Our History
Founded in 1995
Dr. Gerald Mack, Director of the Worcester Chorus and Symphony Orchestra (MA) and a former professor at the Hartt School of Music, University of Hartford (CT), founded Great Waters Music Festival to encompass a diversified program designed to appeal to various musical tastes. Hosting a 100 voice Festival Chorus and symphony orchestra as well as national stars such as Dave Brubeck, Richie Havens, Arlo Guthrie, Sandy Duncan, Judy Collins, Wynton Marsalis, and many others, Great Waters was positioned from the start to offer a unique experience.
Scroll down to see a video tribute to Dr. Mack narrated by Board Member Emerita, Barbara Lobdell.
Evolved into Venues
As time took its toll on the tent and Great Waters moved in a new direction, the organization opted for other venues such as the Kingswood Performing Arts Center, The Barn at the Inn and Anderson Hall. Though the tent was no longer, the spirit of Great Waters remained.
Concerts in the Clouds
In partnership with the Castle Preservation Society, Great Waters has found a new outdoor space for the tent in the meadow of Castle in the Clouds. “Concerts in the Clouds” made its debut in 2021 with an amazing lineup of performers against the stunning backdrop of Lake Winnipesaukee.
What Started as a Tent
In the early years, home for Great Waters was a beautiful 800 person capacity tent on the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee. It stood proudly for over 10 seasons, welcoming performing artists and guests from July through August.
And in 2018
Great Waters embarked on a journey to build a new vision for the future. It became clear that the nostalgia for the tent was not to be ignored and with Brewster no longer available, other options had to be looked at. Donors, artists, and audience members all expressed great enthusiasm for building on the magical experiences of the past, so the Great Waters board went to work.
