In a career that spans six decades, 28 albums and three grammy awards, Hudson Valley Troubadour Tom Chapin has covered an incredible amount of creative ground. In addition to his work as a recording artist, concert performer, storyteller and activist, he’s performed on Broadway and worked extensively in television, radio and film.
The son of noted jazz drummer and teacher Jim Chapin, Tom grew up in a family that encouraged artistic pursuits. He began performing professionally as a teenager in the early 1960s, playing in Greenwich Village folk clubs alongside his siblings Harry and Steve as The Chapin Brothers. Tomʼs storytelling engages the heart, mind and imagination with life-affirming songs that convey positive messages about relationships, family, good food and the green earth.
With hundreds of songs in his repertoire, Chapin serves up a mix of story songs, ballads, comedic and political songs, family music, sing-alongs, old-time folk classics and a favorite song or two of his late brother Harry. Tom accompanies himself on guitar, banjo and autoharp, and he encourages his audiences to lend their voices, sing a round, learn a song in sign language and discover the music of a didgeridoo.
In addition to his musical and media endeavors, Chapin has long been an advocate for environmental causes, issues of hunger and social justice, and continues to support music and the arts in public schools. “I’m at that place in my life where I follow what interests me,” Chapin says. “I still love the guitar, I still love to sing, and I still love the thrill of creation: a good song, a good recording, a good concert. I feel blessed to be my own boss, creating my own material and performing for so many different audiences, ages and generations.”
INDY FOLK SERIES is an all-ages listening room venue featuring superb acoustics, art on the walls, and a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. Light snacks and drinks are available by donation. Concerts are held once a month, September – May, in the performance space at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Indianapolis.
Doors to the lobby open to the public at 6:15 p.m. The concert begins at 7:00 pm.
In Person and via Livestream
