Will Ethridge, the creator of the Building of Song Project (formerly the Tower of Song), which broadcasts music live to the streets of Portland, is always looking for new ways to present music to people.
“I’m interested in the idea of putting music where people usually don’t see it,” he said.
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To that end, he decided to work with the folks at Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad and Museum in Portland to launch the release of his record company’s new set of three 7-inch vinyl singles.
Ethridge, owner of Eternal Otter Records, is releasing singles by local performers Jesse Pilgrim and the Bonfire, Samuel James, Dana Gross and Over a Cardboard Sea. Releasing on vinyl rather than digital, Ethridge said, helps set his record label apart, but his real attention-getter will be Saturday’s concert at Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad and Museum.
Ethridge had worked with the folks at the railroad before to host a music program, so he thought they’d be open to the idea of doing a bigger performance. “They are into the spirit of making things fun,” he said.
The concert, said Susan Davis, executive director of Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad and Museum, fits the railroad’s role as a people mover and as an edu-tainment venue, and it highlights the railroad’s role in Portland’s arts life.
The show begins with a set by Jesse Pilgrim and the Bonfire outside at the Ocean Gateway platform, then moves onto the train. The audience will board two cars with a performer in each car, who will entertain as the train makes its way to the Eastern Promenade.
On the trip back to the museum, the musicians — blues guitarist/vocalist Samuel James and old-timey guitarist/vocalist Dana Gross — will switch cars so audience members in each car get a different performance.
The evening concludes with a performance by Tin Pan Alley tunesmiths Over a Cardboard Sea under a tent on the museum grounds.
Space is limited for the all-ages concert, because the train holds about 80 people. Tickets are available at Bull Moose Music stores and via Eternal Otter Records’ website.
Staff Writer Stephanie Bouchard can be contacted at 791-6455 or at:
sbouchard@pressherald.com
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