Category: Festival News

  • Bands N’ Beans Returns To Lake George For 29th Year

    Lake George Arts Project’s annual Bands n’ Beans is back for its 29th year, set to take place on Sunday, March 26 from 2pm – 7pm at The Fort William Henry Conference Center.

    bands n beans lake george

    Bands n’ Beans is the perfect event for anyone who loves fantastic food and great music. The festival features over twenty restaurants from all over the region, each offering their own unique dish. Whether you like it hot, mild, classic, or vegetarian, you’re sure to find a new favorite.

    In addition to the delicious chili, Bands n’ Beans also features a fantastic lineup of musical acts including Matt Mirable & Alison Jacobs, The Switch, Stony Creek Band, Dirt Cheap, Big Sky Country, Mark and Jill, Juniper, Tim Wechgelaer & Chris Carey, and the Radio Junkies.

    The proceeds from this years event benefit the Lake George Arts Project’s free and open to all music and art programs like our year-round Courthouse Gallery exhibitions, our Summer Concert Series and our popular Jazz at the Lake Festival.

    The Lake George Arts Project would like to thank this year’s sponsors, Fort William Henry Hotel and Conference Center, Barton, Rock Hill Bakehouse, and the Lake George Beach Club. We would also like to thank our participating restaurants, the bands who will be performing, and all of the volunteers and staff that help make Bands ‘n Beans happen.

    Advance tickets are $20 each at www.lakegeorgearts.org, or $25 at the door.

    Schedule of Bands

    The Acoustic Room: 
    2:30: Mark and Jill 
    3:30: Juniper 
    4:30: Tim Wechgelaer & Chris Carey 
    5:30: Radio Junkies

    The Ballroom: 
    2 pm: Matt Mirable & Alison Jacobs 
    3 pm: The Switch 
    4 pm: The Stony Creek Band 
    5 pm: Dirt Cheap 
    6 pm: Big Sky Country

  • Willie Nelson’s 2023 Outlaw Music Festival 2023 – Biggest to Date – stops at Darien Lake and Bethel Woods this July

    Musician Willie Nelson is bringing his iconic Outlaw Music Festival to Darien Lake and Bethel this summer. The festival will have a show at the Bethel Woods Center for the Arts on July 29, followed on July 30 with a show at Darien Lake Amphitheater. Featured artists for the New York festivals include Nathaniel Rateliff and The Night Sweats, Gov’t Mule, Kathleen Edwards, and Particle Kid.

    2023 outlaw music festival willie nelson
    Nelson performing in 2004. Credit. willienelson.com

    Willie Nelson, who was born in Texas during the Great Depression, has a career that spans the majority of his life. His debut studio album, …And Then I Wrote, was released in 1962, catapulting him into a successful career. Nelson is still actively making music, with his 73rd studio album, I Don’t Know A Thing About Love: The Songs of Harlan Howard, being released on March 3. Nelson marks his 90th year of life as one of his busiest yet. This year alone, he has won two Grammys, is scheduled to celebrate his birthday with a two-day event at the Hollywood Bowl, has been nominated for the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, released a new book, headlines his annual July 4 picnic, and of course the annual Outlaw Music Festival.

    The 2023 Outlaw Music Festival continues to celebrate Nelson’s life and legacy, this year on the verge of his milestone 90th birthday. “I can’t wait to be on the road with the amazing group of artists joining us on this year’s Outlaw Music Festival Tour,” says Nelson. “It is always a great day of music and fun with family, friends, and the incredible fans, and even more special this year in celebration of my 90th birthday.”

    Nelson started the Outlaw Musical Festival in 2016. It was a sold-out show in Scranton, PA, and has since developed into one of North America’s biggest annual touring franchises. A number of notable artists such as Neil Young, Bob Dylan, Sheryl Crow, and many more have been a part of the celebration.

    Tickets go on sale Friday, March 17, at 10 a.m. VIP packages including great seats and exclusive festival merchandise will be availableFor more information about the Willie Nelson Outlaw Music Festival, including performances at Darien Lake and Bethel, visit OutlawMusicFestival.com.

