July Newsletter: Jim - MAP Fund - Many Hands

As authoritarian law enforcement enters our cities in response to peaceful protests, and as the pandemic rages on, it is difficult to focus on anything else, or to find the right words to say here, or to even justify writing these newsletters. In spite of this, I keep working, trying to make sense, and trying to contribute in some small way to the larger struggles. I am just now completing an album based on the Thomas Merton archives in Kentucky, and Merton's model of moving between contemplation and action –– and holding the tensions between the two –– offers some relief. I'll be sharing more about this project in the upcoming months. For now, I hope you are able to take time to both stand for what is right and also to reflect, and to take care of yourselves.

Below are a few updates –– I hope you continue to thrive and be well,
 My best, Brian

NEW VIDEO: "JIM" FROM SHAWNEE, OHIO

In May, I spent a day with videographer Kevin Davison filming a short video for a live event called "Archive Dive" (you can watch the replay here). Now, you can watch the song by itself, recorded as a live solo event. The track is "Jim" from Shawnee, Ohio, and is performed in the Tecumseh Theater in Shawnee, the same place where my grandfather performed a century ago. If you are interested in donating to the current Tecumseh Theater campaign, you can do so below. The campaign will go directly to saving the theater, since they have lost most of their income during the pandemic.

MAP FUND GRANT FOR "PARIS OF THE COAL FIELDS"

I'm very honored and thankful to be among so many other amazing artists and projects as a 2020 MAP Fund grantee. The grant will support a new project called “Paris of the Coal Fields” and will help me to continue working in Appalachian Ohio. You can read more about the grant here.

MANY HANDS (VOL 2) REVIEW: BENZINE MAGAZINE

Benzine Magazine wrote a lovely review of the latest Many Hands album, giving it 4/5 stars. The review states, "Harnetty continues an exploration of minimal piano as if he were looking through infinite tiny details to revive old memories.... Harnetty, even in his piano playing, seems to draw a theme here, that of a caring touch, taking care, and attention to the other.... a magnificent record." You can read the review here in French, or read a rough translation below.