Nico Muhly is a world traveler. The composer was home in New York when he spoke with the Burlington Free Press in early April, but on the days before and after that conversation his itinerary included trips to Paris, Los Angeles and London.

When he’s home, though – not home in New York, but home home, the place where he feels he really belongs – it’s in central Vermont.

“If I say I’m going home,” Muhly said, “it’s to Randolph.”

One of the world’s most highly regarded contemporary composers, Muhly was born 42 years ago at Gifford Medical Center in Randolph. His parents lived primarily in Providence, Rhode Island, but their home and artistic studio in Tunbridge, outside Randolph, is where he feels most rooted, having spent every summer and most weekends there.

Considering his Vermont connections, it’s a little surprising that Muhly has never written a commissioned piece for the state’s most prominent classical organization, the Vermont Symphony Orchestra. That changes May 4 when the VSO and another Vermont-born musician making waves internationally, pianist Adam Tendler, premiere a piece Muhly created specifically for Tendler and the VSO.

Working at Carnegie Hall, with Sufjan Stevens

The composer has certainly written high-profile commissioned pieces before, for the Metropolitan Opera, Carnegie Hall, the Los Angeles Philharmonic and more. Muhly has collaborated with choreographers including Benjamin Millepied at the Paris Opera Ballet and Kyle Abraham at the New York City Ballet. He has dipped into the world of popular music to work with indie stars such as Bryce Dessner of The National and Sufjan Stevens.

Muhly’s mother, Bunny Harvey, an artist and teacher, attended the Rhode Island School of Design in Providence. Muhly’s father, documentary filmmaker Frank Muhly, also went to school in the city, attending Brown University. Harvey taught at Wellesley College, 35 miles away in Massachusetts, so the family lived mostly in Providence, where Muhly attended school.

Muhly said his mother’s parents had homes in Woodstock and Randolph Center before his parents bought an old Cape Cod-style home in Tunbridge in the 1970s that they’ve added onto bit by bit. Those additions include a studio where Muhly sometimes creates his compositions.

“It’s gradually expanded into this kind of magical place,” said Muhly, who called the Tunbridge home “a gathering point” for friends and family. When he describes it to first-time visitors he says, “Yes, the highway (Interstate 89) is there, kind of, but it’s a click farther away than other places.”

Muhly attends festivals and collaborates with musicians worldwide, but that doesn’t keep him from Vermont. Sometimes, he said, he’ll wake up in a place like Helsinki, fly to Boston, board a tiny plane bound for Lebanon, New Hampshire, and arrive in Tunbridge to find himself “grilling a chicken at 6 p.m.”

Compositions by Justin Morgan

The story of how Muhly came to work on the VSO piece, a co-commission with the New Jersey Symphony, is not complicated.

“The phone rang and I said ‘Sure,’” he said. “It was pretty simple.”

The composition itself, a piano concerto titled “Sounding,” was not as easy. Muhly based the 15-minute piece on hymns by Justin Morgan, the renowned 18^th-century horse breeder who lived in Randolph.

“He was kind of a polymath,” Muhly said of Morgan. “He was a composer/horse breeder. I think he was also a publisher. He was one of the originators of shape-note music.”

Tapping into music a couple of centuries old is not uncommon for Muhly. “I would say a lot of my music is in some sort of dialogue with the past, either explicitly or not,” he said. But Morgan’s style didn’t mesh easily with Muhly’s approach.

“That music is actually quite at variance with the music from the past that I really relate to, which is Anglican choral music,” Muhly said. He had to translate Morgan’s style into his own language.

“That was randomly more challenging than I thought,” Muhly said. “It kind of doesn’t matter how big the piece is. You still have to have a really good idea.”

Adam Tendler plays Muhly’s music

Muhly often writes compositions with friends in mind to play them. He wrote “Sounding” to be played by Tendler, who grew up outside Barre, just up Vermont 14 from Tunbridge. Muhly said Tendler can provide the “technical fireworks” the piece requires.

Muhly said he likes to ask when writing for a musician such as Tendler “how does this fit in your hands?” Then, he said, “I am able to tailor the suit.”

