NYS Music 2023

Author: Molly Rudden

  • Luzerne Music Center Presents 43rd Season

    Luzerne Music Center (LMC) is has announced their 43rd season, spanning from June 18 to August 13. Nestled in the peaceful setting of Lake Luzerne, New York, LMC is a summer music camp for talented youth and a host of the esteemed Luzerne Chamber Music Festival with a lineup of unforgettable performances by world-class guest artists and accomplished LMC faculty members.

    With the commitment to artistic excellence and guidance of Elizabeth Pitcairn, a world famous violin soloist and Luzerne Music Center’s CEO and Artistic Director, they have meticulously curated an impressive selection of concerts to cater to a diverse audience.

    luzerne music center

    Founded in 1980, Luzerne Music Center has been a beacon for thousands of talented young musicians, offering a unique blend of a high-intensity music festival and a traditional summer camp experience in the breathtaking foothills of the Adirondacks. With a commitment to fostering courage, resilience, empathy and compassion, Luzerne Music Center provides world-class instruction for gifted musicians aged 9 to 18, regardless of their financial circumstances. The center offers comprehensive training in both large and small ensembles, private lessons and group classes, attracting young talents from around the world.

    Luzerne Chamber Music Festival

    At the heart of the season lies the Luzerne Chamber Music Festival, featuring four magnificent concerts by world-class guest artists including musicians of the NYC Ballet Orchestra and The Philadelphia Orchestra, WindSync, Glen Inanga, Toby Blumenthal, Darrin C. Milling and Elizabeth Pitcairn. Expect to be taken on a journey of musical brilliance that will leave a lasting impression.

    The concerts will be held in the Jack Lawrence Performance Lodge on Luzerne Music Center’s campus on Mondays at 7:30 PM.

    • July 3 – Musicians of the NYC Ballet Orchestra with Elizabeth Pitcairn, Glen Inanga and the LMC Faculty Orchestra
    • Jul 10 – WindSync (www.windsync.org)
    • July 24 – Toby Blumenthal’s 90th Birthday Celebration with Elizabeth Pitcairn, Darrin C. Milling and Fabulous Philadelphians
    • July 31 – Fabulous Philadelphians: Musicians of The Philadelphia Orchestra

    Tickets for the Luzerne Chamber Music Festival are available here. Prices include VIP $45/ Adults $35/ Seniors $25 / Students $5 / Under 18 Free.

    Faculty Artist Series

    Mark your calendars for an extraordinary series of six public concerts featuring programs curated and performed by the renowned LMC faculty. The performances will be held on Fridays, June 23 and 30; July 7, 21 and 28; and August 4, at 7:30 PM in the Jack Lawrence Performance Lodge on Luzerne Music Center’s campus. Each concert incorporates music from all periods, including LMC’s composers-in-residence Jake Gunnar Walsh and Robert Paterson, Director and Co-Founder of the Mostly Modern Festival based in Saratoga Springs, New York.

    To discover the wealth of experience and artistry that each faculty member brings to the LMC community, please visit www.luzernemusic.org/faculty.

    Tickets are available here. Prices are $15 for adults, $10 for Seniors, $5 for Students, and free for under 18.

    Free Student Concerts

    Visit Luzerne Music Center and be a part of the extraordinary student concerts, where the next generation of musicians will showcase their talent, passion, and dedication to the art of music.

    Throughout the summer, LMC’s lakeside campus in the foothills of the Adirondacks will be a home for over 174 talented campers from 19 states and 12 countries. There, they will be able to immerse themselves in furthering their music studies, supported by LMC’s exceptional faculty and internationally recognized visiting artists and partake in many concerts both as performers and listeners; all during a life-changing summer camp experience fostering intellectual, social and emotional growth. All their remarkable progress and passion will be showcased during eighteen student concerts that are free and open to the public.

    Student Showcases:

    • Saturday, June 24 – 7:30 PM Solo Showcase
    • Friday, June 30 – 3:30 PM Chamber Showcase
    • Saturday, July 8 – 7:30 PM Solo Showcase
    • Thursday, July 13 – 7 PM Chamber Showcase
    • Saturday, July 22 – 7:30 PM Solo Showcase
    • Saturday, July 29 – 7 PM Chamber Showcase
    • Saturday, August 5 – 7:30 PM Solo Showcase
    • Saturday, August 12 – 4 PM
      Student Composer’s Concert
    • Saturday, August 12 – 7 PM Chamber Showcase

    Piano Prelude and LMC Symphony Orchestra:

    • Sunday, June 25 – 1:30 PM
    • Saturday, July 1 – 1:30 PM
    • Sunday, July 9 – 1:30 PM
    • Friday, July 14 – 1:30 PM
    • Sunday, July 23 – 1:30 PM
    • Sunday, July 30 – 1:30 PM
    • Friday, August 4 – 4 PM Orchestra Only
    • Sunday, August 6 – 1:30 PM
    • Sunday, August 13 – 1:30 PM Piano Prelude, Brass Choir, & Orchestra
    Luzerne Music Center

    Jeffery B. Ziegler Recital Hall and Jack Lawrence Museum Unveiling

    Additionally, July 3rd marks the unveiling of Luzerne Music Center’s new recital hall and museum, the Jeffery B. Ziegler Recital Hall and Jack Lawrence Museum. The grand unveiling will take place during the intermission of the first Luzerne Chamber Music Festival concert of the season, featuring a captivating performance by musicians of the NYC Ballet Orchestra with Elizabeth Pitcairn, Glen Inanga and the LMC Faculty Orchestra. The concert program includes Antonio Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons and Amy Beach’s Piano Quintet, promising an extraordinary musical experience for all attendees.

    Luzerne Music Center

    At the heart of the transformed Luzerne Music Center campus, the Jeffrey B. Ziegler Recital Hall and Jack Lawrence Museum stands as a testament to the organization’s dedication to artistic excellence. This remarkable octagonal building spans 1,000 square feet, featuring stunning pine finishes and an abundance of natural lighting, creating an inspiring environment for musicians and composers alike.

