The Stanley Theatre in Utica is looking for additional volunteers to help out with their 2021-22 show season. The season begins in mid-August and is an amazing opportunity for anyone above the age of 16 to gain experience in the live music industry.
The Stanley Theatre operates as a not-for-profit organization run by the Central New York Community Arts Council. For nearly a century, the theatre has brought great live concerts, Broadway shows, and musicals to central New York. The 2021-22 season features shows put on by The Stanley Theatre, Broadway Theatre League, and independent promoters as well. Due to the theatre being closed for a year, the 2021-22 season is anticipated to be the busiest Utica has seen to date. Packed seats are expected, and the energy will be more contagious than ever. That being said, the theatre is hoping to take on more volunteers than years previous to make the shows run as smoothly as possible.
Volunteers for the Stanley Theatre are like family. This is a chance to learn about responsibility, the importance of working with a team, and will improve your communication skills. Volunteering is an important requirement for both high school and college-aged individuals, and this is a fun and welcoming environment to get in your volunteer hours. The best part of volunteering is, of course, being able to listen to and watch spectacular performances at the theatre.
If you are interested in taking part in this opportunity, please contact The Stanley Theatre by either calling at (315)-724-4000, or by emailing them at thestanleytheatre@gmail.com. Spread the word and join in on the amazing community at The Stanley Theatre!
Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Alice Cooper will perform at The Stanley Theater in Utica on September 22, 2021. The shock-rocker, who is touring with former KISS guitarist Ace Frehley as his opening act, will mark Utica as his one and only gig in New York for his “Ol’ Black Eyes is Back” 2021-22 tour.
Alice Cooper pioneered a grandly theatrical brand of hard rock that was designed to shock audiences. Drawing equally from horror movies, vaudeville and garage rock, the group created a stage show that featured electric chairs, guillotines, fake blood and boa constrictors. He continues to tour regularly, performing shows worldwide with the dark and horror-themed theatrics that he is best known for.
With a schedule that has included six months year in and year out on the road, Alice Cooper brings his own brand of rock psycho-drama to fans both old and new, enjoying it as much as the audience does. Known as the architect of shock-rock, Cooper (in both the original Alice Cooper band and as a solo artist) has rattled the cages and undermined the authority of generations of guardians of the status quo, continuing to surprise fans and exude danger at every turn.
Released in Feb. 2021, his latest album Detroit Stories, produced by Bob Ezrin, is inspired by the garage rock music of Detroit in the late 1960’s. The album includes several classic covers of Detroit-hits from that era and was recorded in Detroit featuring all Detroit musicians. On top of that, “Nights With Alice Cooper,” Cooper’s nightly radio show, continues to air in nearly 100 cities in the U.S., Canada, Australia and the U.K.
Though his 2020 worldwide concert tour was cut short by the COVID-19 pandemic, Cooper looks forward to continuing to bring his iconic brand of rock & roll to fans on five continents now in 2021, 2022 and beyond. With his influence on rock & roll and pop culture long since acknowledged, there is little that Alice Cooper hasn’t achieved in his remarkable career, including platinum albums, sold-out tours and any number of honors and career achievement awards.
For nearly a century, The Stanley Theatre has brought the community together with live concerts, Broadway shows, musicals, ballets, movies, graduations and recitals. Today, The Stanley Theatre operates as a not-for-profit organization run by the Central New York Community Arts Council. Originally built as a movie theatre, The Stanley opened its doors in 1928 with 2,963 seats, a grand entry staircase that resembles the main staircase of the Titanic, a gold leaf interior and terra cotta and tiled mosaic exterior. Stanley Theatre was designed by renowned architect Thomas Lamb, whose remaining creations include The Stanley Theatre, Proctor’s Theatre and The Landmark Theatre.
A pre-show dinner is also available, for the cost of $52 per person. The 3-course meal will be hosted in The Red Room of The Stanley Theatre on September 22, 2021 at 5:00pm. For tickets, call The Stanley Theatre Box Office at (315) 724-4000.
The menu includes Hors D’oeuvres (Blue Cheese stuffed Figs wrapped in Bacon, Roasted Tomato & Pesto Bruschetta with Mozzarella, Belgian Endive with Mandarin Orange Vegetable Relish with Goat Cheese) a Mixed Berry Salad, Dinner Buffet (Carved Tenderloin of Beef, Chicken Poulet a l’Estragon, Vegetable Lasagna Roulade, Green Bean Almandine, Rosemary Roasted Red Potatoes) and Dessert (Miniature Mixed Berry Tacos, Fresh Fruit Plate)
Fans are also able to enter to win this beautiful, one-of-a-kind painting created by local Utica artist Stephen Fletcher. For just $5 a ticket (or 6 tickets for $25), one lucky winner will be able to take home this priceless painting.
