Music Haven 2023 in Central Park in Schenectady announced its summer lineup, kicking off its 33 season of “traveling the world one concert at a time.”
Music Haven 2023 will take listeners 50,000 miles and back while presenting music and performing arts from Ghana, Andalusia, Ireland, Texas, Gambia, Louisiana, South Asia, Georgia, Stratford-upon-Avon, and beyond. “This summer, our musical journeys will cross seven distinct bodies of water—The Atlantic and Indian Oceans; the Alboran, Black, Mediterranean, and Arabian Seas; and the Bay of Bengal” says Eddie Award-winning Producing Artistic Director Mona Golub. “We’ll gather to hear spectacular global artists who have not played these parts before, welcome back some old friends who have dazzled the world since they last graced our stage, and showcase, as special guests, some of the finest talents our region has to offer.”
Each show features a variety of food and beverages available for purchase at all shows beginning at 6 p.m. on 7 p.m. concert nights and throughout festivals and special events. Michele’s Charcoal Pit and Ben & Jerry’s return with food and dessert available for purchase. Reflecting tradition, international offerings showcasing the locales from which the global artists come will be sold at the concession stand. Proctors is the official rain site for concerts on July 9 – July 23 and Aug. 20, with Niskayuna High School serving as the rain site July 30–Aug. 13. Shows scheduled on Aug. 11, 25, and 26, will take place in the park rain or shine. All concerts start at 7 p.m. unless noted otherwise.
Music Haven 2023 Lineup
July 9—Rocky Dawuni
**moved to Proctors.
Groove to the rhythms of Ghanaian multi-Grammy-nominated “Afro Roots,” a mixture of Reggae, Afrobeat, Highlife, and Soul music, artist Rocky Dawuni. An international star and champion of social causes, Dawuni straddles Africa, the Caribbean Islands, and the United States, and is a United Nations Goodwill Ambassador for the Environment for Africa. Opening for him is Zorkie Nelson and Umoja Drummers, thumping out beats on authentic handmade instruments.
July 13—La Banda Morisca
La Banda Morisca, an Andalusian sextet, pays homage to their ancient Al-Andalus cultural heritage while rocking it forward with rich sonic accents from North Africa’s Maghreb Desert and the Middle East. Opening for them is Maria Zemantauski, a master of the Flamenco guitar.
July 16—Joey Alexander
Returning for the first time since 2015, Joey Alexander has appeared at some of the world’s most prestigious festivals and events, wowing audiences with his proficient mastery of the piano. Opening is Joe Barna and Sketches of Influence who similarly appraise jazz with one eye on the past and the other on the future.
Joey Alexander.
July 22 from 11:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m.—NipperFest Music & Arts Festival
Celebrating all things 518, the festival features 16 bands on two stages, including Billboard AAA Top 40 artists Jocelyn and Chris, an artist pavilion, food trucks, and craft beer.
July 23—Sona Jobarteh
Gambian singer, educator, and activist Sona Jobarteh is the first professional female Kora virtuoso to hail from any of the great West African Griot dynasties. She will mesmerize listeners with her distinctively modern riff on an ancient African groove. Opening for her is Heard.
Sona Jobarteh.
July 30 from 5-9 p.m.—Blues BBQ featuring Vanessa Collier, Johnny Sansone, and Jontavious Willis
July concludes with Music Haven’s annual Blues BBQ featuring Blues Music Award’s reigning Contemporary Female Blues Artist, Vanessa Collier, New Orleans multi-instrumentalist Johnny Sansone and Taj Mahal protégé Jontavious Willis.
Aug. 5—Schenectady-Saratoga Symphony Orchestra
August kicks off with the newly renamed Schenectady-Saratoga Symphony Orchestra. Under the baton of Artistic Director Glen Cortese, the SSSO returns with “Legends of Broadway,” selections from beloved musicals including West Side Story, Les Miserables, Evita, Jesus Christ Superstar, and more.
Aug. 6—Eileen Ivers
The original star of “Riverdance,” a founding member of Cherish the Ladies, and a nine-time All-Ireland Fiddle Champion, Eileen Ivers has played with Sting, The Chieftains, and Symphony Orchestras alike and has been called “The Future of the Celtic fiddle.” Opening for her are The McKrells, blending Celtic and bluegrass to create a sound enjoyed around the world.
Aug. 11 from 5-9 p.m.—In the Heights
Lin-Manuel Miranda, known for creating the hit musical Hamilton is celebrated with a Latin Block Party featuring live music by Taina Asili and Latin food, followed by a screening of the Tony Award-winning musical In the Heights.
Aug. 13—Aditya Prakash Ensemble
The Aditya Prakash Ensemble fuses South Asian Karnatik vocals with jazz and funk. One of the youngest musicians to ever perform with sitar legend Ravi Shankar, Prakash is a master of South Indian Karnatik singing. Opening is the SUNY Schenectady Jazz Faculty Combo, comprised of the region’s most talented players and educators.
Aug. 20—Cedric Watson & Bijou Creole
Cedric Watson is a four-time Grammy-nominated fiddler, singer, accordionist, and songwriter, and one of the brightest young talents to emerge in Cajun, Creole, and Zydeco over the last decade. Opening are Old-Fashioned Aces who will wow audiences with their deeply-rooted traditional Cajun sounds.
