Marc Douglas Berardo Welcomes Craig Bickhardt for ‘Harbor Songs’ Concert

Marc Douglas Berardo, a respected singer-songwriter, will host renowned songwriter Craig Bickhardt at his upcoming “Harbor Songs” concert on Sunday at The United in Westerly, Rhode Island. This event marks the continuation of a beloved tradition Berardo established years ago in the upstairs event room of The Malted Barley, where he introduced various notable artists to local audiences.

Craig Bickhardt has built an impressive career, co-writing songs for celebrated musicians such as Art Garfunkel, Kathy Mattea, and Martina McBride. His collaborations include the hit “I Know Where I’m Going,” recorded by The Judds, and “It Must Be Love,” a number one single by Ty Herndon. Berardo aims to share Bickhardt’s talents and stories with his fans, enhancing the intimate concert experience.

Continuing a Musical Legacy

For over three decades, Berardo, also known as MDB, has captivated audiences with his engaging performances. He established the “Harbor Songs” series to spotlight songwriters he admires, creating a platform for them to share their music and the stories behind it. The series began with a performance by David Olney, a Grammy-winning singer-songwriter who tragically passed away in 2021 while performing at the 30A Festival in Miramar Beach, Florida.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Berardo adapted by hosting online broadcasts, allowing him to connect with fans despite the challenges. Since resuming live performances, he has featured both nationally recognized singer-songwriters and talented local artists, including Walt Wilkins, Danielle Miraglia, and Abbie Gardner from Red Molly. The concerts have also highlighted regional talents such as Sandman Allen and Kyle Rathburn.

A New Venue and Upcoming Performances

Following the closure of The Malted Barley in February 2023, Berardo successfully transitioned “Harbor Songs” to The United. His inaugural show at the new venue in November 2023 featured Ari Hest, a Grammy-nominated artist, along with special guest Kala Farnham. Since then, the series has showcased a variety of performers, including Grace Morrison and special guests The CarLeans, Chris Berardo, and Jim Paradis.

Berardo expresses his vision for these concerts, stating, “The Harbor Songs format allows the song makers to tell the stories behind their songs and present them in a stripped-down and intimate way.” He believes this format provides a unique opportunity for audiences to engage with the music on a deeper level, experiencing the beauty and mystery of song creation.

Tickets for the concert featuring Craig Bickhardt are priced at $20 in advance and $25 at the door. Interested attendees can purchase tickets through the United Theatre’s official website, unitedtheatre.org. For information on future shows, visit marcdouglas.com.