Things to See & Do

Nature meets art: Make beautiful handmade cards, votive candle holders and glass ornaments using real pressed flowers. Join us for a creative and relaxing workshop where nature meets art, making beautiful handmade cards, votive candle holders and glass ornaments using real pressed flowers. We’ll guide you through the process of arranging flowers and applying them properly to create unique, personalized items — perfect for gifts, keepsakes, or simply to brighten someone’s day.

Panel Discussion: Motherhood as Muse

Moderated by: Dr. Michelle Millar Fisher, Curator of Contemporary Decorative Arts at the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, and author of Designing Motherhood

Exhibiting artists: Katherine Bradford, Kathryn Geismar, Alison Croney Moses, and Deborah Peeples

Free for members / $10 non-members

‘Tis the season to warm your soul with the festive sounds of the Firebird Pops Orchestra in The Umbrella’s state-of-the-art Theater 144. Cozy up to two acts of beloved holiday classics–plus some new favorites!–performed by talented musicians from across New England. Let these rich, vibrant orchestrations provide the soundtrack to your December as you enjoy solos by Mara Bonde, Sandra Piques Eddy, and Stephen Markarian with your loved ones. Bringing the family? Pops the perfect introduction to the magic of the symphony for listeners of all ages. During intermission, let little ones explore Educational activities with an Umbrella instructor while you visit Concessions and take in the beautiful abstract works in the Allie Kussin Gallery, Joy & Peace. There's nothing quite like experiencing the joy of a full orchestra together—especially when everyone gets to sing along.

Join local award-winning author Jenn Bouchard at J. McLaughlin in Concord for a book signing on Saturday, December 13th from 1-4 PM. She'll have copies of her latest novel, Considering Us, the 2025 Winner in Romantic Comedy from both the American Fiction Awards and the NYC Big Book Award. Kirkus Reviews calls Considering Us "a soul-searching, second-chance romance for readers who love a strong female lead."

Compose the Action! Learn Film Music Composition Have you ever wondered how music creates the perfect mood in a movie or builds the suspense? This Film Music Composition Workshop is your exclusive chance to step into the composer’s chair! Through an exciting, interactive group project, students will learn directly from composer and CCM faculty member Manuel Garcia-Baro how music is used to convey specific emotions and drama across different visual media. You’ll get hands-on experience in music composition by planning the soundtrack for an unforgettable scene from the popular movie How to Train Your Dragon. 

Unlock Your Musical Voice: Secrets of Composition Ever wondered how your favorite pieces of music get written? Stop wondering and start creating! This introductory workshop is your chance to step directly into the composer’s seat. Through a dynamic, hands-on session, you will learn directly from composer and CCM piano faculty member Keith Kirchoff as he de-mystifies the creative process behind structuring melodies and developing musical ideas. You’ll get practical experience by immediately applying concepts to write your own short, original melody to take home! 

Master the Foundation: The Science of Rhythm Is rhythm the foundation of your musical voice? In this unique and essential Rhythmic Laboratory workshop, you will go beyond simple counting to truly feel the pulse that drives all music! Percussion instructor and renowned Jazz Jam leader Giuseppe Paradiso will guide you through an exciting, hands-on session focused on the essential rhythmic skill of subdivision. This dynamic workshop uses a powerful, physical approach, engaging your body as an instrument to help you deeply internalize and master complex timing.