Tickets can be purchased either in-person at The Stanley Theatre Box Office (10:30am-6pm) OR by calling 315-724-4000. The raffle will end after the Alice Cooper concert on Sept. 22. The lucky winner will be announced via social media the following day. That gives you plenty of time to throw your name into the hat to win this amazing piece of artwork!
While you are getting your raffle tickets, make sure you get yourself a ticket to see Alice Cooper and Ace Frehley on Sept. 22 at 7:30pm. Tickets are going fast! Test your luck and enter to win this beautiful painting, courtesy of Stephen Fletcher.
Please Note: Raffle tickets will be unavailable for purchase on Sept. 15 and 16, as The Stanley Theatre will be closed those two days. In addition, the winner will be responsible for proper shipping and insurance costs, depending on where they live, or arrange for pick up at the theatre. No international shipping.
There are two things you can find a great deal of in Upstate New York – music venues in nearly every town, and Stewart’s Shops. There are more than 345 Stewart’s in New York and Vermont, and if you’ve been to a show or gone camping Upstate, you’ve probably stopped at a Stewart’s for provisions. With newly remodeled shops, Stewart’s is a staple for locals and visitors alike.
One of Stewart’s best sellers is their ice cream. Made from milk from New York farms, the variety of flavors goes well beyond the basic Chocolate, Vanilla and Strawberry. The variety of music venues Upstate is equally varied, and gives music lovers an opportunity to see their favorite bands and new artists in unique settings.
We’ve partnered with Stewart’s Shops to look at their ice cream flavors and compared them to Upstate music venues. Below you’ll find 15 flavors paired with their appropriate venue, a small sampling of the more than 30 flavors Stewart’s Shops offer. Get the scoop before you get a scoop heading to your next show!
Brownie Cookie Sundae // Ulster Performing Arts Center, Kingston
This venue and flavor have each got it all. UPAC features one of the widest arrays of musical selections in the state. From Meatloaf to Willie Nelson, the HV Philharmonic to plays and musicals, UPAC has it all. Likewise, Brownie Cookie Sundae comes loaded with vanilla ice cream, chewy brownie bites, soft cookie dough pieces and a rich fudge swirl. Available in a cone or half-gallon.
Star Gazer // Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC), Saratoga Springs
Where can you see the most stars? Head north on I-87 and get off at exit 13 for Saratoga Performing Arts Center, where you’ll see the biggest artists and national touring bands at SPAC each summer! Originally the home of the NYC Ballet, SPAC has been bringing concerts to the edge of the Adirondacks since the 1960s, making this the perfect venue for seeing stars. Stargazer has Malt flavored ice cream with a rich caramel swirl and pieces of Milky Way candy bars mixed in. Available in a half-gallon.
Chocolate Sea Turtle // Snug’s Harbor, New Paltz
Turtles are found throughout the state, but they’ll always need a snug harbor somewhere to rest their shell. Snug Harbor provides a comfortable space for bands to play in the college town of New Paltz, with a variety of music and cold beer on tap. Stewart’s Chocolate Sea Turtle features chocolate ice cream with a sea salt caramel swirl and chocolate fudge pecans. Available in a cone for a limited time.
Fireworks // Empire State Plaza, Albany
One of the best spots for fireworks in Upstate New York is the Empire State Plaza in downtown Albany. Capable of hosting more than 10,000 people and room for even more nearby, the Fireworks every 4th of July and for select events are a must see event, as well as the bands that perform on the plaza during the summer months. Pop Rocks encased in vanilla ice cream with a tart cherry swirl helps this flavor live up to its name! Available in a cone.
Blueberry Pie in the Sky // Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, Bethel
Summer and blueberry pie are synonymous. The summer of love lives on through Bethel Woods. Grab a cone of Blueberry in the Sky, with blueberry ice cream with shortbread and a Maine blueberry swirl, on the way to your next show and imagine the roads filled with cars headed to Yasgur’s Farm. Available in a pint.
Happy Camper // Grey Fox Bluegrass Festival, Oak Hill
When the music on the stage is done for the day, head to your campsite anywhere at Grey Fox Bluegrass Festival’s campgrounds for pickin’ parties, where you can hear classic bluegrass songs and singalongs, just like at camp enjoy s’mores! With graham cracker flavored ice cream with a graham cracker pieces, a marshmallow swirl and peanut butter pieces, enjoy a cone of Stewart’s Happy Camper while friends old and new sit around and pluck away. Available in a cone.
