Jazz on Jay returns to Schenectady this summer with an exciting lineup of family friendly acts. The lunchtime concerts will be held at a new location this year, the outdoor venue at Jay Square.
Located across from City Hall, Jay Square offers an improved sound and overall experience. Every Thursday at noon, top singers and instrumentalists from across the region bring their bands to Jay Street.
Lanaea Brice, the new chair of the beloved series, described it as, “a lively celebration of our shared love for harmony, community, and the pure bliss of gathering together.”
The rain location remains at Robb Alley at Proctors, 32 State Street, Schenectady. This year, souvenir tumblers will also be available for purchase while supplies last. Spectators are encouraged to bring blankets and chairs, and to enjoy the many nearby restaurants. A full list of performances is available below, and admission is free! For updates, follow Jazz on Jay on Facebook.
2024 Jazz on Jay Schedule
June 6: Killdeer Trio
June 13: Cliff Brucker & New Circle
June 20: Michael Benedict Jazz Vibes
June 27: Matty Stecks & The 518
July 11: MC2 Featuring special guests Andrew Hearn on drums and Dave Shoudy on bass
July 18: Brian Patneaude Quintet
July 25: Awan Rashad Quartet
Aug. 1: Joe Sorrentino
Aug. 8: Terry Gordon Quintet
Aug. 15: Joe Finn Trio
Aug. 22: Bossamba
Aug. 29: Joe Barna
A previous performance by The Ragtime Windjammers is available below.
Country band Eastbound Jesus are excited to announce the lineup for the 2024 rendition of their Eastbound Throwdown festival. The event features two days of nonstop concerts and camping behind the scenic views of Irwin Family Farm in Salem, NY.
Formed in 2011 in Greenwich, NY, Eastbound Jesus has been bringing country music to upstate New York for over a decade. In 2015, the band started toying around with the idea of throwing their own music festival, not only to showcase their music but other bands and friends, as well. The first rendition of Eastbound Throwdown was performed in a softball field just behind a local Elk’s lodge. However, the next year, the band reached out to the Irwin Family Farm, who unanimously agreed to host. The festival has been there ever since.
Since the event’s inception in 2016, thousands of fans have camped out in Salem to take part in the Eastbound Throwdown fun. Visitors are encouraged to camp out, as well as tailgate alongside food and drink vendors. Eastbound Throwdown is a family-friendly event and even includes a family camping area for children.
Eastbound Throwdown 2024 will be hosting a series of performers, most of whom are collaborators and friends of Eastbound Jesus. Join them on September 6th and 7th for two fun-filled nights of camping and country music!
Below is the lineup and information on the groups playing Eastbound Throwdown 2024.
Friday, September 6th
The Wormdogs
The Wormdogs – Official Facebook
The Wormdogs are a five-piece band from Burlington, VT, created in 2017. A roots/Americana band at the core, their sound ranges from bluegrass rock n roll to country and folk. As a classic Americana band, their instrumentation consists of a fiddle, upright bass, two guitars, and drums. Join them on Friday, September 6th, in Salem.
Damn Tall Buildings
Damn Tall Buildings – Official Facebook
Hailing from Brooklyn, Damn Tall Buildings takes the stage on Friday night for a performance with classic bluegrass sounds perfectly fit for the Eastbound Throwdown festival.
Dirty Blanket
Dirty Blanket – official webpage
Over the following ten years, the 5-piece, fast-paced, alternative improvisational bluegrass band Dirty Blanket has toured all over the American Northeast. Their performance precedes hosts Eastbound Jesus on the first day of Eastbound Throwdown 2024.
Eastbound Jesus
Eastbound Jesus – Official webpage
The hosts of the festival, Eastbound Jesus, bring an energetic, lively performance reminiscent of old-fashioned, classic country and rock n’ roll. The first of their performances is followed by Turf n Turf and The Mallett Brothers Band.
Turf n Turf
Turf n Turf – Facebook
Following the performance of hosts Eastbound Jesus, one-man rock and roll band Turf n Turf will be taking the stage on Friday.
The Mallett Brothers Band
The Mallett Brothers Band – official website
The Mallett Brothers Band is a rock and roll / Americana / country band from Maine. With a style that ranges from alt-country to Americana, country, jam, and roots rock, join them for a spectacular finisher to Friday night’s portion of Eastbound Throwdown.
