SHREWSBURY, Massachusetts – Worcester County Poetry Association (WCPA) presents the “Elizabeth Bishop Suite” by singer-songwriter-multi-instrumentalist, JB Menides. Commissioned for the centenary of poet Elizabeth Bishop (1911-1979), the “Suite” contains settings of six poems by Bishop, all performed by JB on piano or djembe, with additional vocals by Victoria Nors, and all read aloud by WCPA poets.

Elizabeth Bishop was born and buried in Worcester, and although she did not live here very long, she wrote two of her most compelling works about Worcester–her prose memoir, “The Country Mouse,” and her famous poem, “In the Waiting Room.”  All of Bishop’s poems, whether in free  verse (like the “Waiting Room”) or in traditional form (sonnet, villanelle, sestina), reveal intelligence, humor, and musical ability, and are remarkably accessible. It’s no wonder that today she’s considered one of the 20th century’s finest poets.  She’s been awarded the Pulitzer, Neustadt, and other prestigious poetry prizes, and has held the post now called U.S. Poet Laureate.

The concert will also feature selections from JB Menides’ other compositions. This event is co-sponsored by the Shrewsbury Public Library, and underwritten by the Friends of the Library. Free admission, but donations in any amount are gratefully accepted.

Sunday, May 15, 2011* at 3:00 PM

at First Congregational Church, Shrewsbury MA