Located just a few miles from Mount Marion near Saugerties, Levon Helm’s Barn is the perfect pairing for this sweet treat. Living in Woodstock at Big Pink with The Band and backing Bob Dylan for years, Levon Helm made a second home in Woodstock, establishing Midnight Rambles that continue to be a thing of legend. Marionberry Cookie is a pink-hued ice cream with a chocolate cookie swirl. Available in a cone for a limited time.
Mint Cookie Crumble // The Bardavon, Poughkeepsie
Two classics, presented in a new way. The Bardavon is the oldest continually operating music venue in New York State, offering various performing arts, cinema, theater, vaudeville, and performers ranging from David Byrne to Chick Corea, Dr. John to Gladys Knight, and Joan Baez to Natalie Merchant. Bardavon is also the home of the Hudson Valley Philharmonic, making the classic venue fresh for a new generation of music lovers. Mint Cookie Crumble is a spin on mint chocolate chip, but with a chocolate cookie crumble fudge swirl mixed in smooth cool mint ice cream. A classic, presented in a fresh new way. Available in a cone, pint or half-gallon, and now available in a non-dairy pint!
Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup // The Egg, Albany
One of Stewart’s tastiest ice creams has a swirl of peanut butter inside, ready to surprise you with each bite. Inside The Egg in Albany, you’ll find not one but two music venues – The Hart Theatre and The Swyer Theatre, both offering an array of musical offerings, not to mention surprisingly incredible acoustics! Available in a cone, pint or half-gallon.
Sweet Bourbon Cold Brew // The Falcon, Marlboro
Both of these combine bourbon and coffee together in a perfect pairing, but The Falcon also offers live jazz in their intimate, rustic venue. The sweet cream/cold brew/bourbon flavors combine for a smooth ice cream experience. Available in a pint for a VERY limited time.
Crumbs along the Mohawk // Cohoes Music Hall, Cohoes
Located 500 feet from the Mohawk River, Cohoes Music Hall, opened in 1874, has been home for live music performances, high school musicals and plays, theater performances and much more. With a name synonymous with music, Cohoes is a great small town to stop in for an evening. The perfect ice cream to go with such a classic venue is Crumbs Along the Mohawk, inspired by the 1939 film “Drums Along the Mohawk,” with graham cracker flavored ice cream holding together graham cracker pieces with a caramel swirl. Available in a pint or half-gallon.
Brew Ha Ha // Saranac Brewery, Utica; Ommegang Brewery, Cooperstown
Where in New York can you get brewery fresh beer and live music? Two places come to mind – Saranac Brewery in Utica, and Ommegang Brewery in Cooperstown. With their own wide selections of beers and other beverages, these breweries offer two things that New York is known for – great beer and great music – Brew Ha Ha takes Stewart’s richer roast coffee ice cream with espresso bean flavored chocolate flakes, a nice combination as well! Available in a cone or half-gallon.
Adirondack Bear Paw // The Waterhole, Saranac Lake
The northernmost venue on our list is The Waterhole, home to music year round, with Party on the Patio on Thursdays each summer, Winter Carnival music performances in February, and the heart of this Adirondack town. Vanilla ice cream mixed with sweet praline cashews and caramel swirls make a rich combination in this tasty northern delight. Available in a half-gallon.
The classic creamsicle flavor is a throwback to summers spent in Saratoga Springs, with a twist. A classic Saratoga venue, Caffe Lena, has been a fixture in the Spa City since the 1960s, and new renovations in the building put a twist on the original! Available in a half-gallon at your local Stewart’s Shops!
Colombian Coffee // Club Helsinki, Hudson
Like coffee, Club Helsinki has something for everyone, serving as a music venue, bar and restaurant. Open mic nights, both virtual and in person, welcome all people and talents. The many flavors of coffee can be found in this Columbia County venue that welcomes a variety of artists to the east shore of the Hudson River. Available in a cone or half-gallon.
New York State has an abundance of talented musicians. While music is their main priority, artists also use their creativity to produce coveted merchandise lines so that fans can rep their favorite bands all day in a variety of ways. This page features band merch collections from artists across New York State – browse these items and support the next generation of hard working musicians from across the Empire State.
From Rochester, this indie band is known for their beautiful, calming melodies that are easy on the ear. Their newest music to date is a single titled “Private Eye” that was released in May. The Demos have promising potential to become big around the nation, not just around New York State. Their merchandise consists of t-shirts and CDs of their EPs.
Coming from Troy, Dark Honey‘s music is lyrically-rich, indie-pop-rock with an emphasis on guitar notes. They are currently selling their creative merchandise in a variety of forms including T-shirts and sweatshirts.
