Category: Regions

  • Hearing Aide: Organ Fairchild’s New Single “Chamelonious Monk”

    Organ Fairchild, a funky jam band out from Buffalo, have released their new single, “Chamelonious Monk.” The band are previous winners of NYS Music’s 2021 March Madness and their new single holds to their name, with an organ undercurrent and a signature guitar riff to carry on through the song.

    Organ Fairchild was formed in 2020 by Joe Bellanti (organ, keys), Corey Kertzie (drums) and Dave Ruch (guitar), members of a Grateful Dead cover band “White Nights.” Though they debuted right before the COVID-19 pandemic, the three-piece instrumental band has had a successful rise through sold out shows and performances across the Northeast.

    “In Organ Fairchild’s world, chamelon (not chameleon) rhymes with HAM-a-LAHN and refers to a person of exceptional ability and taste. And if you’re a chamelon, well, things you do are chamelonious. So now we’re getting dangerously close to jazz musician Thelonious Monk’s first name, so we added the word Monk to the title and included some signature Monk-like dissonant chords in the climbing part of the song (chords containing half-step intervals for the musicians out there…).”

    Dave Ruch, the band’s guitarist

    Their new single was recorded and mixed by Justin Guip of Milan Hill Studio and mastered by Alan Evans of Soulive.

    For nearly the whole of “Chamelonious Monk,” Bellanti’s organ acts as the cushion for the many highs of the song to fall back on. That is not to say that the organ does not get its chance to shine, but it often keeps the song flowing. Kertzie’s drums are the bridge between the organ and the guitar, cushioning when the organ cannot and leading when the guitar is not.

    Ruch’s guitar has a signature riff through the piece, which often leads the song through its various phases. One of the best uses of the guitar comes in at around the three minute mark, where it briefly stands alone after a small crescendo. The organ rises behind it, slowly taking focus before the drums snatches it away.

    To check out “Chamelonious Monk” by Organ Fairchild on various streaming services, check out this page. For more on the band and their upcoming shows, take a look at their website.

  • Deer Tick Keeps It Weird at Lincoln Hill Farms

    A week in advance of the release of their new album, Rhode Island folk-rock stalwarts Deer Tick visited Lincoln Hill Farms in Canandaigua. It was a bit of a weird week in Western New York as smoke from Canadian wildfires filled the air, forcing people indoors and into masks once again. The air cleared enough to safely stage the show, and the show would go on.

    But still, for Deer Tick, “it was a weird time to be alive,” according to guitarist and singer John McCauley. Not this era, decade, week, or day, but specifically the current time, 7:47pm. A hard curfew of 9pm, ensured the sun would be out for pretty much the whole show. It was an early set for the band more attuned to the late night bar crowd, even if they’ve outgrown their bar band days.

    Weird as it was, Deer Tick stuffed their early-evening time with songs spanning their career, from some of their earliest tunes. like “Easy” and “Twenty Miles,” all the way up to their as-yet released material. It all flowed together seamlessly. The old tunes felt as fresh as ever, while the new ones had a well-worn quality like they had been there all along.

    The new record, Emotional Contracts, was actually recorded not all that far away, in the similarly named Cassadaga, NY at Tarbox Road Studios. Kinda weird?

    In their own weird way, they worked in some tributes to some of the rockers that helped paved their way. “Me and My Man” got a little bit of ZZ Top’s “La Grange” added at the front, which prompted McCauley to suggest they do that for all of their songs. So on the ensuing, “The Bump,” his band mates jokingly obliged with teases of Tom Petty’s “Running Down a Dream,” and The Beatles’ “Day Tripper.” When MCCauley’s monitor needed a battery change, the rest of the band settled into a nice little groove while waiting. This sounded like Santana and Rob Thomas’ hit “Smooth” to McCauley so he of course started singing what he could remember from that. Then on the tail end of “The Dream’s in the Ditch,” McCauley tacked on Santo and Johnny’s “Tear Drop,” with their signature languid slide guitar sound. They weren’t over a more traditional cover either, throwing in a rollicking rendition of Little Feat’s “Rocket in my Pocket” mid-set that featured searing solos from both McCauley and guitarist Ian O’Neill. Even the banter included tributes, with Cheap Trick’s famous line, “This is the first song off our new album!” appropriately introducing the new tune, “If I Try to Leave.”