    2023 Outlaw Music Festival Tour Dates and Lineups

    Friday, June 23, 2023
    Somerset, WI – Somerset Amphitheater
    Willie Nelson & Family
    Robert Plant & Alison Krauss
    Trampled By Turtles
    Molly Tuttle & Golden Highway
    Particle Kid

    Saturday, June 24, 2023
    East Troy, WI – Alpine Valley Music Theatre
    Willie Nelson & Family
    Robert Plant & Alison Krauss
    Trampled By Turtles
    Molly Tuttle & Golden Highway
    Particle Kid

    Sunday, June 25, 2023
    St. Louis, MO – Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre
    Willie Nelson & Family
    Robert Plant & Alison Krauss
    Trampled By Turtles
    Molly Tuttle & Golden Highway
    Particle Kid

    Thursday, June 29, 2023
    Rogers, AR – Walmart AMP
    Willie Nelson & Family
    Margo Price
    Flatland Cavalry
    Particle Kid

    Friday, June 30, 2023
    Dallas, TX – Dos Equis Pavilion
    Willie Nelson & Family
    Whiskey Myers
    Flatland Cavalry
    Brittney Spencer
    Particle Kid

    Sunday, July 2, 2023
    The Woodlands, TX – Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion
    Willie Nelson & Family
    Whiskey Myers
    Brittney Spencer
    Particle Kid
    More To Be Announced

    Friday, July 28, 2023
    Columbia, MD – Merriweather Post Pavilion
    Willie Nelson & Family
    Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats
    Kurt Vile and The Violators
    Kathleen Edwards
    Particle Kid

    Saturday, July 29, 2023
    Bethel, NY – Bethel Woods Center for the Arts
    Willie Nelson & Family
    Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats
    Gov’t Mule
    Kathleen Edwards
    Particle Kid

    Sunday, July 30, 2023
    Darien, NY – Darien Lake Amphitheater
    Willie Nelson & Family
    Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats
    Gov’t Mule
    Kathleen Edwards
    Particle Kid

    Wednesday, August 2, 2023
    Gilford, NH – Bank of New Hampshire Pavilion
    Willie Nelson & Family
    The Avett Brothers
    Kathleen Edwards
    Flatland Cavalry
    Particle Kid

    Friday, August 4, 2023
    Hershey, PA – Hersheypark Stadium
    Willie Nelson & Family
    The Avett Brothers
    Marcus King
    Flatland Cavalry
    Kathleen Edwards
    Particle Kid

    Saturday, August 5, 2023
    Philadelphia, PA – TD Pavilion at The Mann
    Willie Nelson & Family
    The Avett Brothers
    Marcus King
    Kathleen Edwards
    Flatland Cavalry
    Particle Kid

    Sunday, August 6, 2023
    Holmdel, NJ – PNC Bank Arts Center
    Willie Nelson & Family
    The Avett Brothers
    Marcus King
    Kathleen Edwards
    Flatland Cavalry
    Particle Kid

    Friday, August 11, 2023
    Cleveland, OH – Blossom Music Center
    Willie Nelson & Family
    John Fogerty
    Kathleen Edwards
    Flatland Cavalry
    Particle Kid

    Saturday, August 12, 2023
    Pittsburgh, PA – The Pavilion at Star Lake
    Willie Nelson & Family
    John Fogerty
    Flatland Cavalry
    Kathleen Edwards
    Particle Kid

    Sunday, August 13, 2023
    Cincinnati, OH – Riverbend Music Center
    Willie Nelson & Family
    John Fogerty
    Gov’t Mule
    Kathleen Edwards
    Particle Kid

    Watch Sheryl Crow perform at the 2017 Outlaw Music Festival

  • 2023 Summer Camp Music Festival Lineup Announced

    The 2023 Summer Camp Music Festival lineup has been announced, including traditional sets from both host bands moe. and Umphrey’s McGee, taking place May 26-28 in Chillicothe, IL.

    2023 Summer Camp Festival

    The Summer Camp Music Festival first took place in 2001 to about 1,000 patrons with over 15 bands on two stages during the two-day event at Three Sisters Park in Chillicothe, IL. Now, the event is celebrating its 22nd anniversary, typically attracting around 20,000 visitors, of which between 8,000 and 10,000 arrive before the gates open. The festivities take place across Memorial Day Weekend and multiple stages with different genres. On top of all the live music, festival-goers have access to on-site camping, late-night shows, musician workshops, a non-profit village, unique arts & craft vendors and tons of great food and beer.

    The current lineup includes Umphrey’s McGee, moe., Willie Nelson & Family, Vulfpeck, Mastodon, Boogie T, Badflower, Keller Williams Trio ft. Tye North & Dave, Watts, Andy Frasco & The U.N., SunSquabi, The Funk Hunters, Buku, Sierra Hull, Maggie Rose, Jennifer Hartswick Band, Bella White, Circles Around The Sun, and Balkan Bump.

    moe. cohosts with Umphrey’s McGee.

