Music, when performed with passion, has the power to stir emotions, connect people, and inspire change. It’s this extraordinary power that brought the community together at the 1st Annual Hummingbird Music & Arts Festival, a unique event held last Wednesday at the Showcase Live in Patriot’s Place, nestled next to the iconic Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts. This festival was not just an ordinary gathering. It was a poignant celebration of local talent and a touching tribute to a beloved individual.
The festival was held in honor of Elizabeth Giordano, a young woman whose life was tragically cut short due to a car accident in Vermont last May. Elizabeth’s passion for music and arts was the guiding inspiration behind the festival. Showcasing an array of local musicians and artists, the event aimed to keep Elizabeth’s memory alive while raising funds for a cause close to her heart. The proceeds from ticket sales, raffle items, and a silent auction were dedicated to a scholarship fund established in Elizabeth’s name at Curry College.
Among the heartfelt moments of the festival, Sheila Giordano, Elizabeth’s mother, took center stage to raffle off items generously donated by area businesses. Her strength and determination echoed through the event, reminding everyone of the real reason behind the gathering – a mother’s effort to honor her daughter’s memory.
The event’s intermissions were as vibrant as its main acts. A local dance studio graced the stage with a performance that not only entertained but also bridged the gap between music and dance, creating a multi-art spectacle for the audience.
Fringe Benefits, a local band, was one of the standout performers of the night. Members Matt and John Beninghof displayed their musical prowess on stage at Showcase Live, captivating the crowd with their energetic performances. Kevin Black, a longtime friend of the Giordano family, also joined Fringe Benefits for the night, while bassist Frank Dundulis added depth to the band’s powerful sound.
The sight of Sheila Giordano enjoying the sight and sound of Fringe Benefits was particularly moving. As the event organizer and mother of Elizabeth, her joy served as a testament to the transformative power of music and the festival’s mission to honor her daughter’s memory.
Fringe Benefits’ Chris Cocuzzo and Matt Beninghof showed their dedication to the event, not just through their passionate performance but also in their support of the event’s cause. The festival also included performances from Black Marmot’s Linde Clark and Tim Parker. Their enchanting music added a layer of soulful charm to the event, creating a harmonious blend of talent in tribute to Elizabeth’s memory.
In essence, the 1st Annual Hummingbird Music & Arts Festival was a beautiful celebration of community, music, and a tribute to a life passionately lived. It served as a touching reminder of the power of music and arts to bring people together, inspire change, and keep precious memories alive.