Melt the Band is based out of New York City and their music has been described as “One groovy super organism.” They are soulful and funky and are currently selling epic merchandise, such as beanies, posters, hoodies, and more.
From Rochester, Mikaela Davis continues to prove her outstanding talent with every new release. Her alternative sound pulls from rock, 70s and 80s pop, and funk vibes. This fabulous artist is currently selling physical copies of her full-length album.
Sean Rowe is an indie singer-songwriter from Troy. His music evokes emotions from listeners that they have never felt before because of his stunning vocals and peaceful guitar blends. He is selling physical forms of his four albums.
From Troy, The Sea The Sea is a powerful indie folk-pop duo featuring Mira Costa and Chuck E. Costa, who make a lovely couple in and out of the studio. Their merchandise is currently physical albums, signed posters, and various clothing items.
This alternative band from Buffalo, is known for their ability to entertain everyone, regardless of musical preference. They have gained many fans over the years, performing at major music festivals and winning multiple awards in Buffalo. Funktional Flow‘s merchandise consists of t-shirts, pins, and stickers.
Although this singer/songwriter from Syracuse, just recently began her career, she has already been nominated for three major regional music awards. Sydney gets inspiration from artists including but not limited to Taylor Swift, Tom Petty, and Post Malone. She is currently selling merchandise such as t-shirts, tank tops, and buttons.
Bandits on the Run is a staple band in the Metro NY music scene, both below and above ground. They released their debut indie-folk-pop album in 2017, and have become even more adored ever since. They are currently selling merchandise items such as t-shirts, bandanas, and stickers.
Architrave is a husband and wife duo from Ballston Spa. Their alternative music is heavily reliant upon post-punk guitar and basslines. They also incorporate a funky 80s flair into their tracks. They are currently selling t-shirts with differing logos on them.
Lucas Garrett is from Queensbury and is known for his catchy hooks that don’t necessarily fit under one category. He started playing his original music at local coffeehouses and eventually released his debut EP in 2017. He is selling physical copies of his music as well as t-shirts.
Eastbound Jesus, from Greenwich, is an Americana/Bluegrass Northern Rock band comprised of six males. They have five albums that they are currently selling in CD format.
From Brooklyn, Fake Dad is a band that will leave listeners assured that everything will be alright, almost as if they were giving you a tight hug while blasting their tunes. The electronic tracks that the duo creates have a calming effect when mixed with their peaceful vocals. They are currently selling two epic variations of a t-shirt.
From Buffalo, Intrepid Travelers is a musical quartet that is rooted in friendship, fun, and freedom. Their music can be described as upbeat, groovy jams with roots in jazz, funk, and a hint of bluegrass. They treat every show as an interactive experience with the audience rather than a typical performance. The merchandise that Intrepid Travelers currently has on sale includes shirts, koozies, and pins.
Noon Fifteen is Ithaca’s genre-bending soul combo that produces forward-thinking jams with old school instrumentalism. Their sound has been compared to Lake Street Dive as well as The Beatles, with elements of gospel, funk, and hard rock. They are currently selling a band logo t-shirt.
moon kissed comprises of New York City natives Emily, Khaya and Leah. Their debut album was self-released and tells stories of youth and heartbreak. Their sound is inspired by artists such as Charlie XCX and St. Vincent. The trio is currently selling t-shirts and vinyls.
Girl Blue is the project of vocalist Arielle O’Keefe who is based out of Troy. Her angelic voice paired with her songwriting capabilities leads her to have an extremely positive outcome on every listener. She has tons of merchandise available now, including shirts, vinyls, and buttons.
Originally from South Africa, Sulene started her music career out of Brooklyn. She is most well-known for being the the lead guitarist for Nate Ruess of Fun. She is active in the indie-pop Brooklyn scene and has performed on stages all across the world with all kinds of people. Her aesthetically pleasing merchandise collection features t-shirts and vinyls.
Vaporeyes is a progressive rock band from Syracuse. Their sound can be described as an actualized collective of overactive subconscious. Merchandise for Vaporeyes comprises of hats, buttons, stickers, and more.
Based in Buffalo, Grosh is an energetic four-piece rock band. They are known for frequently selling out local Buffalo shows, and fans love them for their heavy-hitting rock style combined with their vulnerable lyrics. They recently released their second full-length studio album, Not Down For Long. They are now selling t-shirts, koozies, bracelets, and more.
The Jess Novak band is from Syracuse, and is known for their powerful, fierce vocals (by Jess Novak herself) and their engaging songwriting capabilities. They can win over any crowd with their unmatched energy and soul-pumped rock sound. They are surely on the rise and have made a great impression on New York State audiences thus far. Their merchandise includes stickers, mugs, shirts, and more.