    Other artists scheduled to play include Aqueous, DOGMA, Eggy, Joe Samba, K+ Lab, Leah Marlene, Oh He Dead, Perpetual Groove, Roots Of Creation, Southern Avenue, The Sponges, Super Future, In Alphabetical Order, Chicago Farmer & The Fieldnotes, Cody Lee’s Last Detail, G-Nome Project, Old Shoe, Organ Fairchild, Jack Cloonan, LITZ, Manthom Phenace, Modern Drugs, Squeaky Feet, Still Shine, and Zentik.

    A variety of ticketing options are on sale now, including 3-Day GA Passes, Sunday 1-Day GA & VIP, Volunteer Deposits, Thursday Pre-Party Passes, VIP Upgrades, & RV / Car Camping Spots. For more information visit here.

  • Herbie Hancock and Gladys Knight to Headline Syracuse Jazz Festival

    The Syracuse Jazz Festival announced that for the 37th edition of the festival legendary keyboardist, NEA Jazz Master, and 14-time Grammy winner Herbie Hancock will join 7-time Grammy winner and 2022 Kennedy Center Honoree Gladys Knight to coheadline.

    The Syracuse Jazz Festival announced that for the 37th edition of the festival legendary keyboardist Herbie Hancock and Gladys Knight
    M&T Jazz Fest 2016 at Onondaga Community College, Saturday, July 2, 2016. Ellen M. Blalock

    The very popular Syracuse Jazz Festival extends to five days at over 30 venues, featuring over 30 performers including ten national and international touring & recording artists. The festival kicks off on the evening of June 21, featuring 24 indoor and outdoor club performances at two dozen downtown clubs, bars, and restaurants with Syracuse region’s top jazz artists from 4:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. The Late Night New York Band features bassist Tom Brigandi, trumpeter Joe Magnarelli, and saxophonist Eric Alexander, performing Wednesday along with Hall Of Fame vocalist Ronnie Leigh. Shows for the festival run from either 4-6 p.m., 5-7 p.m., 6-8 p.m., 7-9 p.m., 8-10 p.m., or 9-11 p.m.

    Other artists performing on June 21 include the Marissa Mulder Duo, Michael Houston / Sam Wynn Project, Vibe Check featuring Melissa Gardiner, Dayquan Bowens & Kenyatta King, Longwood Jazz Project, Bob Holz & A Vision Forward, Nancy Kelly, Joyce DiCamillo Trio, E.S.P. Jazz Group, Funky Jazz Band featuring Dave Hanlon, Ron France, Brian Scherer, Jim O’Mahoney & Ed Vivenzio, The Jazz Mafia, The Instigators, Mark Doyle & Guitar Noir, Julie Howard Quartet, Tamaralee Shutt & The Matthew Rockwell Band, The Hot Club of Syracuse, The Frank Grosso Quartet, Julie & Rick Montalbano Trio, John Rode Trio, Mark Hoffmann & Swing This!, Monk Rowe & The Five Families Band, Quatro, The Jeff Martin Trio, and Tom Witkowski & The JT Hall Jazz Consort.

    On June 22, the Visit Syracuse Stage at Hanover Square will feature two performances from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. beginning with Harri Stojka & Acoustic Drive from Vienna Austria. They will be followed by an All-Star Soul-Jazz ensemble called Something Else! featuring jazz legends Vincent Herring, James Carter, Randy Brecker, Paul Bolleback Dave Kikoski, Jeff Tain Watts, and Essiet Essiet.

    The next day from 5:30-6:45 p.m. sees Scott Bradlee’s Post Modern Jukebox, celebrating the greatest 20th-century musical genres, fused with the recognizable hits of our own modern era. From 7:15-8:45 p.m., the best in funk and soul music Tower of Power performs. For the last 50 years, the group has been traveling the world, enjoying hit singles on their own and backing legendary artists including Otis Redding, Elton John, Santana, the Grateful Dead, and more. Ending the night is the legendary Herbie Hancock from 9:15-10:30 p.m.

