This will be the 41^st year for the Oxford Fine Arts Show to be held May 16 – 18 at the Oxford Community Center. The event consistently attracts art enthusiasts due to the quality of the exhibitors. The show is always fresh based on the fact that there is a new juror every year. This year famed Plein Air Easton artist, Sara Linda Poly was the juror. Sara Linda Poly was the featured artist of the International Artist Magazine, and is frequently selected to participate in the world class Easton Plein Air Festival. Sara Linda Polly selected a roster of fine artists in different mediums for the show this year. Join us in welcoming the following artists:

Sandy Alanko, Eric Asche, Irene Aspell, Joel Boches, Carole Böggemann-Peirson, Thomas Burden, Naomi Clark-Turner, Sharon Dennis, Lois Engberg, Nancy Fine, Donna Finley, Mary Ford, Rhonda Ford, Debra Howard, Susan Schauer John, Kathy Kopec, Pat Lang, Kate Leibrand, Linda Luke, Mary Ellen Mabe, Jeanne  Mays, Carol McClees, Laura McGowan, Kimberly Nesci, Betty Papson, David Pellegrini, Steve Rogers, Kenneth Rose, Sharon Stockley, Stephen Walker, Heidi Wetzel, Keith Whitelock, Barbara    Zuehlke with Karen Merkin from Rockville, Maryland as the featured artist this year featuring her painting entitled “Yellow Mooring”.

The Preview Party on Friday May 16^th is the best time to see the full gallery and have time to peruse the full exhibition prior to the public over the weekend. It provides attendees the chance to “Meet the Artists”, view the original artwork and buy art! This has always been a fun evening where attendees get to mingle with the artists and enjoy cocktails as well as partake of delicious hors d’oeuvres while getting first looks at the collection.

During the Preview Party awards are given out. Thank you to our art sponsors for providing award winning money for the artists. This year the Awards are:

Judge’s Choice sponsored by Anne Marie and Jay Borneman
Artists Choice sponsored by Elspeth and Dr. William “Bill” Ritchie
Oxford Business Association’s “Best representation of Village Life”
Oxford Library’s “Best use of Color”
Cutts and Case’s “Best Maritime”

The 2025 judge for the awards is Charlotte Potter Kasic. Charlotte is the current Director of the Academy Art Museum in Easton. She received her MFA from the Rhode Island School of Design and her BFA from Alfred University. She was the previous director of the Chrysler Museum of Art in Norfolk Virginia, Barry Art Museum and Old Dominion University. She is an artist herself in glass. She performs moving art shows as well as glass art sculpture and installations. Her creativity and passion will add a dynamic touch to the award ceremony this year.

The schedule of events for the weekend begins with the Friday night Preview Party. On Saturday and Sunday, the exhibit is open to the public 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM. The raffle of beautiful artwork donated by the artists happens at the end of the show with a toast of bubbly for the occasion. Once again there are lunch items for purchase on both days with the famous strawberry shortcake too!

The juried exhibit and sale has supported the Oxford Community Center (a non-profit 501(C-3), since the 1980’s to support OCC’s mission to provide the region with a year-round schedule of free or reduced educational, cultural and recreational programs and events. For more information, and to secure your tickets, visit oxfordcc.org.

ONGOING WEEKLY CLASSES  

Mon, 1-2:30pm; Yoga with Suzie Hurley, Advanced beginners, $20/class, 10 classes $150
Sat, 9:30-11am; Yoga w Suzie Hurley, Intermediate, $20/class, 10 classes/ $150
Tues-Thurs, 10am; Steady & Strong w/ Janet Pfeffer, $10/class 10/$80

 

MAY 2025

May 2, 2025, 7:30am – Jazz on the Stage – Allan Harris Quintet, a Tribute to Nat King Cole

Allan Harris, the Brooklyn-born, Harlem-based vocalist, guitarist, songwriter, and band leader, is a true luminary in the world of music. With a career spanning fourteen recordings as a leader, Allan Harris has captivated audiences worldwide with his exceptional talent and charismatic presence. His contributions as a natural entertainer have solidified his place as a mainstay in concert halls, theaters, jazz clubs, and festivals worldwide. He has shared the stage with luminaries such as Tony Bennett, Dionne Warwick, Diana Krall, Abbey Lincoln, Natalie Cole, and many others. Tickets offered at $65 for General Seating and $150 for the VIP Experience, which includes special seating, a meet and greet with musicians, deserts and bubbly after the show. 

