On Tuesday, July 2, jazz piano visionary Max Redko will offer a master class on new developments in jazz theory. Attendees will learn and discuss new techniques and theories from an incredibly gifted and highly acclaimed professional. For all those who wish to attend, the master class is located in Manhattan’s own Kaufman Center at 7 pm.
The basis of Max Redko’s master class is the art of improvisation. Redko believes that the musical structures, especially for jazz, are incredibly antiquated. For decades, musicians learned that jazz is composed according to a specific standard. Rules about chord progressions, rhythm, and meter created a “norm” for the genre. Deviation from this standard was actively discouraged.
While musicians obviously hold these practices in high regard, these old-fashioned techniques prevented them from being able to create newer, fresher music. Musicians have stuck to what is reliable, instead of taking the risks essential to the art of jazz. Reliance on the “correct” theory forced jazz musicians to play pre-composed music learned by heart, which steered away from the core meaning of the genreâimprovisation.
Redko’s master class plans on changing these ideas entirely. As the author of the Theory of Harmony of Music, Max Redko made a name for himself through his revolutionary theories in the world of jazz. Redko was the first who explain how to harmonize any note using all existing methods. His theory challenges ideas of the past and offers musicians an opportunity to embrace the spontaneity of jazz while giving the player complete autonomy.
Every time you listen to a pianist, you hear music that characterizes past times, mainly retro style, while art must reflect modernity. The world needs new quality!
Max Redko
For more information on Max Redko, his classes, and private lesson information, visit his website here. Sign up for the master class using this link.
Upstate meets the boroughs in this latest track between New York mainstays. 38 Spesh and Grafh team-up with Talib Kweli and Halie Supreme on “Right Now.” The first single from the duo’s upcoming collaborative album, God’s Timing.
Grafh and Talib Kweli go back-and-forth on “Right Now.”
“Right Now” is an ode to hip hop‘s backpack era with the drums as laidback and soothing as the lyrics are ferocious. Grafh and Kweli take turns attacking the track as their verses sees them have a career full-circle moment and acknowledge their place in hip hop while giving haters and doubters a piece of their mind. Additionally, Halie Supreme’s bridge and background vocals aide in the record’s ambience and add to the record’s intellect, providing a soothing backdrop to the hard-hitting lyrics and flow.
Set for release on July 26, God’s Timing features production in its entirety by 38 Spesh. With the Rochester native also providing several verses. The project also includes appearances from Jim Jones, Talib Kweli, Method Man, Vado, Freeway, Memphis Bleek and Peedi Crakk.
Moreover, “Right Now” showcases 38 Spesh’s versatility as a producer. After all on this latest track his slower, sample-heavy production gives way to a more upbeat, minimalist style. With Spesh curating his sound to mesh with Kweli, the possibilities are endless with the remaining features.
Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC) is approaching its 58th season bringing music and performing arts to the Capital Region, and the beloved arts non-profit has many exciting performances in store for the 2024 season.
SPAC opened in 1966 in Saratoga Springs, and is set within a 2,400 acre park preserve just 35 miles north of New York’s capital. The non-profit hosts concerts across all genres, and boasts arts education programs across culinary, visual, and literary fields. Notable past performers include 25 concerts by Phish, 44 from Dave Matthews Band, and a legendary performance by The Grateful Dead in 1985.
Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center
SPAC will welcome the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center for two unique performances in 2024 as part of its summer residency program.
Instrumental Array, a celebration of unusual pairings in classical music, will feature three duos performing selections from Beethoven, Rossini, Britten, Duruflé, and Hummel. The groups will grace the stage at SPAC’s Spa Little Theatre on March 9.
SPAC will welcome Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center Artistic Directors Wu Han and David Finckel, alongside guest violinist Chad Hoopes on May 11 to close their season. The trio will perform works by Mozart, Mendelssohn, and more, as they share their artistic expertise with the Capital Region.
Chad Hoopes, guest violinist
BalletX
Saratoga will host BalletX, a Philadelphia-based ballet company heralded as a refreshing, expert take on a classic style. The group is deeply involved in the Philadelphia community, aiding in dance education in local public schools, facilitating community pop-up events, as well as offering open rehearsals for audiences to watch dancers perfect their skills. The company will perform works choreographed by Jorma Elo, Jamar Roberts, and Jennifer Archibald. BalletX will visit SPAC’s Spa Little Theater on March 16 and 17.
