Shirley Film Fest

I’ve produced many events through the years, but a film festival is a first. Community oriented events appeal to me. There’s a fun factor – albeit some seriousness is getting the right programming – in creating a new experience and opportunity that wasn’t previously available.

What started out as a simple request to be part of the Shirley Meeting House Committee has evolved into, once again, being a community producer: a person that makes something grow. I hope it has wings.

Have a look at our schedule and come if you can – for all or part.

Nancy

Marula – Video Release

I traveled to South Africa a few years ago, right in the middle of a terrible drought. Water rationing was imperative and prayers for rain were on everyone’s lips. I learned about the Marula Tree during my time on safari – not only does it survives drought, but also becomes a source of nourishment and medicine for animal and human alike. I hope you enjoy my newest production – “Marula”, as I try to capture the spirit of my journey through this beautiful country. (Marula features African artist – Spirit-T – please check out his amazing work!)(Also, big screen and headphones or stereo speakers recommended:)

 

Spirit-T Fabulous Artist

We recently had the amazing opportunity to work with Spirit-T, a recording artist from Cameroon, Africa. He was hired to add backup vocals to Nancy Beaudette’s – soon to be released – song, Marula. The Marula tree is a miraculous, drought resistant and healing tree that thrives in the southern part of the continent of Africa. Stay tuned for the video release, but in the meantime, we were so impressed with Spirit-T, we wanted to share him with you asap. Please subscribe and share his youtube channel to support his beautiful songs and spirit.

“Life is a Mantra” Video Release

In the stillness of Shiva’s cave, I sat in silence. It was very dark, just a single candle glowing on a stone altar adorned with a picture of his likeness, flowers, herbs and other such offerings. I waited and listened. And there it was, as if never lost or forgotten, shiny and new, from the deep place where spirit meets source – music. Song. My retreat partners, and the Children at Ramana’s Garden sing along with me in this video. We all hope you enjoy our song.

Nancy

“Into the Heart of Yoga Retreat,” – Rishikesh, India with Madhurai Sumhara

Ramana’s Garden Children’s Home – Donations welcome

Holiday Show at Legion Post 183 in Shirley Ma

We need your voice, your good spirit and your presence on Saturday, December 10th. Together, let’s nip humbug in the butt and help out the folks at the American Legion cover a few more expenses. Planned as a ‘variety show‘ like the USO shows of old with local and regional performers, the evening will host your holiday favorites and original compositions. We hope you’ll join us and bring ten of your friends.

Follow the Facebook Event page for updates

Open Mic in Shirley, MA

Moonlit Pond Records will be hosting an open mic the last Friday of the month at the American Legion in Shirley, MA, beginning September 30th. This is a music only open mic with an emphasis on original music. Limited slots available, and sign up must be in advance via the Facebook page. Evenings will wind down with a community jam session. 

 

When
7 p.m. to 10p.m – the last Friday of the month
(be sure to like the facebook page for announcements)

Where
Open Mic the last Friday of each month. Held downstairs at American Legion Post 183
8 Church Street, Shirley, MA, United States, Massachusetts

What
Two song performances by local and regional songwriters – music only – followed by community jam session

Sign up in advance on Facebook

Mid-Atlantic Song Contest Finalists

Moonlit Pond Artist, Jan Blaising, has been recognized for TWO of her songs in the prestigious 38th Mid-Atlantic Song Contest. The competition is one of the largest and most distinguished in the country with multiple categories and thousands of entries from around the world. “Cradled by the Moon” and “Mountaintops and Oceans” have been recognized for excellence in songwriting. Both songs were co-written by Jan Blaising and Nancy Beaudette, and included on Jan’s EP, “Faith, Hope and Love,” which was released last fall and available for purchase on Jan’s website, and on itunes and spotify

Congratulations, Jan, on this tremendous honour!

 

 

Jan Blaising – CD Release

Moonlit Pond Records is pleased to announce the release of “Faith, Hope and Love!” Artist and songwriter, Jan Blaising, poured her heart and soul into the making of this project, and we are so proud to support this recording.

Jan Blaising grew up skipping rocks in Indiana – a preacher’s daughter with a rebel’s heart. Her first songs were red Crayola scratch marks on her blue notebook of staff paper so Jan could remember her songs. Though Jan has had her share of reasons to stop believing, this rebel heart has finally come home to her faith in God, in her debut EP/(album), Faith, Hope and Love.

Jan offers warm, lovely, uplifting anthems for the spirit, with bold melodies, inspiring Choruses and memorable “hooks,” and provides listeners with thought-provoking lyrics that linger in their hearts, minds, and souls long after they are heard. Jan’s music has the feel of a great American landscape, with words spoken to the depths of the American soul.

“Such a beautiful song ~ like a fresh mountain stream ~ and your voice and the production are impeccable!”
~ Beth Nielsen Chapman

“Faith, Hope and Love” is already being played on radio stations around the US and Canada, and has received so many wonderful comments from listeners:

“Terrific music and lyrics, sung by an excellent voice, with superb artwork as visuals! Wow!!!”

“Such a wonderful song of hope and God’s love. I truly know the promises from Him are fulfilled. You have a beautiful voice too.”

“Beautiful– touching warm tears again, Jan– I am so elated for this gift that you have given to us–a strong meaning– purpose –and reason that we can live –learn and grow from–embedded in our hearts and souls forever. Thank you!”

We invite you to listen to Jan’s music and support this project by purchasing a download or physical CD at www.janblaising.com

Jan Blaising – New Video Release

Moonlit Pond Records is pleased to announce the video release, “Cradled by the Moon,” written by Jan Blaising and Nancy Beaudette, performed by Jan Blaising.

“When the hardest part is only just beginning … I know I’m cradled by the light of the moon.” These words that ring true for me during life’s challenging times. In my darkest hours, I know I’m held by a loving God who shines light every hour of the day or night,” says Jan. 

We sincerely hope this song brightens your day and helps you overcome your struggles.

“Mountaintops and Oceans” Video and Single Release

Moonlit Pond Records is pleased to announce the release of “Mountaintops and Oceans” by Jan Blaising Music. 

Jan’s new single, “Mountaintops and Oceans,” is a song Jan wrote to honor her Mom. The song tells the story of a woman who overcame significant obstacles in her early life through love and faith. It describes the ways Jan’s Mom brought gifts of grace and grandeur from her early home in Washington state to the Indiana plains, where she met and married a minister and raised a family. “Mountaintops and Oceans” is a timely song to honor mothers everywhere.

“Such a beautiful song ~ like a fresh mountain stream ~ and your voice and the production are impeccable!”
~ Beth Nielsen Chapman (bncmasterclasses.com)

Co-written with Nancy Beaudette. Video produced by Moonlit Pond Records.