Saturday, September 7th
Dan Johnson
Making his return to Eastbound Throwdown, Vermont country singer Dan Johnson opens Saturday night with original bluegrass music.
Ida Mae Specker
Ida Mae Specker – official website
As a third-generation fiddle player, Ida Mae fuses original, contemporary, and traditional material, bringing heartfelt new life and relevance to the chain of American folk music. Join her on Saturday at Eastbound Throwdown!
Kristian Montgomery & The Winterkill Band
Kristian Montgomery – Facebook
Kristian Montgomery and The Winterkill Band are a roots and rock’n’roll band perfect for Eastbound Throwdown. Watch them on Saturday in between Ida Mae Specker and Space Trash.
Space Trash
Space Trash – Facebook
Join local band Space Trash for their performance on Saturday, September 7th.
Driftwood
Driftwood – official website
Folk band Driftwood brings an unforgettable performance to the Eastbound Throwdown stage with its three lead singers. On Saturday night, Driftwood brings performance of classic folk music with an original twist
Boy Golden
After a long, arduous journey of self-discovery, one-man country band Boy Golden precedes hosts Eastbound Jesus on Saturday, September 7th.
Eastbound Jesus
Hosts Eastbound Jesus takes the stage again on Saturday night.
Moonboot Lover
Peter Prince – photo credit to Jay Blakesberg
As one of the earliest jam bands of the 90s, Moon Boot Lover heads to Salem to close out Eastbound Throwdown. Led by Peter Prince, the band brings back iconic funk, bluegrass, and rock sounds that all showcase the members’ passion for playing live music.
For more information, tickets, and announcements, fans can visit here.
As we approach the bicentennial of the Erie Canal in 2025, let’s look back at this marvel of modern engineering. Not only did the Canal transform much of Upstate New York, but it also transformed folk music. While known by many names since its composition, “The Erie Canal Song” has become a staple of the American folk songbook. With lyrics reflecting life on the canal, and the changes it brought to the state, it proves a useful tool for exploring New York’s history.
Before the Days of Rapid Transit, Edward Lamson Henry (1841-1919) c.1900 Pencil and watercolor, ht.13 3/4′ x w.34 3/4″ Albany Institute of History & Art Purchase, 1976.7.2
The year is 1807, and the United States is slowly expanding into The Northwest Territories (or what is now the Midwest). This region was rich in the grain and metals needed to supply populations on the East Coast. The only issue was that transporting these resources to the East Coast commercial hubs was difficult to say the least. The Appalachian mountains provided a massive barrier for mule trains, with the journey from New York City to Detroit taking four weeks.
New York was specifically poised to tackle this transportation issue. The Hudson River was the main artery of trade for New York, connecting commercial Manhattan to the capital in Albany. Of the Hudson’s many tributaries, the Mohawk River proved to be the most important. Flowing eastward from Oneida County, it cut a low valley through the Appalachians, the only valley of its kind in the Northeast. Because of this, Governor DeWitt Clinton authorized the construction of a canal along this route in 1817.
Map showing Present and Proposed Canal System, to accompany report of Edward A. Bond, State Engineer and Surveyor of N.Y. (from:Annual report of the State Engineer and Surveyor of the State of New York, for the fiscal year ending September 30, 1903 (Oliver A. Quayle, Albany, 1904) — facing p. 60)
Following eight years of disease, construction accidents, and hard manual labor, the Canal was opened in 1825. The canal was 4 feet deep, 40 feet wide, and spanned 363 miles from Albany to Buffalo. With the construction of the canal, boats could travel from the Hudson River to Lake Erie in less than five days. While many were originally skeptical of the canal, it soon proved its worth. Completed ahead of schedule, and under-budget, the canal paid itself off with tolls in under ten years.
The Erie Canal was one of the first great highways of the United States, bringing goods, ideas, and most importantly people across New York. The Canal revolutionized the economy of Upstate New York, practically creating the cities we know today. In 1817, Buffalo was a village of 2,000 people recently destroyed by the British. Canal commerce turned Buffalo into the world’s premier grain hub, with the city growing into the 9th largest metropolis in the US. Cities sprang up all along the canal route. Hamlets like Rochester, Syracuse, and Schenectady grew into cities with hundreds of thousands of residents, and national centers of industry.