Aug. 25–26—Will Kempe’s Players
The Capital Region’s own traveling Shakespearean troupe Will Kempe’s Players, closes the 2023 season with back-to-back repertory performances of the Bard’s The Taming of the Shrew and Two Gentlemen of Verona. Period music by Andy Rutherford on lute and Yvonne Hansbrough on flute.
For more information about Music Haven 2023, visit here.
The Adirondack Lakes Center for the Arts (ALCA) announced the return of Tuesdays@theAC, a concert and community-events series. It features a lineup of Adirondacks-based or connected performers on weekday evenings.
The series begins this month with two concerts: the locally based group Moment’s Notice on June 20, and The Musty Cupboards on June 27. Both concerts begin at 7 p.m., with a recommended donation of $10 at the door.
Moment’s Notice is a Tri-Lakes-based, four-piece group featuring veteran musicians Karen Baker, Mike Joyce, Dan Spada, and Sadie Spada. Furthermore, the group covers a wide range of genres including jazz, latin, blues, rock and more.
Acoustic quartet the Musty Cupboards performs bluegrass and classic folk. The group features Evan Behre on mandolin, banjo, dobro, guitar, and vocals; Becky Behre on accordion and vocals; Eric Schwelling on guitar and vocals; and lastly, Michelle Schwelling on guitar, mandolin, ukulele, and vocals.
The June concerts will also be followed in August by three more events: a hammered-dulcimer program and community dance with Dan Duggan and the group High on the Hog on Aug. 15; Americana music with Barry Oreck and friends on Aug. 22; and folk music with local favorites the Rustic Riders on Aug. 29.
The Tuesdays@theAC series takes place on select Tuesday evenings throughout the summer, celebrating the diversity and talent of the region. Additionally, the events are offered on a donation-only basis, providing entertainment at an affordable price for local residents, summer residents, and campers looking for a fun night out in the middle of the week.
For more information on all Arts Center programming, visit adirondackarts.org.
NYC’s City Parks Foundation’s SummerStage is back for another year of concerts and entertainment. This season the series features everything from folk music icons to some of hip-hop’s most innovative voices. Most of the notable concerts will take place at Rumsey Playfield in Central Park. 12 different neighborhood parks across all five boroughs of NYC will also serve as venues. Concerts begin on June 3 and run until September 30.
Since its inception in 1986, SummerStage has established itself as one of New York City’s premier concert series. With 80 shows Summerstage showcases a diverse set of artists from various genres week after week. Apart from some ticketed benefit concerts, SummerStage events are usually open to the public and free.
In addition to concerts, Central Park will also screen films and host a multitude of different celebrations. The iconic greenspace has become an inseparable from NYC, hosting some of the most well known artists throughout the years. Curtis Mayfield, Elvis Costello, Crosby, Stills & Nash, and Jazmine Sullivan have all graced the stage in Central Park.
The other parks and outdoor spaces hosting SummerStage in 2023 include Marcus Garvey Park in Harlem, Tompkins Square Park in the East Village, Von King Park and The Coney Island Amphitheater in Brooklyn, Flushing Meadows-Corona Park in Queens, Crotona Park in the Bronx, Stapleton Waterfront Park in Staten Island, and SummerStage’s flagship venue at Rumsey Playfield in Central Park.
This year SummerStage will celebrate hip-hop as the genre celebrates its 50th anniversary. The series aims to highlight not only its significance to NYC but also the impact it has had worldwide.
As part of the celebration, a special edition showcase will take over Coney Island on August 6. The event will feature artists Special Ed and many more, hosted by Ralph McDaniels. Frankie Cutlass and Black Sheep’s Dres will join the festivities on August 12 in Staten Island. A day later DJ Funk Flex will bring his birthday celebration to Brooklyn on August 13.
SummerStage’s 2023 roster boasts several international musicians but also tries to celebrate some of the city’s local artists. Argentina’s TRUENO and Puerto Rico’s Villano Antillano highlight the influence of Caribbean and reggaetón. Meanwhile Brooklyn-based artist Nick Hakim looks to bring his soulful R&B sounds back to his hometown.
We are thrilled to present another vibrant season filled with captivating artists from around the world and introduce music fans to their diverse sounds
Erika Elliott, Executive Artistic Director of SummerStage.
