This rising star gave a riveting performance on the grounds of Shepaug Valley High School for a scholarship fundraiser.
To celebrate its 50th anniversary, the Washington Scholarship Fund hosted a benefit concert on Friday, July 25th with singer/songwriter Jeremy Messersmith. The event took place on a spectacular summer evening at Shepaug Valley High School. A reception began the evening at 6pm when the musician joined with patrons Deborah and Daniel Glass, sponsors and concert goers on the patio.
Jeremy is a uniquely talented singer/songwriter who is midway through a successful international tour. He was named one of the 14 artists to watch in 2014 by Time magazine and he will appear on the David Letterman show on August 20th. His song ‘Ghost’ is featured in the latest Verizon commercial which Rolling Stone Magazine calls, ‘a hauntingly contagious number.” He is represented by the Glassnote Entertainment group, who also represents popular musicians Mumford and Sons.
Blankets were spread on the grass and chairs on the brow of the hill for the hour long concert. Love songs, ironic ballads all featured clever and evocative writing by Messersmith. Those who attended agreed that his voice, lyrics and musical talents are exceptional and it was a privilege to have him perform in the community.
Happening in the Hills had a chance to ask Jeremy about his concert experience in Litchfield County.
What did you think of the venue and the ambiance?
JM: ‘A grassy slope in front of a pond on a perfect summer evening is about as good as it gets, as far as an ideal music venue!’
You mentioned during the concert about you being the first in your family to go to college. Did that make this extra special to have this be a fundraiser for the Washington Scholarship Fund?
JM: ‘Oh yes. The thought that I was celebrating an organization that enables people to have the same opportunity that I had was firmly in my head during the performance. Sometimes it can be hard to get excited about a show, but Friday was definitely not one of them!’
Your lyrics are thoughtful; often with an element of surprise… do you see life in that way?
JM: To say I had low ambitions when I started playing music is an understatement. My goal was to teach guitar lessons in my basement! Life has been surprising to me on nearly every level. I hope my lyrics reflect that.
You have played in different venues with people of different cultures. You told a funny story about the people in Brussels not wanting to sing the harmony?
JM: ‘I often (if the audience seems receptive) ask if we can engage in a sing along. I’ve never had a crowd turn down an offer, but when I asked in Brussels I was met with total silence! After a few seconds, a man in the front just said “No.” I didn’t attempt it in Paris the next night…’
You sing of love, death, remorse …. are these key themes for you? You also incorporate humor into your songs in unique ways.
JM: ‘ I usually write records with a theme in mind. It helps narrow down what I want to write about. Trying to write honestly means a lot of reflection, so I find I’m constantly evaluating my beliefs and I do change them when I’m confronted with contrary evidence. As far as humor in my songs, it’s one of a few tools that I feel comfortable using. I have a big emotional range and I try to express that in my songs.’
Tell us a little of your connection with Daniel and Deborah Glass who were the patrons for the concert.
JM: ‘Daniel and Deborah are fantastic people and it’s been a real pleasure to get to know them. Daniel is one of the most energetic, enthusiastic people I’ve ever met—exactly who you want to work with if you’re a somewhat passive, lazy musician! Deborah and I share a love of fine vegan dining and I also play video games with their son Liam when I’m not on the road.’
To learn more about Jeremy Messersmith and his music, visit www.jeremymessersmith.com
For information on the Washington Scholarship Fund:
Call 860-868-6870 or visit www.washscholarshipfund.org
