Musictown
Somerset Massachusetts gained its nickname "Musictown" in the late 1960s because of the Somerset Music Department head/director, Dr. Robert Perry. During Perry's time, the annual Musictown Parade was started. This event has since grown and now includes the "Musictwon Ball", where students run for positions in the music department such as King and Queen. A large portion of Somerset's music today, is derived from the High School music organizations. As of now, the music department is now run by Mr. David Marshall, who also teaches numerous classes and groups at the school. The High School has many different types of clubs/organizations including bands, choirs, dance groups, etc. The town hosts many musical performances, and celebrates its musical history throughout the town including parades, “Spirit of Somerset” and other events. The parades always feature the high school musical groups, and sometimes groups from other schools in the area. The “Spirit of Somerset” event celebrates the town's history and welcomes the future. The event features local band music from teenagers to adults. The event features music through its entirety, while also having food, fireworks, and other activities. The high school music department is the heart of the music in the town.
Native American Roots
Somerset was once land to the Shawomet tribe. Due to this, there is deep Native American roots in this area.In fact, the town's high school was actually built on Native American During its season, the Pow -Wows travel around to the Somerset area (Dighton, Bridgewater, etc.) if not the town itself. In Somerset's historical society building, numerous musical artifacts (along with many others) can be found on display that belong to the Native American tribes.
Below is a video showcasing a Pow-Wow in Somerset, MA.
Below is a video showcasing a Pow-Wow in Somerset, MA.
Other Music Related Venues...
The town is home to "Sunset Records", a music shop selling vinyls, cassettes, and CD's amongst other items is located on Wilbur Avenue.
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Sunset-Records/143487562350847
A grill and bar in the town called, The Comfort Zone, hosts live music on Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday
http://comfortzonesomerset.com)
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Sunset-Records/143487562350847
A grill and bar in the town called, The Comfort Zone, hosts live music on Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday
http://comfortzonesomerset.com)