Patriotic Melodies
America is celebrating its Semiquincentennial this year. That is a mouthful to describe the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. While the America250 Commission and other organizations reflect on the nation’s past, present and future, celebrations will include large-scale events in Philadelphia and other activities across the country.
Franklin’s Matinee Musicale is gearing up to celebrate with patriotic flair with its performance titled “Happy Birthday, America!”
Performances will be held May 2 at 7 p.m. and again May 3 at 2 p.m. at the Johnson County Museum of History in Franklin. Tickets are available for $8 at the door.
The concert will include a variety of patriotic tunes led by director Janis Poynter. Member Beverly Hollandbeck will provide a patriotic reading, with guest Gary Phelps and patron member John Whitaker participating as well.
Additional performances will take place at various senior living facilities throughout the county.
Franklin Matinee Musicale has a long history as an organization in Franklin. In 1891, the group was founded as the “Married Ladies Matinee Musicale.” With 135 years now in existence, and the “married ladies” title dropped, the group has accumulated an interesting history that has been well documented and stored with the Johnson County Historical Society.
Looking back through the documents revealed charter membership with well-known names in Franklin’s history, including Overstreet, LaGrange, Ragsdale, Whitesides, Mullendore and Banta. The group’s aim was noted in the first minutes of the first meeting: “The cultivation of vocal and instrumental music.”
Today the group consists of 27 women and is actively seeking new members. Active membership is limited to 35 members. The group performs two concerts each year, in May and in December. Members meet on the first Wednesday of each month from February through May and again from September through December. Dues are $20 per year.
Patron memberships include professional musicians in the community whose positions and employment prevent them from belonging, but whose advice and performance are beneficial to the club.
A portion of the dues is applied to yearly scholarships awarded to high school students majoring in music in college.
To learn more about Franklin Matinee Musicale, contact Janis Poynter at jpoynter@hotmail.com or 317-502-8232.