Saturday, June 3, 7 p.m., Central Park – Hippo Campus & Gus Dapperton – Benefit Concert
Sunday, June 4, 6:30 p.m., Central Park – Indigo Girls – Benefit Concert
Saturday, June 10, 6 p.m., Central Park – Opening Night American Blues – FREE Concert
Wednesday, June 14, 7 p.m., Central Park – New York Sings Yiddish! – FREE Concert
Thursday, June 15, 7 p.m., Central Park – Sammy Rae & The Friends – Benefit Concert
Saturday, June 17, 4 p.m., Central Park – The Aussie BBQ – FREE Concert
Sunday, June 18, 6 p.m., Central Perk – Buddy Guy’s Damn Right Farewell Tour – Benefit Concert
Monday, June 19, 4 p.m., Central Park – Park Jams, a Juneteenth Celebration – Benefit Concert
Tuesday, June 20, 7 p.m., Central Park – The Metropolitan Opera Summer Recital ft. Gabriella Reyes / René Barbera / Will Liverman and Dimitri Dover – FREE Concert
Friday, June 23, 7 p.m., Brooklyn Bridge Park – The Metropolitan Opera Summer Recital ft. Gabriella Reyes / René Barbera/ Will Liverman / Dimitri Dover – FREE Concert
Saturday, June 24, 5 p.m., Central Park – Stanley Clarke N 4ever / Kenny Garrett / Brandee Younger / DJ Logic in Association with Blue Note Jazz Festival – FREE Concert
Saturday, June 24, 7 p.m., Jackie Robinson Park – The Metropolitan Opera Summer Recital ft. Erika Baikoff / Thomas Glass / Cierra Byrd / Juan José Lázaro – FREE Concert
Sunday, June 25, 3 p.m. – Dreamland – Pride in Central Park – Benefit Concert
Monday, June 26, 6 p.m., Williamsbridge Oval – The Metropolitan Opera Summer Recital ft. Erika Baikoff / Thomas Glass / Cierra Byrd / Juan José Lázaro – FREE Concert
Wednesday, June 28, 6 p.m., Socrates Sculpture Garden – The Metropolitan Opera Summer Recital ft. Erika Baikoff / Thomas Glass / Cierra Byrd / Juan José Lázaro – FREE Concert
Wednesday, June 28, 7 p.m., – Michael Franti & Spearhead – Benefit Concert
Friday, June 30, 7 p.m., Clove Lakes Park – The Metropolitan Opera Summer Recital ft. Erika Baikoff / Thomas Glass / Cierra Byrd / Juan José Lázaro – FREE Concert
Saturday, July 1, 5 p.m., Central Park – Andy Shauf / Leith Ross / Yves Jarvis in association with the Consulate General of Canada in New York – FREE Concert
Sunday, July 2, 5 p.m., Central Park – Andy Shauf / Leith Ross / Yves Jarvis in association with the Consulate General of Canada in New York – FREE Concert
Saturday, July 8, 5 p.m., Central Park – Catalan Sounds On Tour: Queralt Lahoz / Marala / Lia Kali with DJ sets by DJ Trapella in association with the Institut Ramon Llull – FREE Concert
Sunday, July 9, 5 p.m., Coney Island – Tuff Gong Takeover feat Skip Marley & Friends – FREE Concert
Monday, July 10, 6 p.m., Central Park – Noel Gallagher & High Flying Birds and Garbage – Benefit Concert
Wednesday, July 12, 6 p.m., Central Park – Juanes / Conexion Divina in association with LAMC – FREE Concert
Thursday, July 13, 5 p.m., Central Park – Bastille Day: Joachim Garraud & Marie Berson / Passi / Bénabar / Adèle Castillon in association with Consulate General of France – FREE Concert
Thursday, July 13, 7 p.m., Von King Park – Works & Process at SummerStage: The Masterz at Work Dance Family with Courtney Washington – FREE Concert
Friday, July 14, 6 p.m., Von King Park – Nick Hakim / June McDoom / Evan Wright – FREE Concert
Saturday, July 15, 4 p.m., Von King Park – MIKE’S Young World III: Noname / Georgia Anne Muldrow / 454 – FREE Concert
Saturday, July 15, 5 p.m., Central Park – TRUENO / Villano Antillano / Dawer x Damper / KEXP’s El Sonido with Albina Cabrera ft. Camola DJ set in association with LAMC – FREE Concert
Sunday, July 16, 4 p.m., Coney Island – GOLDEN OLDIES ON THE BOARDWALK 2023 feat. The Duprees / The Coasters / Charlie Thomas’ Drifters w/ Jeff Hall / Bobby Wilson / Stan Zizka’s Del Satins / Vito Picone & The Elegants / The Chiclettes and More / Hosted by Joe Causi with DJ Vinnie Medugno in association with Fever Productions and Brian Rosenberg – FREE Concert
Sunday, July 16, 6 p.m, Von King Park – dead prez / th1rt3en / Large Professor DJ Set – FREE Concert
Wednesday, July 19, 5 p.m., Central Park – Julia Jacklin / Y La Bamba / Black Belt Eagle Scout -FREE Concert
Thursday, July 20, 5 p.m., Central Park – Horsegirl / Iceage / Water From Your Eyes / Lifeguard – FREE Concert
Saturday, July 22, 5 p.m., Central Park – Michael Brun Presents BAYO – Benefit Concert
Saturday, July 22, 5 p.m., Flushing Meadows Corona – Kool and the Gang – FREE Concert
