Published: July 11, 2008 02:37 pm            

Somerfest brings back fan favorites

As Somerfest marks its 30th anniversary, organizers of Laurel Arts largest fundraiser are not forgetting their roots.

“We view this as a major milestone, and in keeping with that theme, we have made a special effort to bring back many fan favorites who have helped us grow the event,” said Terri Klink, special events coordinator.

Somerfest will be held Friday through Sunday on the grounds of the Philip Dressler Center for the Arts, 214 S. Harrison Ave. in Somerset.

Visitors will enjoy eating, drinking and listening to a full lineup of musical entertainment.

“We operate two stages, with the tent stage being the largest,” Klink said. “It’s a good time to socialize with friends and enjoy some fantastic music.”

One of those performers is 17-year-old singer, songwriter and rock violinist Antonio Pontarelli of Temecula, Calif., who will be making his third appearance at Somerfest.

Antonio is the grandson of 81-year-old Hans Stumpf, a musical icon living in Somerset who performed for decades.

Antonio’s mother, Gretchen (Stumpf) Pontarelli, said her son is looking to make a difference in the world through his music.

“When he was only 10 or 11, he decided that a percentage of the profits from his merchandise be donated to charities and his foundation, The Music Prodigy Foundation Inc., which strives to bring music into less-fortunate people’s lives,” she said. “My father started playing with Antonio when he was only 4, and it was his early exposure to improvisation that gave him the innovative approach that makes him one of the most exciting artists to arrive onto the indie music scene.”

Antonio’s innovative style has been getting audience members onto their feet and capturing attention in the music industry.

He recently won for “Best Song” in the prestigious SongwriterUniverse and received the most votes in The International Songwriting Competition of any teen finalist for the Peoples’ Voice Award.

Klink said Antonio will headline two shows during his visit.

“He is a phenomenal performer at such a tender age and has recorded with rock legend Jethro Tull,” she said. “He will perform not only his original songs, but he also will cover some Jethro Tull hits.”

Also returning by popular demand will be Somerset’s own rockers, Whitehorse.

“They play classic rock and only perform two or three times a year, and we have them,” Klink said.

Somerfest began as a German-style folk festival in 1978.

“We pride ourselves on having something for everyone,” Klink said.

The Somerfest parade steps off at 10 a.m. Saturday in Uptown Somerset.

The festival’s craft area features only those artisans who demonstrate their creative techniques.

A first for Somerfest will be an appearance by Ishtar, a Pittsburgh-based group performing Indian music.

“The group features Melissa Murphy as a belly dancer who is a graduate of North Star High School and attended Somerset as a youngster,” Klink said.

July 20 is Senior Sunday with a special $1 admission for all people over the age of 60.

All proceeds will support Somerfest and the programs of Laurel Arts.

Cost of admission is $5 for adults, $3 for seniors, $2 for children ages 5-12. Children 5 years old and younger are free.

Hours are 5 p.m. to midnight, Friday; noon to midnight, Saturday; and noon to 10 p.m., Sunday.

        

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