TISRA: Zakir Hussain
Zakir Hussain, alongside Sabir Khan and Debopriya Chatterjee, will visit SPAC’s Spa Little Theater on March 23. Hussain, a renowned Indian percussionist and composer, will lead the group featuring a unique combination of tabla, sarangi, and bansuri (bamboo flute) music.
Summer Concerts
Saratoga Performing Arts Center’s beautiful Amphitheater, featuring Broadview Stage, is an unbeatable summer concert experience. SPAC will host an exciting lineup of musicians on the big stage this summer.
Irish superstar Hozier will play at SPAC on May 19 as part of The Unreal Unearth Tour across North America. Hozier’s third studio album of the same name released on August 18 to massive success, and he continues to tour supporting the new release.
Parker McCollum will make a stop at SPAC on his Burn It Down Tour on May 24. Alongside special guest Corey Kent, the country star will be promoting his newest album, Never Enough, and recent single release, “Burn It Down.”
May 25 – The Beach Boys
May 26 – Khruangbin
May 31 – Summer SPACtacular
Jun 2 – The Adirondack Trust Company Festival of Young Artists
Jun 7 – HARDY
Jun 12 – John Fogerty
Jun 15 Hootie & The Blowfish
Jun 16 – Romantic Masterpieces
Lainey Wilson will visit Saratoga on June 20 as part of her Country’s Cool Again Tour, with special guests Ian Munsick and Zach Top. The Nashville-based country artist titled her style “bell bottom country,” which also served as the title of her newest album in 2022.
Former One Direction member and Irish pop star Niall Horan will play SPAC on June 21. The Show, his newest album release, drives his biggest tour since 2018, dedicating the summer months to the North American leg.
Tyler Childers will bring the Mule Pull ‘24 Tour to the SPAC stage on July 3 alongside special guests S. G. Goodman and Wayne Graham. Known for his unique combination of folk, country, and bluegrass alongside his distinct vocals, Childers will tour his brand new album Rustin’ In The Rain.
SPAC will host a Beatles tribute concert featuring Rain, a tribute group famous for their similarity and dedication to the iconic rock four-piece. Rain will play on July 17, featuring greatest hits, deep picks, and more from the Beatles’ iconic songbook.
Earth, Wind & Fire and Chicago will co-headline SPAC on July 24 on their Heart & Soul Tour 2024. With a collaborative encore featuring both bands, the show will be a special night showcasing some of the country’s legendary music.
Foreigner and Styx will play the Broadview Stage at SPAC on July 30 along their Renegades & Juke Box Heroes Tour this summer. Joined by special guest John Waite, the tour will mark the bands’ last tour together with a show for the history books.
New Kids on the Block will make a stop at SPAC on their Magic of Summer 2024 Tour, reviving their 1990 tour of the same name. With special guests Paula Abdul and DJ Jazzy Jeff, the group will revive old favorites, greatest hits, and more on August 11.
More information and tickets for all shows are available at here. More shows will be announced as the 2024 season approaches, so check back for more performing arts concerts and events at SPAC.
2024 Season of Concerts at Saratoga Performing Arts Center
March 9 – Instrumental Array – Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center
March 16-17 – BalletX
March 23 – TISRA: Zakir Hussain, with Debopriya Chatterjee and Sabir Khn
May 11 – Wu Han, David Finckel, and Chad Hoopes – Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center
May 24 – Parker McCollum – Burn It Down Tour
June 20 – Lainey Wilson – Country’s Cool Again Tour
June 21 – Niall Horan – The Show Live On Tour
July 3 – Tyler Childers – Mule Pull ‘24 Tour
July 24 – Earth, Wind & Fire, and Chicago – Heart & Soul Tour 2024
August 11 – New Kids on the Block – Magic Summer 2024 Tour
On Sunday, June 30 at 3:52am, flames consumed the Lake George Village Bandstand in Shepard Park. The bandstand – located at the heart of the village hosts numerous summer concerts. Due to the fire, the future of Lake George’s summer concerts is now uncertain.
For years, Shepard Park has been a Summer staple in Lake George. Located in the heart of the village, the park offers beach access to the lake. On top of aquatic fun, the park has attracted countless visitors with its picnicking, and playground spaces.