May 3, 2025, 8:30am – Cars & Coffee

Free, Sponsored by Prestige Auto Vault, Eat Sprout & Doc’s Sunset Grille. Come enjoy the incredible array of automobiles! Weather dependent. 

May 8, 2025, 5:30am – Local Author Series

‘Is the Grass always Greener? Life with Goats, Gardens and Gourmet Cheese’ authors Catherine and Al Renzi join us to discuss how ‘two middle-aged career changers with 5 college degrees created a goat dairy and native plant nursery on a historic farm.’ In partnership with the Oxford Library. FREE. RSVP online at www.oxfordcc.org. 

May 16, 2025 – 41st Annual Fine Arts Fair Preview Party

Join us for the Annual Preview Party and Fine Arts weekend kickoff on Friday, May 16th from 6-8pm.  The Preview Party provides attendees the only guaranteed chance to ‘Meet the Artists’, view the full exhibit and the first chance to buy amazing art! This is a fun evening where attendees mingle with the artists and enjoy live music, cocktails and delicious hors d’oeuvres.  The Award Ceremony takes place at the Preview Party. Tickets sell fast, so save-the-date for May 16th, 2025, from 6:00 – 8:00 PM. There are no tickets offered at the door for Friday’s Preview Party, they must be purchased in advance by going online to www.oxfordcc.org.

May 17-18, 2025 – 41st Annual Oxford Fine Arts

The 41st Annual Oxford Fine Arts weekend is set for Saturday, May 17th and Sunday, May 18th from 10am to 4pm.  The prestigious juried exhibition and sales show is well known throughout the area and celebrated as the season’s ‘kick-off’ for art lovers. Tickets are $5 per person at the door. 

May 17, 2025, 10am-3pm – Secret Gardens of Oxford Tour

Presented by The Oxford Garden Club, this tour promises a lovely stroll through the charming town of Oxford while enjoying 6 carefully chosen ‘secret’ gardens, some with a water-view perk, and browsing through two artist studios. The tour starts at The Oxford Town Park. Tickets are $20 per person and can be purchased online in advance at www.oxfordgardenclub.org or $25 per person on the day of the Tour.

Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at 5:30pm – Gettysburg Talk with Mickey Terrone

Civil War expert Mickey Terrone will host a talk designed to excite and share tips for the upcoming May 21st excursion to Gettysburg. There will be a 30 minute video by Kens Burns followed by Q&A. FREE and open to the public, regardless of joining the Wednesday Excursion to Gettysburg. 

Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at 8:30am

Join the OCC and travel by luxury Coach Bus to Gettysburg. Civil War expert Mickey Terrone will be the MC for the day! The bus departs the Oxford Community Center at 8:30am with stops at ‘Round Top’ and ‘Copse of Trees.’ The group will have lunch on their own at the Visitor Center, with time to explore the historic exhibits. The bus will depart for Oxford at 2:30pm with expected arrival home around 6:30pm. Tickets are $75 per person and includes the bus fare, driver’s tip and travel snacks. Tickets can be purchased online at www.oxfordcc.org.

May 28, 2025 – Wellness Wednesday Lunch, 11am-1pm

Bring your lunch and learn about health and wellness topics while enjoying your lunch in the company of friends. Please check our website, www.oxfordcc.org, for topics and more information. FREE

May 30, 2025 – Improv Easton, 7-9pm

Talbot County’s favorite (and only!) improv troupe comes to the Oxford Community Center! Join us for an evening of fun and laughs. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased online at www.oxfordcc.org or at the door. 

The Oxford Community Center (OCC) is thrilled to announce its highly anticipated 2025 Jazz Series, bringing world-class musicians to the Stage@OCC. Season tickets are now available for this premier series, offering an unparalleled jazz experience with three unforgettable performances by some of the most celebrated artists in the industry.

Season ticket holders will receive admission to all three performances, an exclusive VIP experience—including a meet and greet with the artists, dessert and bubbly, cabaret seating, and two drink tickets—and special recognition as a “Producer” in appreciation of their generous support.