Sunday, July 23, 5 p.m., Central Park – Taiwanese Waves: Waa Wei / The Dinosaur’s Skin / Mandarin Homework (DJ Mr. Skin) – FREE Concert
Sunday, July 23, 6 p.m., Flushing Meadows Corona Park – DJ Rekha’s Basement Bhangra Bacchanal: DJ Rekha / Malkit Singh with live band / DJ Ana / Sikh Knowledge / Rolex Rasathy / Param Singh / Dholi Anuradha and guests – FREE Concert
Thursday, Aug 3, 6 p.m., Crotona Park – Ted Smooth’s Freestyle Jam ft. TKA and Judy Torres – FREE Concert
Friday, Aug 4, 5 p.m., Crotona Park – “Birth of a Culture” Grandmaster Flash and Friends – FREE Concert
Saturday, Aug 5, 5 p.m., Central Park – The Originals: Stretch Armstrong / Rich Medina / Tony Touch / Clark Kent / D-Nice – FREE Concert
Saturday, Aug 5, 7 p.m., Crotona Park – Stonebwoy in association with Ghanafest-NY Crotona Park – FREE Concert
Sunday, August 6, 4 p.m., Coney Island – Hip-Hop 50: SPECIAL EDITION: Nice N Smooth / Special Ed /Buckshot of Black Moon / Masta Ace / CL Smooth / Rah Digga / Rampage / Black Sheep Dres / Sweet Tee / Joeski Love / Sparky D / Hosted by Ralph McDaniels (Video Music Box) – FREE Concert
Wednesday and Thursday, Aug 9 & 10, 7 p.m. Mt. Joy – Benefit Concerts – Sold Out
Saturday, Aug 12, 5 p.m., Waterfront Park – Frankie Cutlass / The Original Cover Girls / Cynthia / Black Sheep / DJ Millo and DJ Medina in Association with Maker Park Radio Stapleton Waterfront Park – FREE Concert
Saturday, Aug 12, 5 p.m., Central Park – VP Records Presents Roots Reggae Review – FREE Concert
Sunday, Aug 13, 5 p.m., Coney Island – Funk Flex & Friends Birthday Concert Featuring Raheem DeVaughn, Rob Base & More – FREE Concert
Aug 13, 5 p.m, Waterfront Park – Las Cafeteras / Natu Camara / Justy / DJ Kitty the Disc Jockey in Association with Maker Park Radio and La Isla Bonita Stapleton – FREE Concert
Thursday, Aug 17, 7 p.m., Marcus Garvey Park – Works & Process at SummerStage: The Missing Element with The Beatbox House / LayeRhythm – FREE Concert
Friday, Aug 18, 7 p.m., Marcus Garvey Park – Jason Moran and the Big Bandwagon: James Reese Europe and the Harlem Hellfighters: From the Dancehall to the Battlefield in Association with Jazzmobile – FREE Concert
Saturday, Aug 19, 5 p.m., Marcus Garvey Park – Mixtape (Film Screening) / DJ sets by Ron G / Doo Wop / Mister Cee / Tony Touch / Brucie B – FREE Concert
Saturday, Aug 19, 5 p.m. – Cautious Clay, Wet, Christian Kuria, and Zindelphia – Benefit
Sunday, Aug 20, 4 p.m., Coney Island – Jose Alberto “El Canario” / The Big 3 Palladium Orchestra: The Music Of Machito, Tito Rodriguez and Tito Puente – FREE Concert
Aug 20, 5 p.m., Central Park – Everyday People – FREE Concert
Aug 20, 5 p.m., Marcus Garvey Park – Hip-Hop 50: Native Tongue Edition: Monie Love / Black Sheep Dres / Chi Ali / DJ Red Alert hosted by Ralph McDaniels (Video Music Box) – FREE Concert
Wednesday, Aug 23, 4:30 p.m. – Manchester Orchestra and Jimmy Eat World – Benefit Concert
Thursday, Aug 24, 8 p.m. – Regina Spektor – Benefit Concert
Friday, Aug 25, 7 p.m., Marcus Garvey Park – Charlie Parker Jazz Festival: Orrin Evans and the Captain Black Big Band featuring Dianne Reeves / T.K. Blue in association with Jazzmobile – FREE Concert
Saturday, Aug 26, 3 p.m., Marcus Garvey Park – Charlie Parker Jazz Festival: The Cookers / Endea Owens and the Cookout / Nduduzo Makhathini Trio / Akua Allrich and The Tribe – FREE Concert
Sunday, Aug 27, 3 p.m., Tompkins Square Park – Charlie Parker Jazz Festival: Charles McPherson with Terell Stafford / Something Else! Vincent Herring Septet / HERA feat. Chelsea Baratz and Andromeda Turre / Michael Mayo – FREE Concert
Sunday, Aug 27, 5 p.m., Central Park – Palmwine Festival: Show Dem Camp and Friends in association with Move Forward Music – FREE Concert
Wednesday, Aug 30, 7 p.m. – Vance Joy with Dan Sultan – Benefit Concert
Thursday, Aug 31, 6 p.m., Central Park – In Our Own Sweet Time Tour: Vance Joy / Dan Sultan Subaru Music Series – Benefit Concert
Sunday, Sep 3, 5 p.m., Central Park – Emicida / Goyo / Screening: AmarElo: It’s All for Yesterday / in Association with 27th Inffinito Brazilian Film Festival – FREE Concert
Thursday, Sep 14, 5 p.m., Central Park – Tanya Tucker / Nikki Lane Subaru Music Series – FREE Concert
The Mansion of Saratoga is returning with its “supper club” format of dinner and a show for six Thursdays this summer. Performances range from Joe Posa’s Joan Rivers impersonation comedy show to “Aladdin” Broadway star Adam Jacobs singing songs from various Broadway hits.