    The Syracuse Jazz Festival announced that for the 37th edition of the festival legendary keyboardist Herbie Hancock and Gladys Knight
    Herbie Hancock, photo by Douglas Kirkland

    June 24 brings Tuba Skinny, performing from 5:30-6:45 p.m. For over a decade, the group has been gaining popularity, releasing 12 albums and touring all over the world, drawing inspiration from the early jazz, ragtime, and blues music of the 1920s and 1930s. At 7:15 p.m., American jazz fusion band Spyro Gyra performs. Formed in Buffalo in 1974, the band’s music combines jazz, R&B, funk, and pop genres. Finally, ending the night is Rock and Roll and R&B Hall of Famer Gladys Knight from 9:15-10:30 p.m.

    The 2023 Syracuse Jazz festival will close out on Sunday, June 25 on the campus of Syracuse University at Hendricks Chapel with a Jazz Fest-Ending Gospel Concert and Celebration. In addition to the other performers, The Syracuse University Faculty Jazz Ensemble and The Syracuse University Student Jazz Ensemble will also be performing this year.

    The festival is free for all to attend.

  • Femme It Forward Announce ‘Across The Pond’ at Coney Island Amphitheater

    Femme It Forward, a female-led music and entertainment company announced their one-day festival titled Across The Pond at Coney Island Amphitheater. On May 6, stars such as Tiwa Savage, Nao Arya Starr, Elaine and Tyl will take the stage at the single-day event.

    femme it forward

    Across The Pond, celebrates female R&B and Afrobeat musicians that originate from Africa and the UK. Within the music industry female artists are frequently overshadowed by their male counterparts, Femme It Forward works to change the narrative by honoring these talented musicians. Across The Pond will be a festival unlike others and is sure to inspire people of all nationalities and backgrounds.

    Femme It Forward strives to commemorate, educate and empower the industry’s most creative and accomplished female visionaries. The company produces music festivals, concerts, original content, comedy shows, philanthropic endeavors, panels, college engagements and more. For more information, visit here.

    VIP and General admission tickets will be available for purchase beginning March 3rd, at 10 am. Tickets can be purchased here.

  • Rochester Lilac Festival 2023 Lineup Announced, Pigeons Play Ping Pong to Headline

    Rochester’s beloved Lilac Festival has announced the 2023 lineup for its 125th-anniversary celebration in Highland Park from May 12-21.

    Lilac Festival 2023
    Lilac Festival (News 8 WROC photo/Matt Driffill)

    The Lilac Festival brings in over 500,000 people a year from across Western and Upstate NY, the tri-state area, and Canada to Highland Park to see great music and look at the beautiful lilacs that grow in the park, as well as eat and drink amazing food. “One of the highlights of the Rochester Lilac Festival for visitors is the robust lineup of national, regional, and local entertainers and musical acts,” said Don Jeffries, president & CEO, Visit Rochester. “As we look forward to the 125th anniversary of the festival, this lineup of performers is sure to keep the thousands of visitors to Rochester’s Highland Park this May entertained!”

    Kicking off the festival on May 12 at 4 p.m. is Personal Blend, a seven-piece reggae/ rock group out of Rochester. Get ready to feel good and dance to their new EP Inhale & Release. Following at 5:30 p.m. is Sneezy, a six-piece fusion rock band from Chicago that draws its innovative sound from Rock, Hip-Hop, and Soul influences.

    The special headliner for the evening is the jam/funk quartet Pigeons Playing Ping Pong at 7 p.m. The band includes singer/guitarist “Scrambled Greg” Ormont, guitarist Jeremy Schon, bassist Ben Carrey, and drummer Alex “Gator” Petropulos. The band, through their 1,000 enthusiastic shows, has built a mass following and an ever-expanding fanbase known as “The Flock,” and has been hailed as “musical explorers” by Rolling Stone. PPPP has independently released six studio albums, including their latest record, Perspective, in 2022. 

    The next day at 3 p.m. four-piece reggae act MoChester performs, consisting of Brandon Sheffer on lead vocals and guitar, Jonathan Sheffer on keys, guitar and backup vocals, Ben Overmyer on bass, and Jimmy Grillo on drums. At 4:30 p.m. the funky soul powerhouse group Shine takes the stage, playing a mix of funk, soul, and pop music, with contemporary hits by the likes of Bruno Mars and Adele, and also classic soul going back to Prince, Michael Jackson, and more. Finishing off the day at 6 p.m. is the Zac Brown Tribute Band, capturing the sound and creativity of the Zac Brown Band by playing hits like “Chicken Fried” to the recent sing-along anthem “Homegrown,” there’s a bit of everything for fans.