“The most fertile and extensive regions of America will avail themselves of its facilities for a market … [and New York City] will, in the course of time, become the granary of the world, the emporium of commerce, the seat of manufactures, the focus of great moneyed operations.”
– DeWitt Clinton, Governor of New York
Thomas S. Allen
On top of having such economic importance, the canal quickly became a cultural symbol of New York. To many, the canal symbolized their identity as Upstaters, and hope for a prosperous future. One person enamored by the legendary canal was Natick, Massachusetts’s Thomas S. Allen. Allen recalled, “When a boy in school, a picture of the Erie Canal in a Geography attracted my attention and I exclaimed: ‘If I ever see the Eric Canal, I’ll think I’ve seen something worth seeing.’” Sometime around 1910, when traveling to Rochester, Allen finally saw the canal, and immediately knew he had to write a song about it.
It turns out Allen was somewhat of a 1900s musical renaissance man. He was foremost a violinist, playing everywhere from professional orchestras to burlesque shows. On top of this, he directed Vaudeville shows, composing songs for them in the Tin Pan Alley tradition. Throughout his career, he published nine songs under his name, including “The Erie Canal Song.” Originally published in 1913 by Manhattan’s F.B. Haviland Publishing Co, the song was titled “Low Bridge, Everybody Down.” The song looked back to the work of mule barges along the canal.
At the time of its publishing, New York was constructing the Barge Canal System, a mechanized successor to the Erie Canal. Newer diesel and steam powered barges carried much of the cargo down these new canals. Allen’s writing harkened back to a simpler time of mule-drawn ships on the Erie Canal. “We’ve hauled some barges in our day, filled with lumber, coal and hay. And every inch of the way I know, From Albany to Buffalo.” These lines also highlight some of the major midwestern resources that would have flowed Eastward through the canal. Grain and ore were the two specifically that allowed cities like Buffalo to become breadbaskets, and industrial hubs of the East.
The lyrics while romanticizing life on the canal, also speak to the hardships it brought. The repeated chorus “low bridge everybody down,” reflects just one of these difficulties. Nearing the fledgling cities along the canal, extremely low bridges were common obstacles for barges. The cover for the song’s original sheet music depicts this, with the narrator ducking down on his mule to pass under one such bridge. In reality, however, these bridges were bigger dangers for barge passengers. Passengers on barges would commonly ride on top when conditions allowed, having to quickly get down to safely pass under these bridges.
Lift Bridge and Canal St., Canastota, N.Y. — Postcard ; not postmarked ; another slightly variant copy is postmarked Sep. 19, 1907. [CSNYS 1096.1.0890]
The song’s lyrics also play into the themes of hardiness that would fit perfectly in a Spaghetti Western. The lyrics repeatedly mention Sal the Mule’s fighting spirit. Throughout the song Sal brawls her way across the state, sending Mike McGinty to the bottom of the canal, and kicking a man all the way to Buffalo. All of this fighting occurs during the narrator’s 15 years of hard work along the canal. This story of hardy enterprise and masculine bravado call to mind the Wild West. One could easily imagine these stories of barging and brawling taking place in a classic Eastwood or Wayne movie. This makes sense remembering that at the canal’s completion, Upstate New York very much was the “Wild West.”
Since its original composition in 1913, “Low Bridge” has become a folk standard, being performed by countless artists. The first known recording we have of the song is by Billy Murray (not to be confused with actor Bill Murray) from 1912. Murray was a star Tenor of the early 1900s, recording many vaudeville and Tin Pan Alley tracks. This recording is now featured in the Library of Congress’s National Jukebox and Recorded Sound Section.
Aiding in the Canal’s place in American mythology was a recording by folk legend Pete Seeger. Seeger included “The Erie Canal” as track #10 on his 1954 album Frontier Ballads. This album celebrated the stories of workers, and settlers who traveled westward through the new territories of the United States. This album places the Erie Canal alongside stories of Cowboys and railroad workers, placing it firmly within the canon of Americana, and further cementing its Western connection.
Perhaps the latest great recording of “The Erie Canal Song” came from rock legend Bruce Springsteen, as part of his 2006 album We Shall Overcome: The Seeger Sessions. This album included Springsteen’s interpretations of 13 folk and Americana classics popularized by Pete Seeger. Because of this, this version is moreso a Springsteen cover of Seeger’s version, rather than a direct reimagining of the original. The album, including “Erie Canal” shot to number 3 on the billboard top 100, also earning Springsteen a Grammy for best folk album.
