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the farmhouse

the farmhouse is an intimate, temporary haven in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, for artists--musicians, painters, writers, filmmakers, photographers, dancers,  and more--and inner-city youth to create, share experiences, and return to their everyday life refreshed and invigorated.  It is unique in its request for a commitment from the artist to mentor a young person, to continue the gift of expression and to help that young person toward a positive path to reach their potential.  It has been created by Barbara Montgomery and b & bjazz, inc. - bcreative, bgiving, bpeace.

Barbara has been in the entertainment industry for over thirty years as a  producer, publisher, songwriter, arranger, performing and recording jazz vocalist with six CDs of her own that have received critical acclaim. Barbara's personal experience has convinced her of the power of art to transform and empower.  In her volunteer work as chair of the Pennsylvania Million Mom March united with the Brady Campaign, she regularly conducts conflict resolution workshops to inner city youth on the imperative to end gun violence, and music has been the entryway to dialogue.






The Project

Scattered throughout the United States are artist retreats.  They share a mission to provide artists with a peaceful community where they may work on their individual projects, and/or help each other, as members of that supportive community.  

the farmhouse is a retreat space for artists to explore and share their creative passion in a nurturing environment.  It offers private bedrooms and meals for 2 to 3 artists at a time for a weekend, a week, or a month while the artist is engaged in the creative process. Solo artists, ensembles, and groups are welcome to use it as a rehearsal space/retreat on a day-to-day basis as well.   There is an indoor "salon" performance area to allow the artist to premier new works in a welcoming space.  There will be a sound-proof studio space with piano, drums, microphones, and capability for recording rehearsals and/or works in progress. 

Day retreats are also available for community groups, faith-based groups, families and any other group of up to fifteen people in need of  place to be in reflection.

The need is overwhelming and vital for our young people today who live in at-risk environments. They live under a shadow of fear and hopelessness which manifests too often in tragic and life-threatening, life-ending, ways. As we know, a nourished, loved, contributing member of our society adds to all our wealth, just as a diminished, unrealized human being takes away from all of us.  

the farmhouse project not only emphasizes personal creative growth,  but seeks to spread the seeds of creative expression, empowerment, and hope in areas that may not be reached by tying the retreat's fellowship to a commitment to mentor inner city youth.


The Artists

The need to create free from distractions and responsibilities of everyday life is difficult to support in our current culture.  We hope that you will use the farmhouse as a resource to fill this need.  The only requirement is that you agree to mentor a young person while they are in residence, with the hope that the relationship will continue when returning to everyday life.

Please click on "Artist Reservations" for details and to make a reservation.



The Kids

The power of art transforms and empowers.  Yet music and art are among the programs first to be cut from ever decreasing school budgets for our youth.  

the farmhouse provides an opportunity for young people to explore their own creativity with the benefit of professional, working artists to guide them.  

Youth between the ages of 13 and 18 are welcome to be in residence for weekend, week or two week sessions in the summer months, and weekends during the school year. No prior musical or artistic skills are required, only a desire to learn, to explore the creative process, and to live in community.

Day programs are available for youth between the ages of 4 and 18, from individuals to small groups.

Please click on "Youth Reservations" for details and to make a reservation.