From Albany, E.R.I.E. can be described as “Not yer Dad’s dad-rock.” The motivational messages behind their lyrics helps them stand out from other rock bands. Their first full-length album, Don’t Wanna Live, Don’t Wanna Die, was released in August 2020. They are now selling one t-shirt and physical copies of their album.
The Erotics, from Albany, take a very straightforward approach to rock & roll. They released their first full-length album in 1997 and fans have loved them for their constant political incorrectness ever since. They have a comprehensive merchandise list, ranging from t-shirts to dog tags to shot glasses.
Mike Grutka describes his music as, “acoustic based funky modern roots rock-n-roll.” His most recent album takes listeners on a journey through loneliness and pain to find happiness and peace. His merchandise is currently physical copies of his albums.
Organ Fairchild is a highly admired organ trio from Buffalo. Their music has been described as a party that never quits. Their vibe makes you want to jump out of your seat and jam along until the sun comes up. They are currently selling their own shirts, posters, and stickers.
Live music returns to Saranac Brewery in Utica as Creative Concerts brings Blackberry Smoke on their You Hear Georgia Tour on Sunday, September 26th.
Throughout their career, Blackberry Smoke—vocalist/lead guitarist Charlie Starr, guitarist/vocalist Paul Jackson, bassist/vocalist Richard Turner, drummer Brit Turner, and keyboardist Brandon Still—has embodied Georgia’s rich musical legacy, honoring the people, places and sounds of their home state. As the band celebrates their 20th anniversary this year, their reverence for Georgia has only deepened.
On their latest album, You Hear Georgia, the follow-up to 2018’s critically acclaimed Find a Light, Blackberry Smoke is further celebrating these roots with 10 new songs that feel like Georgia, accented by the addition of Grammy-winning producer and fellow Georgia-native, Dave Cobb (Jason Isbell, Brandi Carlile). “Dave and I had spoken for the last few years about making a record,” Starr says. “Finally, it worked out, our schedule and his schedule, and we said, yes—let’s make a record.”
Blackberry Smoke worked quickly, spending just 10 days at Nashville’s famed RCA Studio A, Cobb’s home base since 2016. The band recorded live on the floor, giving You Hear Georgia a crisp, outgoing feel. Like other Blackberry Smoke efforts, this album leans into well-crafted Southern rock driven by jagged guitar riffs and rich instrumentation, as the band layers on everything from rollicking piano to funky grooves, and introspective acoustic sounds.
Saranac: F.X. Matt Brewing Company is the fourth oldest family-owned brewery in the United States, having brewed beer since 1888. They introduced the Saranac line of beverages in the mid-80s.
This is a general admission show and all ages are welcome. Tickets go on sale Friday, July 30th at 10am at CCTix.com. Tickets are $30 in advance, $35 day of show. Doors open at 6pm with music starting at 7pm. This is a rain or shine event. The brewery has limited on site parking but there is street parking available in close proximity to the venue.
One of the most raucous shows in Stanley Theatre history has finally gotten an official release. The October 25, 2002 performance of Trey Anastasio Band in Utica, best remembered for fans dancing so intensely that the balcony was visibly bouncing, causing the band to cease amplified performance late in the second set.
On the Osiris Network series ‘Alive Again’, Anastasio recalled in Episode 2 the intensity of that night’s performance, and how he and the band reacted to the balcony visibly bouncing up and down.
The show itself was a true rocker. In addition to the debut of “Perhaps,” the unique opener “Javier Cinakowski” was followed by an 18-minute “Night Speaks to the Woman” which set the tone for the evening. During a late Set 2 “Mr. Completely,” clocking in at 28 minutes, pieces of plaster were falling from the balcony. Unbeknownst to the band at the time, who kept playing and feeding off the energy of the audience, road manager Brad Sands had to go on stage and tell the band to stop playing.
The balcony was going up and down and then these plaster pieces started falling on people’s heads. The balcony was shaking so much that it started breaking the plaster. Everyone’s panicking as people are animalistic dancing..
Trey Anastasio on ‘Alive Again’
For the rest of the evening, songs without amplification were performed as a safety precaution. Prior to the encore, an audience member shouted “Free Bird!,” which prompted Anastasio to share two stories (after declining the request), including Phish offering up an a cappella rendition of “Free Bird” for a Lynyrd Skynyrd tribute album that was ultimately turned down.
Phish would perform their own memorable show at the Utica Aud in October 2010. Download the TAB show from 10/25/02 now at LivePhish.com.