    Zac Brown Tribute Band

    The next day begins with Latin Jazz Quintet, Sofrito, formed in 2009 by flutist Tim Forster and Latin percussionist Tony Padilla at 1 p.m. At 2:30 classic rock and popular rock cover band BB Dang performs, and headliners The Iguanas play at 4. The group has been a fixture of the New Orleans music scene for over two decades, showcasing America’s musical heritage – Tejano and Conjunto sounds from the Texas/Mexico border region, as best exemplified by the accordion and bajo sexto. Closing out the night is Seven Wonders, seven world-class musicians paying homage to the music of Fleetwood Mac.

    May 15 features variety group Big Blue House at 4 pm., with Rochester’s premier psychedelic alternative country act Public Water Supply at 5:15. Finishing off the evening at 7 is Hudson-Valley-based musician Mikaela Davis, who has shared the stage with Bob Weir, Christian McBride, Bon Iver, and more. She also performs with her band Southern Star, recently recording at the Relix Studio in New York City, releasing an exclusive Relix Studios vinyl. The following day begins with the four-piece rock cover group Digglers Bridge at 4 p.m., with the three-piece instrumental organ trio/funky jam band Organ Fairchild following at 5:30. Ending the night at 7 is the Sam Grisman Project, paying homage to his father David Grisman and his close friend, Jerry Garcia, music made in the early 90s.

    The next day begins at 4 p.m. with the definitive Classic Vinyl 60s band, Inside Out. Headliners include Syracuse-based reggae group Root Shock at 5:30 and Allman Brothers tribute band Blue Sky Brothers, featuring members of Giant Panda Guerrilla Dub Squad, Mikaela Davis & Southern Star, The Moho Collective, and more. May 18 has the Led Zeppelin cover band Mothership at 4 p.m., Rochester-based variety cover band Stunt Double at 5:30, ending the night with Almost Queen at 7.

    Almost Queen

    Coming up on May 19 is roots rock band Steve Grills & The Roadmasters at 3:45 p.m., with American blues and swing revival band The Founders of Roomful of Blues at 5:30. Ending the night at 7 is Grammy-nominated American rock band The Record Company, comprised of Chris Vos (guitar, lead vocals), Alex Stiff (bass, backing vocals), and Marc Cazorla (drums, backing vocals). May 20 starts early at 2 p.m. with 11 piece band The Medicinals. The group formed in Rochester and has performed with the likes of Julian Marley, The Wailers (4x), Turkuaz, Lettuce, and more. At 3:30 Hello City performs and at 5 headliner Shamarr Allen makes an appearance. Taking influence from the heart of New Orleans, he performs in jazz, hip-hop, rock, funk rhythms, blues, and country categories and is the lead vocalist and trumpeter of his band Shamarr Allen & The Underdawgs. Ending the night at 7 is the only regionally touring full 7-piece Dave Matthews Tribute in the country: Big Eyed Phish.

    Ending the festival on May 21 is Head to the Roots at 1 p.m., a passionate music project, led by American singer-songwriter Anthony Siciliano, pulling at the roots of folk, blues, reggae, rockabilly, and jam music. At 2:30, the high-energy group Vintage Pistol performs, Judah performing right after at 4. Headlining at 5:30 is the Grateful Dead cover band Workingman’s Dead. Also headlining and ending the festival is Into the Now, performing whatever they feel like for the past thirty years.

    The Rochester Lilac Festival 2023 is a free event with no ticket required to enjoy the music. Those looking for an elevated experience can purchase MGM Associates of Rochester VIP High Spot Party Deck tickets, available here.

    2023 Headliners

    Pigeons Playing Ping Pong – May 12
    Zac Brown Tribute Band – May 13
    The Iguanas, The Seven Wonders – May 14
    Mikaela Davis – May 15
    The Sam Grisman Project – May 16
    Blue Sky Brothers – May 17

    Almost Queen – May 18
    The FOUNDERS of Roomful of Blues,
    The Record Company – May 19
    Shamarr Allen, Big Eyed Phish – May 20
    Into the Now – May 21
    *Every headliner will have ASL Interpretation

    2023 Supporting Talent

    Sneezy, Personal Blend – May 12
    MoChester, Shine – May 13
    Sofrito, BB Dang – May 14
    Big Blue House, Public Water Supply – May 15
    Organ Fairchild, Digglers Bridge – May 16
    Inside Out, Root Shock – May 17

    Mothership, Stunt Double – May 18
    Steve Grills & The Roadmasters– May 19
    Hello City, The Medicinals – May 20
    Head to the Roots, Vintage Pistol, Judah,
    Workingman’s Dead – May 21

  • Great South Bay Music Festival 2023 Announces 15th Anniversary Lineup

    The Great South Bay 2023 Music Festival presented by Island Federal Bank announced its back for its 15th anniversary, taking place at Shorefront Park in Patchogue Village, from Thursday, July 20 through Sunday, July 23.