    The latest single, “Once in a Lifetime” was titled like a cover, but it was all original, getting down with Chris Ryan’s groovy bass line. As much fun as the band was having with their little asides, their original material ruled the day, or the early-evening rather. Drummer Dennis Ryan penned the new “Running From Love,” which came to him in a dream. The soul-inflected tune built and built, culminating in a fiery solo from McCauley on his orange guitar, with his matching orange pick, which he also thought was “weird.”

    The set closed on “Mange,” tossing the previous 80 minutes together into a rock assault. A long intro set the scene, a grooving bass laid the groundwork, and a big “whoop” set the fuse. Then the band went all in with raging guitars, a big drum solo, and a drifting feedback jam. They put it all out there for a big rock show finish.

    But of course there was more. They came back for a two-song encore that pushed right up to that 9pm curfew. The night closed with “the last song on our new album,” the slow oozing rocker “The Real Thing” that surely left everyone in attendance hotly anticipating their first listen to Emotional Contracts.

    If you missed out, don’t fret, the band will be back in the area with a show at the Homer Center for the Arts on November 12.

    Setlist: Forgiving Ties, If I Try to Leave, Me and My Man, The Bump > Easy, Rocket in My Pocket (Little Feat), If She Could See Me Now, Twenty Miles, Running From Love, Hope is Big > Tripping Up the Stairs (Traditional), Once in a Lifetime, Clownin’ Around, The Dream’s in the Ditch > Tear Drop (Santo & Johnny), Mange
    Encore: Jumpstarting, The Real Thing

  • Melissa Etheridge and Motown Legends to Perform at Binghamton University

    Binghamton University’s Anderson Center for the Performing Arts announced its annual roster of summer concerts, featuring several opportunities for regional music lovers to get out and boogie.

    The Anderson Center, located on the main campus of Binghamton University in Vestal, NY, aims to enhance the local community and support Binghamton University’s educational vision through enriching performances. This summer’s lineup is a testament to their commitment.

    Friday, June 30

    The Anderson Center presents The Temptations and the Four Tops, iconic Motown groups, for a night of solid gold hits.

    The Temptations came to define Detroit’s Motown sound in the ’60s and ’70s with hits like “My Girl,” “Ain’t to Proud to Beg,” and “Papa Was a Rolling Stone.” The Temptations were ranked #1 “Greatest R&B/Hip-Hop Artist of All Time” by Billboard. Additionally, Rolling Stone hailed them as “the greatest black vocal group of the Modern Era,” highlighting their profound influence on the evolution of American music. The group is still touring with founding member Dr. Otis Williams.

    The Four Tops emerged from the same Detroit neighborhoods as the Temptations, the Supremes, and Smokey Robinson. They too released their own string of chart-topping hits for the Motown label including “I Can’t Help Myself (Sugar Pie, Honey Bunch)” and “It’s The Same Old Song.” The Four Tops continue to tour with founding member Duke Fakir.

    Friday, August 11

    Melissa Etheridge’s tour bus rolls into campus later this summer for a stop on her Summer ’23 Tour. Etheridge’s confessional lyrics and raspy, smoky vocals have made her a beloved singer-songwriter. Her string of ’90s hits solidify her enduring legacy. Familiar favorites include “Come to My Window,” “I’m the Only One,” and “I Want to Come Over.” Etheridge, who previously played at the Anderson Center in 2009 solo, will return with a full band this time.

    Tickets and More Information

    An additional concert by the Jazz Ambassadors of the United States Army Field Band, scheduled for Wednesday, June 28, has already sold out. However, tickets are available for The Temptations, The Four Tops, and Melissa Etheridge.

    Tickets for the Temptations and the Four Tops cost $75/65/55 inside, $30 on the lawn. Tickets for Melissa Etheridge: Summer Tour ’23 cost $65/55/45 inside, $25 on the lawn.

