Tara Helen O'Connor
Artistic Director

Essex Winter Series

Our Mission is to bring the finest musical performances to the widest and most culturally, economically, and socially diverse audience possible in the Connecticut River Valley and Shoreline Region during the winter months.

Our History is one of great music since 1978.

Our Concerts are renowned not only for their world-class artistic quality, but also for their extraordinary variety and friendly, informal atmosphere. Programs have ranged from an intimate solo guitar recital to a full symphony orchestra, and have included both instrumental and vocal music. Each season includes a Stu Ingersoll Jazz concert and presents young performers in the Fenton Brown Emerging Artists concert. All concerts are Sundays at 3:00 pm.

Our Supporters are part of the EWS family and enjoy special benefits by contributing to the cultural life of their community by supporting concerts, student ticket discounts, community programs, and emerging artists.

Our Community programs bring dedicated musical artists to schools and senior residences on the Shoreline, New London, and Middletown.

Our Venues: Our concerts are held at either Valley Regional High School or John Winthrop Middle School in Deep River, Congregation Beth Shalom Redfe Zedek in Chester, or Old Saybrook High School in Old Saybrook, Connecticut. Please verify venue locations on the concert page.

 

Board of Trustees 2025 – 2026

Susan Guernsey, President
Amy Rinehart, Secretary
Stephen Brinkmann, Treasurer
Cindy Loeffler
Aimee Loinig
Melissa Ozols
Hans Ullstein

 

Staff

Tara Helen O’Connor,
Artistic Director
Jeff Barnhart, Jazz Artistic Advisor
Joan Fox, Administrative Director
Susan McCann, Box Office Manager