NYS Music 2023

Category: Genres

  • 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.

  • Five Can’t-Miss Shows In Syracuse In July

    It is safe to say that summer concert season is in full swing.  June has come and gone, with a flurry of outdoor music festivals to kick start the season. Don’t you worry, however. July has arrived with an equally impressive slate of music coming through Central New York.  Here are five shows you don’t want to miss in the greater Syracuse area in July.  

    syracuse july
    Setnor Music Hall Building

    July 8, Elvis Costello & the Imposters at Landmark Theater

    Singer-songwriter and musical legend Elvis Costello brings his “We’re All Going On A Summer Holiday” tour to the Landmark Theater on July 8.   The English native, known for his blending of folk rock and power punk musical styles, has been touring for over fifty years. He boasts an impressive resume, with over 30 album releases, 15 Grammy award nominations, and an induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2003. He will be joined on this tour by backing band, The Imposters and special guest Charlie Sexton. Nick Lowe & Los Straitjackets open the show. Music starts at 7:30.

    July 12, Fleet Foxes at Beak & Skiff

    Indie folk-rockers Fleet Foxes bring their harmonious sounds to the picturesque Beak and Skiff Apple Orchard on July 12 for a performance.  The Seattle natives are touring in support of their latest release, Shore.  The album, released in 2020, received much critical acclaim and earned the band their second Grammy nomination.  Nigerian born singer-songwriter Uwade opens the show.  Uwade is familiar to Fleet Foxes fans, as she sings the opening lyrics on the album Shore. This should lend to some unique and interesting collaborations through out the performance. Music starts at 7pm.

    July 27, Arleigh Rose of Sister Sparrow at 443 Social Club

    Soul singer and songwriter Arleigh Rose comes to the 443 Social Club in Syracuse for an intimate performance on July 27. Rose, known for her years as the front woman of the band Sister Sparrow & The Dirty Birds, has taken on a more scaled back and intimate sound, following her return to touring after the Covid pandemic. Rose, once described by The Baltimore Sun as having “… one of the biggest voices in the business. Prepare to be blown away”, is now joined by her brother Jackson with the goal of offering more scaled back and intimate performances “that will leave audiences with a deeper understanding of who Sister Sparrow really is”.

    Doors open at 5:30pm with music starting at 7pm. The performance is currently sold out, however a wait list is available on the venue’s website.

    July 28, Vanessa Collier at the Cortland Main Street Music Series

    If you’re willing to take a short drive south on interstate 81, you’re in for a real treat.  Blues saxophonist and vocalist Vanessa Collier has scheduled a free performance on July 28 as part of the Cortland Main Street Music Series.  Since turning in back to back blistering performances at the NYS Blues Festival in 2021 and 2022, Collier has performed four sold-out concerts at 443 Social Club & Lounge in Syracuse.   Always the hot ticket in Central New York, Collier once again returns to the region, this time with a free outdoor performance at Courthouse Park in Cortland.

    Music starts at 6pm. See the entire summer line up of the Cortland Main Street Music Series here.

    July 28 & 29, Summer Jam 50 featuring Dark Star Orchestra at Wonderland Forest

    Deadheads will want to unite for this one, as a two day festival celebrating (and recreating) the infamous 1973 Summer Jam music festival comes to the Wonderland Forest in Lafayette. The original festival, which took place in Watkins Glen and hosted over 600,000 music fans, saw performances from The Grateful Dead, The Band, and The Allman Brothers. Surely this festival won’t see as many in attendance but it is certain to share a similar celebratory atmosphere. The Wonderland Forest incarnation will see two days of performances from Dark Star Orchestra (recreating the Grateful Dead performance), Daniel Donato’s Cosmic County featuring Peter Levin (celebrating the Allman Brothers Band) and The Weight Band (celebrating the music of The Band). Each band will perform both days.

    Music starts at 4pm on Friday and 1pm on Saturday.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=alLKuE-BC8k

  • 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.

  • Hearing Aide: “Don’t Feed the Pigeons” by YL Nourishes the Youth

    In order to drive oneself to new heights – you must obsess. Moderately, everything arrives in due time. The contextual irony cloaked within the bubbling progression shown by lowkey Nas of my generation amounts to Don’t Feed the Pigeons. One to cause contemplation, it truly remains an honor and a privilege to witness YL’s progression. 

