SOUTH PARIS — The 2018 Paris Hill Music Festival kicks off Thursday, Aug. 9, with Maine native Howie Day.

A native of Bangor, Day began playing piano at age 5 and guitar at age 12. By 15, he was writing his own songs and performing across New England. Shortly after graduating high school, Day became a fixture at college coffeehouses across the U.S. He wrote, financed and released his first effort, “Australia,” which was named Best Debut Album at the 2001 Boston Music Awards.

After signing with Epic Records, Day released his major-label debut, “Stop All The World Now,” and hit the road to support it. “Stop” was certified gold in the U.S. and spawned two Top 10 radio hits “She Says” and the platinum single “Collide.” 

After parting ways with Epic and relocating to New York City in 2010, Day released the “Ceasefire” EP on his own label, Daze. His fourth full-length album, “Lanterns,” was recorded in Boston with producer and longtime friend Mike Denneen, and was released in 2015. Awash with a warm musicality and unique instrumentation, the album also features guest vocals from Aimee Mann. 

The Paris Hill Music Festival will feature Nichole Nordeman 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 10, and the Frankie Valli tribute group, Let’s Hang On!, performing at 7 p.m. Saturday. All concerts are performed in the historic First Baptist Church of Paris, 500 Paris Hill Road. There is free parking.

Tickets can be purchased online at www.parishillmusicfestival.com for $35. Tickets are also available at The Tribune on Main Street in Norway and at the Paris Hill Country Club. This small venue and seating is very limited, so early purchases are encouraged.

For more information, contact Mary Beth Caffey, festival director, at 207-754-7970 or email parishillmusicfestival@gmail.com.

Howie Day