Since its publishing 111 years ago, “The Erie Canal Song” has become an icon of American folk music. Not only have massive stars covered it over the years, but it has also really lived up to the definition of folk music, and spread to the masses. Reading comments on the YouTube video of Seeger’s version you see nothing but fond memories. Whether it’s people who learned it as kids in school, or sang it with their grandparents, the song holds an important place in the collective American cultural memory.
On top of all of this, the song speaks to the role the Erie Canal plays in American imagination. It singlehandedly built upstate New York, and connected the country more than it had ever been before. More than just this, it represents a time long gone, where the Wild West wasn’t so far west. Its no wonder why when many people think of New York, they think of the Erie Canal.
“The Erie Canal Song” Lyrics:
I’ve got an old mule, and her name is Sal, Fifteen years on the Erie Canal
She’s a good old worker and a good old pal, Fifteen years on the Erie Canal
We’ve hauled some barges in our day, filled with lumber, coal and hay.
And every inch of the way I know, From Albany to Buffalo
Low bridge, everybody down, Low bridge, we must be getting near a town.
You can always tell your neighbor; you can always tell your pal.
If he’s ever navigated on the Erie Canal
We’d better look ’round for a job old gal, Fifteen years on the Erie Canal
You bet your life I wouldn’t part with Sal, Fifteen years on the Erie Canal
Giddyap there gal we’ve passed that lock, we’ll make Rome ‘fore six o-clock
So one more trip and then we’ll go, Right straight back to Buffalo
Low bridge, everybody down, Low bridge, I’ve got the finest mule in town
Once a man named Mike McGinty tried to put it over Sal
Now he’s way down at the bottom of the Erie Canal
Oh, where would I be if I lost my pal? Fifteen years on the Erie Canal
Oh, I’d like to see a mule as good as Sal, Fifteen years on the Erie Canal
A friend of mine once got her sore, Now, he’s got a broken jaw.
Cause she let fly with her iron toe and kicked him into Buffalo.
Low bridge, everybody down, Low bridge, I’ve got the finest mule in town.
If you’re looking ’round for trouble, better stay away from Sal.
She’s the only fighting donkey on the Erie Canal
I don’t have to call when I want my Sal, Fifteen years on the Erie Canal
She trots from her stall like a good old gal, Fifteen years on the Erie Canal
I eat my meals with Sal each day, I eat beef and she eat hay.
She isn’t so slow if you want to know, she put the “Buff” in Buffalo
Low bridge, everybody down, Low bridge, I’ve got the finest mule in town
Eats a bale of hay for dinner, and on top of that, my Sal.
Tries to drink up all the water in the Erie Canal
You’ll soon hear them sing everything about my gal, Fifteen years on the Erie Canal
It’s a darned fool ditty ’bout my darned fool Sal, Fifteen years on the Erie Canal
Oh, every band will play it soon, Darned fool words and darned fool tune!
You’ll hear it sung everywhere you go, from Mexico to Buffalo
Low bridge, everybody down, Low bridge, I’ve got the finest mule in town.
She’s a perfect, perfect lady, and she blushes like a gal.
If she hears you sing about her and the Erie Canal
Caffè Lena has been a continuously operating folk coffee house since 1960 and Tom Rush has been a continuously performing folk musician for just about as long. That certainly made Rush, who released his first album in 1962 and recorded for Prestige, Elektra, and Columbia records in the 60s and 70s, a perfect selection for Caffè Lena’s Folk Heritage Series which brought the New England troubadour to the stage for two shows on Friday, May 31.
Tom Rush at Caffe Lena. Photo by Derek Java.
In the early bird set, which kicked off just after 5 pm to the delight of the mostly-baby boomer crowd, Rush performed a tight 70 minute set that showcased his wide-ranging skills as a songwriter, storyteller, bluesman, interpreter, and champion of other songwriters from his generation.
Tom Rush at Caffe Lena. Photo by Derek Java.
After the packed house welcomed Rush to the stage, he joked that he was in the sixty-third year of his farewell tour and kicked into “Making the Best of a Bad Situation” a talking blues that featured a number of narrative follies and established the lighthearted and humorous nature that continued throughout the set.
