Somerset Folk Harp Festival founder Mary Geraldine “Gerry” Nitsch Serviente passed away on Jan. 24. The Somerset Folk Harp Festival shared the following tribute on social media:
“Gerry’s vision and dedication shaped the Somerset Folk Harp Festival into what it is today. In 2001, she founded this incredible gathering, and for nearly a decade, she served as its heart and soul, guiding the festival with passion, love, and an unwavering commitment to the folk harp community.
“This July, during the festival’s 25th anniversary, Gerry was to be honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award—a recognition of her extraordinary contributions to the folk harp world. While we will miss her terribly, we know that her legacy will live on through the many lives she touched.
“In addition to her work in the harp community, Gerry was also a proud member of the United States Marine Corps. Her service to our country and her tireless dedication to the arts are just a few of the many reasons we will always remember her with gratitude and admiration.
“In 2008, Gerry passed the baton to Kathy DeAngelo, who then passed it to our current director, Maureen Buscareno. Gerry’s impact is felt not just in the festival she built, but in every string plucked, every note played, and every moment of joy shared at the event she made possible.
“We are deeply grateful for her vision, her service, and the love she poured into this community. Our thoughts are with Gerry’s family and all who knew and loved her during this time of loss.
“Thank you, Gerry, for everything. Your legacy will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of all who were touched by your work.”