At the center of the park stood the Lake George Village Bandstand. The bandstand takes the form of a stone amphitheater facing a newly renovated wooden concert stage. The amphitheater provided Lake George residents with a premier outdoor concert venue with great views of the lake.
Since its 2017 renovation, the bandstand has hosted Lake George’s free summer concerts. Starting in June 2024, a host of weekly performances were slated for the Summer. The venue planned to host performances from local bands as part of its Concert Series Wednesdays, Tribute Tuesdays, and Fridays at the Lake. In addition to this, the bandstand planned to host multiple rock, jazz, and pop music festivals.
These plans were thrown into disarray on Sunday morning when the Village Bandstand went up in flames. At 3:42am the Lake George fire department received a call regarding the fire and quickly responded with aid from North Queensbury Fire. Authorities say there were no injuries in the fire, but the bandstand structure suffered severe damage. The Post Star newspaper was among the first to report on the fire, posting this video of the aftermath to their website.
Reportedly, the fire began in a locked utility room adjacent to the stage, with an electrical cause confirmed by multiple inspectors and agencies involved. “All indication says that’s where it started. Nobody could have gotten in there because a padlock was still on the charred remains of the locked door,” said Ray Perry, Mayor of the Lake George Village, to the Post Star.
The fire has led to an outpouring of support from performing artists. Glens Falls band Seize Atlantis wrote on Instagram “Our hearts go out to everyone impacted by this from the music community to the entire 518 community at large.” Guitarist James Mullen spoke to NYS Music regarding a benefit concert for the lost venue, “Hopefully we can put together something special and help heal and rebuild for the LG community. We can’t just let this space go.”
A photo of the bandstand remnants from Seize Atlantis’ instagram post
Since the fire, the future of Lake George’s Summer concerts has been unclear. Mayor Ray Perry remains dedicated to keeping the venue’s concert plans on track, telling the Chronicle “ I’m just trying to save the summer.” Deputy Mayor Joseph Mastrodomenico Jr added “we will do what we can as soon as we can To somehow make our summer activities continue.”
Jim Anderson, Fridays at the Lake promoter, told NYS Music “We have an immediate plan that will let us play this Friday (July 5) and we are working on the longer term solution which will allow us to play all shows on the schedule.”
The Black Soprano Family continues to build its name in hip hop’s underground scene. This time around the two newest signees to Benny the Butcher’s imprint come together as OT The Real and Fuego Base release Moving Base OT.
Executive produced by Benny The Butcher, Moving Base OT features appearances from Benny & Fellow Black Soprano Family member Rick Hyde & Sule. The 10-track project serves as a sophomore effort for street rhymers Fuego The Base and OT The Real, with the duo releasing the music video for “Battle Scars” featuring Benny The Butcher in promotion of the project.
The lead single keeps it raw and gritty as the BSF trio present themselves on a corner block, a basketball court and a local fur/leather shop. Moreover they exchange war stories as the production maintains the street corner to plug aura that Benny has established with BSF.
Thus with Benny’s aide Philadelphia-bred OT The Real and Hartford native Fuego Base look to build on their fanbase outside and generate buzz outside of the hardcore underground hip hop types. Following the release of their respective BSF-debuts (Zombie and Biggest Since Camby) they’ve each done solo work with OT The Real releasing two full-length projects on his own label. Now they look to capitalize on their momentum.
Westside Gunn keeps making wrestling cool again. The FlyGod made an appearance on All Elite Wrestling Collision at Buffalo’s KeyBank Center. The episode — taped on Wednesday but aired this past Saturday night — saw WSG come out in support of Swerve Strickland, iced out and decked in a print of the AEW world champion’s bloody face from his wrestling inspired Fourth Rope brand. The Buffalo native served as part of Strickland’s corner during his weigh-in with Will Ospreay ahead of their heavyweight title bout at AEW Forbidden Door on Monday night at UBS Arena.
Westside Gunn came out to a big pop on AEW Collision. Photo: X/@wwerealone
However, despite coming out to a big pop from the hometown crowd, it wasn’t a happy ending for FlyGod and crew as their pal Swerve Strickland was laid-out by Will Ospreay in a “scuffle” that saw Westside and friends quickly escorted from the ring stage.
AEW WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPION
Swerve Shows up like a boss. The feeling swerve gives off is wild he really is one of the best champs i ever seen.