Tendler performed April 11 at The Phoenix in Waterbury in conjunction with the Waterbury-based contemporary chamber group TURNmusic. The program featured eight piano pieces written by Muhly between 2005 and 2022.

The works displayed Muhly’s range, from the delicate, deliberate tone of “Lilt” to the more energetic and flamboyant “Move.” Tendler concluded with “Eiris, Sones,” a Muhly composition that will appear on Tendler’s upcoming album.

Tendler said he didn’t know Muhly while growing up in Vermont; they became friends while living in New York. “I really started as a fan of his,” Tendler told the audience at The Phoenix.

He described Muhly’s music as “precise,” but also surprising. Muhly likes to include what Tendler called “glitches” in his compositions, where one note can change the shape of an entire piece.

“I call it sometimes the ‘anti-ending,’” Tendler said, adding that Muhly might not care for that description. “I think it’s interesting to hear something that upends what has been established.”

Muhly will be back in Vermont for the May 4 performance of “Sounding.” He said he’s “really happy with the piece,” despite having wrestled with creating it.

“I’m glad I did it,” Muhly said, “so I don’t have to do it anymore.”

If you go

WHAT: “Mozart, Mazzoli, and Muhly,” a concert presented by the Vermont Symphony Orchestra

WHEN: 7:30 p.m. Saturday, May 4

WHERE: The Flynn, Burlington

INFORMATION: $8.35-$59. www.vso.org

Contact Brent Hallenbeck at bhallenbeck@freepressmedia.com.

NORTHFIELD, Vt. (WCAX) – For 47 years, Frank Pecora has occupied a baseball dugout in Northfield. First, as the legendary skipper for the Marauders high school program, and then for the Norwich Cadets. But this season will be his final one, as the head coach announced he will retire after the season.

After winning 15 state championships in almost 40 years of work with Northfield High School, Pecora was an assistant coach at Norwich University for three years before taking the head job.

Despite all the wins and accolades, Pecora says he’s most thankful for the relationships, and a chance to do what he loves.

“The opportunity to coach in high school, young teenagers, and here, young men, it’s been an honor and a pleasure to do what I love doing,” he said. “I’ve been in education for 55 years and I haven’t worked a day in my life.”

The Cadets will face Johnson & Wales on Friday in the double-elimination GNAC tournament.

Copyright 2024 WCAX. All rights reserved.

Nestled amidst the majestic Green Mountains of Vermont, Stowe is a picturesque town that captivates visitors with its natural beauty, rich history, and endless opportunities for adventure. As the month of May paints the landscape in vibrant hues of springtime, Stowe transforms into a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those seeking rejuvenation. Discover the 9 best things to do in Stowe May 2024 and create memories that will last a lifetime.

With its stunning mountain scenery, Stowe is a hiker’s paradise. Embark on a challenging trek to the summit of Stowe Pinnacle or ascend the iconic Stowe Mountain Resort gondola for breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks. Engage in invigorating bike rides along scenic trails, or if water is your element, explore Stowe’s pristine rivers and lakes by kayak or stand-up paddleboard.

For those seeking a more leisurely pace, visit the charming village of Stowe, where you can browse quaint shops, savor delicious local cuisine, or simply relax in one of the cozy cafes. Delve into the region’s fascinating past at the Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum, or immerse yourself in the vibrant arts scene at the Helen Day Art Center.

May in Stowe also brings the annual Vermont Brewers Festival, a celebration of the state’s thriving craft beer industry. Indulge in tastings from over 100 breweries while enjoying live music and local food vendors. Experience the vibrant culture of Stowe through its eclectic festivals, farmers’ markets, and community events.

The best months to visit Stowe are May through October, when the weather is at its most pleasant. Plan your trip around the Vermont Brewers Festival in May or the Stoweflake Hot Air Balloon Festival in June. Getting to Stowe is easy, with nearby transportation options including the Burlington International Airport (BTV) and the Amtrak train station in Waterbury.

