Category: News Desk

  • Ashokan Center Presents a Living Tradition of Scottish Music with Alasdair Fraser and Natalie Haas Duo

    The Ashokan Center has announced they are hosting a special public concert featuring the celebrated Alasdair Fraser and Natalie Haas Duo on Sunday, May 12, 2024, at 3:00 PM.

    They will be joined by fiddler Emerald Rae and cellist Summer McCall, as well as Ashokan Music and Dance Camp founders Jay Ungar and Molly Mason, in a musical program that explores the emotional and chronological range of traditional Scottish music. 

    Alasdair Fraser and Natalie Haas Duo at Ashokan Center
    Alasdair Fraser and Natalie Haas Duo.

    The Ashokan Cenuper is a unique non-profit organization with a 55-year history of youth outdoor education and 42 years of cultural preservation at summer Music & Dance Camps for adults and families. They have recently expanded outreach to offer local in-school and after-school arts and nature programming and increased access to their 385 acres of forests through guided hikes, day passes, and community events. The Ashokan Center has been a registered Historic Landmark since 2016. 

    The Sunday afternoon concert will conclude the Ashokan Center’s eleventh annual Scottish String Fling weekend, where fiddlers and cellists learn tunes by ear – initiated by Fraser in 2014. It is part of a decades-long tradition of music and dance camps founded by Jay Ungar and Molly Mason at the Ashokan Center and is one of many music camps created and led by Fraser over the decades — including the Valley Of The Moon Fiddle Camp in the Santa Cruz mountains of northern California, where Fraser first met an eleven-year-old budding cellist named Natalie Haas in 1995. 

    “It was just a life-changing experience for me,” says Haas. “It’s where I discovered traditional music.” Today, Natalie Haas is a world-renowned and highly in-demand performer and educator in her own right, and the Fraser/Haas duo partnership has endured for more than twenty years, through six acclaimed recordings and countless performances at concerts and festivals worldwide. 

    The strength of a duo is amazing; you can sort of ‘live’ ideas together, and I’m lucky to be playing with someone who is so simpatico. Every concert we do celebrates the music and its power to transport, to lift us… and we are highly likely to be test-driving new arrangements, new ideas, surging on forwards.

    Alasdair Fraser.

    Alasdair Fraser is one of the greatest carriers of the Scottish fiddle music tradition with expressive playing, mastery of his instrument, and deep understanding of his native music. Since 2003 Fraser has thrilled audiences internationally with their virtuosic playing, their near-telepathic understanding, and the joyful spontaneity and sheer physical presence of their music.

    Natalie Haas is one of the most sought-after cellists in traditional music today. She and Fraser have toured as a duo for over twenty-three years, wowing audiences at festivals and concerts worldwide with their unique sound. A Juilliard grad with decades of touring and collaboration experience, she is an expert teacher and guide for cellists looking to support and shine.

    Joining the duo is Summer McCall, a Celtic cellist, fiddler, and dancer and Emerald Rae, an American Fiddler & Folksinger with powerhouse vocals, groovy percussive fiddle, and eclectic songwriting style.

    When possible, the Ashokan Center tickets work on sliding scale admission. Tickets to this concert start at $20 for the suggested price and $10 as the minimum price per ticket for all-age tickets. For more information about the Ashokan Center, visit here.

  • Borderland Festival Announces 2024 Lineup

    Borderland Festival is back and bigger than ever. This September 13–15, the festival, which is celebrating its sixth year at the lovely Knox Farm State Park in East Aurora, New York, offers three days of music, artisanal wonders, and delicious local food.

    Located in the center of Knox Farm State Park, the Borderland Festival continues to be legendary. It’s no wonder fans travel from all over to witness the magic firsthand given the venue’s breathtaking setting, diverse lineup, and enticing atmosphere.

    Now, let’s talk about the big names. First up, the legendary Black Crowes, who have been off the stage for four years, are proudly returning. Rising stars of the indie-folk scene, Caamp, joins them in the spotlight.


    Photo by – Tobin Voggesser

    Borderland is all about showcasing the greatest talent, both nationally and locally. Fans can anticipate the country’s most authentic Grateful Dead show, Dark Star Orchestra, big-band extraordinaire Cory Wong, and the southern-rocker Marcus King.

    Together with national touring acts like Houndmouth, Sierra Hull, Eggy, and The Dip, reggae legends The Wailers are making their awaited return to East Aurora, as are The Wood Brothers and The Sheepdogs. Not to mention, Grammy-nominated NOLA roots group The Rumble.


    Photo by – Tobin Voggesser

    Let’s not forget our local heroes, who stand by the thriving music scene in Western New York. These hometown favorites, which range from Handsome Jack to Annie In the Water, are bound to raise the roof and proudly represent the community.

    Presale tickets go live on Friday, April 26 at 10am. General on-sale follows at 12pm. If you want to extend your stay over the weekend, Kissing Bridge Ski Resort offers camping options.

  • Bernadette Peters to be honored with Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2024 Chita Rivera Awards

    Multi-award-winning actress Bernadette Peters will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2024 Chita Rivera Awards.

    Bernadette Peters
    Photo by Andrew Eccles.

    The 2024 Chita Rivera Awards will take place on Monday, May 20 at 7:30 p.m. at The Skirball Center for the Performing Arts (566 LaGuardia Place). All proceeds benefit the NYC Dance Alliance Foundation Scholarship Program and the new Chita Rivera Training Scholarship. The NYCDA Foundation is an IRS-approved 501(c)(3) committed to broadening performing arts awareness while advocating education and high standards of excellence in dance. 

    Throughout her illustrious career, Bernadette Peters has dazzled audiences and critics with her performances on stage, film, television, in concert, and on recordings. She has garnered numerous accolades including three Tony Awards, a Golden Globe, four Emmy and four GRAMMY Award nominations, and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Best known for her work on stage and one of Broadway’s most critically acclaimed performers, she just concluded a highly successful West End debut in the Cameron Mackintosh production of Old Friends, celebrating the life and work of Stephen Sondheim.