— Forbidden Door PodCast (@ForbiddenDoor_) June 30, 2024
A longtime wrestling fan — with countless song tittles named in ode to his favorites — Westside Gunn remains a familiar presence in AEW universe making appearances at several live shows and ppv’s. The cultural curator has gone on to create his own wrestling inspired brand– Fourth Rope. Despite his success outside of the booth fans remain vigilant on new Westside Gunn music with his last project being October, 2023’s And Then You Pray For Me.
The Ballston Spa Business and Professional Association, located in Ballston Spa, NY, has announced its summer concert series, “Concerts in the Park.” Events and performances will take place weekly on Thursdays from 6-8 pm in Lions Music Park at the historic Iron Spring Park on Front Street. Attendees can enjoy performances from a wide variety of performers, including community symphonic bands and local rock groups.
Formed in 1983, the BSBPA is committed to making Ballston Spa a thriving, prosperous community that is great for both business and everyday life. Since its inception, they have promoted local vendors, merchants, and businesses alongside artists and musicians in and surrounding the area. The Concerts in the Park series is one of their many events promoting the extensive talent in the thriving neighborhood.
From chamber ensembles to indie rock bands, the Ballston Spa Concerts in the Park series celebrates musicians of all kinds. Listed below is the full list of those performing for Concerts in the Park.
The Ballston Spa Community Band makes their return to the concert series just in time for the opening performance. Since 2005, the volunteer musicians that make up the band have bonded over their love of music. About a dozen times each year, the Ballston Spa Community Band performs in schools, parks, and theaters in the area. Join them for a sensational opening performance on June 27.
For the last 15 years, HEARD has brought captivating fusions of jazz, improvisational, and world music to festivals and concerts all over the country. Their vibrant sound incorporates influences from West Africa, Brazil, the Caribbean, and beyond.
Based in Saratoga Springs, N.Y., Fenimore Blues performs an eclectic mix of blues, R&B, and rock. The blend of genres comes from multiple inspirations, including Bonnie Raitt, Aretha Franklin, the Neville Brothers, the Allman Brothers, Linda Ronstadt, Etta James, Santana, and even Tedeschi Trucks. Their unique stage presence stems from its instrumentation – Sherian Nolan’s powerful vocals are backed by guitar, keyboards, saxophone, bass, and drums, and one band member doubling on accordion.
Concerts in the Park once again welcomes the Union Fire Company Band with an ice cream social, accompanied by a performance from the Union Fire Company Band. Support the Ballston Spa local fire department on August 1st.
Hailing from Upstate NY, Sirsy is a sassy pop-rock duo with an amazing musical ability. Drummer Melanie Krahmer, who also plays keyboards, is joined by her husband John (guitar), these multi-instrumentalists manage to sound like a full band. Sirsy is known for their passionate, honest, heartfelt live performances. The Boston Globe calls SIRSY the “little band with the big sound.”
For the last 30 years, Lustre Kings have cemented themselves as focused, driven, and passionate musicians returning to their roots. Their reverb-driven sounds of early rock lean on touchstones of country, blues, and R&B.
The Protones are a group of well-seasoned musicians bringing back the classic sounds of 70s rock to venues and festivals all over the state. Join them as they close out the Concerts in the Park series on August 22!
As of June 24, 2024 the MTV News website has completely vanished, taking with it over two decades of content. This comes after the closure of MTV News in 2023 by its parent company Paramount.
The result of this wipe, thousands of pieces of music journalism, including interviews, columns, and archives are now lost. With this massive blow to music journalism, let’s look back at the history of MTV News and how it shaped the field.
The history of MTV News has to begin with the beginnings of MTV as a whole. MTV began broadcasting on August 1st, 1981 at 12:01 AM. The channel execs must have known the magnitude of this launch, inaugurating the channel with footage of the Columbia Space shuttle launch and moon landing, all edited to feature the MTV logo. In many ways, the launch of MTV was as consequential as the moon landing for the music industry, changing the way audiences consumed music forever.
Prior to the launch of MTV, the music video was a fledgling medium. While superstars like the Beatles, and Bob Dylan had recorded videos to accompany songs in the 1960s, they were far from what we would consider music videos today. For instance the Beatles’ performances feature in the narrative of their 1964 hit film A Hard Day’s Night rather than acting as standalone videos. Even Bob Dylan’s iconic “Subterranean Homesick Blues” video was part of the larger Don’t Look Back documentary. Despite this lack of videos, music television was extremely popular thanks to programming like Midnight Special. These programs often featured live performances, as music videos were still not widely established as a practice.