    Great South Bay 2023
    Photo credit Filip Zalewski for NYS Music.

    The Great South Bay 2023 Music Festival features over 60 performers on four stages, in classic and contemporary rock, jam, blues, jazz, Americana, ska, reggae, alternative, and funk genres. The festival is known for its eclectic lineup of headliners with four very different days of music.

    Kicking off the festival Thursday, July 20, with ten performers on two stages, is the legendary Hot Tuna, returning for their fourth visit to Headline the Main Stage. Classic rock act Dave Mason supports, and Barnburners The Fabulous Thunderbirds featuring Kim Wilson round out the lineup and local guitar legend Kerry Kearney and the Kings of the Psychedelta make an appearance.

    Friday brings the annual rock-reggae-ska party, with 15 performers across three stages. Huntington Beach California rock-reggae veterans Dirty Heads return with support from LA ska-punk band Goldfinger, plus Sublime Tribute: Badfish, Maryland rockers Ballyhoo and emerging LI hometown reggae-
    rockers Oogee Wawa.

    The annual Jam-Saturday features 18 performers across four stages. Phil Lesh & Friends, featuring the legendary bassist and original founding member of the Grateful Dead, takes the main stage. Supporting acts include jazz-funksters The Eric Krasno Trio, Neighbor, and local singer-songwriter musician Cassandra House.

    Great South Bay 2023 will close out Sunday with guitar legend, Warren Haynes & Govt. Mule, performing “Dark Side of the Mule”, a tribute to the 50th Anniversary of Pink Floyd’s classic album The Dark Side of The Moon, complete a laser light show and over-the-top effects. Immediately supporting is Jason Bonham’s Led Zeppelin Evening, plus Duane Betts and Palmetto Motel. Returning to the Main Stage is Long Island-born and bred guitarist Brandon “Taz” Niederauer who performed at Great South Bay on the “emerging artist stage” when he was just 12 years old and has since shared the stage with Gregg
    Allman, Gary Clarke Jr., Lady Gaga, and many more.

    Supporting and presenting original emerging artists has always been part of our mission at GSB. For 2023 the festival will present over 30 talented original artists that we are excited to give stage time and lay on our music loving attendees. New talented original artists to keep on your radar this year include: Cassandra House (performing on our Main Stage and opening for Phil Lesh), Jules, Jack & Friends, Dudley Music, Robinson Treacher, MJT, Circus Mind, Miles to Dayton, Foster Europe Band, Baked Shrimp, and more.

    Great South Bay supports the Long Island community and will continue to donate $1 from every ticket sold, to the GSB-Stony Brook Cancer Center Fund. To date, the fest has raised well over $250,000 for the cancer center. Additionally, Great South Bay Presenting Sponsor Island Federal Bank will also give $1- $2 worth of food donations for every ticket that’s sold to LI Cares, the Harry Chapin Food bank. The festival will also again donate booth spaces in our “Storyville Tent” to local organizations looking to raise awareness and funds for their cause.

    The mission of the Great South Bay Festival is to always support emerging local artists, and are proud present over 30 talented original artists. Some of these not mentioned previously include Jules, Jack & Friends, Dudley Music, Robinson Treacher, MJT, Circus Mind, Miles to Dayton, Foster Europe Band, Baked Shrimp, and more.

    Tickets are available to purchase now. Children under 10 are free.

    Festival Times:
    Thursday, July 20: Doors are at 3:00 p.m., fest goes till 10 p.m.
    Friday, July 21: Doors are at 3:00 p.m., music till 11 p.m.,
    Saturday, July 22.: Doors are at 1:00 p.m., music till 11 p.m.,
    Sunday, July 23: Doors are at 2:00 p.m. with performances till 10 p.m.

  • Oteil and Friends Headlining Rye Bread Music and Arts Festival

    Oteil and Friends will headline this year’s Rye Bread Music and Arts Festival, taking place from July 27 through July 29 in Schaghticoke, NY. Also scheduled to appear are Cool Cool Cool, Lespecial, Dogs In A Pile, Couch, DJ Logic & Friends, and many more. Additionally, guests can expect various collaborations between artists throughout the festival, making for a truly memorable weekend of live music.