The Levitt AMP Utica Music Series announced this year’s concerts will take place on Monday nights from 6 to 9 pm, July 5 – Aug 30 with a final tenth concert taking place on Friday, Sept 3 to Kick Off Labor Day Weekend. With a lineup of New York State-based artists, they’ll perform at Kopernik Park in Downtown Utica this summer. Ten weeks of free, family-friendly outdoor concerts will return this summer!
The 2021 season is themed “New York State Originals” and will feature headlining artists from all over the state, along with local and regional opening acts and youth intermission acts, all performing original music. The diverse lineup of high-caliber talent spans genres like jazz, pop, soul, country, R&B, hip hop and more.
The public is invited to bring their own blankets and lawn chairs to the concerts. The park will have physically distanced rectangular “pods” sprayed in the grass that will hold up to six people each.
Pods will be spaced 6’ apart and will help guide guests for seating as we work together bringing back community events. The series will also offer art activities for young concert-goers and food trucks will be on site.
“As we begin to transition back to normal, we are excited to enjoy local venues and great entertainment such as the Levitt AMP series,” Mayor Robert Palmieri shared, “This concert series is a tremendous quality of life asset that we have been able to secure for our residents due to the generosity of the Levitt Foundation, local businesses and community organizations, as well as through the hard work and coordination of Michelle Truett and the Utica Monday Nite board..”
“We are so thrilled to have the Levitt AMP Utica series back for the 2021 season,” said Alicia Dicks, president/CEO of the Community Foundation. “This event brings our community together in so many ways and after the long-awaited return of live music and gatherings, this season is sure to be one of the best yet!”
The Utica Music Series are sponsored in part by the Mortimer & Mimi Levitt Foundation, a national funder of creative placemaking that empowers communities to inject new life into underused public spaces through free, outdoor concerts. The Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties is a presenting sponsor for the fifth season of concerts. Partners in the series include Rust 2 Green Utica, DeSales Center, the City of Utica and Munson-Williams-Proctor Arts Institute. Season sponsors include Empire Recycling and the M&T Bank/Partners Trust Bank Charitable Fund.
In December of 2019, Utica was named one of 20 small to mid-sized towns and cities across America to win a Levitt AMP [Your City] Grant Award of $25K in matching funds to present a free concert series at Kopernik Park in 2020. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the 2020 series was postponed and the funding applied to the 2021 season. A 2-hour “AMP the House” TV special was produced in 2020 with a Bridge Grant from the Levitt Foundation to bring our community together when we had to be apart.
Utica Monday Nite submitted the Levitt AMP proposal and is presenting the Utica Music Series. In an effort to inspire and engage communities across the country around the power of creative placemaking, the Levitt Foundation invited the public to choose the Top 25 finalists through online voting. Learn more about the winners and the 180 free Levitt AMP concerts across America at Levitt AMP’s wesite.
Kopernik Park is located at 317 Genesee Street at the corner of Eagle Street and Park Avenue near DeSales. Admission is free and all are welcome. Seating will be limited due to state guidelines, so getting to the park early is encouraged.
For anyone who is not quite ready for crowds and events, the Utica music series concerts will also be streamed via multiple platforms to be enjoyed at home/offsite.
THE 2021 LEVITT AMP UTICA MUSIC SERIES LINE UP
July 5 – Carolina Gents from Brooklyn, NY
Bluegrass, Americana, and country musicians in the New York area, pure, sweet sounds of Appalachia, then southern twang and effortless production. The band sets itself apart with their stylistic versatility, classy-vintage dress.
Opener: Isaac French – singer/songwriter and multi-instrumentalist. He is originally from Vermont and now calls Rome, NY home. His debut album, “Human Being” has been received with acclaim throughout the region and beyond.
Deep, powerful soul. In addition, she has also been awarded Teen Empowerment’s PeaceMaker in Action Award. Beyond Danielle’s musical talent, she is a former Public Defender and Tedx speaker.
Opener: Count Blastula – Founded by Adam Fisher in Central New York, CB features eclectic music combined with visual expression. CB has been compared to classic artists such as Phish, The Allman Brothers and The Grateful Dead.
July 19 – Alex Torres & His Latin Orchestra from Amsterdam, NY
This 12 piece orchestra has been the recipient of numerous awards including the New England Cultural Arts Preservation Award, the New York State Music Achievement Award and The Governor’s Excellence in Arts Award.
Opener: Grupo Pagan –a SAMMY Award winning Latin-American band based in Syracuse, NY. Their diverse backgrounds combine into a high energy brew of sound, with influences including Santana, Shakira and Enrique Iglesias.
July 26 – Samara Joy & Pasquale Grasso Duo from Bronx, NY
Following her winning the 2019 Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Vocal Competition, Samara is currently recording her debut recording, featuring one of the most strikingly unique artists of his generation, Pasquale Grasso.