    Peters has starred as Dolly Gallagher Levi in the hit musical, Hello, Dolly! and City Center’s Encores! Production, A Bed and a Chair: A New York Love Affair featuring the music of Stephen Sondheim and orchestrations by Wynton Marsalis. Before that, she starred on Broadway in Stephen Sondheim’s A Little Night Music and Follies. Peters earned a Drama Desk nomination for her unforgettable portrayal of the Witch in Stephen Sondheim’s Into the Woods.

    She also enjoys a career that boasts an impressive list of television credits, most recently the Apple TV+ series, High Desert, and a guest-starring role on the NBC-TV series, Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist for which she earned an Emmy nomination. Other TV appearances include The CW’s Katy Keene; CBS All Access’s The Good Fight; and Amazon Prime’s Golden Globe-winning series, Mozart in the Jungle.

    She has lit the silver screen in over 30 films throughout her distinguished career. She received a Golden Globe Award for her memorable performance in Pennies From Heaven. Other film credits include The Jerk, The Longest Yard, Silent Movie, AnniePink CadillacSlaves of New York, Woody Allen’s AliceImpromptuIt Runs in the FamilyComing Up Roses, The Broken Hearts Gallery, and most recently, a surprise appearance in the popular Jonathan Larson biopic, tick, tick…BOOM!

    She has recorded six solo albums and numerous original Broadway cast recordings. Peters devotes her time and talents to events that benefit Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS. Her “pet project” Broadway Barks, co-founded with Mary Tyler Moore, is an annual, star-studded dog and cat adoption event that benefits shelter animals in the New York City and tri-state area.

    The American Theater Wing honored Bernadette Peters’ efforts and awarded her with the Isabelle Stevenson Tony Award which recognizes an individual from the theatre community who has made a substantial contribution of volunteered time and effort on behalf of one or more humanitarian, social service, or charitable organizations, regardless of whether such organizations relate to the theatre. She is also a New York Times best-selling author who has penned three children’s books.

    Carrying the name of one of the great dance icons of the American musical theater, the Chita Rivera Awards celebrate dance and choreographic excellence – past, present, and future. The awards honor the superb achievement of each nominee while recognizing the talents and passion of every theatrical choreographer and dancer. Additionally, through education and scholarships, the awards are committed to nurturing future generations and preserving notable dance history.

    We are thrilled to honor Bernadette Peters with this year’s Lifetime Achievement Award. Over an unbelievable career spanning over six decades, Bernadette has starred on stage and screen, performed concerts around the world, written children’s books, and as a humanitarian, has saved hundreds of animals with her charity Broadway Barks. Having Joel Grey on hand to present her Award will make this a truly unforgettable evening.

    Joe Lanteri, Founder and Executive Director of the New York City Dance Alliance Foundation, Inc.

    Tickets to the Chita Rivera Awards are available now.

  • The Head And The Heart Announce Summer Headlining Tour Coming to Albany, Rochester, and La Fayette

    The Head And The Heart have announced a headlining run of summer North American dates, beginning July 20 in West Des Moines, IA., and concluding August 20 in Moorehead, MN. The group is coming to Beak & Skiff Apple Orchards on July 24, Palace Theatre on July 28, and Kodak Center on July 29. They are also opening for The Black Keys at MSG on Oct. 30.

    The Head And The Heart
    Photo Credit: Shervin Lainez

    The Head And The Heart will be joined on select dates by Phosphorescent, Michigander, Madison Cunningham, and Houndmouth.

    2023 was a triumphant year for the group, who sold out the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre outside Denver for the seventh time, co-headlined a tour with The Revivalists and Father John Misty, and launched their own music festival, Down in the Valley, in Napa, CA. The event featured acoustic and full-band sets from The Head and the Heart plus some of today’s top folk and rock talent, including Dawes, Miya Folick, and Faye Webster. The group was touring in support of their fifth studio album, Every Shade of Blue – released in 2022.

    Initially self-released in 2011, The Head And The Heart’s self-titled breakout debut produced instant classics including “Rivers and Roads,” “Down in the Valley” and “Lost In My Mind” (#1 at AAA) and is now certified Gold. 2013’s Let’s Be Still and 2016’s Signs of Light settled into Billboard’s Top 10 Albums chart. The single “All We Ever Knew” became the band’s first #1 at on the Alternative chart and was also #1 at AAA for nine straight weeks. The band’s fourth full-length, Living Mirage, was released to critical praise in 2019.

    The band has appeared in Cameron Crowe’s Roadies and their music has been featured in countless other commercials, films, and TV shows. The Head And The Heart has performed 15 times on national television, including appearances on Ellen, The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, The Late Show With Stephen Colbert, Austin City Limits, and more.

    For more information and to purchase tickets to their upcoming tour, visit here.

    The Head And The Heart Tour Dates

    6/30 Hartford, CT The Capitol Groove Festival * 

    7/12 Bend, OR Hayden Homes Amphitheater !