Credit: Sawicki Studios
The Mansion of Saratoga was originally built in 1866 by George West. West made his wealth as the inventor of the folded paper bag, and would eventually go on to serve in both the New York State Legislature and the United States Congress’s House of Representatives. The Mansion acted as his primary residence for over a decade before it became his summer home in 1875.
For the Mansion of Saratoga’s “supper club” format, Executive Chef Rick Bieber will be creating a 3-course meal, with seating beginning at 6:00 p.m. on the tented deck of the mansion. Three entrée choices will be offered.
At 7:30 p.m., guests will continue to the Mansion Carriage House Theatre for the 8:00 p.m. performances. Prior to dinner, during dinner, and in the rear of the carriage house, there will be a full cash bar available.
Performances for Summer 2023
“The B**ch is Back for Her 90th Birthday!” – June 8
As a tribute to Joan Rivers for what would have been her 90th birthday, award winning actor and celebrity impersonator Joe Posa will be performing a 90-minute comedy concert. Posa was River’s favorite impersonator, and the pair kept in touch after first meeting in 2006. The event is 18+.
The event, “Still Within the Sound of My Voice,” features Broadway veteran Elizabeth Ward Land. She has been regarded as a perfect vocal match for the Songs of Linda Ronstadt. The performance includes rock, folk, light opera, and mariachi.
Returning from their performance at the Mansion of Saratoga from last year, Morgan James will be performing fresh off of the release of her new album, “Memphis Magnetic,” alongside her husband, Doug Wamble, a renowned Memphis blues guitar player. The album features new arrangements of Memphis classics by Al Green, Otis Redding, Ann Peebles, Sam & Dave and Elvis.
A family-friendly event with Broadway star Adam Jacobs. Jacobs starred in both the original “Aladdin” on Broadway and as Simba in the “Line King” on Broadway. He will be singing hits from “Aladdin,” “Hercules,” “Newsies,” “Little Shop of Horrors,” and more.
Travers Saturday Wine Pairing Dinner – Aug. 26
A “bonus” event, taking place on a Saturday instead of the normal Thursday dates. The dinner will feature Edmund Bagnell, a violinist and Broadway singer.
Beyond the main events, there are more events between these performances at the Mansion of Saratoga. Starting June 4, brunch will be served on Sundays from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.. On Wednesday night, beginning May 17, is “Dog Nights Out” from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., offering dog-friendly dining.
Excluding the concert nights and starting in July, Thursdays will have “Thursdays are a Drag,” a trivia night with a drag queen. Starting in June on Friday nights will be a nightclub in the Mansion Carriage House called “Before Midnight.” This is exclusive to those over 30.
For more information, menus, and tickets, visit the Mansion of Saratoga‘s website.
Thursdays in Norwich, New York’s East Park are a highlight of the summer season, and for good reason. Every Thursday in July and August, NBT Summer Concert Series shows attract an all-ages crowd of locals and out-of-towners alike, bringing people together to enjoy great music and great food.
Sponsored by NBT Bank and local foundations, all shows are free, beginning on July 6th and ending on August 31st.
This season will feature some artists appearing for the first time, along with returning favorites. Highlighting the new comers will be the Southern tock legends, The Outlaws. Known as “The Florida Guitar Army” by their fans, achieved worldwide acclaim through gold and platinum hits like “Green Grass and High Tides” and “There Goes Another Love Song.” After more than forty years, their live performances continue to burn hotter than ever.
The Outlaws are not the only performance you won’t want to miss. Southern Avenue will kick off the summer series on July 6th. New to East Park, Southern Avenue wowed admirers at last year’s Chenango Blues Fest. Additionally, Canada’s own Bywater Call is a newcomer that might become your next favorite band. Another artist making their series debut is contractually bound to secrecy. Stay tuned for details!
In addition to new artists, the return of some exceptional acts promises a great deal of exciting performances. The Travelin’ McCourys never fail to draw large crowds of bluegrass fans, but their music appeals to many through its roots in Americana music. Additionally, The Garcia Project is returning with their faithful recreation of classic Jerry Garcia Band performances. This year will also see the return of Nathan and the Zydeco Cha Chas, whose performances nod to the two-step music of South Louisiana. Mr. Sipp will perform the unofficial kick-off of the 30th Chenango Blues Fest on August 17th. The series will conclude on August 31st with Shinyribs, one of the best performers touring today and a stalwart of the Austin music scene.
Plan to bring a lawn chair to enjoy wonderful performances every Thursday. For more information, visit the Chenango Blues Association website here.
Ballard Park in Westport will once again host a free, seven-week live music concert series. Performances will take place on Thursdays at 7PM, running from July 6 to August 17, 2023. This year’s lineup features everything from Beatles tribute bands to elite jazz musicians.
Ballard Park is perched atop a grassy hillside overlooking Lake Champlain and the Green Mountains of Vermont. This year, the park will also be home to the Westport-Wadhams Day concert on July 1.
Ballard Park was once the location of The Westport Inn, an illustrious grand hotel located in the heart of the Adirondacks. After the 1967 demolition of the building, Anne Ballard (“Petey”) Cerf, a long-time summer resident purchased the property. In 1989 she established Ballard Park in honor of her parents.