    Crafted by Topsider Homes in North Carolina and assembled on-site by local contractors, the recital hall serves as an intimate performance venue, a museum honoring the esteemed songwriter Jack Lawrence, and a versatile space for masterclasses and small group classes. The project was made possible through the generous support of Jeffrey B. Ziegler and the Jack Lawrence Charitable Trust. Their vision and commitment to the arts have been instrumental in bringing this transformative project to life.

    Within the Jeffrey B. Ziegler Recital Hall, the centerpiece is the 1903 Steinway Model O grand piano, generously donated from Michael Kamen’s family. The hall’s modular seating allows for a diverse range of activities, including composition workshops, individual lessons, guest masterclasses, intimate studio recitals, group classes, chamber music rehearsals and small receptions. Adorning the interior perimeter of the hall, the Jack Lawrence archives will create a captivating retrospective, celebrating the life and legacy of this iconic songwriter. 

    The official opening of the Jeffrey B. Ziegler Recital Hall and Jack Lawrence Museum will be a momentous occasion, graced by the presence of esteemed musicians, including Elizabeth Pitcairn, Glen Inanga, Arturo Delmoni, Sarah Hewitt-Roth and Michael Roth. The intermission will feature a special ribbon cutting ceremony and a special performance by one of the student groups within the newly inaugurated space, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the beauty and acoustics of the recital hall.

    CEO and Artistic Director

    Luzerne Music Center’s CEO and Artistic Director Elizabeth Pitcairn has earned a stunning reputation as one of America’s most beloved violin soloists. She concertized with the Philadelphia Orchestra at the Academy of Music, made her New York debut at Alice Tully Hall with the New York String Orchestra, and has since performed in halls across the world.

    Ms. Pitcairn performs with one of the world’s most legendary instruments, the Red Mendelssohn Stradivarius of 1720. A gift from her grandfather in 1990, it was named the ‘Red Stradivarius violin’ while in possession of Joseph Joachim, and is said to have inspired the Academy Award–winning film The Red Violin.

    Named Luzerne Music Center’s Artistic Director in 2011 and President in 2012, Ms. Pitcairn remains deeply passionate about youth and music education. She is formerly a member of the distinguished faculties at the Colburn School and USC’s Thornton School of Music. Ms. Pitcairn performs regularly around the globe as soloist and an ambassador to LMC. On tour, she makes time for school visits and leads master classes for aspiring music students. For tour dates and more information, visit her website here.

    For more information about Luzerne Music Center and its programs, please visit www.luzernemusic.org.

  • Louis Armstrong House Museum Celebrates New Center Ahead of July 6 Opening

    The internationally renowned Louis Armstrong House Museum in Corona, Queens held a ceremonial ribbon cutting with fitting trumpet fanfare to celebrate its new state-of-the-art center and archive – the world’s largest for a jazz musician. Opening to the public on Thursday, July 6, the new center will preserve and expand the legacy and ideals of America’s first Black popular music icon, Louis Armstrong. 

    Louis Armstrong house museum

    Opening remarks were made by the museum’s Executive Director Regina Bainand and Board Chair Jay Hershenson, followed by speeches from New York State Senator Jessica Ramos, New York State Assemblyman Jeffrion Aubry, Queens Borough President Donovan Richards, NYC Council Member Francisco Moya, The City University of New York (CUNY) Chancellor Félix V. Matos Rodríguez, Queens College President Frank H. Wu, Cultural Affairs Commissioner Laurie Cumbo and community leaders.

    Guests were treated to performances by Kennedy Center Artistic Director for Jazz, pianist, composer and curator of the new Center’s Here to Stay exhibition Jason Moran, Danny Jonokuchi, Christopher McBride and the Queens College All-Stars, Calvin Johnson and Native Soul, as well as students from Frank Sinatra High School. Fittingly, the day featured a trumpet fanfare with a line-up of world renown trumpeters: Bria Skonberg, Jon Faddis, Jon-Erik Kellso, Steven Bernstein, Frank Greene, Bruce Harris, Riley Mulherkar, Linda Briceño, Summer Camargo, Kali Rodriguez, David Adewumi, Tatum Greenblatt, and Danny Jonokuchi. The day concluded with a jam session, center open house with tours, archival sneak peek and a special toast.

    Louis Armstrong house museum

    The Louis Armstrong Center

    The Louis Armstong Center will officially open to the public on Thursday, July 6th. Armstrong’s values of Artistic Excellence, Education and Community will be fostered in Here to Stay, a new exhibition curated by Jason Moran that looks at Armstrong’s five-decade career as an innovative musician, rigorous archivist, consummate collaborator and community builder. Grounded in the new building design by Caples Jefferson Architects, the new Center will also be a permanent home for the 60,000-piece Louis Armstrong Archive and a 75-seat venue offering performances, lectures, films, and educational experiences.

    It will be a new international destination celebrating Armstrong’s distinctive role in African-Diaspora history and vitality, offering year-round exhibitions, performances, readings, lectures, and screenings through an array of public programs for all ages. With longstanding partners Queens College and the Louis Armstrong Educational Foundation, and with a growing list of members, supporters and programmatic collaborators, the museum and center will become a Queens-based hub for inspiration and learning, economic development and tourism – from New Yorkers to the world. 

    “Louis Armstrong was one of the greatest musicians of the 20th century, and also a beloved member of the community here in Corona, Queens,” said NYC Cultural Affairs Commissioner Laurie Cumbo. “This new education center and archive will keep both aspects of Armstrong’s legacy alive for generations to come – both the consummate artist and musician, and the incredible neighbor who treated local kids to ice cream each year on the 4th of July. We’re proud of the city’s major investment of over $10 million in this project, a long term commitment to the cultural vitality of Corona and in preserving the legacy of Louis Armstrong. Schedule your visit to Satchmo’s house today!”  