    A full 2023-24 season announcement is expected in mid-June. For more information, visit anderson.binghamton.edu, contact 607-777-ARTS, or stop by the Anderson Center Box Office between 12-4 p.m., Monday-Friday

  • A Phenomenal Night with BONES, Eddy Baker, and Xavier Wulf at the Knockdown Center

    Knockdown Center in Brooklyn hosted BONES, Eddy Baker, and Xavier Wulf on Friday, June 2. The “In Loving Memory” Tour brought an electrifying night of rap music to the iconic Knockdown Center in Brooklyn. Featuring the talented artists BONES, Eddy Baker, and Xavier Wulf. The concert showcased a unique blend of raw energy, skillful performances, and an unforgettable atmosphere.

    On June 2nd, 2023 the doors opened and the crowd began to pour into Knockdown Center, Brooklyn eagerly anticipating an exceptional night of rap music. The audience was a diverse mix of dedicated fans, each bringing their own unique style and enthusiasm. The vibrant energy within the venue was palpable, setting the stage for an unforgettable experience.

    First up was Eddy Baker, who wasted no time in capturing the crowd’s attention. With his dynamic stage presence and charismatic delivery, Baker immediately connected with the audience. His high-energy performance ignited the crowd, creating an electric atmosphere that set the tone for the rest of the night. Eddy Baker flawlessly delivered tracks from his discography, including fan favorites like “READY2RUMBLE” and “Telescopes” The crowd was fully engaged, vibing along with his energetic beats and intricate lyrics.

    Next, Xavier Wulf took the stage, continuing the wave of intense energy that had been building throughout the night. Known for his distinct voice and aggressive flow, Wulf commanded the attention of the audience from the moment he stepped foot on the stage. His dark and brooding beats combined with his relentless delivery captivated the crowd. Xavier Wulf treated fans to a mix of his hit tracks, including “Request Refused” and “Akina Speed Star.” The crowd responded with immense enthusiasm, moshing and rapping along, creating an atmosphere of pure exhilaration.

    The anticipation reached its peak as BONES, a true master of his craft, emerged on stage. As the headliner, BONES brought his unique blend of introspective lyrics and haunting melodies to the forefront. The crowd erupted in excitement, showcasing their devotion to the artist. BONES effortlessly commanded the stage, delivering a captivating performance that transcended the boundaries of traditional rap music. With tracks like “RedAlert,” “AirplaneMode,” and “LooseScrew,” BONES guided the audience through a musical journey that was both introspective and deeply engaging. The crowd’s reaction was electric, as they rapped along with every word, forming a powerful bond with the artist.

    The Knockdown Center proved to be the perfect venue for the “In Loving Memory” Tour. Its spacious layout and exceptional acoustics created an immersive environment, allowing the music to resonate throughout the venue. The stage setup, complete with vibrant lighting and visuals, enhanced the overall experience, adding an extra layer of intensity to the performances.

    Overall, the “In Loving Memory” Tour at Knockdown Center in Brooklyn, was a night to remember. BONES, Eddy Baker, and Xavier Wulf brought their A-game, delivering powerful performances that left the crowd craving more. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation and enthusiasm, as fans connected with the music on a deep and personal level. The combination of the diverse crowd, the exceptional talent of the artists, the venue’s ambiance, and the carefully curated music selections made this concert an unforgettable experience for all in attendance.

  • Played ‘Em Like Chess – Lola Brooke Don’t Play At All

    The drill scene seemingly emerged from out of the gutter. Many will trace its roots back to Chicago – but for those who know – New York drill remains unparalleled. One small but mighty artist – Lola Brooke reps Brooklyn and continues to flood the airwaves with her boisterous bass-filled voice. Much like MC Lyte – she needs a roughneck.

    Lola Brooke drill

    Marcy Projects to be Specific

    Reigning from Bedford Stuyvesant – the home of Biggie and Jay-Z – this artist remains unapologetically herself. Her name combines tomboy Space Jam character Lola Bunny with the place that gave her the flavor – Brooklyn. Seeing a Kriss Kross video at her grandmother’s house in Birmingham, AL at age eight sealed the deal. Rapper or bust.

    Certainly, Lola experienced her share of turmoil en route to the limelight. Often times, she maximized her abilities by going straight to the studio after working her regular job. Eventually, her mom took notice of the work being put in and provided the security for her to quit her job and pursue a career in music full time. Lola earned her mother’s faith through consistent work, and experimentation with her craft. Today – her song, “Don’t Play With It” serves as the drill anthem for all of NYC. 