The park is open to the public and has both lake and beach access. In addition to the summer concert series, Ballard Park offers sledding and ice skating in the winter.
Organizers recommend that visitors bring blankets and low chairs. In the case of rain the concerts will switch over to the Whallonsburg Grange Hall. More information and updates can be found here.
Ballard Park Summer Concert Series lineup
July 1- STUDIO TWO, an early Beatles tribute band.
July 6- KAT WRIGHT, Vermont’s renowned blues and soul star.
July 13- MYRA FLYNN, part of the “Roar of the Queen! Tour”, Flynn arrives to Ballard Park after headlining Burlington’s Discover Jazz festival.
July 20- NICHOLAS EDWARD WILLIAMS, an American troubadour dedicated to preserving the songs and styles that shaped the United States .
July 27- RAY VEGA, Vermont’s master of Jazz and a University Scholar at UVM
August 3- MEADOWMOUNT SCHOOL OF MUSIC, Petey Cerf Memorial Concert— strings students from Westport’s renowned summer camp.
August 10- PLOUGHMAN’S LUNCH, North Country musicians known for bluegrass, swing and covers.
August 17- RYAN CLARK, from his hometown of Lake George to new home in Nashville, Ryan has received national acclaim for his talent and voice.
The Dawn Lipson Canalside outdoor Concert Series at the Rochester Jewish Community Center recently released its summer lineup. Acts include everything from legendary tribute shows to original music by local acts.
Originally born out of the Covid pandemic, the concert series is in its third season of music and events. The covered tent venue holds hundreds of visitors with the option to expand for larger performances.
Something new coming to the venue is the “Music Mondays” series which features two local Rochester musicians at every event. The series also begins with an open mic segment to start each evening.
More events are expected to be announced soon. The full concert series can be found here.
Summer Schedule
June 3- Chris Wilson & Bryan Ayers: A Tribute to Simon & Garfunkel
Upstate New York singers Chris Wilson and Brian Ayers celebrate the music of legendary duo Simon and Garfunkel.
June 10- Bad Sneakers: The Music of Steely Dan and Donald Fagen
Bad Sneakers is a Rochester based band that includes current and past members of Hard Logic, Prime Time Funk, Goodness, The Klick, The Bill Tiberio Band, and The Earthtones. The infectious groove they lay down, along with their precise and dedicated approach to the music will have diehard, as well as new, Steely Dan fans smiling from the first note.
June 15- Thank You For The Music: ABBA’s Greatest Hits
Packed with your favorite tunes and featuring a crew of amazing singers and musicians, this tribute to the internationally beloved Swedish supergroup was created exclusively for the JCC Concert Series by Jessica Ann Best.
June 17- Philadelphia Freedom: The Ultimate Elton John Tribute
Philadelphia Freedom prides itself on being the most realistic Elton John tribute currently touring. Doug Delescavage is Elton John as he was in his 20s, full of joy and unlimited energy, his top notch band through all the hits of Elton’s career.
July 9- The Eaglez: Western New York’s Eagles’ Tribute Band
The Eaglez are Western New York’s own Eagles’ tribute band. The group pays particular attention to the rich harmony vocals that the legendary Eagles are famous for. An Eaglez concert features not only the Eagles’ biggest hits, but also solo songs written and recorded by Joe Walsh, Glenn Frey, and Don Henley.
July 22- Public Water Supply
Public Water Supply is an Alt. Country/Indie Rock act out of Rochester. PWS consists of five university-trained musicians, blending distinctive songwriting, spectacular vocals, and incredible instrumentalists. The members include: Iggy Marino, frontman; Adrianna Noone, lead singer; Karis Gregory, Jr., lead guitar; Alex Brophy, team captain and bass; and Spencer Kornrich, bus driver and drums. PWS dropped their debut self-titled album earlier this year.
July 23- Ronstadt Revue
Linda Ronstadt, an 11-time Grammy winner who has sold over 100 million albums in country, rock, Latin, Motown, and even Broadway music, is no longer performing publicly. Fortunately, her musical legacy now lives on through Gesenia and her Ronstadt Revue. Every Ronstadt Revue show features performances in both English and Spanish, and covers every musical genre of Ms. Ronstadt’s 40+ year career. Two of Ronstadt’s own band members are currently co-producing and featured on the upcoming Ronstadt Revue album.
July 30- The Joint is Jumpin’: Songs of the Harlem Renaissance
Music historian Michael Lasser, singers Connie Fredericks Malone, and Reuben J. Tapp, and accompanist Scott Bradley celebrate the centennial of The Harlem Renaissance. Rediscover this historic time period by listening to the songs of Duke Ellington and Thomas “Fats” Waller.
August 17- Both Sides Now: The Music of Joni Mitchell
Singer and songwriter Kelly Shapiro is joined by musicians Mike Shapiro and Siena Facciolo for a deep dive into the songbook of the legendary Joni Mitchell.