    The opening of the Center has spurred the creation of new programming. The Museum just announced the upcoming season of its groundbreaking Armstrong Now, which will feature the creation and debut of new works by Esperanza Spalding, Amyra León and Antonio Brown. An outreach program to local schools was also recently launched, providing trumpet lessons made possible by a donation of musical instruments from Ken Karnofsky, a descendant of the same family who helped Armstrong buy his first instrument.

    This National Historic Landmark museum welcomes its new addition across the street during the 80th anniversary of Louis and Lucille Armstrong moving to the legendary jazz trumpeter & singer’s restored home. Visitors have included Wynton Marsalis, Quincy Jones, Tony Bennett, Charlie Watts, Ken Burns, Jon Batiste, Ron Howard, Bette Midler and many more.

    Louis Armstrong is the greatest of all American virtuosos. With his trumpet and voice, Armstrong redefined what it meant to be modern by testifying to the range and depth of humanity from the vantage point of the bottom social strata in post-Reconstruction America. Louis Armstrong’s trumpet is the sound of freedom and with it, he left the world so much richer than how he found it. We need his consciousness, intelligence and broad understanding now, more than ever. The Louis Armstrong Educational Foundation was the baseline grantor of the Louis Armstrong House Museum and we have been in full support throughout the growth of this historic site. We are so proud of the Museum, and now, the new Armstrong Center. This great achievement is a physical representation of the down-home soulful world of Pops. It is much, much more than just a place. It’s a way for all people from everywhere to physically interact with the profound and deeply moving legacy of Lucille and Louis Armstrong.

    Wynton Marsalis, President of the Louis Armstrong Educational Foundation and Managing and Artistic Director of Jazz at Lincoln Center.

    Working with the museum’s Grammy-winning Director of Research Collections Ricky Riccardi and Executive Director Regina Bain, C&G Partners (MoMA, 9/11 Memorial & Museum, Smithsonian, NASA) designed the exhibition with Art Guild(Brooklyn Botanic Garden, Martin Guitar Museum). The 60,000 photos, recordings, manuscripts, letters & mementos in the Louis Armstrong Archive will be returning home to the block where the Armstrongs lived and built the collection.

    Guests at the opening of the Louis Armstrong House Museum on June 29

    Caples Jefferson Architects designed the 14,000-square-foot building to expand the capacity of the historic house museum and to allow many more people to appreciate the legacy of Louis Armstrong, the man and his music. Armstrong was both down-home and revolutionary and this building reflects that breadth. Caples Jefferson kept the building at the scale of the modest neighborhood that he loved, while creating an urban precinct for his music that welcomes in all visitors.

    This new building establishes the final piece of the campus that now comprises the museum as whole; it now includes the home itself that reflects the personal values of Louis Armstrong, the garden that serves as a place for gathering and a place for live performances, the donated home of next-door neighbor Selma Heraldo, reflecting the deep roots within the community, and the new center, designed as an interpretation of Armstrong’s music, where the public can learn even more about the icon who is Louis Armstrong.

    The Louis Armstrong Educational Foundation donated the Armstrong archives in the 1980s and provided the funds to purchase the lot on which the new Center sits. CUNY and Queens College officials, working with state and city legislators and executive offices, led the advocacy for the funding of the $26 million building across the street from the original Armstrong home. Funds were awarded by the Office of the Governor, the New York State Senate, New York State Assembly, Office of the New York City Mayor, Office of the Queens Borough President, and the New York City Council. The Dormitory Authority of the State of New York(DASNY) led the construction project. The staff and board of the museum for the past 15 years, including former Director, Michael Cogswell, worked tirelessly to ensure the new building’s success.

    The Center and the historic house will be open to the public Thursdays through Saturdays. Tickets and more information are available on the Museum’s website. Advance purchase is highly recommended as tours of the Center and the historic house have limited capacity. Authors, researchers and other scholars can visit the Armstrong archives by advance appointment.

  • Proctors Collaborative and Music Haven Present Proctors Passport Series Lineup

    For 30 years, Music Haven has presented an amazing array of global sounds in Schenectady’s Central Park. Proctors Collaborative is extending its partnership with the storied summer concert series to bring a dynamic new slate of world music events to the GE Theatre at Proctors in Schenectady, and Universal Preservation Hall in Saratoga Springs for the 23-24 season. While international travel offers little in the way of discounts, the Proctors Passport Series pass gives patrons tickets to all seven shows for the price of four. The series runs from October to May.

    Saturday, Oct. 7 – Ablaye Cissoko and Cyrille Brotto

    To kick off the globetrotting series, world-renowned kora player and Senegalese griot Ablaye Cissoko teams up with the French diatonic accordion maestro Cyrille Brotto to create music to clear the mind and inspire the senses at the GE Theatre at Proctors 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 7.

    Friday, Oct. 20 – Lengaïa Salsa Brava

    Lengaïa Salsa Brava, founded by Latin-Guyanese trombonist Giany-Frantz Huyghues-Despointes, is a 12-piece multi-awarded big band based in Montreal. The orchestration of three trombones and a baritone saxophone gives a powerful edge and identity to their music while maintaining the heritage of the ‘70s New York salsa dura style. They will be welcoming listeners and dancers alike to UPH 7:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 20.

    Friday, Nov. 3 – The Brooklyn Nomads

    The Brooklyn Nomads is a celebrated cross-cultural ensemble rooted in musical traditions from the Arab World, with a mission to create memorable experiences for its audiences. Join them in Schenectady at the GE Theatre at Proctors 7:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 3

    Saturday, Dec. 2 – The Klezmatic’s Happy Joyous Hanukkah Concert

    The Klezmatics’ Happy Joyous Hanukkah Concert–co-promoted with The Eighth Step–will celebrate the annual Festival of Lights in the GE Theatre at Proctors 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2 with songs from the beloved Klezmer band’s Grammy-winning collaboration with recently discovered Woody Guthrie lyrics.

    Friday, Feb. 16, 2024 – Bassekou Kouyate

    The foremost of a new generation of bandleaders from the musical hotbed of Mali, Bassekou Kouyate has been revolutionary in developing new techniques of playing the ngoni, an ancient traditional lute found throughout West Africa. Join them at UPH 7:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 16.