    7/14 Seattle, WA Day In Day Out Festival *

    7/19 Saint Paul, MN Minnesota Yacht Club *

    7/20 West Des Moines, IA Val Air Ballroom &

    7/21 St. Louis, MO Saint Louis Music Park &

    7/24 La Fayette, NY Beak & Skiff Apple Orchards &

    7/25 Burlington, VT Waterfront Park &

    7/28 Albany, NY Palace Theatre &

    7/29 Rochester, NY Kodak Center &

    7/31 Wilmington, NC Greenfield Lake Amphitheater &

    8/1 Charleston, SC The Refinery &

    8/2 St. Petersburg, FL Jannus Live &

    8/3 Orlando, FL House of Blues Orlando &

    8/6 Birmingham, AL Avondale Brewing Co. &

    8/7 Little Rock, AR Robinson Center &

    8/8 Wichita, KS The Cotillion &

    8/10 Bellevue, NE Outlandia *

    8/12 Morrison, CO Red Rocks Amphitheatre $

    8/13 Morrison, CO Red Rocks Amphitheatre #

    8/15 Aspen, CO Belly Up Aspen ^

    8/17 Bozeman, MT The ELM ^

    8/18 Columbia Falls, MT Scout & Gather ^

    8/20 Moorehead, MN Bluestem Amphitheatre ^

    9/14 Templeton, CA Whale Rock Music & Arts Festival *

    9/17 Tulsa, OK BOK Center %

    9/18 Austin, TX Moody Center %

    9/20 Louisville, KY Bourbon & Beyond *

    9/21 Houston, TX Toyota Center %

    9/16 Phoenix, AZ Footprint Center %

    9/27 Los Angeles, CA Kia Forum %

    9/28 Palm Springs, CA Acrisure Arena %

    9/29 Mountain View, CA Shoreline Amphitheatre %

    10/10 Pittsburgh, PA PPG Paints Arena %

    10/11 Toronto, ON Scotiabank Arena %

    10/12 Cleveland, OH Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse %

    10/13 Grand Rapids, MI Van Andel Arena %

    10/16 Charlotte, NC Spectrum Center %

    10/18 Nashville, TN Bridgestone Arena %

    10/19 Atlanta, GA State Farm Arena %

    10/21 Philadelphia, PA Wells Fargo Center %

    10/24 Columbus, OH Nationwide Arena %

    10/26 Indianapolis, IN Gainbridge Fieldhouse %

    10/27 Knoxville, TN Thompson-Boling Arena at Food City Center %

    10/30 New York, NY Madison Square Garden %

    11/2 Baltimore, MD CFG Bank Arena %

    11/7 Chicago, IL United Center %

    11/9 Milwaukee, WI Fiserv Forum %

    11/12 Detroit, MI Little Caesars Arena %

    With The Decemberists (!), Phosphorescent (&), Michigander (^), Madison Cunningham ($), Houndmouth (#) 

     The Black Keys (%)

  • SPAC Announces Beethoven For Three, a Benefit Concert for Spa Little Theater

    Saratoga Performing Arts Center has announced “Beethoven For Three” featuring Emanuel Ax, Leonidas Kavakos, and Yo-Yo Ma. The show takes place August 25 at 3 pm in the 500-seat Spa Little Theater. Proceeds from the performance will go toward establishing a programming fund for the Theater, SPAC’s year-round performance home.

    Beethoven For Three features Emanuel Ax, Leonidas Kavakos, and Yo-Yo Ma in Beethoven’s Piano Trio No. 6. The trio is joined by special guest, Antoine Tamestit. Together, the group will then perform the monumental “Eroica” Symphony No. 3 reimagined for four players, in an intimate arrangement that maintains the power and immediacy of Beethoven’s orchestral work.

    The show also presents a new opportunity for performers and listeners to examine the boundaries between musical genres, and how musicians can collaborate freely and creatively. The trio’s previous tours and recordings on Sony Classics have been met with rave reviews around the world. This is by no means a show to miss.

    Spa Little Theater at SPAC

    All tickets purchased for this event support SPAC’s efforts to provide year-round programming for the community in Spa Little Theater. Tickets go on sale April 25 at 10AM. SPAC Member presales begin on April 22 and April 23, tiered by membership level. Tickets are $500, of which $150 is a tax-deductible donation.

     “One of the things that has separated people since recording began is the categories that we put people in, in which chamber musicians, orchestra players, people who play concertos, people who do transcriptions, people who compose, people who conduct, are all viewed as separate categories with no overlap. That siloed thinking discourages actual creativity and collaboration between people. And so we feel that one of the things that is really important to do today is to actually go back to the first principles of music, the simple interaction between friends who want to do something together.”

    Yo-Yo Ma

    For more information on the Beethoven For Three show and to purchase tickets, click here.

  • Bearsville Theater Announces Reopening This Summer with Powerful Lineup

    Dayglo Presents has announced they are taking over operations of the historic Bearsville Theater in Woodstock, reopening this summer with a powerful lineup.

    Located on a bucolic site in the Catskills, the storied theater, built in 1989, has served historically as a nurturing community for talent across rock, folk, pop, jazz, and blues. Dayglo Presents, a leading live entertainment and media company led by independent music producer Peter Shapiro, will oversee the revived theater’s next chapter with respect for the venue’s longtime resonance, offering unforgettable experiences for its new and returning audiences. The revived Bearsville Theater includes new General Manager Frank Bango and Talent Buyer Mike Campbell.

    Other live events and experiences created and/or produced by Peter Shapiro and his team at Dayglo Presents include Fare Thee Well, Celebrating 50 Years of the Grateful Dead, Jazz & Colors, a unique set of concerts in Central Park and other locations, The Women’s March, The March for Science, Easy Rider Live, Brooklyn Bowl Family Reunion at SXSW and the Bob Weir & Phil Lesh Duo tour. 

    Bearsville Center, a 15-acre enclave in Woodstock, has served as a touchstone in music history since the 1960s when then-owner and leading artist manager/entrepreneur Albert Grossman welcomed musical luminaries, including longtime client Bob Dylan, to his Catskills home for creative inspiration. With the construction of Bearsville Studios in 1969, major artists, including Patti Smith, The Rolling Stones, REM, Muddy Waters, Rush, and more, recorded at Bearsville until the studio’s closing in the early 2000s.

    The renowned performance space, Bearsville Theater, which opened in 1989, was constructed from an 18-century ‘Dutch’ barn and designed by John Storyk, creator of Electric Lady Studios for Jimi Hendrix. Today, Bearsville Center comprises the Bearsville Theater, two restaurants, a café and bar, residences, and the Utopia Sound Stage, designed in 1979 as an innovative video studio for Todd Rundgren.

    I have led the creation of new concepts and built great venues from scratch like Brooklyn Bowl, but I’ve also been fortunate to breathe new life into some historic venues, like Wetlands and The Capitol Theatre. The Bearsville Theater has a deep and amazing history that I am excited to preserve and lift, as we put our touch on a new era for this legendary Woodstock icon. We want to thank Lizzie Vann for her passion and dedication to Bearsville since she bought and lovingly restored the property in 2019. We appreciate her trust in us and are looking forward to a long working relationship.

