During my summer internship with The Trustees, I was lucky enough to attend three of the many concerts the organization offers across Massachusetts. These experiences combine music with the outdoors both in the setting and in the songs, making them perfect events for fans of performing arts and nature. Each location has its own unique environment and focus, showcasing local artists who share a passion for preserving special places.

Weir River Farm Sunset Picnic Concert

Weir River Farm Sunset Picnic Concerts highlight the talent of local artists in a family-friendly environment for the perfect summer evening at Weir River Farm in Hingham.  

The show on July 18 featured Ward Hayden, lead singer of the Boston based band Ward Hayden & The Outliers. Hayden, along with one of his bandmates, played covers of classic country songs as well as original music from the band’s repertoire. The duo played songs from the band’s new album, South Shore, which highlights their love for the South of Boston coast.   

The crowd consisted of people of all ages in groups of all sizes. Families attended with children, who were able to run and play with new friends on the property. Groups of adults brought their own picnics or bought food and drinks from the local breweries and food trucks while enjoying the music and company. Solo attendees and couples also enjoyed the entertainment, views, fresh air, and food.  

While people are welcome to bring their own picnic, Weir River Farm partners with different food trucks and local breweries to offer options for everyone. This event’s options were KC’s Curbside, Mom on the Go, Stellwagen Beer Company, and Smiles by the Mile Ice Cream.  

Concert-goers love the views of the barn, sunset, and Boston skyline combined with the fresh air, live music, and welcoming environment.  

Fruitlands Summer Concert: Song Swap with Susan Werner, the Nields and Seth Glier

On August 22, at Fruitlands Museum in Harvard, there was a special “Song Swap” which brought together artists with unique and complementary music. The three acts were Susan Werner, the Nields, and Seth Glier, all of whom have performed at numerous events with the Trustees. They played their own respective songs, harmonized on each other’s songs, and even sang songs written by each other. With a shared love for music and songwriting, the passion was felt by everyone in the crowd, making this an experience like no other.  

People came from all over Massachusetts and even beyond to see this show. Some people in attendance were at their first concert with the Trustees, some had been to previous concerts at Fruitlands Museum, and some came specifically for one of the artists that they love. The audience had people of all ages enjoying the music, singing along, and dancing in the crowd, and many dogs were enjoying the show, too. 

Doors opened an hour before the concert, giving everyone plenty of time to set up their blankets and lawn chairs, enjoy a picnic from home or from the offerings on site, and purchase refreshments from the Fruitlands Cafe. 

Taylor and Tractors

A special addition to the summer concerts this year was Taylor and Tractors on August 23, with the Blackstone Valley Quartet performing songs by Taylor Swift on string instruments at Powisset Farm in Dover. This event brought in people of all ages, with families, couples, friends, and solo visitors all coming to see the show.  

At Powisset Farm, doors open an hour early for people to set up chairs and blankets, visit the barnyard animals, play lawn games, and enjoy food and beverages that can be bought on the property. At this event, there was wood-fired pizza available that people loved. People of all ages could be found with the pigs, chickens, goats, and other farm animals before the show began. The kids enjoyed the Sensory Garden, the Educational Barnyard, and the Powisset Sprouts! play area with wooden tractors and tires. 

The concert was captivating, with the tractors and farmland in view behind the performers. Lanterns and hay made for a comforting set as the musicians put their classical spin on popular songs. The blend of the concert and picnic environment allowed for everyone to have their own unique and fun experience at Powisset Farm.