The multi-talented Chris Gillis has joined the board of the Grand Marais Music Collaborative.
Chris Gillis has been named to the Grand Marais Music Collaborative’s board of directors. “Chris Gillis is a well known and respected local musician and community member who brings great energy and ideas to our mix,” said the collaborative’s board chair, Todd Miller. “This is a perfect time for me to be involved in new ways in the community,” said Gillis.
Gillis has already proposed a project to the board that has been accepted and has the whole team pulling for its success. This program will be a partnership with the Cook County Historical Society to produce a series of music performances at various historic sites maintained by the Historical Society with the goal of raising awareness and funds for both nonprofit’s programs.
It is hoped that this program will educate area youth by providing mentoring opportunities between experienced area musicians and the next generation of local players. The GMMC is pursuing a grant for this project and also conducting fundraising to make this program possible.
In addition, the GMMC is excited to announce that it is also throwing its efforts behind the production and promotion of a locally written and produced opera by Grand Marais resident Grant Adams.
The working title of the opera is When Monkeys Fly and explores the challenges one faces when throwing off the constraints that prevent one from recognizing one’s self worth. It is a story about redemption. The author has described the opera as having the central theme of “Waking to one’s worth… even though we think that we can run away from our problems, they travel with us. When we feel isolated and helpless, we are blind to our shared vulnerability and promise. Through community, compassion, and love we wake to our self worth.”
The music for the opera has been written by area musician Joe Paulik, and will involve the additional interaction of many area musicians, actors and singers and other interested community members. The GMMC is pursuing a grant to aid in the production of this local opera
If you would like to become more involved or make a donation, contact Miller at (218) 370-2026.
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