    Lola Brooke drill

    Standing 4’9″, Lola likes to play up her petite pedigree. Cameramen capture her best angles and do not feel pressured to make her look tall. Rather, she embraces the juxtaposition between her fun-sized physical appearance and her larger than life persona. Hearing the inflection in her bass-filled voice would never lead one to imagine her miniature stature.

    Breaking An Artist

    The amazing part about her hit single, “Don’t Play With It” revolves around the fact that it took nearly two years to go viral. A major turning point for the trajectory of her career emerged when she performed the song on “From the Block.” All of the traction that the song garnered worked wonders for both the From the Block platform, Producer Dizzy Banko and Lola Brooke. Wins all across the board.

    Lola’s voice booms with timbre and takes the listener by surprise. Thus, her tunes and tones carry seductive, masculine and argumentative vibrations. While completing her song process, LB tends to pace about the space, repeat a catchy phrase and let the energy marinade. Therefore, by the time she gets to the studio it is an absolutely explosive type K.O. moment. 

    Timbo Collabo

    It seems as if the city of Brooklyn is synonymous with the Timberland boot. From “Stomping a b*tch out in her Timbo’s” to creating a customized shoe – Lola continues to climb. Seeing her musical aspirations materialize allows her to feel understood. Is it better to be lucky or good? Either way, for Lola – it is less important to be seen than it is to be understood. 

    Recognition, spiritual fruition and a whole lot more than “100 Bands” currently surround Lola Brooke, who told Gothamist, “When you wake up in the morning and you know you still look good without knowing how you look — that’s what I want my music to give off. Supreme confidence.”

  • Mónica Giraldo Announces Show at Lincoln Center

    Colombian singer-songwriter Mónica Giraldo announced a four show tour with performances in Boston, Philadelphia, New York City, and Washington DC. The tour will stop at the Lincoln Center on June 15.

    mónica giraldo

    Giraldo has been nominated for a Latin Grammy for Best New Artist. She also received two Billboard Awards as a singer-songwriter. She has six recorded works, including albums such as Muy Cerca (Very Close), Todo da Vueltas (Everything Turns), and Que Venga la Vida (Let Life Come).

    With past concerts in the United States, Mexico, France, Japan, and other countries, Mónica Giraldo is an experienced world traveler. She also worked as an architect at CBT Architects in Boston as well as at other leading architecture firms in Spain and Colombia. Furthermore, Giraldo is an Ambassador of the Berklee College of Music in Colombia. Additionally, she has collaborated with Totó La Momposina and Mafalda Veiga, among other artists.

    Mónica Giraldo Shows

    June 12- City Winery in Boston

    June 14- City Winery in Philadelphia

    June 15- Lincoln Center Atrium in New York

    June 16- The Hamilton in Washington DC

  • Governors Ball 2023 Kicks Off with Lizzo, Lil Uzi Vert, Ice Spice and More

    Governors Ball kicked off the 2023 edition on Friday, June 9th, showing off their new digs in the sprawling in Flushing Meadows Park. After many years on Randall’s Island, and a brief stint in the parking lot of Citi Field, Governors Ball made the long anticipated move to the famed Queens park. Nestled amongst the giant trees and iconic landmarks, the festival feels right at home in the World’s Borough. The Canadian wildfire smoke cleared out entirely for the day, letting perfect weather shine for most of the day.

    governors ball 2023
    Lizzo, Governors Ball, 6/9/2023. Photo by Joseph Buscarello

    On the GovballNYC stage, Saba set the tone with his early afternoon performance. He got the crowd going with hits like “Ziplock” and “Photosynthesis.” Over at the GoPuff stage, Tai Verdes kept it cool with “A-O-K” to get the crowd ready for Brooklyn’s own Joey Bada$$. Joey went through songs across his entire discography and made sure to let his hometown crowd feel his energy. Joey made a tribute to XXXTENTACION by performing their song “infinity (888).”

    governors ball 2023
    Joey Bada$$, Governors Ball, 6/9/2023. Photo by Lucas Kurzweil

    The GoPuff stage did not disappoint with later sets from Ice Spice, Metro Boomin, and Lil Uzi Vert. Ice Spice drew one of the biggest crowds of the day, and took the house down with her viral songs “Much” and “In Ha Mood.” Metro Boomin’ followed up Ice Spice’s performance with an intricate DJ set. Rain started to pour but that didn’t stop the fans from screaming every word, bar for bar, during Metro’s performance. Over on the Bacardi stage, the brief rain shower made for an even raunchier set than normal from pop icon Kim Petras.

