Wandering Minstrels and a Hub of Culture: The Claflin Hill Story

In this heartfelt and inspiring episode, Bernadette Stockwell sits down with Paul Surapine, Executive and Artistic Director of the Claflin Hill Symphony Orchestra, to talk about what truly makes Claflin Hill unique. From humble beginnings to becoming a “hub of culture” for Central Massachusetts, Paul reflects on how the orchestra has stayed true to its mission for more than 25 years — building community through music, one concert (and one musician) at a time.Together, Bernadette and Paul explore the orchestra’s evolution, the musicians who found their artistic “home” at Claflin Hill, and how music serves as an instrument of community. Along the way, Paul shares vivid metaphors — from wandering minstrels to trout fishing — that beautifully capture the soul of this orchestra and its people.Highlights:🎶 The story behind a new piece of Claflin Hill collateral — and Paul’s reaction from vacation🎻 How Claflin Hill became a cultural hub connecting musicians, audiences, and towns across the region🌍 The international journeys of orchestra members — and how they found home in Massachusetts💬 Why Claflin Hill is more than an orchestra: it’s an instrument of community🎟️ Upcoming season opener (Nov. 8): featuring oboist Sashko Murata and Dvořák’s New World Symphony🎄 Early-bird Holiday Pops offer and season ticket info at www.claflinhill.orgTune in for stories, laughter, and insight into how one symphony orchestra continues to strengthen the cultural fabric of its community.