2025 Jazz Series Lineup:

• May 2 – Allan Harris: A Tribute to Nat King Cole
  Allan Harris, the Brooklyn-born, Harlem-based vocalist, guitarist, and songwriter, has been lauded as “a protean talent” by The New York Times. His warm, rich vocals have drawn comparisons to Tony Bennett and Frank Sinatra, while his captivating stage presence has earned him numerous awards, including three New York Nightlife Awards for Outstanding Jazz Vocalist. This special performance will celebrate the timeless music of Nat King Cole, showcasing Harris’s impeccable phrasing and emotional depth.
• August 1 – The Anderson Brothers: A Tribute to Duke Ellington
  Juilliard-trained identical twins Peter and Will Anderson have wowed audiences at venues like The Blue Note, Jazz at Lincoln Center, and The Kennedy Center. Recognized as “virtuosos on clarinet and saxophone” by The New York Times, they bring an energetic and authentic tribute to the legendary Duke Ellington, performing classics such as “It Don’t Mean a Thing (If It Ain’t Got That Swing)” and “Don’t Get Around Much Anymore.”
• December 5 – Dominick Farinacci & Aaron Diehl: A Holiday Show
  Renowned trumpeter Dominick Farinacci joins forces with acclaimed pianist Aaron Diehl for a festive evening of jazz, blending holiday favorites with the duo’s signature artistry. Diehl, praised for “melodic precision, harmonic erudition, and elegant restraint” (The New York Times), has performed with jazz greats and top orchestras worldwide. This performance promises a perfect balance of holiday spirit and jazz sophistication.

“This year’s lineup is truly exceptional,” said Liza Ledford OCC’s Executive Director. “Each of these artists brings a unique and extraordinary interpretation of jazz, and we are proud to offer this outstanding experience to our community.”

Get Your Season Tickets Today! Season tickets are now available for purchase and include VIP benefits and special recognition. Individual tickets for each show are also available online. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience world-class jazz in an intimate setting at the Oxford Community Center.

For tickets and more information, visit https://oxfordcc.org/jazz/

ONGOING WEEKLY CLASSES  

Mon, 1-2:30pm; Yoga with Suzie Hurley, Advanced beginners, $20/class, 10 classes $150
Sat, 9:30-11am; Yoga w Suzie Hurley, Intermediate, $20/class, 10 classes/ $150
Tues-Thurs, 10am; Steady & Strong w/ Janet Pfeffer, $10/class 10/$80

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MARCH 2025

March 1, 2025, 8:30am – Cars & Coffee
Free, Sponsored by Prestige Auto Vault, Eat Sprout & Doc’s Sunset Grille. Come enjoy the incredible array of automobiles! Weather dependent. 

March 14, 2025, 6pm – St. Patrick’s Day Dinner
Join us at the OCC to celebrate a traditional St. Patrick’s Day dinner complete with music from ‘The Paddy O’ Band.’ Tickets are $25pp, please sign up online at oxfordcc.org.

March 20, 2025, 5:30pm – Local Author Series with Author Maggie Andersen
The Oxford Library and the Oxford Community Center present the first in a series of local author presentations. Andersen will discuss ‘Bridging Difference: Learning from the Lives of Others’ and her latest book, ‘Moving from the Margins: Life Histories on Transforming the Study of Racism’. Andersen will present autobiographical narratives by thirteen accomplished sociologists, including herself, who grew up in different racial, ethnic, gender, and social class backgrounds. Moderated by Val Cavalheri and FREE.

 

ONGOING WEEKLY CLASSES  

Mon, 1-2:30pm; Yoga with Suzie Hurley, Advanced beginners, $20/class, 10 classes $150

Sat, 9:30-11am; Yoga w Suzie Hurley, Intermediate, $20/class, 10 classes/ $150

Tues-Thurs, 10am; Steady & Strong w/ Janet Pfeffer, $10/class 10/$80

 

DECEMBER 2024

December 11, 3pm-10pm – Longwood Gardens Holiday Excursion!