MTV changed all of this in 1981. Following its inaugural broadcast, the station screened its first music video: the Buggles’ “Video Killed the Radio Star.” The song’s title seemed to foreshadow exactly what MTV would do to the music industry. Because of MTV, the music video became a common part of any album roll out, with the medium becoming its own art form.
By 1984, MTV was a staple of American television, reaching 25.4 million households across the country. With this wide spread, MTV became a tastemaker for America’s youth. New Wave artists like the Human League, and Adam Ant were kicking off the “second British invasion” thanks to frequent play on the station. By the end of the decade, MTV had made the music video the paramount form of promotion, propelling superstars like Madonna, Michael Jackson, and Cyndi Lauper even further into stardom.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b9Lq9sqqbYY
Off of this massive broadcasting success, MTV launched MTV news in 1987. MTV News began with the twice weekly program The Week In Rock. In 30 minute segments, the program featured news about award shows and tours, and interviews with the biggest stars in music. This programming added a journalistic edge to MTV’s programming, featuring high quality reporting that was still entertaining to the station’s young audience.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JPj88KXBCOc
At the helm of MTV News was Kurt Loder. By the time of The Week in Rock’s launch, Loder was already an established figure in music journalism. Starting in 1976, Loder was writing for New York-based music magazines, beginning with Long Island’s Good Times. By 1978, Loder had moved to Manhattan to write for Circus, focusing on heavy metal, punk, and other emerging genres. He admits that the writing of Circus was not always the most admirable “it was a foregone conclusion that writing of any technical ambition about new acts of any real excitement or interest would make it in the mag only by the sheerest accident.”
In 1979, Loder began a 9-year career as one of the most prolific writers at Rolling Stone Magazine. Perhaps the pinnacle of his career prior to MTV was co-authoring Tina Turner’s 1986 autobiography I, Tina. The book quickly became a best-seller, launching the film adaptation What’s Love Got to Do with It, launching Loder further into the public eye. It was following this that MTV approached Loder to head their newly-established news desk.
“Linda Corradina called me and asked, ‘Have you thought about being in TV?’ I hadn’t — ever. So I went over and did a camera test, which was pretty awful, I think. And suddenly, I was there”
– Kurt Loder
Introduced by the guitar intro of Megadeth’s “Peace Sells,” Loder brought features on some of the biggest musical groups of the era. Early stories featured Depeche Mode, Public Enemy, and Anthrax. Loder’s presence brought a seriousness and professionalism to the station, while providing quality interviews and commentary. Up to that point, many viewed MTV as a raunchier, rather unserious network for America’s youth. However, Loder and MTV News proved that its programming could be just as diligent and well-produced as established news stations. While being professional, the programing managed to retain MTV’s trademark sense of rebelliousness.
Soon after its founding, MTV News began to incorporate politics and society into its repertoire in addition to music. This came to a head in 1992, preceding that year’s presidential election. In the leadup to the election, MTV News launched a $1 million “Choose or Lose” campaign to encourage young people to vote. Accompanying this was frequent political coverage, making up about 25% of its programming. In June 1992, MTV News aired “Choose or Lose: Facing the Future with Bill Clinton,” a 90 minute program featuring the candidate answering young people’s questions. By election day, the number of 18-20 year olds voting was up by 20% aiding in Bill Clinton’s electoral victory.
Despite this incorporation of politics, MTV News still remained one of the premier sources for music journalism. Perhaps one of the defining moments of MTV News’ 90s output came in the follow up of Kurt Cobain’s death. On April 5, 1994, Kurt Loder interrupted MTV’s regular programming to announce the news of Cobain’s death. This broadcast was the first time many people had heard the news, launching a wave of nationwide mourning for the biggest rock star of the era. In addition to the announcement, Loder’s coverage provided a thoughtful tribute to Cobain’s career, influence, and talent.
Following a decade of success of TV reporting, MTV News launched its website in 1996. Over the course of the next 20 years, the site became a haven for online music journalism. It hosted thousands of articles and artist interviews. Of note was the site’s hip-hop archives, such as the “Monday Mixtape” column, which featured many early interviews with future stars.
