Abbey Road on the River kicked off yesterday at the KFC Yum! Center and continued into the night on the Belvedere. Thursday is the calm before the storm for this huge celebration. During this calm, it’s easy to see that Abbey Road on the River is a reunion of fans, friends, and musicians. Hugs and smiles were everywhere, but it was tinged with sadness and remembrance.
Abbey Road on the River said a proper goodbye to one of their own, Rachel Blanton, with a touching tribute. Rachel was a member of the AROTR family as a musician and team member. She was well known around Louisville and the surrounding areas for her talent in playing the violin. She taught at Sacred Heart, played at Centerstage, and so much more. When she passed suddenly this winter, the festival would never be the same. Rachel touched so many lives and was well loved, especially by her AROTR family, which has never been more apparent than it was last night.
In her memory, Abbey Road on the River has named the main stage the Rachel Blanton stage and set up multiple ways to donate to her Sacred Heart Academy Music Scholarship. All proceeds from children’s tickets will go towards the scholarship. Per the AROTR website, “Donate your kids age, for each day they will attend, up to age 21 ($1-21), to The Rachel Blanton Sacred Heart Academy Music Scholarship and they will have the same ticket you have (excluding VIP rows 1-10 upgrades).” What a tremendous deal and wonderful cause!
The Abbey Road on the River festival continues tomorrow and throughout Memorial Day weekend. Visit www.arotr.com for more information and check back with Louisville.com for daily reviews and pictures!
Photos by Jenna Foster