Music Mondays
June 5- Marshay Dominique and Miriam Morelli
June 12- Sarah DeValliere and Emily Champion
July 10- Kelly Izzo Shapiro and Levi Gangi
July 24- Cami Enaharo and Chris Wilson
August 7- Kara Fink and Bret Levick
August 21- Brian McCormick, Jerry Falzone, and Lou Sweigman
The Town of Lake Luzerne and the Lake Luzerne Regional Chamber of Commerce will host the Inaugural Food Trucks and Music Extravaganza. The event will combine live music, a wide range of delicious food, and fun activities. The event will be held on six consecutive Wednesdays, from 5 to 8 pm, starting on July 12 and ending on August 16, 2023.
The Food Trucks and Music Extravaganza will feature a diverse selection of food from food trucks including tacos, fish and chicken sandwiches, gourmet mac and cheese, lemonade, doughnuts and more.
Additionally, the live music will feature local bands and regional artists, which will surely create a festive atmosphere and ambiance. The bands will include:
In addition to great food and music, the extravaganza will hold a 50-50 raffle to raise money for the Lake Luzerne Food Bank and local scholarships. All raffle proceeds will directly support these organizations who are vital to the community.
“This event is not only a fun and exciting way to bring the community together but also a way to support local organizations that make a significant impact on the lives of our community members,” said Sam Zappas, who initiated the event.
The event is free to attend, open to anyone and everyone. Visitors should bring chairs or blankets and can enjoy live music and delicious food in Lake Luzerne’s beautiful pavilion park. The event will be held at the Pavilion Park located at 248 Lake Avenue in Lake Luzerne, New York.
For more information about the Lake Luzerne Food Trucks and Music Extravaganza, contact this email.
Darien Lake Amphitheater has announced their official 2023 summer lineup of performances beginning on June 14th. Located in the small town of Darien in Western New York, the venue originally opened in 1993 and has the capacity to hold 21,600 guests with 6,410 pavilion seats.
The American rock band, formed in Charlottesville, VA in 1991, set out on May 19th on their Walk Around The Moon Tour to celebrate the release of their newest album. The band is headed by singer-songwriter Dave Matthews and is supported by: bassist Stefan Lessard; drummer and backing vocalist Carter Beauford; trumpeter, percussionist, and backing vocalist Rashawn Ross; saxophone and winds player Jeff Coffin; Tim Reynolds on lead guitar; Buddy Strong on keyboard and backing vocals.
Luke Bryan, one of the most successful and awarded country artists of the past decade, comes to Darien as his 4th stop on his summer tour. The singer, songwriter, and TV personality plans to perform his recent #1 single Country On alongside his most popular releases including “Play It Again” and “That’s My Kind of Night.”
Kidz Bop Live – Never Stop Tour – July 14th, 7:00 PM
KIDZ BOP AND LIVE NATION ANNOUNCE ALL-NEW 2023 TOUR
Kidz Bop is known as the #1 music brand for kids that makes everyday hits friendly for younger audiences. The brand will be partnering with Live Nation and travel to a total of thirty-seven cities. This tour will introduce four new kids to the performance crew: Jackson, Kiya, Shila, and Tyler.
The American singer-songwriter, Sam Hunt, will take to the Darien stage in mid July. His openers on tour will include country singer Brett Young alongside genre bending artist Lily Rose.
The classic rock band which gave music lovers everything from “I Want To Know What Love Is” to “It Feels Like the First Time” heads out on their final tour this summer. The group will play all over North America alongside one of the 80s greatest hitmakers, Loverboy.
Lead singer, Boy George, will be taking the stage once again along side Roy Hay and Mikey Craig as Culture Club. The London pop group will be joined on stage by the British singer Howard Jones and the American new wave band Berlin.
This years Outlaw Music Festival will bring feature singers Willie Nelson and Family, Nathaniel Rateliff and the The Night Sweats, Gov’t Mule, and Kathleen Edwards & Particle Kids to Darien. The festival will kick off on June 23rd and will run a total of 16 dates this summer. Each performance will feature varying artists.
Pop rock band, Matchbox Twenty, have over fifty tour dates lined up for the summer. The Slow Dream Tour will feature special guest American singer-songwriter, Matt Nathanson.
The three time CMT Music Award winner, Jelly Roll, takes his unique and genre-bending sound across the United States this summer. The artist will be joined by many other performers over the length of the tour, but his show in Darien will feature rappers Merkules and Struggle Jennings.
Celebrating their newest album, So Much (for) Stardust, which dropped on March 24th, Fall Out Boy will head out on tour starting June 21st. Joining the American rock band at Darien will be the British rock band Bring Me The Horizon, singer-songwriter Royal and The Serpent, and The Games We Play.
Also Performing
Post Malone: If Y’all Weren’t Here, I’d Be Crying Tour – July 17th, 8:00 PM
50 Cent ft: Busta Rhymes & Jeremih: The Final Lap Tour – August 5th, 7:00 PM
The lineup for the free Levitt Amp 2023 Utica Music Series has been announced, featuring a wide variety of artists performing at Kopernik Park. Concerts will take place on Monday nights starting at 5:30 p.m., from June 19 – August 28 (no concert on the 3rd of July).
Photo by Lynne Brown.
Levitt AMP 2023 will feature headlining artists from Ireland, Wisconsin, Iowa, Toronto, Massachusetts, Connecticut, and right here in New York State, with local and regional acts opening. The diverse lineup spans genres like bluegrass, pop, rock, gospel, instrumental, Irish rock, and more.