Upon completion of the first number, Matt Nakoa took the helm of the legendary Caffè Lena upright piano and accompanied Rush for most of the night. Nakoa, a songwriter who hails from Kerhonkson, NY, looks startlingly like the young, pre-mustachioed Tom Rush as captured in the photo that adorns the album cover of The Circle Game (1968). Nakoa also displayed a dexterous and adaptable approach to the keyboards all night, ranging in styles from barrelhouse to boogie-woogie to straight ahead rock n’ roll. “Hot Tonight” was an apt place in the set for Nakoa to join in since his playing certainly raised the temperature of the music on the stage for the duration of the concert.
Matt Nakoa caught in reflection at Caffe Lena. Photo by Derek Java.
Nakoa is also the producer of Rush’s most recent album “Gardens Old, Flowers New”, which was released in March of this year. “Won’t Be Back At All” was the first of three numbers that the duo played from this latest album. Rush joked that he learned a long time ago that he should play new songs early in a set in case he needed to redeem himself for any missteps, but despite his self-deprecation, the three new songs included in the set were among the most poignant of the night.
True to his word, Rush followed a recently recorded track with a song nearly 60 years old: Joni Mitchell’s “The Circle Game”. Rush recounted that he first met Joni Mitchell in 1966 while he was doing a two week residency in Detroit at the famed The Chess Mate folk and blues club. He was two years overdue on an album for Elektra and asked the budding songstress if she had anything he could record. Shortly thereafter, Mitchell sent Rush a six song demo tape, humbly introducing “The Circle Game” as something she didn’t think was all that good. Rush’s reverential rendition reminded the audience of just how wrong Mitchell was – the lyrics remain spellbinding and perceptive. In many ways, Rush’s baritone, grown gravelly with age, continues to be the perfect foil for the lyrics, “we can’t return, we can only look / behind from where we came / and go round and round / in the circle game. Rush, who alternated between a standard-tuned acoustic, a 12-string, and his open-tuned, signature Martin guitar (replete with naked-lady-wrapped-up-in-a-snake inlay) mentioned that while David Crosby takes the credit, he’s pretty sure he was the one to first introduce Mitchell to open-tuning (something she became famous for). Rush said he’s pretty sure he was the one who showed Crosby how to do it too!
Tom Rush at Caffe Lena. Photo by Derek Java.
Rush continued to school the audience in the ways of the old folk house with Sleepy John Estes’ “Drop Down Mama” which featured an exquisite barroom piano solo by Nakoa. Rush, who hails from New Hampshire, went to college at Harvard and got a second degree in the folk music of 1960s Cambridge clubs where he saw numerous blues and bluegrass legends, Estes included.
Rush then turned the stage over to Nakoa for an interlude of piano instrumentals that shared one quality – they were scores for film. “Tumbleweed Tango” was a clever and playful piece that was commissioned to score a short animation about two balloon animal dogs (check out the video on YouTube if you get a chance). The impressionistic “8MM Home Movies” was inspired by Nakoa’s COVID lockdown with his father. Instead of family movie night, Nakoa’s dad fired up old 8MM home videos and Nakoa was inspired to rewrite an old composition from his high school days that conjured up the images of his youthful grandparents.
Matt Nakoa at Caffe Lena. Photo by Derek Java.
Then Rush returned to the mic for “The Remember Song”, which was probably the highlight of the evening in terms of crowd response. Written by Steven Walters, the song captures exactly what it feels like to misplace the phone or walk into a room without knowing quite why you’re in there. Improbably, a 2007 upload of “The Remember Song” has 7.7M views on YouTube (a true viral sensation)– and Rush made it clear he’s never seen a dime from those clicks. Maybe, he mused, it was the same guy clicking it over and over and forgetting that he’d watched it in the first place.
“Siena’s Song” was a tender ballad for his daughter. Rush wrote the track more than 20 years ago and revisited the lyrics at the behest of his 25-year-old daughter. His young daughter may also have influenced the addendum Rush added to the lyrics of “Ladies Love Outlaws” to bring the 70s hit for Waylon Jennings up to date in 2024: “Outlaws touch the ladies somewhere deep down in their soul, but never without proper consent,” sang the hip octogenarian.
Tom Rush at Caffe Lena. Photo by Derek Java.
In the same way Rush paid tribute to Mitchell, his take on Jackson Browne’s classic “These Days” was a reminder of Rush’s role as champion of great songwriters. Browne wrote the song when he was only 16 and Rush was one of the first to record any songs written by the young prodigy.