    Carrier Pigeon v. Passenger Pigeon

    Heretofore, any endeavor relies upon its core components. The way that YL of the RRR Music Group drops content tends to resonate. Indubitably, he facilitates his functions with multiple cryptic previews and properly timed balance of project releases. Again, core components derive from learning all facets of music – production, promotion, precision. Intellectually appealing aesthetics and scenarios never hurt either.

    Aside: As a thorough interviewer and journalist – I pay attention to my surroundings. Twice a week, time is spent at the Empire State Plaza displays and interesting walks of life. Ironically, many public moments with her occur in the opposite manner – as if surrounding glances hold absolutely no weight. Yet it goes to show how incredibly poignant Upstate NY foliage genuflects the rhythmic nature of existence. 

    Additionally, the simplistic nature of mathematical musical lens’ lends generously beneficial outcomes. Simply done, YL provides ample time to build up hype revolving around upcoming releases. “Illusions” proved worthwhile with staying power as a skit and small verse sample hit airwaves last October.  Clearly, this album serves reminiscent of previous intellectually calculated releases with thematic imagery via intros/skits/outros too. 

    Full-Length Follow Up

    Artistically, one of the first, Pigeon singles to drop made its way onto timelines one month before RRR dropped their project titled after their music group. 

    Wholeheartedly, the most ideal characteristic about thee Triple R timing propels any life joy. One thing is for sure – two for certain – any listener cannot hear their collections and resist the urge to feel. The feeling elicited by some of these smooth synchronous samples creeps up on a meticulous listener and hits ‘em where it counts.

    Contextually, many of YL’s albums released within just the right era to help me navigate dark times. The songs have carried cruises for extended views and such. Alas, nobody needs to brave this world or music industry alone – big shouts to Waqas.Ghani [RRR Orchestrator] Also loved was a Roper Williams reunion – the top rope from whence the producer duo struck!

    Among the highlights of Don’t Feed the Pigeons: YL lets the beat speak on Nothing’s Changed ft. Ankhlejohn, YL says: “Gettin poppin on some present day fame – kind of strange how you hate but stuck in the same place,” and Beat says: “Guess nothing’s changed”

    ‘Tis impossible to undermine the magnitude of giving space to three man weave with the beat speak.

    “Can’t dwell on what it once was – you finally getting bread that’s wassup.” – YL consistently taps in and touches upon thematic lines. He simply rearranges placements and tests out pockets where words, phrases and lingo might interact more beneficially.

    Seemingly, his concept of $20 has escalated to $100 on this project – listen closely. 

    “$100 dollars on the floor Y’s it seem like a test?”

    –Yoke, YL

    Huge Takeaway: “Letting go of the past put my future in better perspective – boutta make feature films lifestyle well-directed.” –Dry

    Don’t Feed the Pigeons from YL incorporates fascinating elements as a robust full length follow up to RRR the Album.

    Key Tracks: I Promise, Yoke, Illusions [each produced by Roper Williams]

  • West Indian American Day Carnival Association Announces Annual Labor Day Parade

    The West Indian American Day Carnival Association (WIADCA) has announced their annual celebration of New York City’s West Indian Labor Day Parade. The festival is a celebration of West Indian culture that entails a full day of soca/dancehall music, vibrant costumes, dancing, and food for sale nearby. This all day event will occur on September 4th in Crown Heights, Brooklyn. 

    West Indian Parade labor day

    Traditions of the West Indian Labor Day Parade Festival dates back to the 1920s. A Trinidadian immigrant named Ms. Jesse Waddle met with other immigrants to find a solution to their homesickness. The people missed celebrating cultural carnivals in their hometowns. As a result, Ms. Waddle organized a carnival celebration to take place in the months of February or March. The carnivals were held indoors at places such as the Savoy, the Renaissance, and the Audubon Ballroom due to New York’s cold winter weather. Eventually the indoor carnivals became an issue because of its space limitations. Ms. Waddle applied for and received a street parade permit in the 1940s. This shifted the celebrations to the summer. 

    The permit was originally used in Harlem but was revoked because of a violent riot. Five years later, a committee organized by Trinidadian Carlos Lezama acquired another permit for a parade on Eastern Parkway. Since then, the parade has begun from Eastern Parkway and Utica Avenue ending at Grand Army Plaza.  The West Indian Labor Day Parade has grown into one of the biggest parades of New York City, attracting up to four million people. 