Stowe offers a diverse culinary scene that caters to every palate. Savor farm-to-table cuisine at Michael’s on the Hill, indulge in hearty comfort food at Charlie B’s Pub & Restaurant, or explore international flavors at The Alchemist Brewery & Restaurant. After a day of adventure or exploration, unwind at one of Stowe’s many cozy inns or luxurious resorts, such as the Topnotch Resort & Spa or the Stowe Mountain Lodge.

Stowe embodies the perfect blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation. Whether you seek adrenaline-pumping activities, tranquil escapes, or culinary delights, Stowe has something to offer everyone. Plan your visit for May 2024 and experience the 9 best things to do in this enchanting Vermont town, creating memories that will stay with you long after your return home.

## Hiking and Biking Trails

Stowe Pinnacle Trail

Challenge yourself with the ascent to Stowe Pinnacle, a 2.5-mile loop trail with an elevation gain of 1,200 feet. The strenuous hike rewards you with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the Worcester Range. The summit offers a perfect spot for a picnic, soaking in the breathtaking scenery.

Stowe Mountain Resort Gondola

For a less strenuous but equally rewarding experience, take a ride on the Stowe Mountain Resort gondola. The 4-mile scenic ascent takes you up to the summit of Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s highest peak. Enjoy stunning views of the Green Mountains and the surrounding landscape from the comfort of the gondola.

Stowe Recreation Path

Explore Stowe’s natural beauty on two wheels along the Stowe Recreation Path, a paved trail spanning 5.3 miles. The mostly flat terrain makes it suitable for all fitness levels, whether you prefer a leisurely bike ride or an invigorating workout. The trail winds alongside the West Branch River, offering scenic views and opportunities for wildlife sightings.

## Water Activities

Kayaking on the Winooski River

Embark on a paddling adventure on the Winooski River, known for its calm waters and scenic surroundings. Rent a kayak and explore the meandering river, passing by lush green banks, quaint bridges, and historic mill buildings. The gentle current makes it an ideal activity for kayakers of all experience levels.

Stand-Up Paddleboarding on Lake Mansfield

Glide across the crystal-clear waters of Lake Mansfield on a stand-up paddleboard. This serene lake offers a tranquil setting for paddling, surrounded by towering mountains and pristine forests. Enjoy the stunning views while getting a full-body workout and immersing yourself in nature’s tranquility.

Charming Stowe Village

Shopping and Dining on Main Street

Stroll along Stowe’s charming Main Street, lined with quaint shops and boutiques. Discover unique souvenirs, handcrafted items, and local art, or indulge in delectable treats at one of the many cozy cafes. The village’s vibrant atmosphere invites you to relax and soak in the local culture.

Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum

Delve into the rich history of skiing and snowboarding in Vermont at the Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum. Explore interactive exhibits, vintage equipment, and captivating stories that showcase the evolution of winter sports in the region. Learn about the legendary skiers and snowboarders who have shaped the sport’s legacy.

Helen Day Art Center

Immerse yourself in the vibrant arts scene at the Helen Day Art Center, a hub for visual and performing arts. Admire rotating exhibitions featuring works by local and regional artists, attend a captivating performance in the intimate theater, or participate in hands-on workshops to unleash your own creativity.

## Culture and Festivals

Vermont Brewers Festival

Savor the flavors of Vermont’s thriving craft beer scene at the annual Vermont Brewers Festival, held in May. Sample over 200 beers from more than 100 breweries, enjoy live music, and indulge in local food offerings. This lively festival celebrates the state’s rich brewing tradition and brings together beer enthusiasts from near and far.

Planning Your Stowe Adventure

Best Months to Visit

May through October offer the most pleasant weather for outdoor activities and exploring Stowe’s natural beauty.

Nearby Transportation

Burlington International Airport (BTV) and Amtrak train station in Waterbury provide convenient transportation options to Stowe.

Local Cuisine

Stowe offers a diverse culinary scene, from farm-to-table cuisine to hearty comfort food and international flavors.

Best Hotels

Topnotch Resort & Spa and Stowe Mountain Lodge provide luxurious accommodations and amenities for a comfortable and memorable stay.

Conclusion

Stowe awaits your arrival with a captivating blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation. Plan your visit for May 2024 and experience the 9 best things to do in this enchanting Vermont town, creating memories that will last a lifetime.