    Peter Shapiro, Founder and CEO, Dayglo Presents

    Bearsville’s reopening features a full slate of leading performers including Don Was, Guster, Dawes, Guided By Voices, Drive-By Truckers, Mdou Moctar, The Beths, Andy Frasco & The U.N., Dresden Dolls, The Zombies, The Jayhawks and more to be announced.

    Tickets can be purchased now. Bearsville Theater is located at 291 Tinker Street in Woodstock. 

  • Capital One City Parks Foundation SummerStage Announces 2024 Season

    City Parks Foundation has announced the 2024 season of Capital One City Parks Foundation SummerStage, New York City’s iconic outdoor performing arts festival, bringing 85 free and benefit shows to Central Park and 13 neighborhood parks across the five boroughs.  

    SummerStage 2024

    Returning for its 38 year, the festival will once again showcase established and emerging artists from across the globe, highlighting forward-thinking women pushing boundaries, featuring a multitude of genres including jazz, hip-hop, indie rock, salsa, reggae, Afrobeats, soul, pop, global, and contemporary dance, to name just a few. 

    SummerStage is committed to gender and racial equity in its programming, and in 2023, more than 80% of their season lineup featured artists who identified as people of color and more than half of the acts included women or artists who identify as genders other than male.

    Neighborhood parks hosting SummerStage this season include Marcus Garvey Park in Harlem, Tompkins Square Park in the East Village, Herbert Von King Park in Bed-Stuy and The Coney Island Amphitheater on the boardwalk 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.

    SummerStage is back for another incredible season of free performances. It’s always an honor to bring a lineup of both established and rising artists that celebrate the rich cultural fabric of our neighborhoods across the city to parks, all for free. Enjoying live music while outside in a park is one of the most joyful and memorable opportunities we can offer to New Yorkers, bringing neighbors and communities together for what is always a very special, shared experience.

    Heather Lubov, Executive Director of City Parks Foundation

    Opening the SummerStage 2024 season on Saturday, June 1 in Central Park will be a free performance by GRAMMY-winning and Oscar-nominated soul singer Andra Day in association with Blue Note Jazz Festival

    The season’s free shows in Central Park will showcase an exhilarating array of established and emerging artists from across the music spectrum. Rock music icon Kim Gordon and the legendary Sun Ra Arkestra will bring an electrifying show when they take the stage on June 13; THE AUSSIE BBQ will return on June 15 highlighting the latest sounds of Australia from Jebediah, Last Dinosaurs, and more. Additional highlights include Corinne Bailey Rae and Dixson on June 16, London drummer The Yussef Dayes Experience showcasing his unique experimental style alongside interpretive contemporary jazz bassist and vocalist Aneesa Strings on June 22, and singer-songwriter and GRAMMY winner Madison Cunningham performing on July 1.

    The annual Latin Alternative Music Conference (LAMC) will celebrate the Latin GRAMMYs’ 25 Anniversary with performances by Colombian music star Fonseca and Spain’s captivating new flamenco singer Israel Fernández on July 10 in Central Park, while French sounds will take center stage for Bastille Day in association with the Consulate General of France on July 14, showcasing performances by Laurie Darmon, Magic System, and other guests.

    Arooj Aftab, the first Pakistani-American woman to win a GRAMMY, known for weaving Urdu ghazals and poetry into electronic soundscapes, will perform on July 24. On July 28, Catalan Sounds On Tour will return to Central Park with Sidonie and the Balkan Paradise Orchestra; and Show Dem Camp returns with the Palmwine Festival NYC featuring the Cavemen & Friends in association with Move Forward Music on Aug. 17.

    Brazilian Day will once again bring a lineup of artists on Aug. 22 with samba legend Alcione, Larissa Luz, DJ Malfeitona, and a film screening of Gerson King Combo in association with the 28 Inffinito Brazilian Film Festival. The 2024 season in Central Park will close with a special celebration of the WNYC and Friends Centennial on Sept. 9. 

    Photo by Rob Tellerman.

    SummerStage 2024 will once again take fans globe-trotting through the five boroughs of New York, presenting an array of world rhythms. Shows in neighborhood parks will include the Godfather of Salsa Andy Montañez and salsa star Charlie Cruz showcasing the stylings of Puerto Rico at the Coney Island Amphitheater on June 15. DJ Rekha returns to Flushing Meadows-Corona Park in Queens for their acclaimed Basement Bhangra dance party with Priya Ragu, Ami Dang, and more on July 20. Ghanafest-NY will return to Crotona Park on Aug. 3 with King Promise, Dan Price The Artist, and DJ Faddah to showcase contemporary West African and Nigerian music. 

    This year’s festival will continue to highlight the birthplace of hip-hop with shows throughout the boroughs including the return of MIKE’S Young World IV featuring Earl Sweatshirt, Myaap, Sideshow, and more on July 13 and the Chuck Chillout 40th Radio Anniversary Party featuring Ice T, MOP, Schoolly D, Peter Gunz, Lord Tariq, and more hosted by Ralph McDaniels on Aug. 1, both in Bed-Stuy’s Herbert Von King Park. On Aug. 18, hip-hop legends will take over two boroughs: Special Uptown Edition: Celebrating 40 years of Red Alert & Ralph McDaniels of Video Music Box will be in Harlem’s Marcus Garvey Park and Funk Flex will celebrate his birthday with performances by Slick Rick, Dana Dane, Doug E. Fresh, DJ Maseo, and more in Central Park.

    We are thrilled to once again celebrate the vibrant diversity of New York City’s cultures and communities across all five boroughs. Our lineup will shine a bright spotlight on some of music’s most iconic female artists who have made an impact in their genres, from rock and New Orleans soul scions to Dominican merengue and Brazilian samba legends. We are continuing to support rising artists from around the world who are showcasing their fresh takes on various genres like hip-hop, Americana, rock, Latin, pop, and more. 2024 promises to be an unforgettable season!

