Robert M. Guptill Award
In 1969, Robert Guptill, a local real estate salesman met Tom Wolf and his wife who were looking for property to purchase in the Downeast area. During that visit, Bob, who was aware that Tom, a flutist and his brother, Andy, a pianist had founded a summer concert series in Rockport, Maine, thought that a similar concert series might be a possibility in Machias. He, therefore, led them to the Centre Street Congregational Church known for its excellent acoustics. With the touch of only one note on the piano Tom was astounded and convinced that the concert idea was a real possibility.
It was a year later in 1970 that the first Machias Bay Chamber Concerts (three in all) became a reality. In appreciation of Bob's great idea and for his many years of service on the MBCC Board, the Robert M. Guptill Award was conceived and it is awarded, in the form of a plaque, to a person or organization for outstanding contributions to the cultural life of Washington County.
MBCC also supports the Washington County Children's Chorus. Founded in 1995 by Christine Guy, it is a group dedicated to developing the ability of talented youngsters to sing together in harmony. Membership is open at no cost to Washington County children from age 7 to the completion of High School who show dedication to attending weekly rehearsals and improving their performance skills.
The Chorus's most recent significant achievement was an exciting trip to Burgundy, France in June of 2014. The WCC Chorus participated in the WW2 Commemorative at Duns less Places and performed before many appreciative audiences. They then returned to France in 2018. Visit the WCC Chorus website.
Gratitude goes out to Centre Street Congregational Church, United Church of Christ, Machias, which provides rehearsal space and support for the choir.