“Lost My Drivin’ Wheel”, penned by Canadian David Wiffen, followed the Browne number and brought to mind Rush’s years as a Columbia recording artist in the 1970s at the height of the country- and folk-rock music. “Drivin’ Wheel” featured an extended soulful and percussive organ solo from Nakoa. The rock and roll spirit continued for a medley of the rock standards “Who Do You Love?” and “Hey! Bo Diddley”. Rush, a clever, twinkle-in-the-eye English major at heart, cracked up the audience by singing the lyrics “WHOM do you love?”.
Tom Rush at Caffe Lena. Photo by Derek Java.
The encore for the early evening was the aptly titled “I Quit” which also closes out Rush’s new album. The tune could apply to quitting a job or relationship or a music career, but Tom Rush is in no hurry to leave the spotlight and shows no signs of slowing down. Heck, he had a second sold out show at 8 pm.
Setlist: Making the Best of a Bad Situation, Hot Tonight*, Won’t Be Back At All*, Circle Game*, Drop Down Mama*, Tumbleweed Tango**, 8MM Home Movies**, The Remember Song, Siena’s Song, Ladies Love Outlaws*, These Days*, Lost My Drivin’ Wheel*, Who Do You Love?/Hey! Bo Diddley Medley*
Encore: I Quit *
*Accompanied by Matt Nakoa on piano and keyboard ** Matt Nakoa solo (instrumental piano compositions)
Tom Rush at Caffe Lena. Photo by Derek Java.Tom Rush at Caffe Lena. Photo by Derek Java.Tom Rush at Caffe Lena. Photo by Derek Java.Tom Rush at Caffe Lena. Photo by Derek Java.
Funk guitarist Cory Wong is set to play a special show at Caroga Arts Collective on Wednesday, July 31. A raffle will be held, giving audience members the opportunity to win a limited-edition Fender guitar.
Known for his extensive solo work as well as collaborations with Vulfpeck and many others, Cory Wong will play two consecutive nights of the 2024 Caroga Lake Music Festival. The first show on July 30 will feature a special acoustic set inside the Sherman’s Park Dance Hall.
Wong’s return to Caroga will feature a unique set joined by a strings section. This show will provide the opportunity to experience an up close and personal concert with a guitar virtuoso.
In addition to the performance, Caroga Arts is offering a raffle for the chance to win Fender’s 2023 limited-edition surf green Cory Wong Stratocaster, valued at $2,400. The winner will be drawn at the show where they can get the guitar signed and a photo with Wong.
Only 100 raffle tickets will be sold at $100 each and can be purchased HERE or when buying the tickets.
Taking place between his performances at the esteemed Newport Folk and Jazz Festivals, An Evening with Cory Wong & Strings: A special acoustic performance and conversation is a show not to be missed.
Tickets and seating will be extremely limited for this intimate performance and can be purchased HERE
For 44 years, the Lake George Arts Project’s Summer Concert Series has been a staple of summer evenings in Lake George. This tradition continues in 2024 with another exciting lineup featuring rising stars, regional favorites, and music legends.
The 2024 series boasts an impressive roster, from the genre-bending virtuosity of Sons of Mystro to the Grammy-nominated Louisiana powerhouse, the Pine Leaf Boys. Acclaimed singer-songwriters like Cassandra Kubinski and Angelina Valente will share the stage alongside legends Walter Parks & The Unlawful Assembly and Matt Schofield, a British-born blues legend who reshaped the boundaries of the genre.
The Arts Project is also committed to showcasing the best of the 518. It brings The E-Block, Eventually Epic, and Reese Fulmer & The Carriage House Band to the stage for the first time, alongside regional favorite Big Medicine. All concerts begin at 7 pm at Shepard Park in Lake George, NY. This year’s events begin June 29 and run until August 28. Admission is free.
The Lake George Arts Project is a non-profit organization dedicated to presenting and promoting the arts in the Lake George region. Its mission is to provide exposure and income opportunities to professional and emerging artists, as well as quality arts programming for the residents and visitors of the Lake George region. With a rich history of nearly 50 years, the Lake George Arts Project curates an exciting range of cultural events, including renowned programs such as Jazz at the Lake Jazz Festival, the Summer Concert Series, and the year-round Courthouse Gallery Exhibitions.