The Oxford Community Center, in partnership with the Oxford Garden Club is offering a wonderful Holiday bus excursion and group tour of 

Longwood Gardens.  This is a very special ‘VIP’ trip as we are fortunate to have an Oxford resident who works at Longwood Gardens who will greet the group and share some secrets of the garden. And the group will meet up with Longwood Gardens’ very own Jim Sutton, who is the Associate Director of Display Design at Longwood Gardens and an expert in floral design. He is responsible for the themes and ideas behind the gardens’ horticulture displays. This is truly a once in a lifetime experience! Tickets are selling fast at $160 per person and includes coach bus fare, tickets into Longwood Gardens, VIP experience and snacks on the way home. Dinner is on your own at either The Café or the Longwood Gardens Beer Garden. 

December 12, 5:30pm – Community Talk with Author Neil Harpe
Author Neil Harpe grew up along the creeks and marshes of the Chesapeake Bay and has documented his experiences through artwork and photographs. He will be discussing his book, ‘Pictured in Time – An Artist’s Journey Around the Chesapeake’. Guests will enjoy Harpe’s ‘sensitively-rendered art and entertaining narrative’ with over 125 stunning photographs that tell a story of Maryland’s maritime heritage. FREE

December 18, 2024, 5:30-8:30pm – OCC Holiday Potluck with Tred Avon Players Holiday Entertainment

This is a good old fashioned Potluck Dinner to celebrate the holidays! Join your friends and neighbors at the Oxford Community Center Holiday Potluck Celebration 2024! RSVP online at oxfordcc.org and let us know what you’re bringing!

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For more info contact: [email protected] or [email protected]
For tickets to classes and shows visit oxfordcc.org
To volunteer at our events, visit oxfordcc.org/volunteer

ONGOING WEEKLY CLASSES  

Mon, 1-2:30pm; Yoga with Suzie Hurley, Advanced beginners, $20/class, 10 classes $150
Sat, 9:30-11am; Yoga w Suzie Hurley, Intermediate, $20/class, 10 classes/ $150
Tues-Thurs, 10am; Steady & Strong w/ Janet Pfeffer, $10/class 10/$80

OCTOBER 2024

October – December 31st, 2024 – Fine Arts Fair Submissions OPEN
The Oxford Community Center is now accepting submissions for the 2025 Fine Arts Fair. The Fair will be held May 16-18, 2025. Juror for the 2025 show will be Sara Linda Poly. Interested artists are encouraged to apply on the OCC’s website at oxfordcc.org. Deadline is December 31st. 

October 18, 2024, 7-9 pm – Deconstructing the Beatles with Scott Freman
In thoroughly engaging (and often surprising) ways, acclaimed “Beatle-ologist” Scott Freiman guides you, step by step, on an educational journey and multimedia presentation about all things ‘Beatles’ and focusing on the album ‘Sgt Pepper’. Once you’ve attended one of Scott’s presentations, you’ll never listen to music the same way again! Tickets cost $20 and can be purchased at oxfordcc.org.

October 19, 2024, 8 am- 12 pm – Oxford Community Day
Visit with your favorite community organizations and learn about ones you didn’t know about! On the side lawn at the OCC. FREE.

October 19, 2024, 8 – 11am – 5k Run/Walk for Mental Health
Come join us at the Oxford Community Center as we partner with the Christopher Foundation for Life to put on our 4th Annual 5k Run and 1-Mile Walk for Mental Health. The Run/ Walk helps raise money for the Eastern Shore’s mental health programs.  Come out to support Mental Health awareness and get a little exercise and fresh air at the same time! Register online at oxfordcc.org. 

October 19, 2024, 5pm – Picket Fence Auction
Since 2007, the Oxford Business Association’s (OBA) has sponsored the Picket Fence Auction and it has always been a highly anticipated event. Local artists from Oxford, Easton and St. Michaels have volunteered their time, talents, and creativity to produce colorful painted scenes on a 4-picket section of the iconic Oxford Fence representing Eastern Shore Life. These works of art will be auctioned, with all proceeds going to local charities and nonprofits. Learn more at oxfordcc.org.

 

NOVEMBER 2024

November 2, 2024, 8:30am – The Last Cars & Coffee of 2024
Join us for the last Cars & Coffee of 2024! Sponsored by Prestige Auto Vault, Eat Sprout & Doc’s Sunset Grille. Come enjoy the incredible array of automobiles! FREE. 

