End of the Week Music and Relaxation
by Aley Lewis
The Martha’s Vineyard Camp Meeting Association or MVCMA is a private foundation
that was created by the Massachusetts Legislature in 1868. Governed by the laws of
Massachusetts, it is a nonprofit organization and campground holding over 300
cottages, churches, and Martha’s Vineyard’s iconic Tabernacle.
The Tabernacle is the largest religious and cultural center on the Vineyard, and now
serves as the location to its newest event, The Sunset Concert Series.
Hosted by the MVCMA, the Sunset Concert Series will offer performances every Friday
night, free of charge. Open to the public, families are encouraged to attend to relax,
share a picnic dinner or ice cream, while enjoying live performances from local island
musicians.
The idea developed last fall among creators C.J Rivard, Kelsey Berry,
and Gretchen Rehak, Executive Director, Director of Special events, and
Co-Chair of Programming of the MVCMA, respectively. Having worked
hard to make this idea a reality among new, and old time camp –
grounders, they are all thrilled to have the community attend.
This Week on MV spoke with Rehak about the new series: “This is the first time we are
offering a concert series. We like the idea of a Friday night wind down series. People get
off the six o-clock ferry at Oak Bluffs, and as soon as you enter the campgrounds, it’s
immediately more peaceful”.
MVCMA is also partnering with Offshore Ale, offering small finger foods at an
affordable cost. While no alcohol will be served at the events, Offshore will generously
be donating a portion of the food proceeds to the foundation. “MVCMA is delighted to
form this new partnership. It’s a win-win opportunity”, stated Rehak.
The Sunset Concert Series is giving local and off island artists the opportunity to play
and gain exposure among the community. Some artists include Phil DaRosa & Co,
Anthony Basini & Friends, and Johnny Hoy & The Bluefish.
In the future, Rivard, Berry and Rehak hope to gain a corporate sponsor that would be
willing to partner up with the MVCMA, as the goal is to open up to a larger island
community.
A full schedule of musicians can be found at mvcma.org/ sunset-series. All concerts
held from 6-7:30pm, every Friday on the Tabernacle Lawn, Oak Bluffs. All ages
welcome.