    Thursday, April 18, 2024 – BeauSoleil avec Michael Doucet

    Multi-Grammy™ winning BeauSoleil avec Michael Doucet has been hailed as “the best Cajun band in the world.” Credited with taking the art form from its regional roots in Louisiana to popularity worldwide, Doucet and the band are celebrating their 50th anniversary this year with select dates, including one at UPH 7:30 p.m. Thursday, April 18.

    Wednesday, May 15, 2024 – Ricardo Ribeiro and Diana Vilarinho

    Fado, with its spirited singing and lithe acoustic accompaniment, captures the spirit and inventiveness of Portugal in a seamless tradition stretching out over more than 150 years. One of few international art forms that have not yet been presented in the Capital Region, fado takes over the GE Theatre at Proctors 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 15, with a stunning double bill featuring one of the genre’s biggest stars, Ricardo Ribeiro, joined by breakout singer Diana Vilarinho.

    Tickets are available through the Box Office at Proctors in-person, via phone at (518) 346-6204 Monday-Saturday 10 a.m.-6 p.m. or online at universalpreservationhall.org or proctors.org.

  • Playhouse Stage Company Celebrates 35th Anniversary Season with Something Rotten

    Beginning June 29, Playhouse Stage Company will present their 36th Anniversary musical production Something Rotten at Albany’s Park Playhouse, a Renaissance-set comedy about a down-on-his-luck writer trying to best William Shakespeare by writing the world’s first musical. The production plays Tuesday through Saturday evenings at 8pm from June 29 through July 22. Playhouse Stage Company will hold an opening night Gala pre-show on June 29, where they will make a special announcement.

    Playhouse Stage Company has been producing free summer musicals at Albany’s Park Playhouse in Washington Park since 1989, producing musicals year-round at Cohoes Music Hall since 2016, and took the reins as management of the historic Spindle City venue in 2020.  

    The Broadway premiere of Something Rotten took place in 2015, and it garnered a nomination for the Tony Award for Best Musical while enjoying a successful two-year run. The book is written by John O’Farrell and Karey Kirkpatrick, with a score and lyrics by Karey & Wayne Kirkpatrick.

    The story follows the Bottom brothers, Nick and Nigel, who struggle to find success in the theatrical world as they compete with the wild popularity of their pompous contemporary, “The Bard,” William Shakespeare. When Nick Bottom visits a Soothsayer to discover what the hottest thing in theatre will be in the future, he sets out to write a musical with disastrous results. The show sparks comparison to other bawdy, raucous Broadway comedies including Monty Python’s Spamalot, The Book of Mormon, and Mel Brooks’ The Producers. In an homage to its Renaissance setting, Time Out NY called the show “the funniest musical in at least 400 years.”

    The show reunites frequent creative staff collaborators Michael LoPorto (Director), AshleySimone Kirchner (Choreography & Musical Staging), and Brian Axford (Musical Director). Together, the trio have helmed more than a dozen shows for Playhouse Stage. 22 local and regional performers make up the cast, and Axford will lead a twelve-piece band. 12 out of the 22 cast members are graduates of the Playhouse Stage youth theatre program.

    The cast is led by Vincent DiPeri (Nick Bottom), who returns to the Playhouse for the first time in eight years after receiving critical acclaim for his performances in The Producers, Hairspray and others. Alongside DiPeri as Bottom’s nemesis William Shakespeare is Steve Raymond, who won strong reviews in the Playhouse’s productions of Spamalot, Spelling Bee and more. Since last appearing on the Playhouse stage, Raymond has developed a significant social media following for his comedy content, with more than three million followers across TikTok, Instagram and other platforms.  Rounding out the cast are Playhouse veterans Molly Rose McGrath (Bea Bottom), Marc Christopher (Nostradomus), Daniel Jameson (Nigel Bottom), Brandon Jones (Brother Jeremiah), and Anna Sprau (Portia), in her PSC debut. 

    Amphitheater lawn seating at Park Playhouse is available for free on a first-come, first-served basis. Premium Reserved Seats are now on sale online, by phone and in person. For more information about the show and Playhouse Stage Company, visit their website here, or call the box office at 518-434-0776.

    For media inquiries, to arrange press comps, or to receive production photos and video, please contact Owen Smith, Producing Artistic Director at owen@playhousestage.org or by phone at 518-434-2035, extension 100.

  • Victor Wooten and The Wooten Brothers Expand Fall Tour, Include Stops in NY

    Victor Wooten and The Wooten Brothers have expanded their forthcoming tour into November, adding ten stops to an already jam-packed fall lineup. The group, which features lifelong collaborators and real-life brothers Victor, Joseph, Roy “Futureman,” and Regi Wooten, recently announced its highly anticipated reunion tour, making stops in NY cities including Troy, Buffalo, and Brooklyn.

    Wooten Brothers

    Lauded by Rolling Stone as one of the “Top 10 Bassists of All Time,” Victor Wooten has captivated audiences for over four decades with his dynamic stage presence and unparalleled technical chops. Wooten’s eclectic repertoire includes collaborations with the likes of Béla Fleck and the Flecktones (of which he is a founding member), Chick Corea, Dave Matthews Band, India Arie, Keb’ Mo’, and more recently, Cory Wong. Widely regarded as one of the greatest living bassists today, Wooten continues to share his passion for music through numerous modalities. The multidisciplinary artist has authored two books and has mentored thousands of students at his own Center for Music and Nature since the year 2000.

    Remarkably accomplished in their own right, each of the Wooten brothers bring a unique flavor to the live experience. Joseph Wooten, also known as the “Hands of Soul,” has been the keyboardist/vocalist for the Steve Miller Band since 1993. He is a renowned composer, arranger, author, and motivational speaker whose collaborations include work with Whitney Houston, George Clinton, and Kenny G.

