COVID Concert Series Music Brings Cheer During Uncertain Times

As Naples Strings, a locally based violin ensemble approached their twenty-fifth outdoor performance two weeks ago, the trio continues to deliver music in a time that has all but decimated the live art scene.

A client to professional artists and a staple to the wedding and private ceremony circuit, the trio founded by Elaine Tubinis in Naples, Calif. had made quite a name for itself. However, Naples was not exempt of the cultural and societal abatements brought about from the need to socially distance.

Tubinis was presented with a unique opportunity to turn a time of uncertainty and truancy of social interaction into a positive.

“An acquaintance called in early May for my trio to play for their neighborhood,” Tubinis said. “We came up with a fee of $300 for the trio for one hour, and thus the COVID Concert Series started.”

Mike Greenfield, fellow Naples violinist feels that the COVID Concert Series is exactly what people need right now.

“When the virus hit, everything music related ceased, and even now months later, most forms of music still remain on hold,” Greenfield said. “What people don’t realize when they hear groups ‘perform’ now on Zoom or YouTube, is that everything they’re hearing is manufactured and has to be patched together.”

The group is excited not only because they’re able to do what they feel so passionately about, but also give a sense of normalcy in an uncertain time.

“I think people are looking for some way to bring a type of normalcy back into their lives,” said Alan Mautner, the group’s cellist. “I’m happy that for an hour or so, Naples Strings can do that.”

Two weeks ago the trio played their twenty-fifth concert at 25 Lindero Ave. to keep the good times and good music rolling.

“It is my hope that we can continue these concerts and give our patrons some Christmas cheer as we end what has been a very tough year for all,” Mautner said.

Tubinis echoes the idea of navigating the newfound style of delivery and getting neighborhoods in the mood to end the year on a good note.

“We are constantly fine-tuning the program, trying different sing-a-longs and adding some more classical selections,” she said. “We’re presently getting our Holiday repertoire ready.”

The trio even plans to wear Christmas garb during their performance in hopes to get everyone in the holiday spirit.

On Nov. 29 at 4 p.m. there’s a holiday concert in Carroll Park. Dress festive, bring an unwrapped gift to be donated to COA-Christian Outreach in Action and prepare to sing along to your Christmas favorites.

For information on how to contact Naples Strings, the trio can be reached at www.naplesstrings.com

eric@beachcomber.news