    Erika Elliott, Executive Artistic Director of SummerStage. 

    The independent performing arts organization Works & Process will return for a second season collaborating with SummerStage to showcase the art of dance. Dance performances will kick off with It’s Showtime NYC! alongside the Maimouna Keita African Dance Company and Kash Gaines’s Caged Birds in Herbert Von King Park, Brooklyn on July 11. The Missing Element featuring the Beatbox House will serve as the 2024 dance Artist in Residence, performing at select shows throughout the season.  

    SummerStage 2024 is delighted to return for six free shows at The Coney Island Amphitheater in Brooklyn. In addition to Andy Montañez in association with La Mega on June 15, shows include The Federation Sound 25 Anniversary featuring the first lady of dancehall Sister Nancy, Tanto Metro & Devonte, and Friends on July 7, the Oldies is Back in Brooklyn show featuring The Platters former lead singer Frank Pizarro, Charlie Thomas’ Drifters with Jeff Hall and many others on July 14.

    Brooklyn rapper, Coney Island local, and viral internet sensation NEMS presenting GORILLAFEST featuring Ghostface Killah, DJ Tony Touch, and more on Aug. 4, and on Aug.11, NYC’s iconic R&B radio station WBLS will host its 50 Anniversary Celebration with Jon B, Vivian Green, Meli’sa Morgan, Horace Brown, Jeff Redd, and Funk Flex. Closing the Coney Island season will be The Chol Hamoed Spectacular: The Yeshiva Boys Choir presented in association with EG Productions on Oct. 20.

    The Charlie Parker Jazz Festival, New York City’s annual salute to the late saxophonist, will return in its 32 year for a three-day celebration of live jazz in the neighborhoods near where Parker worked and lived, including Harlem’s historic Marcus Garvey Park and Tompkins Square Park in the East Village. Running Aug. 23 to Aug. 25, this year’s lineup will bring together storied, veteran players and the next generation of jazz artists including the Christian McBride Big Band and Wallace Roney Jr in partnership with Jazzmobile; Carmen Lundy, and Helen Sung with Isaiah Collier & the Chosen Few; Louis Hayes, Ekep Nkwelle, and Alexis Lombre with sounds by DJ KulturedChild aka Angelika Beener among others

    The 2024 SummerStage season will also feature ticketed benefit shows in Central Park to help support the City Parks Foundation’s free performances. Artists include English singer-songwriter James Arthur on May 17; Trinidadian soca group KES on June 8; Jamaican-American R&B artist Masego on June 19; prolific American rapper and record producer T-Pain on June 23; a joint experience featuring legendary Mexican rock bands Caifanes and Café Tacvba on June 26.

    Other acts include Indie singer-songwriter Ethel Cain on June 27; three nights of pride celebrations featuring Trixie Mattell, Above & Beyond, and others from June 28 through June 30; American rock/folk band Counting Crows on July 11; Irish rock band The Saw Doctors on July 17; a South African amapiano dance party from Piano People on July 27; contemporary worship music collective Elevation Worship on July 31; genre-bending jazz and R&B stars Robert Glasper featuring Yebba on Aug. 1; David Cross and his Super Pals on Aug. 8; alternative rock bands The Gaslight Anthem, Joyce Manor and Pinkshift on Aug. 21; and hip-hop band The Roots with Jungle Brothers and Digable Planets on Aug. 23.

    For more information about SummerStage 2024 and the full lineup, visit here.

    SummerStage 2024 Lineup

    Fri, May 17 5:00 PM

    James Arthur Central Park Benefit

    Sat, Jun 1 6:00 PM

    OPENING NIGHT: Andra Day in association with Blue Note Jazz Festival

    Subaru Music Series Central Park Free

    Sat, Jun 8 5:00 PM

    KES Central Park Benefit

    Thu, Jun 13 5:00 PM

    Kim Gordon / Sun Ra Arkestra / Slauson Malone 1

    Central Park Free

    Subaru Music Series

    Sat, Jun 15 4:00 PM

    THE AUSSIE BBQ: Jebediah / Last Dinosaurs/ Northeast Party House / Sheppard / Sycco/ Thelma Plum in Association with Sounds Australia and the American Australian Association

    Central Park Free

    Sat, Jun 15 5:00 PM

    Andy Montañez / Charlie Cruz / People of Earth / La Mega DJ in association with 97.9 La Mega

    Coney Island Amphitheater Free

    Sun, Jun 16 6:00 PM

    Corinne Bailey Rae / Dixson in association with Blue Note Jazz Festival

    Central Park Free

    Tue, Jun 18 7:00 PM

    The Metropolitan Opera Summer Recital featuring Leah Hawkins, Mario Chang, Michael Sumuel

    Central Park Free

    Wed, Jun 19 5:00 PM

    Masego / Jordan Ward Central Park Benefit

    Thu, Jun 20 7:00 PM

    The Metropolitan Opera Summer Recital featuring Leah Hawkins, Mario Chang, Michael Sumuel

    Brooklyn Bridge Park Free

    Sat, Jun 22 5:00 PM

    The Yussef Dayes Experience / Aneesa Strings / Dana and Alden in association with Blue Note Jazz Festival

    Central Park Free

    Sun, Jun 23 6:30 PM T-Pain’s Mansion in Wiscansin Tour Central Park Benefit

    Mon, Jun 24 7:00 PM

    The Metropolitan Opera Summer Recital featuring Brittany Olivia Logan, Hannah Jones, Matthew Cairns

    Jackie Robinson Park Free

    Wed, Jun 26 7:00 PM

    The Metropolitan Opera Summer Recital featuring Brittany Olivia Logan, Hannah Jones, Matthew Cairns

    Williamsbridge Oval Free

    Wed, Jun 26 6:00 PM

    Caifanes + Café Tacvba Central Park Benefit

    Thu, Jun 27 5:00 PM

    Ethel Cain with Special Guest Teethe Central Park Benefit [SOLD OUT]