    Kim Petras, Governors Ball, 6/9/2023. Photo by Joseph Buscarello

    Lil Uzi Vert closed out the night with a bang. Interacting with fans throughout the set, he even announced that the highly anticipated “Pink Tape” will drop at the end of the month. Uzi went through the hits, brought out Ken Carson and Destroy Lonely and ended the night with their latest hit “Just Wanna Rock.”

    governors ball 2023
    Lil Uzi Vert, Governors Ball, 6/9/2023. Photo by Lucas Kurzweil

    Meanwhile, over on the GovBallNYC stage, Lizzo dominated the stage with her larger than lifer performance. Flanked by a sea of dancers, backup vocalists, a killer live band, and several outfit changes, Lizzo’s powerful voice reverberated through Flushing Meadows.

    Lizzo, Governors Ball, 6/9/2023. Photo by Joseph Buscarello

    Day 2 gets going today, with sets from Finneas, Snail Mail, Rina Sawayama, Lil Baby, and Odesza. Stay tuned for our Saturday recap tomorrow morning.

  • A Look Ahead at Tribeca Festival 2023: What to Watch (and Play) at This Year’s Event

    The 2023 edition of Robert DeNiro, Jane Rosenthal, and Craig Hatkoff’s Tribeca Festival (formerly Tribeca Film Festival) began this past Wednesday, June 7th.

    This event that highlights films, games, television, and music kicked off with the premiere of Kiss The Future, directed by Nenad Cicin-Sain, with producers: Matt Damon, Ben Affleck, and Sarah Anthony.

    Tribeca Festival 2023 received a record-high of 12,000 submissions, ultimately narrowing it down to 109 feature films, 76 shorts, and over 20 interactive experiences and games.

    After viewing all that the festival has to offer, here are a few that you should check out during the remainder of the Festival:

    Features

    The Adults

    Dustin Guy Defa | June 13, 14, 16 at SVA Theatre & Village East

    The plan to make a trip back home as short as possible begins to unravel as Eric finds himself balancing the challenging relationship with his two sisters and his addiction to a local poker game.

    This film features eccentric performances from 3 actors that deliver moments of familial humor tied with touching earnestness.

    LaRoy

    Shane Atkinson | June 17 at Village East

    When Ray discovers that his wife is cheating on him, he decides he’s going to kill himself. His plans suddenly change when a stranger mistakes him for a low-rent hitman.

    This film features two exceptional performances from leads John Magaro and Steve Zahn, along with a solid directorial debut.

    Anthem

    Peter Nicks | June 11, 13, 14 at Spring Studios & Village East

    What would the national anthem sound like if it was based on American music and not the melody of an old British tune? The film follows composer and pianist Kris Bowers and producer Dahi across the country.

    This powerful and relevant documentary highlights the national anthem, whilst traveling to learn more about what America actually sounds like.

    Songs About Fucking

    James Gallagher | June 10, 11, 16 at Spring Studios & Village East

    The documentary introduces the artist, showman, and robe-clad raconteur Marc Rebillet as he embarks on one of the first live music tours after COVID-19 lockdown.

    This documentary highlights a musician’s ambitious tour right off the heels of the pandemic in an inspiring pursuit of musical greatness.

    After the Premiere: A musical Q&A with Marc Rebillet.


    Shorts

    Over the Wall

    Krystal Tingle | June 10, 13, 17 at AMC East 6 & Village East

    Brehanna Daniels, the first Black woman pit crew member and tire changer in NASCAR, works her way back from injury to participate in the Daytona 500, the biggest race in the sport.

    In this fascinating and frenetic look behind the scenes of a NASCAR pit crew member, highlighting a new generation in the athletic field.

    Voice Activated

    Steve Anthopoulos | June 10, 12, 17 at AMC East 6 & Village East

    A florist with a stutter is forced to cooperate with a voice activated car on the way to an important delivery.

    This film perfectly utilizes the short format (12 minutes) in it’s premise and comedic voice assistant interactions.


