Welcome to a mesmerizing evening where art meets nature at the “Sounds of the Lagoon” event, happening on June 30, 2023, at Eau Gallie Square Park, beginning at 6:30 PM. This unique experience promises to blend the tranquility and beauty of the Indian River Lagoon with the charm of music and film. Dive into a world where these mediums converge to celebrate and spotlight the critical role this natural habitat plays in our local community and beyond. The event is completely free, inviting everyone from Melbourne and neighboring areas to immerse themselves in this sensory journey through panel discussions and live performances.

The Eau Gallie Arts District (EGAD) proudly presents this audio-visual project, fostering a deeper connection between residents and the lagoon’s ecosystem. The evening will open with a panel discussion, setting the stage for the highlight of the night – a performance by a string ensemble from the Brevard Symphony Orchestra under the baton of Maestro Christopher Confessore. They will debut “On the Ethereal Nature of Bioluminescence,” an original composition by Luis Quintana, inspired by the natural wonders of the lagoon. A film showcasing the behind-the-scenes magic and the majestic Indian River Lagoon produced by Endless Media will accompany the music, making for an unforgettable experience.

Kathie Elías, the creative powerhouse behind “Sounds of the Lagoon,” currently steers the ship as EGAD’s Executive Director. With a rich background spanning 16 years in museum profession, art curation, and collaboration with artists worldwide, Kathie brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to the project. Her educational achievements include a Master’s in Public Administration from the Florida Institute of Technology, making her a formidable force in bringing this event to life. Her vision for the project mirrors her commitment to intertwining art with community engagement, enriching Melbourne’s cultural landscape.

Puerto Rican composer Luis Quintana, whose work transcends traditional boundaries, has crafted the event’s centerpiece musical piece. With a career illuminating through numerous international accolades, Quintana’s compositions reverberate with a distinct synergy of rhythmical and poetic power. Drawing inspiration from the ethereal beauty of the Indian River Lagoon, his latest work promises to captivate audiences, transporting them on a mystical auditory journey that mirrors the lagoon’s serene and vital essence.

Barry Walton, the visionary filmmaker and CEO of Endless Media, brings his award-winning storytelling talent to “Sounds of the Lagoon.” With a portfolio that includes five documentaries and an Emmy to his name, Walton possesses a unique ability to capture and present narratives in a way that touches hearts and provokes thought. His documentary work, recognized and celebrated at numerous festivals, plays a crucial role in visually articulating the significance of the lagoon and the creative journey undertaken in this project.

Christopher Confessore, wielding the baton for this event, serves as the Music Director of the Brevard Symphony Orchestra and boasts an impressive career as a conductor. With numerous high-profile collaborations and performances across the globe, his expertise ensures that the musical narrative of the evening is delivered with precision and emotive power. His educational background, combined with his vast experience, makes him the ideal leader to bring Quintana’s composition to life.

Guiding the pre-performance discussion is Virginia Anzengruber, an accomplished filmmaker and journalist. Hailing from Brevard, her professional journey has spanned various creative fields, from film production to journalism, garnering her critical acclaim and awards. Her role as the event moderator is instrumental in setting the tone for the evening and fostering an environment where art, nature, and community dialogue intersect seamlessly.

The “Sounds of the Lagoon” event is a testament to the power of collaboration, creativity, and community. It stands as a beacon of cultural enrichment in Melbourne, FL, thanks to the generous support of the National Endowment for the Arts and the Exploration Arts! Fund at the Community Foundation for Brevard. Additional thanks go to Courtyard by Marriott in Cocoa Beach and Cape Canaveral & Ocean Partners, LLLP, whose support helps ensure that this celebration of nature, music, and film remains free and accessible to all. Prepare to be enthralled by the beauty and wonder of Melbourne’s cherished Indian River Lagoon like never before.