    Fri, Jun 28 7:00 PM

    The Metropolitan Opera Summer Recital featuring Brittany Olivia Logan, Hannah Jones, Matthew Cairns

    Socrates Sculpture Park Free

    Fri, Jun 28 5:30 PM

    Utopia Pride: Above & Beyond and Spencer Brown

    Central Park Benefit

    Sat, Jun 29 5:00 PM

    Pride Disco with Trixie Matell, Amanda Lepore, and Jess King

    Central Park Benefit

    Sun, Jun 30 3:00 PM

    Dreamland Pride Central Park Benefit

    Mon, Jul 1 5:00 PM

    Madison Cunningham / LA LOM / John-Robert / Corrente: Beatriz Mira & Tiago Barreiros Central Park Free

    Sun, Jul 7 5:00 PM

    Ezra Collective / Celeste / Da Chick DJ in association with Blue Note Jazz Festival

    Central Park Free

    Sun, Jul 7 5:00 PM

    Federation Sound 25th Anniversary featuring Sister Nancy / Tanto Metro & Devonte and friends

    Coney Island Amphitheater Free

    Wed, Jul 10 6:00 PM

    LAMC and Latin GRAMMY 25th Anniversary: Fonseca / Israel Fernández / Bruses

    Central Park Free

    Thu, Jul 11 5:00 PM

    Counting Crows Subaru Music Series Central Park Benefit

    Thu, Jul 11 6:00 PM

    Works & Process: It’s Showtime NYC! / Maimouna Keita African Dance Company / Kash Gaines’s Caged Birds

    Herbert Von King Park Free

    Fri, Jul 12 6:00 PM

    Sounds of Detroit: Celebrating 50 years of J Dilla feat. The Pharcyde / Slum Village / Breakbeat Lou in association with Fusicology & Future x Sounds

    Herbert Von King Park Free

    Sat, Jul 13 5:00 PM

    LAMC: BRESH Central Park Free

    Sat, Jul 13 4:00 PM

    MIKE’s Young World IV: Earl Sweatshirt / Myaap / Sideshow / Stahhr / Stacy Epps

    Herbert Von King Park Free

    Sun, Jul 14

    TBD Lineup to be announced

    Herbert Von King Park Free

    Sun, Jul 14 4:00 PM

    GOLDEN OLDIES ON THE BOARDWALK: Oldies is Back in Brooklyn Feat. The Platters former lead singer Frank Pizarro / Charlie Thomas’ Drifters with Jeff Hall / The Marvelettes / Bill Haley Jr’s Comets / Johnny Farina / The Excellents / The Chiclettes / Vinnie Medugno / Hosted by JoeCausi WCBS FM and Sal Abbatiello FeverRecords / Music by The Coda Band

    Coney IslandAmphitheater Free

    Sun, Jul 14, 5:00 PM

    Bastille Day: IAM / Magic System / The Avener / Laurie Darmon / Femi the Scorpion in association with the Consulate General of France

    Central Park Free

    Wed, Jul 17 5:00 PM

    The Saw Doctors / The Coronas Central Park Benefit

    Sat, Jul 20 5:00 PM

    DJ Rekha’s Basement Bhangra Beyond: Priya Ragu / DJ Rekha / Ami Dang / Lady Pista + Guests

    Flushing Meadows-Corona Park Free

    Sun, Jul 21 TBD Lineup to be announced

    Flushing Meadows-Corona Park

    Sun, Jul 21 6:00 PM

    Proyecto Uno / Milly Quezada / DJ Miquelito & Excarlet Molina in association with 97.9 La Mega Central Park Free

    Wed, Jul 24 5:00 PM

    Arooj Aftab / Sid Sriram / EMEL Central Park Free

    Sat, Jul 27 3:00 PM

    Piano People in the Park: Scorpion Kings / DBN GoGo / Kelvin MoMo / DJ Moma / DJ

    Tunez Central Park Benefit

    Sun, Jul 28 5:00 PM

    Catalan Sounds On Tour: Sidonie / Balkan Paradise Orchestra / Lau Noah / DJ Turmix in association with the Institut Ramon Llull

    Central Park Free

    Wed, Jul 31 6:00 PM

    Elevation Worship: Praise Party! Central Park Benefit

    Thu, Aug 1 6:00 PM

    Chuck Chillout 40th Radio Anniversary Party: Ice T / MOP / Schoolly D / PeterGunz & Lord Tariq / Super Lover Cee & Casanova Rud / CL Smooth / Joeski Love / D.J. Breakout / Funky Four + 1 More / Ultramagnetic MCs / DJ Chuck Chillout & Crotona Park Free Kool Chip / NINE / Al B. Sure! / Music by Funk Flex / Hosted By Ralph McDaniels & Bugsy Buggs

    Thu, Aug 1 5:00 PM

    Blue Note Presents: Robert Glasper Featuring Yebba Central Park Benefit

    Fri, Aug 2 6:00 PM

    Tedsmooth’s Freestyle Jam feat. Coro / C-Bank / DJ Serg / Anthony Mangini / Tedsmooth / Strafe Crotona Park Free

    Sat, Aug 3 5:00 PM

    The Originals Central Park Free

    Sat, Aug 3 6:00 PM

    King Promise / Dan Price the Artist / DJ Faddah in association with GhanaFest-NY Crotona Park Free

    Sun, Aug 4

    TBD Lineup to be announced Crotona Park Free

    Sun, Aug 4 5:00 PM

    Galactic featuring Irma Thomas / The

    Rumble featuring Chief Joseph Boudreaux Jr

    Central Park Free

    Sun, Aug 4 4:00 PM

    NEMS Presents: GORILLAFEST Featuring Ghostface Killah / DJ Drewski & Friends /Statik Selektah / Scram Jones / Tony Touch and Friends

    Coney Island Amphitheater Free

    Thu, Aug 8 6:30 PM

    David Cross and Super Pals featuring Bob Odenkirk, Sarah Silverman, Fred Armisen, Zach Zucker, Sean Patton and more TBA Central Park Benefit