     Roy “Futureman” Wooten is also a founding member of Béla Fleck and the Flecktones and a five-time GRAMMY award winner, famously known for his trademark inventions the “Drumitar” and the “RoyEI” keyboard. A philosopher, researcher, filmmaker, and educator, Roy’s impressive solo career, symphonic works, and “Black Mozart” projects span the genres of classical, jazz, soul, gospel, and spoken word. 

    Regi Wooten’s signature guitar style of chording, slapping, tapping, and virtuosic strumming has earned him worldwide notoriety and comparisons to Jimi Hendrix, Frank Zappa, and Chuck Berry. In recent years, Regi has performed with many artists including the legendary Ginger Baker. Known worldwide as “The Teacha,” Regi currently teaches music in Nashville, TN, and has taught many notable musicians.

    Wooten Brothers

    Together The Wooten Brothers bring an uncanny level of experience, originality, and expertise to the stage. Playing together since childhood, the formidable group has shared stages with the likes of Curtis Mayfield, The Temptations, Ramsey Lewis, Stephanie Mills, War, and others. Fans can expect an infectious, colorful, and exuberant production that showcases The Wooten Brothers’ impenetrable creative chemistry. An amalgam of original songs and choice classics, each show offers a one-of-a-kind adventure that defies the bounds of jazz, funk, soul, R&B, rock, and bluegrass. 

    On the forthcoming tour, Victor shares, “Being in a band with my brothers is the best thing for me. It’s like a family reunion every time we get together to play. They are my teachers and I feel most at home with them.”This will be the brothers’ first tour together as a band since the untimely death of their saxophone-playing brother Rudy a few years ago. In the forthcoming year, The Wooten Brothers will release their first studio album in several decades. 

    The music we are working on at the moment is a collection of new and old. We have songs that were recorded decades ago that have never been heard by anyone. We also have newer music that was recorded over the last year. It will be a nice collection of old and new. With the older music, we want to introduce the world to Rudy, our saxophone-playing brother who passed away in 2010. Be prepared to have your mind blown.

    The Wooten Brothers

    The forthcoming Victor Wooten and The Wooten Brothers tour will kick off on Sept. 28 in Chattanooga, TN. For tour dates, tickets, and info, visit here.

    Wooten Brothers

    Victor Wooten and The Wooten Brothers Tour Dates

    09/28 – Chattanooga, TN – The Barrelhouse Ballroom^

    09/29 – Charlotte, NC – Neighborhood Theatre^

    09/30 – Atlanta, GA – Variety Playhouse^

    10/01 – Asheville, NC – The Outpost^

    10/03 – Troy, NY – Troy Savings Bank Music Hall^

    10/04 – Philadelphia, PA – Brooklyn Bowl^

    10/05 – Silver Springs, MD – The Fillmore^

    10/06 – Baltimore, MD – Rams Head Live^

    10/07 – Brooklyn, NY – Brooklyn Steel^

    10/08 – Portland, ME – State Theatre^

    10/10 – South Burlington, VT – Higher Ground^

    10/11 – Boston, MA – Citizens House of Blues^

    10/12 – Wilkes-Barre, PA – FM Kirby Center^

    10/13 – Roanoke, VA – Jefferson Center

    10/14 – Buffalo, NY – CMC International Jazz Festival

    11/01 – Saint Louis, MO – Delmar Hall

    11/02 – Nashville, TN – Riverside Revival

    11/03 – Germantown, TN – GPAC

    11/04 – Indianapolis, IN – The Vogue

    11/06 – Ann Arbor, MI – The Ark

    11/07 – Cincinnati, OH – Hamilton Memorial Hall

    11/08 – Madison, WI – Majestic Theatre 

    11/09 – Minneapolis, MN – Fine Line

    11/10 – Evanston, IL – SPACE

    11/11 – Elgin, IL – ECC Arts Center

    01/11 – Denver, CO – Cervantes’ Masterpiece Ballroom

    01/12 – Salt Lake City, UT – The State Room

    01/13 – Hamilton, MT – Bitterroot Performing Arts Council

    01/14 – Bozeman, MT – The Elm

    01/16 – Seattle, WA – The Crocodile

    01/17 – Portland, OR – Revolution Hall

    01/18 – Eugene, OR – The John G. Shedd Institute For The Arts

    01/19 – Chico, CA – The Big Room at Sierra Nevada Brewery

    01/20 – Berkeley, CA – The UC Theatre

    01/21 – Santa Cruz, CA – Rio Theatre

    01/23 – Solana Beach, CA – Belly Up Tavern

    01/25 – West Hollywood, CA – Troubadour

    ^With Special Guests Rebirth Brass Band

  • Hearing Aide: “Washed Away” by Glass Pony

    Friday, June 23rd marks the release date of Glass Pony’s latest album, Washed Away. The strength of the release lies with compelling instrumentals, creating a perfect blend between nostalgic classic rock and a more modern sound.

    The Albany-based group features Chanda Dewey on drums and vocals, Eddie Hotaling on guitar and vocals, Jeff Picarazzi on bass and vocals, and Greg Pittz on lead guitar and vocals.

    The album offers a perfect pop-rock sound for a hot summer day, the sound reminiscent of some signature classic rock influences. This is first established with the album’s catchy opening song, “Bottom of the Ocean.” The bright guitar creates a nostalgic, summery feel, qualities that would make the song perfect to listen to on the beach. The song blends the vocals of the entire group for an upbeat tune about change, or the lack thereof. The lyrics remind us that “at the bottom of the ocean, it’s just another day,” despite how much may change on the shore.

    baked shrimp glass pony

    Another Washed Away highlight is “Spotlights,” one of the album’s most impressive pieces. While the song’s opening is slow, it quickly becomes captivating through its transition into a funky, quick groove. The quick beat and groovy feel make the song an enjoyable listen, perfect to dance to. The powerful instrumental mix carries the music, almost as if the vocals accompany them. Similarly to “Bottom of the Ocean,” the song embodies aspects of classic rock, largely though the electric guitar. Halfway through the song, an epic guitar solo takes over, almost as if it is telling story. Listening to the song was a memorable experience, akin to its lyrics about having a new experience.