    Some Caribbean Islands celebrated by the parade include Trinidad and Tobago, Haiti, Barbados, Dominica, Saint Lucia, Jamaica, Saint Vincent and Grenada, Afro-Panamanians, etc. The festival is a representation of Caribbean’s pride in their country, heritage, and culture. Participants of the celebration invest both money and time to brainstorm themes, costumes, and floats for the festivities. Face masks come in a variety of styles inspired by natural and spiritual elements, mythical creatures, political events, and popular culture. The artistic and historical value of the parade are displayed through costumes which are later recognized with prizes.  

    West Indian Parade labor day

    The march from Eastern Parkway to Grand Army Plaza is accompanied by the sounds of drums, whistles, calypso, soca, dancehall, kompa, and reggae music. Oftentimes people enjoy a battle of  throwing paint and powder. There is also a wide range of ethnic treats to fuel up on to keep the party going. Although the parade itself is on Labor Day, the partying starts days before.

    A celebration called J’ouvert marks the official start of carnival. It means “daybreak,” and occurs during early morning hours.  J’ouvert was celebrated as the opportunity to embrace the emancipation of Caribbean slaves. During slavery the French excluded Black people from their masquerade balls so J’ouvert and Carnival became a celebration of culture. Like carnival, people are dressed in costumes with bright colorful feathers, glitter and sometimes you can even catch people walking on five- foot stilts. Both events are also used as a way for Caribbean immigrants to adjust to society without forgetting their roots.  

    The West Indian Labor Day Festival is welcome to all and free for everyone. End your summer with a bang by enjoying one of the most exhilarating parades of the summer with the Carribbean residents of New York City.

  • Green Island Gazebo (GIG) Celebrates 20th Year with Summer 2023 Lineup

    The Green Island Gazebo (GIG for short) has announced its 2023 Summer lineup, marking the 20th year of the concert series. Located just north of Albany and across the river from Troy, the village’s venue plans to hold concerts from July 5 until August 30.

    Set up in River Park on the north end of Hudson Avenue, GIG’s summer concert series has been a free event supporting local artists and the community for years, additionally hosting the Festival of Trees in December.

    Through nine different shows including unique themes, food specials, and local talents, the venue’s packed schedule for Wednesday nights will surely entertain those of all ages.

    When it comes to available food options, volunteers prepare and serve the meals to attendees, along with a group of bakers who donate their products to the concert-goers.

    A lot of the same bands also reappear from last year’s lineup, setting up even more familiar faces for the local crowd.

    All concerts take place at the River Park Gazebo on Hudson Ave. In the event of rain, events will continue at a different location under the Collar City Bridge on Hudson Avenue.

    GIG Concert Schedule (with Food Specials)

    July 5 – The Accents (fried chicken breast and strawberry shortcake)

    July 12 – NY Players (mac & cheese and rice pudding)

    July 19 – Get Up Jack (corned beef sandwich and mint chocolate chip ice cream)

    July 26 – The Oldies Show (pulled pork slider and cookies and cream ice cream)

    August 2 – Swing Docs (sausage & peppers and fruit cups)

    August 9 – Capt. Squeeze (hot dogs, mac salad, and rice pudding)

    August 16 – Lustre Kings (steak sandwich and banana split ambrosia)

    August 23 – Big Fez (Hawaiian chicken sandwich and peach pie with ice cream)

    August 30 – TS Ensemble (pasta fagioli)

  • The Zombies Stop At Adler Hall As Part Of Upcoming Tour

    Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees The Zombies will perform in Adler Hall at New York Society for Ethical Culture in NYC on October 27. The stop comes as the group celebrates their long awaited album Different Game which was released earlier this year. 

    Tom Toomey

    The Zombies are one of the most iconic bands in Rock & Roll history. The group came together in 1961 and grew in large part because of their role in the British Invasion. The Zombies have fostered a massive fan base throughout the years due to their unmistakable melodies, breathy vocals, and elegant harmonies. 

    In 1967 the band found worldwide success after their song “Time of the Season” reached #3 on the Billboard charts. The song would go onto be one of the most recognizable tracks of the 60s. It has since appeared throughout pop-culture, featuring in hit TV shows like “Friends” and “NCIS”. 

    Rod Argent

    Rolling Stone has named The Zombies’ 1968 album Odyssey and Oracle to the “Greatest Albums of All Time” list twice. In total the band has released nine albums and has established itself as one of the most influential groups in music. 

    For tickets and more information about the show in Adler Hall click here. 