    Sat, Aug 10 6:00 PM

    VP Records 45th Anniversary Central Park Free

    Sun, Aug 11 5:00 PM

    WBLS 50th Anniversary Celebration: Jon B / Vivian Green / Meli’sa Morgan / Horace Brown / Jeff Redd / Funk Flex

    Coney Island Amphitheater Free

    Sun, Aug 11

    TBD Lineup to be announced

    Stapleton Waterfront Park Free

    Thu, Aug 15

    TBD Lineup to be announced

    Marcus Garvey Park Free

    Fri, Aug 16

    TBD Lineup to be announced

    Marcus GarveyPark Free

    Sat, Aug 17 5:00 PM

    Palmwine Festival NYC: Show Dem Camp feat. The Cavemen & Friends in association with Move Forward Music Central Park Free

    Sat, Aug 17 6:00 PM

    The Soapbox Presents: The Life of the Party

    Marcus Garvey Park Free

    Sun, Aug 18 5:00 PM

    Special Uptown Edition: Celebrating 40 years of Red Alert & Ralph McDaniels VideoMusic Box

    Marcus Garvey Park Free

    Sun, Aug 18 6:00 PM

    Funk Flex Birthday Party with Live performances by Slick Rick, Dana Dane, Doug E. Fresh, DJ Maseo & Funk Flex Central Park Free

    Wed, Aug 21 5:00 PM

    The Gaslight Anthem / Joyce Manor /

    Pinkshift Central Park Benefit

    Thu, Aug 22 5:00 PM

    Brazilian Day: Alcione / Larissa Luz / DJ

    Malfeitona / Film screening: “Gerson King Combo” in association with 28th Inffini to Brazilian Film Festival Central Park Free

    Fri, Aug 23 5:00 PM

    Hip-Hop Is The LOML Tour: The Roots ft.

    Jungle Brothers / Digable Planets

    Subaru Music Series Central Park Benefit

    Fri, Aug 23 7:00 PM

    Charlie Parker Jazz Festival: Christian

    McBride Big Band / Wallace Roney Jr in

    partnership with Jazzmobile

    Marcus Garvey Park Free

    Sat, Aug 24 3:00 PM

    Charlie Parker Jazz Festival: Carmen Lundy

    / Helen Sung / Isaiah Collier & the Chosen

    Few / Tyreek McDole / DJ KulturedChild aka

    Angelika Beener

    Marcus Garvey Park Free

    Sun, Aug 25 3:00 PM

    Charlie Parker Jazz Festival: Louis Hayes /

    SuperBlue: Kurt Elling & Charlie Hunter ft.

    Huntertones / Ekep Nkwelle / Alexis Lombre

    / DJ KulturedChild aka Angelika Beener

    Tompkins Square Park Free

    Tue, Aug 27 5:00 PM

    Snail Mail / Tim Heidecker / Fenne Lily Central Park Free

    Mon, Sep 9 6:00 PM

    WNYC and Friends Centennial Celebration Central Park Free

    Sun, Oct 20 1:00 PM

    The Chol Hamoed Spectacular: The Yeshiva

    Boys Choir presented in association with EG productions

    Coney Island Amphitheater

  • Bad Mary Release “Better Days”, Announce 3 Shows in New York

    Long Island alternative/punk band Bad Mary has announced the release of their re-recorded mix of “Better Days” on April 23. The band also announced six live dates, three of which in New York.

    bad mary better days

    The song is the second release from their Better(er) Days EP, which is a collection of re-recorded and remixed versions of the songs from their first album Better Days. The re-release celebrates the 10-year anniversary of the debut album.

    The group is composed of Mike Staub, Amanda Mac, Bill Mac, and David Henderson. Together, Bad Mary brings the heat with their alt-punk attitude. The group showcases nasty basslines, strong, catchy riffs, and a frontwoman with an uplifting yet seductive vocal style.

    The track is released with a new music video, and a few live shows to celebrate the drop. Bad Mary sees three dates in New York on April 26, June 8, and July 5. The band performs two shows at Mr. Beery’s in Bethpage, Long Island followed by a stop at Arlene’s Grocery in Manhattan.

    bad mary better days

    The single, “Better Days” is a tune about the shortcomings, the setbacks, and the misfortunes in life. It is a theme every individual can get behind. The song is hopeful and encourages you to keep your head up and look forward to those better days.

    ’Better Days’ is a song about trying your hardest and just feeling like nothing is working out. We’ve all been there. We as people… we overthink, we feel paralyzed, we can feel like nothing is going our way – but the only thing to do is keep moving forward and hope that there are better (or maybe even betterER) days ahead. This song continues to mean more to me every day, and I love that it’s been with us since the beginning,”

    Vocalist Amanda Mac

    Better(er) Days will be released in the summer of 2024. The band is currently writing and recording new songs to be released later this year. Along with this, Bad Mary is still adding live dates to their list of shows this year.

    bad mary better days

    See them live:

    April 26 at Mr. Beery’s in Bethpage, NY

    May 17 at SpiFest in Windsor, CT

    May 23 at The Fire in Philadelphia, PA

    June 8 at Mr. Beery’s in Bethpage, NY

    July 5 at Arlene’s Grocery in New York, NY

    July 24 at The Middle East in Boston, MA

    For more information on Bad Mary, their upcoming music and dates, click here. Make sure to stay up to date on the band’s upcoming album Better(er) Days, releasing this Spring.

  • Music Teachers from Long Island Honored at LIMEHOF Ceremony

    Five music teachers from across Long Island were recently honored at the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame (LIMEHOF) in Stony Brook in a special ceremony honoring the organization’s most recent Educator of Note Award winners. 

    LIMEHOF

    The teachers honored include Alan Schwartz (Great Neck, 2023), Frank Abel (Uniondale/Roosevelt, 2022), Kim Löwenborg-Coyne (North Babylon, 2021), Marc Greene (Middle Country School District, 2020), and Susan Weber (Uniondale, 2019). 

