The Second Congregational Church located at 51 Main St. in Newcastle has long been a bastion of community spirit, a place where people gather not only to worship, but also to celebrate the arts. In the spirit of fostering a deeper connection to music and culture, the church proudly presents its season’s final community concert to be held Sunday, July 13 at 3 p.m. featuring regional favorite, the DaPonte String Quartet.

This performance will showcase the innovative spirit of stringed instruments, that blends traditional chamber orchestra compositions and techniques and orchestral elements with new and contemporary sounds. This performance will be a celebration of how music continues to evolve and resonate for classical instruments across time.

Not long after forming in Philadelphia 33 years ago, the DaPonte String Quartet surprised the musical world by moving from a cosmopolitan urban area to rural Maine. The DSQ had been — and continues to be — sought after to perform and teach all over the U.S. and around the world. They have appeared in France, Scotland, Canada, and more than 20 American states. Their performances have been broadcast over nation-wide radio and television programs in both the United States and Canada.

They have received awards from the National Endowment for the Arts, the Philadelphia Musical Fund Society, the Music Teachers National Association, Chamber Music America, and have participated in several of the nation’s most prestigious concert series to rave reviews. Musicians and critics alike wondered, why would the DSQ move to Maine, where, as the New York Times noted, they create an experience “like watching the Celtics play in the local gym.”

The DaPonte String Quartet is now in season 34 and its members are still proud to call Maine home.

There are no advance ticket sales for these concerts. Admission will be at the door, with a suggested donation of $20/adults, $10/ students, and FREE for children 10 and under.

For additional information, review the church website at www.secondcongo.org, visit https://www.facebook.com/secondcongo/ or call the church office at (207) 563-3379.