History
The Nashua Community Concert Association began with the 1931–1932 season under the leadership of its first
president, Sarah Mercer. The first series consisted of three all-classical concerts, and the subscription prices were
$5.00 for adults and $3.00 for children.
On the occasion of the association's 50th anniversary, Marilyn Solomon wrote in the April 5, 1980 edition of the
Nashua Telegraph...
It was on the bitter cold night of Jan. 13, 1931, when Dr. W. H. Weston, temporary chairman presided at the session
held at the YWCA building on Temple Street. With so few in attendance, it seemed useless to continue, so the
meeting was postponed with the hope that it was the weather and not a lack of interest in music that prompted the
poor turnout. Ten days later a strong showing of music lovers, waiving signatures of scores of enthusiastic
Nashuans, gathered. The support was there after all. The group set about laying the groundwork for what was to
become a community institution and the vehicle for bringing hundreds of the world's finest talents before Nashua
audiences. In June at the meeting to kick off the first membership drive, more than 100 workers crowded into the
YWCA to hear Dr. Sigmund Spaeth, a music critic and a director of the national Community Concert organization,
outline objectives. Mayor William F. Sullivan bought the first membership and within 6 days the campaign overshot
its goal of 500 members.
The Association has presented a season continuously since that first one, and at present time offers five or six
concerts, usually of mixed classical and light classical, dance and other variety of programs.
The Nashua Community Concert Association has presented many famous performers over the years. Some names
from earlier seasons will probably be familiar to you today. Richard Tucker, Robert Merrill, and Dorothy Kirsten, all
Metropolitan Opera stars, as well as the Trapp Family Singers of "Sound of Music" fame, have performed for
Nashua Community Concerts audiences.
Our past concert page lists every performance we have presented over the years. Take a look and see how many
names you recognize!
History of the Nashua Community Concert Association
Nashua Community Concerts will be held in accordance with the Current COVID Rules In Effect for the Nashua School District and the State of NH.