    Oteil And Friends rye bread festival music
    Oteil and Friends. Credit: Oteil Burbridge

    Oteil and Friends will headline the Rye Bread Music Festival with a two-set performance. The band is an ensemble led by Oteil Burbridge (Dead & Company, The Allman Brothers Band) on bass. He is joined by longtime Jerry Garcia Band organist Melvin Seals, guitarists Steve Kimock and Tom Guarna, multi-instrumentalist Jason Crosby, drummer Johnny Kimock and vocalist Lamar Williams, Jr.

    Grammy-nominated rock band North Mississippi Allstars is also scheduled to perform at the festival this summer. On top of this year’s lineup of live music, the festival will feature food and craft vendors on site. Located at the spacious Schaghticoke Fairgrounds, guests will have plenty of space to stretch and walk around at the festival.

    In its 47th year, the Rye Bread Music and Arts Festival originated as a block party and has become a staple in Upstate New York. In addition to providing audiences with live music, the festival brings people together in a spirit of community and charity. To purchase tickets, please visit www.ryebreadfest.com.

    Watch Oteil and Friends perform live at the Capital Theatre on March 12, 2022.

  • Cave Mountain Catskills Music Festival Unveils Inaugural Lineup with Weezer, Dinosaur Jr., and More

    The first annual Cave Mountain Catskills Music Festival is coming to Windham Mountain on Sept. 15-16 featuring well-known indie rock acts.

    Cave Mountain Festival

    Organized by the team behind Brooklyn Made Presents and Crush Music, the Cave Mountain Catskills Music Festival will offer attendees a great experience due to the organizers’ talent of bringing top-notch musical talent together and creating unforgettable events. The festival features Weezer, Joe Russo’s Almost Dead, Dinosaur Jr.Preservation Hall Jazz Band, Albert Hammond Jr., Lee Fields, Courtney Marie Andrews, Sheer Mag, and more.

    “Brooklyn Made Presents couldn’t be more excited to be a part of this exciting new festival at the beautiful Windham Mountain in the Catskills,” comments Brooklyn Made President and CEO Anthony Makes. “When Bob McLynn of Crush Music came to me with this idea, it was a no-brainer to jump in and partner on this amazing event. We can’t wait to present this festival to all of New York’s incredible music fans this fall. Windham Mountain is the perfect location for a music festival, and we can’t wait to see everyone come together for a weekend of great music, food, and fun.”

    In addition to the great music, the festival offers a wide range of food and beverage options and local craft vendors. Tickets for the festival go on sale Friday, March 10, with a VIP ticket option available. VIP ticket holders will receive a dedicated VIP entrance, exclusive prime viewing locations, special access to private lounge areas, a commemorative festival poster, and more. For more information about the festival and to purchase tickets, visit here.

  • The 2023 Geneva Jazz Festival Announces Performers and Schedule

    Twenty artists, six days, one city: the 2023 Geneva Jazz Festival announces performers and schedule, happening March 23-28, featuring regional, national, and international jazz artists performing in venues across the city.

    2023 Geneva Jazz Festival

    The 2023 Geneva Jazz Festival is held in the city of Geneva, known for innovation and forward-thinking businesses. It is the gateway to the Finger Lakes, providing access to historical landmarks, natural beauties, wineries, breweries, food, shopping, and more. The festival is in cooperation with the 6th annual Scott Lafaro Celebration concert presented by Smith Center for the Arts.

    Scott LaFaro grew up in Geneva, and at age 18 he started learning to play the double bass. In 1961 he was killed in a car accident at age 25. He became the most influential jazz bassist ever after his performance with Stan Getz at the Newport Jazz festival and subsequent recordings with the Bill Evans Trio, which still impacts jazz today. For this year’s Lafaro celebration, The Smith Center for the Arts presents Christian McBride’s New Jawn. He has appeared on more than 300 recordings as a sideman and is an eight-time Grammy Award winner and the Artistic Director for the Newport Jazz Festival.