    One of Washed Away‘s most unique pieces was undoubtedly “Doppler.” The song opens with a bass solo, establishing a chill tone, but takes on different moods and tones throughout the song. A powerful instrumental intro takes on an alternative rock feel, whereas later sections of the song incorporate dreamy synth combined with sounds of nature, such as bird calls. Through a slow crescendo into a guitar solo, the instrumental-heavy song is dreamy, interesting, and powerful.

    Glass Pony further showcased their compositional skill through quick instrumental pieces like “Sonder,” a song without lyrics, but not lacking in any way – the instruments tell their own story. A quick, shredding electric guitar builds into a catchy tune, ultimately building to a chaotic, fascinating blend of instrumentals.

    The album’s final track, “Upside Down,” offers another chill, summery rock anthem to add to any beach playlist. The music manages to emphasize lyrical phrases, matching the beat and rhythm of the group’s words. The bright, pop rock sound is comparable to the album’s opening track, bringing a sense of coherency to the album. Through a similar intro and outro, it feels like the listener is taken through a musical journey, returning to where they began.

    Following its official release, find Washed Away from Glass Pony on Spotify. Watch the lyric video to “Bottom of the Ocean” below.

  • Marina Laurendi Releases Groovy Single With Deeper Meaning, “Silver Lining”

    Marina Laurendi, recognized as a “sad girl on the rise,” returns with a series of rock-centric singles, starting with her latest, “Silver Lining.” The Buffalo-based singer released the single following the success of her debut EP and music video, “Stay Mine.” The indie rock songstress further solidifies her hold as “one to watch” in the alt. world with this dancey, evocative up-tempo.

    Buffalo born and bred, Marina Laurendi is an indie pop/rock singer-songwriter. Her sound fuses storytelling, alternative elements, and bursts of cinematic pop. Through this, she evokes a sense of wanderlust, nostalgia, and dreamy idealism. With poetic verses, infectious hooks, and haunting vocals, Marina throws a refreshing twist on old school Alt.

    “Silver Lining” grooves with nostalgia, featuring reverberating guitars and subtly nuanced vocals, oozing texture and allure. The elements blend together seamlessly to create the perfect soundtrack for road trip radio jamming, or a sunny day stroll.

    Despite the song’s happy melody and dance-worthy beat, but carries a raw, honest message about change. Laurendi says that the song is about going through life-changing events that alter who you are as a person. Written during her father’s terminal battle with cancer, the song depicts being unable to keep up with appearances in the midst of grief and loss.

    The music contrasts with the lyrics, with a nostalgic vibe of a 1950’s bandstand—vintage vocals, layered instruments, and a melancholic slide guitar. The song details a romantic relaitonship where one party can always see the silver lining, but the other is in a different place entirely, struggling to feel seen.

    Laurendi says of the song, “I think it’s so relatable because at some point we all suffer a loss that alters us, at least for a little while. When you’re in a different place emotionally than yout friends or even your partner, you can drift apart. Sometimes people can’t fathom what you’re going through unless they’ve lived it.” The feeling of being unseen and misunderstood is simply and eloquently summed up in the lines, “You want to paste a smile on my face and act like I’m alright…I can’t dance the way I used to anymore.”

    marina laurendi silver lining

    For this single and her upcoming sophomore EP, Laurendi dove headfirst into the alternative rock pocket, lovingly nicknaming her particular genre as “Bitch Rock.” She says, “It’s about embracing all the emotions women are taught not to show – rage, desire, ugliness, all of it. We’re people not flowers,” she laughed. If you’re a fan of the honest songwriting style of Samia, the gritty textures of Angel Olsen, and the effortlessly nostalgic quality of Alvvays and Best Coast, “Silver Lining” is sure to top your summer sad girl playlist.

    Marina grew up as a theatre performer and moved to NYC shortly after college to perform Off-Broadway and around the East Coast. She recently performed at The Bitter End (NYC), Buffalo Ironworks, Rec Room, and Nietzsche’s, Whirlybird Music & Arts Festival (Jamestown, NY), and Buffalo’s 20th Annual Music is Art Festival. Her music has been featured on Thunder 102 in Sullivan County, WBFO The Bridge, Broadway World, NYS Music, and more. In 2022, she was a quarter finalist in a national competition to open at the Hollywood Bowl. Her debut EP “Stay Mine” and title track music video are out now on all platforms. Follow Marina Laurendi on social media here and catch her next hometown performance on August 4th at Nietzsche’s in Buffalo.

    Listen to “Silver Lining” here.

  • Celebrate Make Music Day 2023 Across New York State

    Held annually on June 21, the summer solstice, Make Music Day is a daylong, musical free-for-all that celebrates music in all its forms. All across the world, free music events will take place, with a great deal of events held across New York State.

    make music day

    Make Music Day began in France in 1982 as the Fête de la Musique and now spans over 1,000 cities in 120 countries in 2023. Make Music Concerts, unlike conventional music festivals, encourage performances by anyone who wants to participate. In the same way, performances are enjoyed by everyone who wants to attend. Ranging from classical to folk, hip hop to opera, latin jazz to punk rock, live music of all kinds can be enjoyed on Make Music Day.

    Make Music Troy

    The first annual Make Music Troy, a wonderful mix of free, public musical events, will debut on Wednesday, June 21. This summer, over 100 U.S. cities will join the world’s largest annual music event, with thousands of Make Music performances nationwide. Participating organizations include Troy Public Library, Troy City School District, Oakwood Community Center, The Ruck, Song City, Troy Savings Bank Music Hall, and more. Anyone and everyone is welcome to participate, regardless of musical expertise or age.

    Make Music Troy will feature a variety of musical performances and activities throughout the day. Some highlights of Make Music Troy will include:

    • Year End Celebration at Tenth Street Garden – Children’s Songs & Sing Along – 2:30pm – 3:15pm
    • Color Run Music Celebration at School 19 – Performances by HEARD – Time TBD
    • Drum Making Kits at the Troy Public Library – All Day
    • Under the Mural Community Drum Circle at the Troy Saving Bank Musical Hall Parking Lot – Performance by Zorkie Nelson – 6:00pm-7:00pm

    For those interested in participating, you can sign up here. Artists and performers sign up to note their interest. Businesses, buildings, schools, churches, and other institutions interested in hosting performances can visit the website to match with local performers.

