On April 27, 2025, Holyoke, Massachusetts, will come alive with the soulful strum of guitars and the heartfelt lyrics of 21 talented songwriters at the 21 Songwriters – Western New England Music Festival. Held at the vibrant De La Luz Soundstage and the intimate Divine Theater, this free, all-ages event promises a day of music, connection, and community spirit. Organized by Mark Sherry, the passionate executive director of the New Music Alliance, this festival isn’t just a showcase of talent—it’s a celebration of the stories, struggles, and triumphs woven into every song.
With a lineup featuring artists like Louise Mosrie Coombe, Peter J. Newland, Jon Carroll, Cliff Eberhardt, and the Boxcar Lilies, alongside workshops and a welcoming vibe, this event is set to leave a lasting mark on everyone who attends. Let’s dive into what makes this festival so special and why it’s a must-visit for music lovers.
Imagine walking into De La Luz Soundstage, a 500-capacity venue buzzing with anticipation. The air hums with the chatter of families, friends, and music enthusiasts of all ages, all drawn together by a shared love for raw, authentic songwriting. Across the street, the cozy Divine Theater, with its 100-seat capacity, offers a more intimate setting, perfect for those moments when you want to feel like the artist is singing just for you. The festival’s unique format—seven groups of three songwriters performing in the round, alternating every 30 minutes—creates a dynamic experience.
It’s like sitting in on a conversation between friends, where each artist shares a piece of their soul through song. Mark Sherry, inspired by a similar event run by Frank Viele in Hamden, Connecticut, envisioned a festival that would amplify the voices of Western New England’s singer-songwriters. “I wanted to do something that would have a significant impact on the community,” Sherry said, and this festival is the realization of that dream.
The lineup is a treasure trove of talent, showcasing both seasoned performers and rising stars. Louise Mosrie Coombe, known for her poetic storytelling and folk-infused melodies, brings a warmth that feels like a fireside chat. Peter J. Newland, a regional legend, carries the grit and heart of New England in his voice, his songs resonating with anyone who’s ever felt the pull of home. Jon Carroll, with his genre-blending style, weaves humor and heartache into performances that linger long after the last note.
Cliff Eberhardt, a folk veteran, delivers raw emotion with every chord, his voice a testament to a life lived in pursuit of truth. And then there’s the Boxcar Lilies, whose harmonies and spirited energy turn every song into a celebration. These are just a few of the 21 songwriters who will take the stage, each bringing their unique perspective to create a tapestry of sound that’s as diverse as the community itself.
What sets this festival apart is its commitment to accessibility and education. It’s free to attend, a rarity in today’s world of pricey concert tickets, making it a gift to the Holyoke community and beyond. Donations are welcomed, supporting the De La Luz Institute for Technical Arts at LightHouse Holyoke and the New Music Alliance, organizations dedicated to nurturing creativity and opportunity. For those eager to learn, the festival offers workshops that invite aspiring songwriters to grow their craft. Louise Mosrie Coombe and Peter J. Newland will lead an intermediate songwriting workshop, sharing insights on crafting lyrics that hit home.
Jon Carroll and Cliff Eberhardt will guide an advanced songwriting workshop, diving into the nuances of melody and structure. Meanwhile, Frank Viele, Lee Totten, Tracy Walton, and Meredith Tarr will host a music business workshop, offering practical advice for navigating the industry. These sessions aren’t just for performers—they’re for anyone who’s ever scribbled a lyric in a notebook or dreamed of turning their ideas into music.
The festival’s setting in Holyoke adds another layer of charm. De La Luz Soundstage, located at 114 Race St., is a hub of creativity, its cafe serving locally inspired food and drinks, including a full bar for those looking to toast the day. The vibe is relaxed yet electric, with the scent of coffee and the sound of laughter mingling with the music.
Holyoke itself, with its rich history and tight-knit community, feels like the perfect backdrop for an event that’s all about connection. As you move between the two stages, you’ll feel the energy of a town coming together to celebrate its artists and welcome newcomers with open arms. It’s the kind of day where you might strike up a conversation with a stranger and leave feeling like you’ve made a friend.
For music fans, the 21 Songwriters Festival is a chance to discover new favorites and reconnect with the power of live performance. There’s something magical about hearing a songwriter share the story behind their song—the moment of heartbreak, joy, or revelation that sparked it. These performances, delivered in the round, feel like a gift, each artist building on the energy of the others. Whether you’re swaying to a folk ballad, tapping your foot to an Americana tune, or tearing up during a soul-baring lyric, you’ll be reminded of music’s ability to bring us together. And with free tickets available at Delaluz.org, there’s no barrier to joining the celebration.
As April 27 approaches, the excitement in Holyoke is palpable. This isn’t just a music festival—it’s a love letter to the art of songwriting and the community that supports it. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of folk and Americana or simply curious about the stories behind the songs, the 21 Songwriters – Western New England Music Festival promises a day of unforgettable moments. Bring your friends, your family, or just yourself, and let the music carry you away. Who knows? You might leave with a new favorite song, a spark of inspiration, or a deeper appreciation for the incredible talent right here in Western New England.