After three decades of operation, MTV News ran into serious financial woes. This began in 2017, with the site’s shift towards video content, laying off most of its editorial staff. These problems came to a head in May 2023, as Paramount announced it would shut down MTV News. With this announcement, its television and internet content was abruptly brought to a halt.
Despite this, the MTV News site remained open for over a year. However, on June 24, 2024, MTV removed the site and all of its content from the internet. Among the first to notice was former MTV News journalist Patrick Hosken. Writing on X, Hosken said “So, mtvnews.com no longer exists. Eight years of my life are gone without a trace.” If users try to access the website, they will now be redirected to the mtv.com home page. MTV has not given a reason for the website’s removal, however some such as music journalist Alex Young have speculated it could be due to hosting and legal costs.
Music lovers have taken to X to express their disappointment in the site’s deletion. Rolling Stone Senior Writer Brian Hiatt called it “disgraceful,” with Entertainment Weekly News Director Jillian Sederholm adding it was “devastatingly cruel to journalists.”
With the loss of MTV News, let’s remember the programming that helped bring music journalism to America’s youth. With Kurt Loder and countless music journalists, their television and online programming helped provide America’s youth with updates on everything from the Pet Shop Boys to the Presidency, all while establishing MTV as a news source to be reckoned with.
Those interested in exploring the history of MTV News can explore archival versions on the Wayback Machine.
Marking what would have been the late singer’s 78th birthday, The Bon Scott Estate is embarking on a number of high-profile activations to celebrate the icon’s life and music.
On July 9, the actual birthday of Scott, a tribute concert will be held at Arlene’s Grocery on New York City’s Lower East Side. The infamous rock club has hosted some of the most raucous nights of rock and roll in the 21st century, and the show will harken back to the secret set that AC/DC performed at CBGB in 1977. 16 singers will each tackle one classic AC/DC song with a stellar backing band.
44 years after his untimely passing, the music Bon Scott helped create with AC/DC continues to resonate with fans and fellow artists.
Few rock singers were as unforgettable—and have proved as enduring—as Bon Scott. As the frontman of AC/DC from 1974 until his tragic passing in 1980, his “rock n’ roll pirate persona,” street poet lyrics, and striking image have made him an absolute legend. Additionally, Bon’s vocals were featured in several pre-AC/DC bands, including Fraternity, the Valentines, and the Spektors.
But really, it is the quality of the songs of the “Bon-era” of AC/DC that serve as his greatest legacy: “Highway to Hell,” “Sin City,” “Whole Lotta Rosie,” “Let There Be Rock,” “Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap,” “T.N.T.,” and “It’s a Long Way to the Top (If You Wanna Rock ‘n’ Roll)”—the list is seemingly endless.
How does Bon measure up to rock’s all-time great frontmen? Classic Rock Magazine declared him “The Greatest Rock n’ Roll Front Man of All Time” in 2004, beating out the lofty likes of Freddie Mercury, Robert Plant, and Axl Rose in the process.
In addition to the tribute concert, The Bon Scott Estate will be releasing a variety of merchandise and collectibles.
Two new online stores are launching in time for the birthday, one at Amazon in the U.S. and the other at Merch Jungle in Australia, making it easier and more cost-effective for fans to get their hands on their favorite singer’s merchandise. Further Amazon stores will continue to roll out throughout the world. Bon Scott’s e-commerce and merchandising program is handled by Perryscope Productions, LLC.
A brand-new merch design will be launching to commemorate the birthday by renowned Australian graphic artist Dave Homer.
Information and tickets for the NYC show can be found here. Visit here for official Bon Scott merchandise.
The Bethlehem Parks and Recreation Department, Bethlehem Public Library, and Friends of Bethlehem Public Library are teaming up to bring back their popular Thursdays in the Park event series.
All shows will begin at 6:00 p.m. on the special events lawn (adjacent to the pool entrance) at Elm Avenue Park unless an alternate park location is noted.
Bethlehem, NY just south of Albany, has all the benefits of being a smaller town while still being so close to a big city.
A staple in the community for years, Thursdays in the Park shows are the perfect summer evening activity for anyone in Bethlehem or the surrounding area looking to sprawl out on some lush grass and take in live music or performances. Almost every Thursday between June 27 and August 22 will bring a new act, with all being family-friendly performances that are great for all ages.