    Different Game Tour (North America)

    Oct, 1 – New Westminster, BC – Massey Theatre

    Oct, 2 – Seattle, WA – Washington Hall

    Oct, 3 – Portland, OR – Aladdin Theater

    Oct, 5 – San Francisco, CA – Palace of Fine Arts

    Oct, 6 – Glendale, CA – Alex Theatre

    Oct, 7 – Solana Beach, CA – Belly Up Tavern

    Oct, 9 – Santa Fe, NM – Lensic Performing Arts Center

    Oct, 11 – Boulder, CO – Boulder Theater

    Oct, 13 – St. Paul, MN – Fitzgerald Theater

    Oct, 14 – Milwaukee, WI – South Milwaukee PAC

    Oct, 15 – Chicago, IL – Old Town School of Folk Music

    Oct, 17 – Toronto, ON – Queen Elizabeth Theatre

    Oct, 18 – Royal Oak, MI – Royal Oak Music Theatre

    Oct, 19 – Nashville, IN – Brown County Music Center

    Oct, 20 – Cincinnati, OH – Ludlow Garage

    Oct, 22 – Northfield, OH – MGM Northfield Park

    Oct, 24 – Alexandria, VA – The Birchmere

    Oct, 26 – Beverly, MA – The Cabot

    Oct, 27 – New York, NY – Adler Hall at the NY Society of Ethical Culture

    Oct, 29 – Glenside, PA – Keswick Theatre

  • 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.

  • Grey Fox Bluegrass, a Truly Family Friendly Festival

    Looking for a family-friendly music festival this summer with a focus on the family aspect? The Catskills has your answer with Grey Fox Bluegrass Music Festival.

    grey fox bluegrass
    Photo courtesy of the Grey Fox Bluegrass Festival press release.

    First being held in 1984 (and with roots going back to the 1976 Berkshire Mountain Bluegrass Festival) Grey Fox Bluegrass has been held on the Walsh Farm in Oak Hill, NY, on the banks of the Catskill Creek, since 2008. The festival has enjoyed great longevity with host band Dry Branch Fire Squad welcoming major bluegrass names including Del McCoury, Bela Fleck, Sam Bush, Tony Rice, Peter Rowan, Abigail Washburn, the Gibson Brothers and hundreds more.

    Grey Fox has a bright future especially thanks to the welcoming nature of families and children to the festival, as well as with the Grey Fox Bluegrass Academy for Kids introducing children to bluegrass music and bringing everyone together for a final performance on the last day of the festival.

    North Carolinian Lynda Dawson shares with NYS Music her experience at Grey Fox Bluegrass Festival 2022, with a first-hand account of how her family spent the weekend, Bluegrass Academy for Kids and an attestation at the family-friendlyness of this long running festival in the Catskills.

    It’s a 700-mile drive from our home in Raleigh, NC to the Walsh Family Farm in Upstate NY, where the Grey Fox Bluegrass Festival takes place every July, yet my husband and I knew it would be worth the trek. We had made this pilgrimage pre-children, and Grey Fox instantly became one of our top favorite music events, so as soon as the youngest of our two daughters turned eight, we booked our Festival + Camping tickets and their spots in the 2022 Grey Fox Bluegrass Academy for Kids (BGA for short).

    BGA at Grey Fox is a four-day group lesson environment where children ages 8–17 gather for instruction from top notch musicians each day, spending a couple hours before lunch, a couple hours after lunch, and culminating in a Sunday afternoon performance on the main stage. My 11-year-old daughter was psyched to know she’d get to be part of the final act of the festival. My 8-year-old, prone to hiding rather than play in front of others, wasn’t so sure.

    The first evening we walked from our campsite up to the big tent where the Academy would be taking place. We were welcomed by other kids, the instructors and Academy Director, Mark Panfil, who enthusiastically kicked things off by sharing his passion for bluegrass and teaching young musicians, “I especially love working with young people who are willing to work and try new things. These are exceptional kids. Any teacher with experience knows these kids are special!”

    grey fox bluegrass

    The next morning, feeling proud and encouraged, our girls rode their bicycles up Smiley Street towards the Academy tent with fiddles on their backs. The Grey Fox site team builds a pop-up “city” on a farmer’s field every summer, complete with bluegrass-themed street names, and neighborhood camping sections like Picker’s Paradise and Generatorville. Our children quickly figured out the lay of the land and were independently navigating their way between our campsite and the BGA tent. My husband and I smiled, then we opened our own guitar and mandolin cases, relaxed in our camping chairs, and relished in the joy of playing songs together outside on a beautiful summer morning. We hoped our kids were having as much fun as we were.