    A full schedule of events will be available and posted here.

    Make Music New York

    Returning for its 15th year, Make Music New York will feature an exciting roster of activations. During the week leading up to the 21st, there will be events on June 17 and 18, like Porch Stomp!, the tenth annual edition of NYC’s Americana and folk music festival featuring over one hundred musicians performing on Governors Island. Additionally, the Southeast Queens Gospelfest – an amazing lineup of gospel musicians headlined by award-winning songwriter Rich Tolvert Jr presented in partnership with NYC Dept. of Parks & Recreation At Baisley Pond Par, Queens. It will also be the 15th year of the annual DIY Punk Festival, Punk Island, at the American Veterans Memorial Pier in Shore Road Park, Bay Ridge, Brooklyn.

    Highlights for June 21 include:

    • Pueblo Harlem – the Afro Larin Jazz Alliance’s (ALJA) annual celebration of Hispanic heritage and cluture, which has taken place since 2014, including performances by the multi-Grammy-Award winning Afro Latin Jazz Orchestra, the Fat Cats, ALJA’s pre-professional youth ensemble, and special guests from ALJA’s family of performing and traching artists – at Johnny Hartman Plaza in Hamilton Heights. Presented in partnership with the NYC Department of Transportation and The Brotherhood Sister Sol.
    • Street Studios: From 12-4 pm in front of the Harman / JBL store at 19 E Houston Street in Soho. A small mobile recording studio will be set up on the shop’s sidewalk. Gust producers will invite the public and passerby to contribute original audio (by singing, rapping, playing an instrument) which they then record, mix, and loop and play back to create spontaneous, collaborative productions. This season’s producers are The Beatbox House, a NYC-based collective of World Champion Beatboxers comprised of five core members: Gene Shinozaki, Kenny Urban, NaPoM, Amit and Chris Celiz.
    • Paul’s Pianopalooza: From 3-7 pm at Madison Square Park in the Flatiron District, the New York State Music Teachers Association, District 1 Manhattan-Bronx, will kick off with a piano-based marathon and a 90th birthfay celebration for beloved NYC composer and educator Paul Sheftel. Pianists of all ages and levels will perform a program of Paul’s works, including a visit from the maestro himself, to be followed with “Made in New York,” piano music by NYC composers of all stripes. Presented in partnership with the Madison Square Park Conservancy.
    • Mass Appeal Guitars: Hosted by NYC Guitar School, from 4:30-7 pm at Union Square Park’s south plaza. You can bring your guitar to the park and join hundreds of guitarists of all levels in Union Square, for a massive guitar strum-along of beginner friendly songs like “Redemption Song” by Bob Marley, “Seven Bridges Road” by The Eagles, and more. Free guitar lessons from twenty guitar teachers from 4:30-6:30pm, the play-along is at 6:30pm, and then stick around at 7 pm for live rock music.

    Yonkers

    Auburn

    Auburn, New York, will have live piano music at Café 108 (owned and operated by Auburn Public Theater) from 11:00am to 2:30. They will also have live music in Stage Right at Auburn Public Theater from 4:00pm to 9:00pm. 

    Albany

    The Egg will celebrate international‘Make Music Day’ on Wednesday, June 21st at 12:00 pm with a free outdoor concert by the group Heard.

    Heard is a collective of musicians that brings their skills and passion for world music, jazz and improvising together to create irresistible grooves from West Africa, Brazil, the Caribbean and beyond, set in a unique sonic tapestry.  For this special ‘Make Music Day’ concert, they will invite the audience to sing, stomp and shake along with them, with free egg shakers for the first 100 people who arrive for the show!

    In the event of inclement weather, the concert will take place on the South Concourse at the Empire State Plaza. The event is presented in cooperation with the NYS Office of General Services Special Events with support from M&T Bank.

  • Basilica Hudson Kicks Off Summer 2023 with Water From Your Eyes

    Basilica Hudson is gearing up for a busy summer 2023 with six Jupiter Nights events taking place from June-August in the gallery building. Additionally, Basilica Hudson will host legendary NYC electronic music party The Bunker Hudson Valley on July 8th in both the main hall and gallery space.

    Melissa Auf der Maur, a musician, and filmmaker Tony Stone founded Basilica Hudson in 2010. It is housed in a reclaimed, solar-powered 1880s industrial factory on the riverfront of Hudson, NY. The organization welcomes over 20,000 visitors each season. They enjoy genre-pushing music festivals, large-scale marketplace events, regular film screenings, an artist residency program, public installations, and other community gatherings. The majority of its programs are free or sliding scale.

    Through its programs, Basilica Hudson supports the creation, production, and presentation of independent arts and culture. The organization strives to forge experiences that aspire to the scale, grit, and beauty of its surroundings. It draws inspiration from Hudson’s epic history, the region’s artistic legacy, and environmental advocacy for its mission and programming.

    Jupiter Nights

    Jupiter Nights is a twice-monthly series held every other Thursday. The series, celebrating regional musicians and community through adventurous live concerts, rotating art exhibits, and local food, returns June 15.

    Series highlights include Water From Your Eyes, whose latest album Everyone’s Crushed (Matador) just received a Pitchfork “Best New Music” nod. Kalia Vandever, an exploratory trombonist currently on tour with Harry Styles as part of his backing band, will also be featured.

    Eclectic, cross-genre programming spotlights next-generation regional talent while creating space for both locals and visitors to come together and build community on a weekly basis. Admission for events goes directly towards supporting the artists and Basilica Hudson’s mission to be a platform for innovative voices in arts and culture.

    There will be six Jupiter Nights events in Summer 2023, presented with additional support from Basilica’s green energy partners at SunCommon. Each event unfolds in tandem with monthly visual art exhibitions, connected to the performers whenever possible.

