Letters from Unison's President, Executive Director and Artistic Director

Although she's only been at the helm for five months, Carol Robins has done a remarkable job guiding Unison as our new Executive Director. She has made this a seamless transition. Her friendly approach is only exceeded by her boundless industry and attention to every problem or issue. Thank you, Carol.... thank you.

Thanks to all our supporters — while we're not out of the woods yet, we are better off than many of our sister not-for-profits. That's because you, our die-hard supporters, continue to come through for Unison year after year. Thank you.

This fall, we'll hold a series of fundraisers that promise not only to be fun events, but will help put us back on track financially. We need your support at these events like never before.

Remember that our Sculpture Garden, at Mountain Rest Road is open and free to the public and that our Water Street Gallery, has monthly openings; this catalog lists times and dates.

I would also like to thank our Arts Partners, our loyal members, and of course our volunteers for their endless energy and you, our audience and members of the public, on whose support Unison depends. See you at Unison.

Bruce Pileggi, Board President

Has it been five months? Time flies when you're having fun! Those of you who have attended a performance, class or other event at Unison, know we certainly have a lot of fun here — and this fall will be no exception.

For performances, we'll have a mix of old favorites, including Metropolitan Hot Club, Susan Werner and Mikhail Horowitz, along with some bands new to the Unison stage: Namaskar, New Paltz's own Sweet Clementines, Buskin & Batteau and much, much more. There will also be a mini-festival to celebrate the Day of the Dead, including mask making for children and a dance party for all!

We'll be introducing new instructors, new classes and workshops — including a series of lectures on Permaculture, a workshop on healing your soul, and a Master Class with the Dance Monks. We're also happy to have some our favorite instructors returning as well — Bill Shillalies teaching us more pottery techniques, Marc Grossman keeping our eyes healthy and, back after a year, Jesse Sarubbi and her Zumba class!

So, make sure and check out all of our fall events. Enjoy your Fall Program Guide and keep it handy for whenever you are looking for an exciting new experience or an evening with your favorites from the past.

Thank you to everyone who keeps Unison Arts Center a vibrant and essential part of this community.

Carol Robins, Executive Director