November 6, 2024, 11am-1pm – OCC Health Talk: ‘Aging in Place’ with speaker Beth Hobson
Bring your lunch and gather in the OCC’s Hospitality Room for an informative health presentation about local resources and assistance for staying in your home. Limited seating. Please RSVP at oxfordcc.org so we know to expect you!

November 9, 2024, 10am-4pm – OCC’s Model Boat Show & Fall Festival
The OCC’s Model Boat Show is an annual attraction for families, boat lovers, sailors and modelmakers. Held during the popular Waterfowl Festival happening in Easton, the Model Boat Show draws people down to Oxford for this fantastic exhibit. Dozens of modelmakers are on site showing off their exquisite craftsmanship! Join us for a fun autumn day of model boats, food, music and more!

November 12, 2024, 5:30pm – Community Talk: Bill Dial on Military Writing
Local Author William Dial and decorated military officer, tells a ‘No (BLEEP) Story’ about writing and self-publishing in the military genre in observance of Veterans Day. The Community Talk starts at 5:30 pm and is in partnership with Oxford Library.

November 16, 2024, 7:30pm – WHCP John Namath and Blue Dreamers Concert
WHCP Radio welcomes John Németh and the Blue Dreamers to The Stage at Oxford Community Center! John has won two Blues Blast Music Awards for Best New Artist Debut Recording, and the Sean Costello Rising Star Award. He also has at least twenty other nominations and now he’s landing in Oxford to share their amazing blues music with us. Németh and his band “blends retro & modern blues, and soul, into compelling music that’s simultaneously old & new.  Purchase tickets at whcp.org/events.

November 21, 2024, 5:30pm – Chris Moore on How Hollywood Works
Join us as we welcome Hollywood Film Producer, Writer, Director and Easton, MD native Chris Moore as he discusses the ins and outs of Hollywood trends.

November 30, 2024, 7:30pm – Bria Skonberg JAZZ on the Stage @ OCC
We are thrilled to announce that acclaimed trumpeter, vocalist, and songwriter Bria Skonberg will bring her captivating blend of jazz and blues to the OCC’s stage on November 30, 2024. Hailing from New York and originally from Canada, Bria has made waves in the international jazz scene with her powerful vocals, blistering trumpet performances, and striking compositions. VIP Experience tickets cost $150, limited availability, and include premium seating and a meet-and-greet with Bria Skonberg at the exclusive post-show dessert & bubbly reception. General seating tickets cost $65. Purchase tickets online at oxfordcc.org/ 

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For tickets to classes and shows visit oxfordcc.org

To volunteer at our events, visit oxfordcc.org/volunteer

Beatles fans, music enthusiasts, and curious minds are invited to join renowned “Beatleologist” Scott Freiman for a captivating multimedia lecture, Deconstructing The Beatles’ Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band, at the Oxford Community Center on October 18th, from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM.

In this two-hour presentation, Scott Freiman takes audiences on an immersive journey back to EMI Studios to explore the behind-the-scenes creation of one of rock’s most influential albums. Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band, released in 1967, marked a new chapter for The Beatles after they stopped touring and focused exclusively on studio recordings. Freiman, a composer, producer, and expert on the music of The Beatles, uses his unique insights to bring fans into the creative process that transformed the band’s innovative ideas into a musical masterpiece.

During the lecture, attendees will get an insider’s view of how familiar tracks evolved from raw demos to polished recordings, with surprising details shared throughout. Fans will learn about the background vocals in German on one track, the key differences between the British and American versions, and the surprising story behind the string arrangement on “She’s Leaving Home.”

Scott Freiman has delivered his Deconstructing The Beatles lectures to sold-out audiences nationwide. His interactive presentations have been praised for making listeners of all ages and backgrounds feel like they’re right there in the studio with The Beatles.

Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to deepen your appreciation for one of the greatest albums in rock history. Whether you’re a lifelong Beatles fan or new to the Fab Four, this event promises to be an unforgettable night of music, storytelling, and discovery.

Event Details:

– Date: October 18, 2023

– Time: 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM

– Location: Oxford Community Center, 200 Oxford Rd, Oxford MD

– Tickets: $20.00 (Available now)

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit: oxfordcc.org.