    “It was wonderful,” said Tom Needham, Second Vice Chair and Educational Programs Director at LIMEHOF. “When you get all these people together in one room and you hear about the number of students they’ve influenced over the years and the impact they’ve had on music education on Long Island. It’s truly incredible. We’re so excited to have this opportunity to have them all here in the room and to celebrate the good things that they’ve accomplished.”

    Supporting and highlighting musical education and upcoming talent through its education programs is a large part of LIMEHOF’s mission. Each year the Long Island Music & Entertainment Hall of Fame presents an Educator of Note Award recognizing outstanding achievement in Long Island music education during their galas. LIMEHOF has not held an awards Gala since 2019 in large part due to COVID restrictions so these award winners were unable to receive their awards in a public ceremony. Therefore, a special ceremony for them was arranged at their Stony Brook Museum location. 

    LIMEHOF says it’s important to recognize the music teachers who are top in their field making a difference by building strong educational programs for students to be able to perform and be evaluated. 

    We celebrate music history here on Long Island and everybody knows we honor people like Billy Joel and John Coltraine and other artists but sometimes people forget that the people who have the biggest impact on Long Island in terms of music are music teachers. Music teachers have the ability to reach thousands of kids throughout a career.

    Tom Needham

    The 2024 Educator of Note nomination process is currently open with a deadline of September 30th. For more information about LIMEHOF’s Educator of Note, scholarships, and other music education programs, please visit here.

  • Eddies Awards Winners Announced, Angelina Valente Wins 3

    The Eddies Awards have announced the 2024 winners, including Saratoga Springs artist Angelina Valente taking home the most awards for Solo/Duo Artist of the Year, Songwriter of the Year, and Album of the Year.

    Eddies Award 2024
    Photo by Joe Putrock.

    Other multiple award winners include Indie pop duo SIRSY who received Eddies Music Awards for Pock/Pop Artist of the Year and Record of the Year and WEXT with Radio Station of the Year and DJ of the Year for Andy Gregory. 

    Merit Awards are given each year to music initiatives that don’t fit traditional categories that benefit the community. The Capital Region Blues Network was one of two recipients for its Blues in the Libraries initiative – actively promoting the careers and music of blues legends by donating books and compact discs to libraries throughout the region. 

    Also receiving the Merit Award were Joe Mele and Patti Quade, organizers of the Dustin Mele Memorial Concert. The event has been held annually for a decade to raise funds for local suicide prevention organizations; through the generosity of local musicians who have donated their time and talents over $125,000 has been collected. 

    Photo by Joe Putrock.

    In all, over 200 nominees in 34 categories were celebrated during the 2024 Eddies Awards. Performing during the event were Ethan Crowley, Hold On Honeys, Cassandra Kubinski, Jocelyn & Chris, Ruth Pelham, and The Sugar Hold. DJ Trumastr spun music from—and inspired by—winners as well. Emcees were co-producer Kelly Auricchio and Eddies co-founder Jim Murphy. 

    “First and foremost, the Eddies were created to foster a sense of community and connection,” Murphy said in reflecting on the event, “And to show appreciation and give recognition. The awards process is an instrument to accomplish those objectives.” 

    The Eddies Music Awards, part of the Proctors Collaborative, are voted on by members of the local music community. For more information about the awards, visit here.

    The recipients of the 2024 Eddies Music Awards:

    Electronica Artist of the Year
    100 Psychic Dreams
    Punk/Hardcore Artist of the Year 
    Blasè DeBris

    Metal/Hard Rock Artist of the Year
    The Erotics
    Live Production Crew of the Year
    High Peaks Event Production

    Record Label of the Year 
    Upstate Records 

    Music Recording Studio of the Year 

    White Lake Music & Post 

    Presenter/Promoter of the Year 

    Caffè Lena – Sarah Craig 

    Seasonal Outdoor Venues/Concert Series
    Music Haven Concert Series

    Radio Station of the Year 

    WEXT 97.7, 106.1 

    Radio DJ of the Year 

    Andy Gregory 

    Arts Publication of the Year (print, TV or new media) 

    Nippertown (Gazette) 

    Music Journalist of the Year (tie) 

    Kirsten Ferguson 

    Michael Hochanadel 

    Music Photographer of the Year 

    Kiki Vassilakis 

    Classical Artist/Ensemble of the Year 

    Albany Symphony Orchestra

    World Music Artist of the Year 

    Alex Torres & His Latin Orchestra 

    RnB/Soul/Funk Artist of the Year 

    The E-Block 

    DJ of the Year 

    DJ Trumastr 

    Party Cover Band of the Year 

    Garland Nelson and Soul Session 

    Cover Band of the Year 

    The Refrigerators 

    Hip Hop/Rap Artist of the Year 

    JB!! aka Dirty Moses 

    Americana Artist of the Year 

    Reese Fulmer & The Carriage House Band 

    Solo or Duo Artist of the Year 

    Angelina Valente 

    Solo or Duo Performer of the Year (Covers) 

    Jeff Brisbin 

    Jazz Artist of the Year 

    Chuck Lamb 

    Jam Band of the Year 

    TV Doctors 

    Blues Artist of the Year 

    Mark & Jill 

    Country/Bluegrass Artist of the Year 

    Jim Gaudet and The Railroad Boys 

    Rock/Pop Artist of the Year 

    SIRSY 
    Alt/Indie Artist of the Year 

    Architrave 

    Folk/Traditional Artist of the Year 

    Hold On Honeys 

    Songwriter of the Year 

    Angelina Valente 

    Music Video of the Year 

    “Don’t Quit Your Day Job” – Buggy Jive 

    Album of the Year 

    “Sing” – Angelina Valente 

    Record of the Year 

    “Seven Seas” – SIRSY 

    Merit Award (2 recipients) 

    Dustin Mele Memorial Concert 

    Joe Mele and Patti Quade 

    Blues in the Libraries 

    Capital Region Blues Network