Opener: Sydney Irving – Syracuse, NY rising star has already been nominated for three major regional songwriting awards. Irving juggles attendance at high school with gigs at high profile spots like Binghamton’s Spiedie Fest (supporting Starship featuring Mickey Thomas) and Turning Stone Resort & Casino on evenings and weekends.
Aug 2 – Sammy Rae & The Friends from Brooklyn, NY
Sammy Rae & The Friends was born from a collection of talented musicians and peers. The band rocks a jazz-pop sound and sold-out every show in NYC in 2019, enjoyed several tours in the USA and South America and acquired over 10 million streams on Spotify and Apple Music.
Opener: The Reuben James – Utica, NY based folk-rock outfit that was a staple of the regional live music scene for almost a decade. During that time, the group released 3 full-length albums. Their original sound draws from influences such as Wilco, Dylan, Tom Waits, Ani DiFranco, Springsteen, and Counting Crows. The group is incredibly excited to reunite at Levitt AMP after a decade-long hiatus.
Aug 9 – Shayna Steele from New York City
Shayna has supremely soulful energy, as well as mind blowing vocal artistry and songwriting skills. She has performed with the likes of Rihanna, Kelly Clarkson, Bette Midler and Steely Dan as a sought after background vocalist. It was the release of Shayna’s first full-length album I’ll Be Anything that put her on the map as a legitimate solo artist.
Opener: Haynesville Road – This Rock Band with Earth Lyrics consists of Bob ‘’BD’’ Dziedzic, from New York Mills, NY, Stan ‘’Stik’’ Slabicki,from Whitesboro, NY and Rob Aguilera, originally from Chicago, now living in Oneida, NY.
Aug 16 – Tom Nitti from Utica, NY
Born and raised in Central New York, Tom Nitti, your traditional country music artist, will be performing Levitt AMP with his full band. Tom joined the United States Army as a 19D Airborne Cavalry Scout. While deployed in Afghanistan, Tom earned the Purple Heart Award for sustaining a traumatic brain injury while taking mortar fire.
Opener: Jess Novak Band – With a fiddle on fire, powerful vocals and a fierce band behind her, this pop, rock, soul-pumped group is from Syracuse, New York. Known for their energy, superb musicianship, engaging songwriting and ability to win any crowd, this is a band on the rise.
Aug 23 – Joanne Shenandoah in Oneida, NY
GRAMMY award-winning, cross-cultural singer-songwriter with 24 albums, singles, collaborations and film soundtracks earning her more than 40 music awards, including a GRAMMY and 14 Native American Music Awards, an induction into the NAMMY Hall of Fame, and an EMMY nomination.
Opener: Fritz’s Polka Band – everything from modern-style polka to country to rock and even blues. They are not the stereotypical “polka” band –they were the first polka band to perform at a Woodstock Festival (Woodstock ’99)! In 2010, FPB was inducted into the Syracuse Area Music Hall of Fame.
Aug 30 – Paul Beaubrun from New York City
A Haitian singer and multi-instrumentalist, Paul weaves together Haitian roots music with rock and roll and reggae, delivering lyrics in English, French and Creole.
Opener: Tree of Life – A band that debuted at 2020’s AMP the House TV Show, they will now grace the Levitt AMP stage live this summer. Decades of experience in funk, rock, blues, metal and more.
Sept 3 – Sophistafunk from Syracuse, NY
Sophistafunk has gained international notoriety with their unique, positive blend of hip hop, funk, and jam music that boasts a touch of spoken word and an overflow of energy. Sophistafunk played the Levitt AMP Utica stage in 2017 and 2018 and they’re back to round out our 2021 season with our first ever Friday night concert to close out the series and kick off Labor Day weekend.
Opener: Leeky XIV – Malik Johnson, better known as Leeky XIV, is an independent rapper and entertainer who uses his art to promote the importance of living a positive lifestyle.
Free outdoor concerts are coming to Utica on Thursday nights in June as Bagg’s Square Association presents Performers in the Park at Handshake.City.
The weekly series will feature live music, art demonstrations, spoken word, outdoor activities, food trucks and locally-made goods for sale, 6-8pm every Thursday from June 3rd to July 1st.
Kicking off the series on June 3rd is blues, rock and jam group Uncle Charlie and the Meatballs with mural creation by Tony Thompson. June 10th features Handsome Bob, a new band to the Utica music scene playing rock, pop and punk tunes.
June 17th brings electronic instrumental musician Zalatan to the stage and spoken word by Téa Parker. Progressive rock group Copper Vein Clones plays on June 24th. Closing out the series on July 1st is an American Car Show with music by singer/songwriter J. Schnitt.