    Schedule

    The festival kicks off on Thursday, March 23 with a kickoff reception at Finger Lakes Live starting at 4 p.m. The Geneva All-stars Sextet will play at the venue at 6 p.m. and at 9 p.m. there will be a FLIMA Open Jazz Jam with Gonzo. The next day, March 24, has many acts throughout the day at various venues. From 2-5 p.m., a TBA act will perform at Empire Coffee & Donuts, and happening from 3-6 p.m. is the Matrix Duo at Brewery Ardennes. They are the premier flute and guitar duo performing throughout the southern tier of New York State and surrounding areas, consisting of Michele Gordon (flute) and Dennis Winge (guitar).

    2023 Geneva Jazz Festival

    Friday also brings the Rick Hoyt Trio to Lake Drum Brewing from 4-7 p.m. DeWayne Perry & Friends will perform at The Linden Social Club from 5-8 p.m, and from 7-10 p.m. at Finger Lakes Live, the Bobby Henrie Quartet feat. Mike Kaupa makes an appearance. Henrie is from Middlesex, NY, and is a guitarist, singer, and multi-instrumentalist, steeped in a wide variety of roots music. He has been involved in many projects in the finger lakes/upstate region including the Henrie Brothers, Bobby Henrie & the Goners, The Djangoners, and more. Ending the day of jazz at 10 p.m. is the FLIMA Open Jazz Jam at The Linden Social Club.

    Just as jam-packed as the day before it, Saturday starts with Greg Wachala at Beef & Brew from 1-4 p.m. and a matinée show at 2 p.m. by dynamic trio Pickle Mafia. The group has garnered nationwide attention through their groundbreaking, unique brand of Arena Jazz Fusion, has racked up 10,000+ viewing hours on YouTube, and has developed an extremely loyal fan base. The Ben Miller Trio will be at Lake Drum Brewing from 4-7 p.m. Miller is a jazz pianist, composer, and producer, born in the Philippines, and raised in Peru and upstate New York. He is also a member of the Orbiting Human Circus Quartet, Jesse Collins Quartet, Taru Alexander Quartet, and several other bands.

    2023 Geneva Jazz Festival

    Continuing on Saturday is the Hanna PK Trio at The Linden Social Club from 5-8 p.m. Hanna PK is a pianist, soulful vocalist, and vibrant performer, born and raised in South Korea, currently residing in Rochester, playing in a variety of genres. In Nov. 2021, she released her debut album Blues All Over My Shoes on the VizzTone Label with Booga Music of internationally-known bluesman, Kenny Neal, debuting at #13 on Billboard’s US Blues chart.

    From 7-10 p.m., Jimmie Highsmith Jr. with a five-piece band will be performing at Finger Lakes Live. A native of Rochester, he is a critically acclaimed, Grammy Nominated, and award-winning saxophonist, sharing the stage and opening for artists like Najee, Alicia Keys, Wynton Marsalis, and more. The Spring Benefit Concert is GMF’s largest fundraiser, featuring Anna Petrova, piano; Geoffrey Herd, violin; Eric Wong, viola; and Peter Eom, cello, performing Schubert’s B-Flat String Trio, D. 471, Café Music by Schoenfield, and Brahms’ Piano Quartet in G Minor, Op. 25. Tickets are available for purchase here. Ending the day is an Open Jazz Jam at The Linden Social Club, starting at 10 p.m.

    Sunday brings many notable people across the city, starting with a jazz brunch at The Linden Social Club from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. with Paradigm Shift. The group formed in the early 90s in Rochester with the goal to bring spirit back to neo-jazz with organic, funky grooves and street-level ambiance. The band is comprised of bandleader Melvin Henderson, co-founder Gerry Youngman, and drummer-composer Sean Jefferson. The rest of the day takes place at Finger Lakes Live Events, starting with award-winning jazz artist Nancy Kelly at 2 p.m., the Craig Snyder Trio from 6-9 p.m., and a FLIMA Open Jazz Jam at 9 p.m.

    On Monday at 4:30 p.m., there will be a meet and greet with Steve Davis at Ventosa Vineyards, and a dinner show with his quintet at 6 p.m. Davis was raised in Binghamton and graduated in 1989 from Hartt School’s Jackie McLean Institute, landing his first major gig with Art Blakey in NYC. In 1998 he won the TDWR (Rising Star) Trombone Category and was later named consecutively as Trombonist of the Year by The JJA. He has released 20 albums and is widely regarded as one of today’s leading voices on the trombone. The final day features FLIMA Tuesdays: Gonztet Jazz + Jam at Twisted Rail Brewin from 5-9 p.m.

    To purchase tickets for the many performances at the 2023 Geneva Jazz Festival, visit here.