Unless otherwise stated, all of the shows this year will take place in Bethlehem’s largest park, the gorgeous Elm Avenue Park. Elm Avenue Park has a wide variety of facilities, including a pool complex, tennis and basketball courts, pavilions, a fitness trail, playing fields, volleyball courts, shuffleboard, a dog park, and a playground. On top of all that, the park has an elevated stage overlooking a vast grass field.
Some of this year’s diverse acts include Jester Jim the Juggler, British Vinyl, a British Invasion tribute band and a production of “Finding Nemo Jr.” thrown by the Playhouse Stage Company.
Please be advised that alcoholic beverages are prohibited. In the event of rain, every effort will be made to reschedule the events. Check the Bethlehem Parks & Recreation Facebook and Instagram pages for event cancellation notices.
In addition to the Thursdays in the Park series, multiple other community events will be happening around Bethlehem this summer. Those will be listed after the full list of Thursdays in the Park performances below.
Bethlehem NY Thursdays in the Park
Jester Jim June 27
Jester Jim is back! This is not your ordinary juggling show! With a trunk full of props and a looping machine, all will be glued to every sight and sound.
Glass Pony July 11
Encapsulating influences stretching across decades from psychedelic and jam-focused rock, to funk, post-punk, and even modern indie and post-rock, the Albany, New York collective Glass Pony offer a sound that truly translates through generations, with a stylistic blend built to engage a broad listenership.
Story Laurie July 18 Set sail for adventure with Story Laurie’s delightfully participatory performance of stories, sea chanteys, and maritime lore from the Seven Seas!
Northern Comfort July 25
Come check out this local band playing rock & blues – originals & covers e.g. Tom Petty, Allman Bros, Clapton, Dire Straits, etc!
British Vinyl August 1
The British Vinyl Band is a five-piece band from upstate New York performing songs by British groups from the early years, 1960s to early 1970s. You can always find a tribute band of one group, but now you’ve found one that pays tribute to the entire British Invasion Genre.
Emma Olson Magic (This show is at Henry Hudson Park) August 8
Emma is a young magician on the rise. She is based in New York City yet has performed all over the country, it’s safe to say her dediÂcation to the craft has paid off. Aspraised by America’s Got Talent winner Shin Lim, “She’s incredible and has such a bright future ahead of her”. She recently performed her close-up act to acclaim as part of the International Magic Festival of Madrid, and while there was show cased twice on Spanish national television. Emma will perform her interactive magic act as well as her act that has been seen on TV – Penn & Teller: Fool Us! Everyone will get the chance to see her magic live and the chance to be part of it as well or even collect a souvenir!
Playhouse Stage Company August 15
“Finding Nemo Jr.” brings a vibrant underwater world to life on stage in a story full of family, friendship, and ad venture. Featuring memorable songs such as “Just Keep Swimming,” “Fish Are Friends Not Food,” and “Go With the Flow,” and lovable characters such as Marlin, Nemo, optimistic Dory, laid-back sea turtle Crush, and the supÂportive Tank Gang!
Flame the Band August 22
Flame is a high-energy American Cover band that performs globally playing all your favorites, from the classics through today’s hits, including some originals. Formed in 2003, they gained popularity from their appearances on Good Morning America and in People Magazine. They have also been featured in Tokyo, Ja pan’s Daily Mainichi News, News-2-You, News Channel 10 and other news outlets around the world. Flame consists of talented members who happen to have dis abilities. They have toured internationally to South East Asia; Athens, Greece and Capri, Italy.
Other Happenings in Bethlehem
4th of July Family Day Thursday, July 4, 12-8:00 PM Elm Avenue Pool Complex
Regular pool fees are in effect
12:15 – 1:30 PM: Saxophone Sam
1:15 – 2:00 PM: Magician Jim Snack
2:00 – 4:00 PM: Live music by Playin’ with Fire
2:30 – 4:30 PM: Balloon Gal Jenny
9:00 PM: Fireworks sponsored by Sevenzocks Property Maintenance and Landscaping
Late Night Movie at the Pool Friday, August 2, 8:15 PM Elm Avenue Pool Complex
Join us for a late-night movie under the stars! The movie will start at approximately 8:15 p.m. Free admission after 6:00 p.m. Help us pick a movie! Simply vote for your favorite at the pool.
National Night Out
Join us as the Town of Bethlehem takes back the night with one of the largest crime prevention gatherings in the United States. Visit here for up-to-date information regarding the event.