Performers in the Park is a great event to start off the summer right. Get the family out of the house for an evening or four and enjoy the nice weather and music. Every week visits another genre of Utica jams to discover. Don’t forget to support your local businesses and get some snacks and goodies while you’re at it. There are sure to be activities everyone will appreciate at Performers in the Park.
The Performers in the Park series is made possible by the Bagg’s Square Association, a non-profit organization of businesses and community members dedicated to generating and sustaining new life and activity in the Bagg’s Square neighborhood.
The events will take place at Handshake.City in the heart of Bagg’s Square at 26 Whitesboro Street in Utica near Union Station. Handshake.City is a collaboration of green space, art gallery, urban marketplace, and event venue from community group Made In Utica. It offers a family and pet friendly outdoor experience.
Guitarist Joe Bonamassa announces a one-night-only livestream concert at the iconic venue, Austin City Limits on April 1st, at 9PM EST.
The livestream, broadcasting worldwide, will raise money for musicians and artists in need. Bonamassa is returning to his blues-rock roots with a power trio performance and a setlist curated by his fans.
Joe Bonamassa is bringing his blues-signature sound to the homes of fans all across the world, even though he is known as “always being on the road.” His set will include members Anton Fig from Late Night David Letterman and Steve Mackey on bass. It will be a rare power trio!
Austin was one of the first cities in which Joe Bonamassa played as a three-piece, with Austin City Limits, a national landmark music venue, having been awarded “Best New Major Concert Venue” by Pollstar. Over the years, the venue has been home to legendary artists such as B.B. King, Santana, Peter Frampton, Paul McCartney, and Bonamassa himself, as well as many other artists. Bonamassa’s energy will take over the stage, making his own impact on musical history.
The setlist will be curated by his fans, selecting from his 24 #1 albums. The cuts chosen from his extensive catalog will delight his fans and charm new ones with his virtuosic guitar playing and incredible energy.
To enjoy this captivating event, you can purchase tickets here . Tickets start at $30 and increase for deluxe packages, including merchandise and passes to his other on-demand live performances. There will also be a VIP package where members will have their photos and names featured in the live stream credits as a virtual audience member.
Bonamassa is a two-time Grammy nominated artist and hailed as one of the greatest blues guitarists of all time. Joe recently received his 24th #1 album on the Billboard Blues Chart with the studio album Royal Tea, a nod to his British heroes, recorded at the legendary Abbey Road Studios.
His musical programs Fueling Musicians and Keeping the Blues Alive foundation have raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for struggling artists over the past year. To learn more about Joe Bonamassa, visit jbonamassa.com.
NYS Music would like to wish a healthy and happy birthday to guitarist Al Schnier who turns 53 years old today. Al, a husband and father of two, first sat in with a band named moe. in 1991 and hasn’t looked back since.
A true New Yorker, Schnier was born in Utica, NY and attended New Hartford Central High School. One of his first musical endeavors was an eighth grade Rush/Neil Young tribute band called Cuttin’ Loose. High school and college at SUNY-Oneonta brought along with it various cover bands. In 1990, while playing in a band called Unclaimed Freight, Al came across a tape from some band from Buffalo called moe. and his life would be forever altered.
I heard that tape and I thought, ‘This is the kind of band I want to play in.’ … Of course, I never thought I’d be playing with moe., but six months later I ended up moving to Buffalo, and my next introduction to the band was actually sitting in with them.
Al Schnier
In 1991, Schnier first sat in with the band for a gig at Chicklets House in Buffalo, playing guitar and congas. The following year, after more sit ins and collaborations, Al became a fulltime member of moe. and has been a permanent fixture on his “side” of the stage ever since.
What’s transpired since is a remarkable recording and touring career that’s still going strong and has seen the band travel the world and play some of the biggest stages and festivals out there. Like any musician, Schnier has also had his fair share of side projects over the years. In 1999, he formed the folk rock band Al and the Transamericans that featured the late Gordon Stone on pedal steel guitar and Strangefolk’s Erik Glockler on bass.
Al has also self-produced and engineered a solo electronica album titled al.one that came out in 2001. A self-avowed Dead head, he’s also spent some time as one of bassist Phil Lesh’s “friends” for an incarnation of Phil & Friends in 2005. There’s been plenty of other collaborations since as well.
Schnier was also an original member of the “newgrass” band Floodwood, but has since departed. And he’s also a founding member of the voter registration group Headcount.
So let’s all raise a glass and cheers to Al Schnier, the birthday boy. Here’s to another trip around the sun and much more music to come.
