For the second year in a row, the Allegan Performing Arts Center will welcome a diverse group of musicians and artists for a day of entertainment and education as the Allegan Folklife Organization presents its Folklife Music/Art Festival on May 4.

Allegan Folklife Organization President Leah Ward is beyond excited for the event. “We love music,” she said. “If I can help provide our little community with the opportunity to hear a great band, it just excites us.”

The event kicks off at 10 a.m. with a performance from the Allegan high school band, who will also accompany professional flute player and Grand Valley State University professor Dr. Abigail Walsh for a song. The day continues with a variety of workshops, musical performances, jam sessions, a performance from the AHS choir, and a full-length concert performed by Detroit’s Denise Davis and the Motor City Sensations. In addition, there will be a host of art vendors on site, and the APS Band Boosters will provide a meal. A concession stand will also be available.

Ms. Ward said she reached out to APS Superintendent James Antoine about hosting last year’s festival since her organization needed a lot of rooms for the various activities. After a successful event, they were excited to partner again this year. “It’s great for the school,” she said.

And Ms. Ward is convinced that the event will be great for the community as well. “It’s a proven fact that for people (with mental health issues), music helps,” she said. “It can take them right out of that spot for a few minutes.” She hopes that attendees will discover what she describes as the “therapeutic benefits of music.”

“They can just have a great time and not worry about what’s going on in the world or what’s going on at home,” she said. “I just feel that music is an important part of our lives.”

“It’s a gift,” Ms. Ward said.