicians of all ages and skill levels have participated, representing various musical genres such as rock, jazz, classical, and folk. This event provides individuals with a fantastic opportunity to showcase their musical abilities, learn from others, explore new musical possibilities, and make connections within the community.
This year’s event promises to be even better than before, with more programming and opportunities for people to participate. Regardless of whether you’re a musician, a music enthusiast, or just looking for a fun way to spend your day, Make Music Day in Downtown Appleton is a must-attend event! Keep an eye out for updates on the schedule of events so that you don’t miss out on anything.
Gallery
Experience Make Music Day in Appleton Through Our Gallery of Talented Musicians!
Relive the excitement of last year’s Make Music Day in Appleton with our gallery of stunning photographs showcasing the city’s most talented musicians. Immerse yourself in the joy of music and connect with fellow music lovers through our captivating images of live performances, workshops, and interactive activities. Whether you were a part of the festivities or missed out, our gallery is the perfect way to experience this global celebration of music-making. Mark your calendars for June 21st and join us for an unforgettable day of music and community!
Make Music Day Appleton is for anyone and everyone! It is open to all ages, skill levels, and any musical category. Events have ranged from Ghanaian bucket drumming to ukulele jams, early childhood music programming to a blues workshop. All events are welcome! Interested in leading an event or volunteering? Reach out to Education@heidmusic.com for more information.
Have ideas for programs? Fill out the following form: Make Music Day Ideas
Contact
Are you a musician with performance ideas, a teacher who would like to share music education, a venue that would like to provide space for music, or have questions about Make Music Day Appleton? Feel free to reach out to us!
We are always looking for individuals who want to support music in our community!
Press
Thank You Make Music Day Appleton Partners!
The partners of Make Music Day Appleton work together to create a unique and unforgettable experience for everyone involved. Heid Music, Lawrence University, Appleton Area School District, Fox Valley Performing Arts Center, Appleton Downtown Inc, Mile of Music, and Willems Marketing are all dedicated to providing the best possible programming for this wonderful day. They bring their expertise in music education and performance, venue access and equipment, and promotional support to ensure the event’s success. Working tirelessly together, they create a vibrant and engaging event that showcases the beauty and power of music in their community. Thank you so much Make Music Day Appleton Partners! Make sure to visit the partner websites and support Downtown Appleton.