    “Yes!” says our oldest when we picked them up for the lunch break, “The people are awesome, and it is super fun!” Mark Panfil agrees, “The BGA is special to me because of the people involved. From the teachers to the parents to the students. People who believe in the future of Bluegrass music are all around this festival. This experience stands out because this festival stands out, open to innovative programs and maintaining a family friendly space.”

    And so the festival fun continued. In the evenings we enjoyed sitting together as a family on the hillside listening to music from the High Meadow main stage, then dancing until the kids were practically falling asleep in the Catskill Stage dance tent. During the day while our girls were playing and learning bluegrass songs with new friends, my husband and I would play music with our neighbors, or shop along vendor row, or discover new bands at the Creekside Stage.

    grey fox bluegrass

    Our youngest was even overcoming her fear of playing in public. When she got back to the campsite late Saturday afternoon she asked if she could join in the jam happening across the street from us. “Sure!” we said, trying not to sound too excited, and watched her walk over, unpack her fiddle, and start playing along with a dozen welcoming musicians.

    On Sunday morning the kids met at the BGA tent to run through their songs for the big performance, then they headed backstage as the parents joined the audience. To our delight, Jerry Douglas took the stage with them and kicked off, “Long Journey Home” on his Dobro, grinning ear to ear as he sang along on the chorus, “Lost all my money but a two-dollar bill…” During the set he addressed the audience and said, “Man, I wish I had something like this when I was a kid!” It was joyous.

    When the show and festival were over, we met up with the girls amidst families giving hugs and high-fives. As soon as they saw us they both rushed over and asked with excitement, “We’re coming back again next year, right?!?” “Absolutely,” we said. Absolutely.

    As Lynda Dawson detailed above, Grey Fox Bluegrass Festival is an ideal destination for families looking to get their children a healthy dose of music and the outdoors this summer, with opportunities for fun abounding and a lifetime of memories to be gained.

    Check out the daily schedule below and get more info on the weekend here.

  • James Blake to Visit Knockdown Center on 2023 International Tour

    Grammy Award-winning singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and producer James Blake has announced dates for a new 2023 tour, with a stop in Queens at Knockdown Center. This coincides with the announcement of his new album Playing Robots Into Heaven, and the release of the first single from that album, “Big Hammer.”

    Credit: Thibaut Grevet

    James Blake has had a hand in some of the most influential albums of the 21st century, helping to produce Frank Ocean’s Blonde, Kendrick Lamar’s DAMN. and Dave’s We’re All Alone In This Together, as well as JAY-Z’s 4:44 and Beyoncé’s Lemonade. He also appeared in “King’s Dead” with Jay Rock, Kendrick Lamar, and Future from the chart-dominating, triple-platinum Black Panther: The Album.

    While his sound emerged with the 2011 album James Blake, James Blake’s peak of critical and commercial success with Assume Form in 2019. It reached #21 on the Billboard Top 200 and reached 300 million cumulative streams in under a year. In addition, Assume Form received a Grammy nomination for “Best Alternative Album.”

    Playing Robots Into Heaven will be James Blake’s sixth album, and will release Sept. 8 through Republic Records. This will be right before the first show of the new tour in Milan, Italy, on Sept. 18.

    General sale begins June 30 at 10:00 a.m., with tickets and more information available on James Blake’s website.

    Upcoming Tour Dates

    Milan, Italy – Fabrique – Sept. 18

    Brussels, Belgium – Forest National Club – Sept. 21

    Paris, France – L’Olympia – Sept. 22

    Berlin, Germany – UFO im Velodrom – Sept. 24

    Tilburg, Netherlands – 013 – Sept. 26

    London, UK – Alexandra Palace – Sept. 28

    Atlanta, GA – Coca Cola Roxy – Oct. 3

    Queens, NY – Knockdown Center – Oct. 5

    Boston, MA – MGM Music Hall at Fenway – Oct. 9

    Montreal, QC – L’Olympia – Oct. 10

    Toronto, ON – Rebel – Oct. 12

    Chicago, IL – Byline Bank Aragon Ballroom – Oct. 14

    San Francisco, CA – The Masonic Theater – Oct. 16

    Los Angeles, CA – Hollywood Forever Cemetery – Oct. 19