PECO Free First Sunday Family Day: Beats with Heart
Sunday, August 2, 10am – 5pm
Enjoy percussion performances as part of the Steve Weiss Mallet Festival.
Free; capacity is limited, and registration is required.
About the Event
It’s the first Sunday of the month, which means free admission at the Barnes. Enjoy art activities, musical performances, and free access to the collection and the exhibitions Freedom Dreams and Just Us.
This month, we’re proud to welcome back internationally renowned jazz vibraphonist Tony Miceli, whose performance is part of the Steve Weiss Mallet Festival. The annual festival honors the legacy of musician Steve Weiss and introduces audiences of all ages to mallet percussion. Whether you're a lifelong player or a curious listener, the Steve Weiss Mallet Festival offers a unique opportunity to witness artistry and innovation that pushes the boundaries of mallet percussion. After the performances, enjoy hands-on activities for the whole family, including opportunities to explore percussion instruments.
Registration opens Thursday, July 30, at 10am.
What’s On
10am – 4pm
Art Activities
Join us for art activities led by teaching artists from Fleisher Art Memorial’s ColorWheels. Explore our collection through a scavenger hunt challenge and win a prize. Perfect for the whole family—ages 2 and up.
10:30 – 11am & 11:15 – 11:45am
Storytime
Poet and storyteller Leslie D. Hamilton brings stories and fun for ages 2 and up.
1pm & 2:30pm
Performances: Steve Weiss Mallet Festival
Led by director Tony Miceli, this youth percussion ensemble returns to the Barnes with an engaging vibraphone performance for all ages. A musician and educator with 40 years of experience, Miceli performs regularly at Chris’s Jazz Café in Philadelphia and annually at the Percussive Arts Society convention in Indianapolis. Miceli and his ensemble promise a delightful day of musical engagement.
Free First Sunday Family Days at the Barnes
PECO Free First Sunday Family Day events offer no-cost admission to the collection galleries as well as an array of family-friendly activities, including arts and crafts, musical performances, and interactive workshops.
Go Further
Barnes Create & Connect
Join us for an art-making experience designed for individuals living with Parkinson’s disease and their care partners.
Free July at the Barnes
Philadelphia residents can visit the Barnes for free this July and experience our collection, exhibitions, and more.
First Friday: Elle.Morris
Enjoy performances by the versatile Philly-based vocalist Elle.Morris, plus access to the collection and Freedom Dreams.