    Basilica Hudson Summer 2023

    Jupiter Nights Lineup:

    June 15: NKODIA/ RAGER / Charlotte Jacobs

    June 22: Overheard / here / Chase Elodia’s Perennials

    July 6: Water From Your Eyes / Bruiser and Bicycle

    July 13: mmeadows / Kendra McKinley

    August 3: Kalia Vandever / Fruiting Bodies / Amma Ateria

    August 10: Raina Sokolov-Gonzalez / Emily Ritz / Neti-Neti

    The Bunker

    The Bunker New York is set to bring a full-on dance party to Basilica Hudson with The Bunker Hudson Valley on July 8th.

    In the spirit of collaboration between the Bunker and Basilica, the event will feature three back to back sets in the Main Hall. The event will feature rising starts such as AceMo x DJ SWISHA, Analog Soul, and Sister Zo x Scotia.

    Those who need a break from the dance floor can head over to the gallery for the “Going In” room. The “Going In” room is a quiet space with meditative music, featuring a durational set from Nyhne incorporating live and DJ elements. Community Rave Network’s Luv Bruvs aka SVB and Villi Manilli will hold down the room for the rest of the night.

    There will be full production onsite with a custom sound system by White Rabbit Audio, and lights and lasers by Nitemind. Local 111 will be on hand with delicious food. Additionally, the party will feature a stocked bar.

    Basilica Hudson Summer 2023

    More Information

    Tickets to The Bunker Hudson Valley are available here. For additional information on the Summer 2023 season, visit Basilica Hudson’s website.

  • Adirondack Lakes Center for the Arts Announces Expanded 2023 Theatre Festival

    The Adirondack Lakes Center for the Arts (ALCA) announced its newly expanded 2023 Adirondack Lakes Theatre Festival (ALTF), formerly known as the Adirondack Lakes Summer Theatre Festival.

    Located in the village of Blue Mountain Lake, ALTF is adding two productions to its former three-show lineup. The festival runs from June 16 to October 7, with performances and activities extending into fall and winter. ALTF’s 2023 season, “Back in Blue, Act III: The Magic Continues!” marks ALCA’s triumphant return to live events.


    This year, the festival opens with perennial favorite Forever Wild at the arts center. Four touring productions follow, including the romantic comedy Southern Comforts by Kathleen Clark, the free outdoor Shakespeare in the Parks production of The Tempest, the feel-good musical You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown, and a world premiere of the play The Cure by local playwright Fred Glover.

    Forever Wild

    Forever Wild is a hilarious song and skit show produced and performed by your Adirondack neighbors. The show returns to the arts center with performances on Friday and Saturday, June 16 and 17 at 7 p.m. Tickets will be $10 and available at the door. Directed by Karen Butters, the play will feature beloved classics and fresh material, guaranteed to bring laughter.

    Southern Comforts

    The play Southern Comforts by Kathleen Clark is set in a sprawling New Jersey Victorian. A taciturn Yankee widower and a vivacious grandmother from Tennessee find what they least expected – a second chance at love.

    Directed by Beth Glover and starring Jordan Hornstein and Natalie Luxford, the production opens at the arts center on Friday, July 7 at 7 p.m.

    Additional performances include:

    Tannery Pond Center in North Creek on Saturday, July 8 at 7 p.m.

    View Arts in Old Forge on Sunday, July 9 at 3 p.m.

    Tupper Lake Middle/High School auditorium on Tuesday, July 11, at 7 p.m.

    Tickets are $30, $25, and $10, and will be available on the arts center website.

    The Tempest

    The Tempest, a free, outdoor show at town parks, beaches, and campgrounds, is an abridged version of the Shakespeare classic by director Karen Lordi-Kirkham. Performances run from July 28-August 2. Venues include Arrowhead Park in Inlet, Overlook Pavilion in Newcomb, Sabattis Pavilion in Speculator, and Prospect Point Cottages in Blue Mountain Lake. Watch for more information on the art center’s website.

    You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown

    You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown is a charming musical that explores life through the eyes of Charlie Brown and the Peanuts gang. The show will include such songs as “Happiness,” “Suppertime,” and the title song. It will feature a cast of talented singing actors from New York City and across the North Country.

    You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown is based on the comic strip Peanuts by Charles M. Schulz. with book, music, and lyrics by Clark Gesner, additional dialogue by Michael Mayer, and additional music and lyrics by Andrew Lippa. These performances are presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Tams-Witmark LLC.  

    Directed by George and Elizabeth Cordes, the production opens at the arts center on Friday, August 4, at 7 p.m.

    Additional performances include:

    Tannery Pond Center in North Creek on Saturday, August 4 at 7 p.m.

    View Arts in Old Forge on Sunday, August 6 at 3 p.m.

    Tupper Lake Middle/High School auditorium on Tuesday, August 8. at 7 p.m.

    Indian Lake Theater on Wednesday, August 9, at 7 p.m.

    Tickets are $30, $25, and $10, and will be available on the arts center website.

    The Cure

    The Cure, a play written by Canton, NY, playwright Fred Glover, is inspired by actual people and events in Saranac Lake, NY, during the summer of 1936. A writer, Margaret, from New York City is seeking “the cure” for her case of tuberculosis at the famous Saranac Lake health resort. Her story intertwines with Dr. Edward Trudeau, a compassionate man dedicated to finding a cure during the late 1800s. The stories of Margaret and Dr. Trudeau combine to celebrate the importance of community in healing, and the many sides of the natural world while emphasizing the struggle to transcend a deadly pandemic.

    The Cure will open at the arts center on Friday and Saturday, October 6 and 7, at 7 p.m. The show will tour to various schools and other venues through the fall and winter. Stay tuned for ticketing and other information on the art center’s website.

    The Adirondack Lakes Center for the Arts is located at 3446 State Route 28 in Blue Mountain Lake, NY. More information and tickets on Adirondack Lakes Center Theatre Festival will be available on the arts center’s website.