The Oxford Community Center (OCC) is thrilled to announce that acclaimed trumpeter, vocalist, and songwriter Bria Skonberg will bring her captivating blend of jazz and blues to the stage on November 30, 2024. Hailing from New York and originally from Canada, Bria has made waves in the international jazz scene with her powerful vocals, blistering trumpet performances, and striking compositions.

Skonberg has been described by The Wall Street Journal as one of the “most versatile and imposing musicians of her generation.”. A Juno Award winner, she has collaborated with the likes of U2 at the Apollo Theater, performed with the Dave Matthews Band, and has been a featured guest with Jon Batiste. Her most recent album, What It Means, inspired by New Orleans jazz and recorded during Mardi Gras, has received critical acclaim for its emotional depth, mastery of traditional jazz elements, and engaging storytelling.

As part of her performance at the Oxford Community Center, Bria will showcase a brand-new program, Jingle Bell Swing, where she offers her own fresh take on seasonal classics, including her popular rendition of “All I Want for Christmas is You.” Expect a delightful evening of spirited jazz favorites perfect for the holiday season.

“We are so honored to host Bria Skonberg here at the Oxford Community Center,” said Liza Ledford, Executive Director of the Oxford Community Center. “Bria’s talent and energy are unparalleled, and her ability to connect with audiences on such a deep level will make this performance one to remember. We are excited to bring this world-class musician to our stage for an unforgettable evening of jazz.”

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Ticket Information: Tickets are available now and can be purchased through the Oxford Community Center website—www.oxfordcc.org 

– VIP Experience: $150 (Limited availability). VIP tickets include premium seating and a meet-and-greet with Bria Skonberg at the exclusive post-show dessert & bubbly reception.

– General Admission: $65.00

Located on Maryland’s pristine Eastern Shore, the Oxford Community Center’s annual three-day Fine Arts Show ushers in the summer season for the local arts community. The juried exhibit draws a wide selection of collectors from the local area as well as from the Baltimore-Washington, Philadelphia, Virginia and New York City arenas and has been a highlight for several decades.

2025 will be the 41^st year for the Fine Arts Show to be held May 16 – 18. The event consistently attracts art enthusiasts due to the quality of the exhibitors. The show is always fresh based on the fact that there is a new juror every year.  This year famed Plein Air Easton artist, Sara Linda Poly is the juror. This summer Sara Linda Poly was the featured artist of the International Artist Magazine, and was selected to participate in the world class Easton Plein Air Festival. In 2016 she won the grand prize of PAE and in 2017 won first place in the small painting competition. To learn more about the juror visit, saralindapolystudio.com.

The Oxford Community Center is also excited to welcome Connie Vaught as the new Chair of Oxford Fine Arts.  Connie served as co-chair last year and brings a commitment to the artists experience that provides a smooth and excellent experience for all.  Extensive promotional efforts are numerous and are placed in regional magazines, newspapers and radio stations. Maryland Tourism event calendars will also highlight the show as a signature event.

The schedule of events for the weekend begins with the Friday night Preview Party. It provides attendees the chance to “Meet the Artists”, view the exhibit and buy art! This has always been a fun evening where attendees get to mingle with the artists and enjoy cocktails as well as partake of delicious hors d’oeuvres while getting first looks at the art collection. On Saturday, the exhibit is open to the public 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM. On Sunday, the show is open once again to the public at 10:00 AM and closes at 4:00 PM. The raffle of beautiful artwork donated by the artists happens at the end of the show with a toast of bubbly for the occasion. Once again there are lunch items for purchase on both days with the famous strawberry shortcake too!

A focus on education will bring a few demos to the weekend. Artists, when applying, indicate if you would like to do a demo while at the show.  Live painting at your booth is welcomed too. Typically, the festival welcomes roughly fifteen hundred visitors for the weekend of sales.

The juried exhibit and sale has supported the Oxford Community Center (a non-profit 501(C-3), since the 1980’s to support OCC’s mission to provide the region with a year round schedule of free or reduced educational, cultural and recreational programs and events. For more information, and to apply as an artist, visit oxfordcc.org Submissions close Dec. 31^st, 2024.