    Somewhere in Between

    Kyle Vorbach, John Horan | June 14, 17, 18 at AMC East 6 & Village East

    Two will-they-won’t-they friends are just enjoying a simple New Year’s Eve— until a man from the future bursts in, telling them the fate of the universe rests in their hands!

    This short features great special effects and is a lot of fun in a small package.

    Proof of Concept

    Max Cohn, Ellie Sachs | June 11 at Village East

    An aspiring auteur tries coaxing her dad and uncle into financing her first short film but winds up raising more questions than dollars.

    This is a very fun short film that is self-aware and true to the overwhelming filmmaking and budgeting experience.


    Television

    Full Circle

    Steven Soderbergh | June 11 – 8:00 PM at OKX Theater

    Full Circle is a limited series about an investigation into a botched kidnapping that uncovers long-held secrets connecting multiple characters and cultures in present day New York City.

    After the Screening: A conversation with director and executive producer Steven Soderbergh, executive producer Casey Silver, and cast.

    Swagger

    Reggie Rock Bythewood | June 17 at AMC East 6

    Inspired by NBA superstar Kevin Durant’s experiences, Swagger explores the world of youth basketball, and the players, their families and coaches who walk the fine line between dreams and ambition, and opportunism and corruption. Off the court, the show reveals what it’s like to grow up in America.

    After the Screening: A conversation with creator and executive producer Reggie Rock Bythewood and cast.

    The Long Long Night

    Barret O’Brien, Mark Duplass | June 12, 14 at Village East & AMC East 6

    It’s been 6 months since that disastrous night in the motel and these two guys (Mark Duplass and Barret O’Brien) are nowhere near over it.

    This is a very intriguing series that poses many questions within the first few minutes of episode on and continues on an interesting path throughout the full length.


    Games + Interactive

    Spring Studios | Through June 17th

    Despelote

    Julián Cordero, Sebastian Valbuena

    Run, pass, and dribble as eight year old Julián in this slice of life game all about football. Explore the streets and parks of Quito, set against the backdrop of Ecuador’s first qualifying run for the World Cup in 2001.

    This is an incredibly charming and quirky game that is a joy to play and roam around, soccer ball at your feet.

    Pixel Ripped 1978

    Isaias Junior, Marcus Penna, Ana Ribeiro, Rômulo Silva

    This VR game is the newest entry in the Pixel Ripped series that sees Dot once again fight against the evil Cyblin Lord, who has a nefarious plan to hack into the game creator’s past and to make himself the protagonist.

    If you’ve never experienced Virtual Reality, this is a great chance to check it out and jump into the game within the game.

    Reimagined Volume II: Mahal

    Michaela Ternasky-Holland, Julie Cavaliere

    This interactive VR experience focuses on the four immortal children of the recently passed creator god, Bathala and their all-powerful actions that create ripples throughout the universe.

    It was a great journey exploring the Philippine mythology that inspired it and the rich character narrative. The experience’s booth also featured models of the characters from the short.


    Tribeca Festival 2023
    LaRoy Red Carpet Premiere at Tribeca, June 8th 2023, Photograph by Parker Alexander
  • Troy Savings Bank Music Hall Awarded $3.4 Million By NYSCA

    The New York State Council of the Arts (NYSCA) has awarded Troy Savings Bank Music Hall a $3.4 million grant. The venue, which is located on 2nd Street in Downtown Troy, received the money to support renovations that aim to make the building more accessible and preserve its historical elements.

    Most of the money from the grant will go towards the renovation of the first floor of the venue. The Troy Savings Bank was commissioned in 1875 with the first level originally designed to be used for banking and businesses, while the top level was composed of a music hall. The new renovations look to transform the first floor, which has been vacant since 2012, into a vibrant multi-purpose space. The goal is to create an affordable and accessible place for musical and cultural education.

    “We have long hoped and planned to make improvements and offer more programming and a broader spectrum of experiences to our community. This grant sets us on the path toward accomplishing our dream”

    Jon Elbaum, Executive Director of the Music Hall

    The new “Music Hub” will feature a community space, classrooms, a community board room, a recording studio, and rehearsal rooms. The money from the grant is a small part of a massive funding plan constructed by the NYSCA. There are 19 projects across the state that will divide up the $90 million plan.