The series brings in the most diverse audience in the city in a family-friendly, non-alcoholic, joyful, welcoming environment. The music series also helps add to the economy in Utica, promotes communal bonding, and serves as a creative training ground for youth with their Levitteen Internship Program and each week a youth performer is showcased at intermission.
The concert schedule is as follows: 5:30 p.m. opening bands, 6:30 p.m. youth intermission acts, and 7:00 p.m. headliner bands.
Levitt AMP 2023.
Levitt AMP 2023 Lineup
June 19–Harlem Gospel Travelers
Levitt AMP is proud to once again be a part of the five-day Juneteenth Celebration in the City of Utica. The Harlem Gospel Travelers from New York City will kick off the seventh season, drawing deeply on the gospel quartet tradition of the 1950s and 60s, bringing a timeliness, uplifting sound to the park. Local singer Amos Donnell, who auditioned for The Voice and America’s Got Talent, will kick off the night as the opener.
June 26-Brandon “Taz” Niederauer
Brandon “Taz” Niederauer drew Levitt AMP Utica’s biggest audience ever back in 2019, bringing in over 1,000 people to the park. The 20-year-old guitar genius will be back this summer in a rare repeat performance for the series. Nicknamed “Taz” for his ferocious guitar playing, he has performed in some of the most legendary venues in America, was cast in Broadway’s School of Rock, and has been hailed as the “next Jimmy Hendrix.” Jimmy Wolf, local blues legend, Native American Music Awards winner, and an inductee in the New York State Blues Hall of Fame, will be opening.
July 10-Joe Samba
Levitt AMP is excited to welcome Massachusetts-based reggae singer, songwriter, and guitarist Joe Samba to Utica. He finds the sweet spot between Caribbean bliss and punk energy, matched with his dynamic vocals. The opener is The Old Main, a local favorite that delivers everything from sentimental folk ballads to foot-stomping rock and bluegrass.
Brandon “Taz” Niederauer, photo by Brian Cole
July 17-Funky Dawgz Brass Band
Hailing from Connecticut, Levitt AMP 2023 will welcome the internationally touring band Funky Dawgz Brass Band. Their horn section has played with bands to sold-out shows in Madison Square Garden, closed out The Peach Music Festival, and has been featured on ESPN, Hulu, and the FX series “Fargo.” Opener Handsome Bob brings a wide variety of influences to his music, serving up anything from the Red Hot Chili Peppers to Sublime, to the Temptations and Johnny Cash with their own flavor and mash-ups.
July 24-Nefresh Mountain
Hailed as one of today’s most boundary-pushing progressive bluegrass groups on the scene, Nefresh Mountain was declared “A Powerhouse Unit” by Rolling Stone Magazine. A husband and wife duo, they blur the lines between Americana, folk, and blues. Kicking off the night is Otis Monk, an original American band based out of Central NY. They incorporate elements from a multitude of genres and are dependent on extended musical improvisation over rhythmic grooves.
July 31-B2Wins
B2Wins is made up of Brazilian twins Walter and Wagner, described as a “violin and ukulele meet rock concert, dance party, jam session and vacation for the soul.” They have performed over 1,000 shows around the world in the past decade. The opener Stephen Phillips is a pop/funk artist from Syracuse, who also has an extensive vocal range and tons of energy.
August 7-Tae & the Neighborly
Tae & the Neighborly are from Wisconsin and joined forces during Covid. The five-piece all lived alone in a five-story flat and were literally borrowing sugar from each other during the pandemic to bake with, resulting in a soul/pop-rock band of powerhouse players. Opening for Tae & the Neighborly and returning to the Levitt AMP stage is the Jess Novak Band. She is a triple threat, as a singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist she can transform from a gorgeous classical piano solo to rockin’ the stage with her full band.
Tae & the Neighborly.
August 14-Battle of Santiago
Latin Night will feature Battle of Santiago, an Afro-Cuban band from Toronto. They have a super unique sound and energy, defined as “Cuban Post Rock from Canada” with classic rhythms and some cumbia, Latin rock, and smooth funk mixed in. Opener Trump Tight 315 is no stranger to Utica, having performed many years at Juneteenth and just a couple of years ago at Munson’s Summer Festival. The husband and wife lead singers are fun, and powerful, bringing nostalgic R&B, soul, and pop.
August 21-Erin Harpe & The Delta Swingers
Erin Harpe is a Massachusetts-based blues vocalist and guitarist, dubbed “one of the most dynamic talents and exciting roots rocking blues women on the scene” by Living Blues Magazine. She has been compared to legendary blues women like Bonnie Raitt and Rory Block. 19-year-old Sydney Irving will open. She was named the 2020 young adult artist of the Year by the International Singer-Songwriters Association and the 2022 Best New Artist at the SAMMYs.
August 28-Hermitage Green
Straight from Ireland, Hermitage Green has played together since 2010 after a spontaneous jam session and has been touring the world since, from South Africa and Australia to London and Canada. They have a unique arrangement of instruments that includes the bodhrán, djembe, rhythmic guitar, and banjo. Locally-loved Irish band Blarney Rebel Band will open for the closing concert of the season.
For more information about Levitt AMP 2023, visit here.
