SCL: What was the moment that prompted you to say, “let’s buy a cool space in CT with lots of property so we could stage concerts?”
Greg & Kat: There was no “aha moment”. It kind of developed over time. Kathiryn is a singer/songwriter and eventually started collaborating and performing with various bands in Westchester and Fairfield Counties. Over time, we were fortunate to become friends with a lot of talented musicians. As a result, when we hosted parties in the backyard of our home in Rye Brook, NY they inevitably turned into jam sessions. So, when we started looking for our forever home, we knew we wanted a space and vibe in which we could host live music. It was almost like we manifested this incredible 10 acre property on Riverbank Road.
SCL: What was the impetus for starting the Riverbank Ramble?
Greg & Kat: We wanted to find a way to meet new friends and create something special for the community. We appreciate the opportunity to support area artists, and to provide a venue for local talent to gain increased exposure. We also believe this property has a special, almost spiritual, feeling that encourages art and creativity.
SCL: Where/how do you discover new music?
Greg & Kat: For the Ramble, we’ve been lucky enough to have friends share their recommendations when they’ve discovered an inspiring area band we should check out. The three groups at our last event in June, The Moonrise Cartel, Finster and Rebel Kicks, were there because someone clued us in… and they were all spectacular! We’ve discovered many new bands through the Pleasantville Music Festival. Recently, Danielle Ponder blew us away at the Sleepy Hollow Music Festival.
SCL: What do you love about Stamford?
Greg & Kat: We love the beautiful countryside and the wonderful people we’ve met since moving here. We’ve really been welcomed by so many of our neighbors. We’ve learned a lot about Stamford and its famous luminaries – seems like we’re always hearing stories about the rich history here! For example, Jackie Robinson and Ella Fitzgerald were known to frequent parties at a house in our neck of the woods back in the day – who knew! Our homestead dates to colonial times – there’s a little family cemetery surrounded by a stone wall on the corner of our property. Even though we are out in the country, we feel like we’ve moved into a real community. There’s a lot of inclusion here. Stamford seems to have the best of all worlds. Outdoorsy, but also near so much: a vibrant hip waterfront, great stores, and nice restaurants. And down-to-earth, friendly, diverse people.
SCL: What do you want people to know about The Riverbank Ramble?
Greg & Kat: We want people to come experience our wonderful little (but growing) music festival in person. Our next Riverbank Ramble will be Saturday, September 21st. If you join our email list at www.riverbankramble.com we can keep you up to date on our events. Also, please join us on Facebook and Instagram. What’s really gratifying is that, in addition to enjoying the music, our Ramblers have made new friendships here over a sandwich and a beer!
We appreciate the opportunity to support area artists, and to provide a venue for local talent to gain increased exposure. We also believe this property has a special, almost spiritual, feeling that encourages art and creativity.