    Initially, Governor Nelson Rockefeller created NYSCA back in 1960. The goal of the organization is to preserve and advance the arts and culture of New York. The Music Hall’s renovation is a piece of NYSCA’s “Large Capital Improvement Grants for Arts and Cultures” program. The project looks to support institutions and organizations that are “undertaking impactful, large-scale capital improvements”. 

    Artwork by Kelly Garrett

    “Capital projects for the arts are an investment in our communities, our health, and our prosperity for decades to come. On behalf of the Council and staff, I congratulate Troy Savings Bank Music Hall on its vision and dedication to serving the residents and visitors of New York and we look forward to seeing all that will flourish from this initiative,” NYSCA Chair Katherine Nicholls said.

    Once the updates finish, the building looks to serve as a year-round venue. The Musical Hall celebrates its 150th anniversary in 2025. Throughout the years it has established itself as a historical and cultural pillar in and around Albany. 

    Here you can find more information on the Troy Savings Bank Music Hall.

  • Foothill Performing Arts Center, Oneonta’s Hidden Gem

    Nestled amongst the backdrop of the Catskill mountains, just an hour outside Albany, Foothills Performing Arts Center (PAC) is a non-profit entertainment and civic center that serves the cultural, educational, and community needs of the Otsego, Delaware, and Chenango tri-county region.

    Foothills Performing Arts Center

    Centered in the eclectic university community in Oneonta, Foothills PAC originally opened in 2005 and has become the region’s go-to venue for live entertainment for both national and local acts such as Bela Fleck and The Flecktones, Gordon Lightfoot, Bernie Williams, Rusted Root, Tanya Tucker, John Michael Montgomery, Joe Diffie, and Thompson Square.

    Foothills Performing Arts Center
    Wilber Wright Atrium

    Foothills consists of multiple venues on its property, from its grand two story Wilber Wright Atrium, perfect for weddings and large events, to its Bettiol Theatre for smaller productions. The center also offers two smaller production spaces, The Loft and The Production Center.

    As part of Foothill’s community engagement initiative, Foothills is also home to the Oneonta Farmers Market, providing the local community with fresh, home grown produce and artisanal crafts.

    The Loft Performance Space

    Recently appointed Executive Director Geoff Doyle has spent the better part of the last two years investing hundreds of thousands of dollars into renovations for Foothills, as part of his initiative to turn Foothills into a more diverse and utilized space for the local community. When Foothill’s closed at the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic, Mr. Doyle took that time to write grants and to fundraise. Having found themselves with an empty building, as well as a surplus of funding from grants and generous donations, the Foothills Board used that time and those resources to finally do the work that had needed to be done for many years.

    Bettiol Theatre

    Taking both comments and critiques from the local community, renovations have included updated lighting and sound equipment for productions, to infrastructure improvements of the performance spaces.

    We’ve become more than an arts center over the years. People donate blood here. They vote here. They attend weddings, birthday parties, bridal showers, conferences, speaking engagements, fundraising events and so much more. We’ve been partners with SUNY Oneonta’s Music Industry program for a decade now, providing internships for many students in that time, and even hiring recent grads.

    Geoff Doyle, Executive Director

    Foothills Performing Arts Center is also home to Black Hole Studios, a fully equipped recording studio local artists can book for recording, mixing and mastering. With a top-ten Music Industry program located just down the street at SUNY Oneonta, the addition of Black Hole Studios has allowed student artists to have yet another resource to utilize their art.

    Foothills Performing Arts Center
    Atrium Entrance

    Upcoming events include this fall’s “Foothill’s Fringe Festival”. The brainchild of newest board member, Allie Church, Foothills Fringe takes inspiration from similar festivals around the world, and will be the centers newest annual event. Taking place over two days this September, Foothill’s Fringe will offer plays, film screenings, musical productions, stand-up comedy and more. With over 30 acts already booked, Fringe Festival is sure to draw in hundreds of spectators, artisans, and vendors.

    Foothills Performing Arts Center

    In celebration of Pride Month, Foothills will also be hosting an 18+ Alice In Wonderland themed “Pride Prom” in collaboration with the Otsego Pride Alliance. The Prom, taking place June 30th, will feature dancing, face painting, specialty cocktails, prizes, fashion, and drag performances by local drag artists.

    For more information, or to book an event space, please visit Foothills Performing Arts Center’s website.