For more information, visit the Lake George Arts Project website at www.lakegeorgearts.org
The Lake George Arts Project’s 2024 Summer Concert Series Lineup:
Saturday, June 29th: Sons of Mystro (Reggae, R&B, Fusion)
Born in South Florida to a Jamaican father and Barbadian mother, brothers Malcom and Umoja learned to play violin through South Florida’s public school system. Together, these brothers are Sons of Mystro. They use their violins to interpret reggae classics, American pop songs and their own creations.
The Sons of Mystro concert is supported by The Audience Building Project, a program of the Lake Placid Center for the Arts and the New York State Council on the Arts with support from the Governor and New York State Legislature.
Wednesday, July 3rd: Eventually Epic (Rock, Pop, Bollywood)
Eventually Epic is an eclectic rock band that performs songs across diverse musical genres, ranging from classic rock to contemporary pop to (Hindi) Bollywood tunes. Their originals feature simple arrangements, catchy melodies and memorable lyrics, and their live performances exude raw energy and sheer joy.
Wednesday, July 10th: Cassandra Kubinski (Singer-Songwriter)
Billboard-charting singer/songwriter Cassandra Kubinski has performed from stadiums to living rooms, from Romania to LA, sharing stages with the likes of the Goo Goo Dolls, 10,000 Maniacs, Anna Nalick and others. Known for her piano-forward, cutting songwriting that takes listeners from deep, vulnerable canyons to snarky, witty corners, to futuristic ambitious highs, her songs have been used in dozens of TV shows and ads.
Wednesday, July 17th: Pine Leaf Boys (Cajun, Zydeco)
Louisiana’s finest, four-time Grammy-Nominated, world-renown Pine Leaf Boys have made a name for presenting their own inimitable brand of Louisiana music with youthful exuberance. Hailing from southwest Louisiana, the Pine Leaf Boys, known for their wild shows and thoughtful arrangements, have breathed new life into Louisiana music, reviving ancient songs and bringing them to the bandstand.
Wednesday, July 24th: The E-Block (Indie R&B)
The E-Block is a 5-piece indie R&B band based in Upstate New York, blending the acoustic warmth of singer-songwriter music with an ice-cold rhythm section informed by modern R&B. Founded by guitarist Luke Pascarella in 2019, the band has grown to include saxophonist James Soren, keyboardist Devin Tetlak, bassist Daniel Folds, and drummer Leroy “Rudy” Dalton.
Wednesday, July 31st: Big Medicine (Rock, Folk, Country, Blues)
A rocking concoction of rock, folk, country, blues, originals and everything else under the sun! The band is Jeff Walton-Vocals and Guitar, Maggie Doherty-Vocals and Flute, Tim Wechgalear-Vocals, Violin and Mandoli, Rick Bolton-Vocals and Guitar, Pat Perkinson-Bass, and Mike LaMaestro-Drums.
Wednesday, August 7th: Walter Parks & The Unlawful Assembly (Spirituals, Gospel, Blues)
The Unlawful Assembly reimagines and tributes historic spirituals and hymns which universally inspire, empower and unite. The soundtrack to American black history –old-school spirituals, gospel, blues, and prison work chants intertwine with swamp hollers, shaped-note hymns and Appalachian reels of white homesteader origin.
Wednesday, August 14th: Matt Schofield (Blues)
A multi-award winning guitar virtuoso, singer, songwriter, and producer, Schofield’s impact as one of the most distinctive guitarists of his generation is unquestionable. Industry and critical acclaim has named him “British Blues Guitarist of the Year,” “British Blues Album of the Year,” and the first guitarist inducted into the “British Blues Awards Hall of Fame.” Additionally, Schofield has been named Mojo Magazine’s “Blues Album of the Year” and Guitar & Bass Magazines “Top Ten British Blues Guitarist of All Time,” alongside Eric Clapton and Peter Green.
Wednesday, August 21st: Angelina Valente (Indie Folk)
Angelina Valente is a singer-songwriter from Upstate New York. Her unique blend of indie folk features piano, ukulele, and genuine storytelling influenced by her small town roots and love of nature. She has released one full length album, two EP’s and three singles, and has recorded at the esteemed Village Studios in L.A., as well as the Atlantic Records Studio in New York City.
Wednesday, August 28th: Reese Fulmer & The Carriage House Band (Americana, Indie-Folk)
Reese Fulmer & The Carriage House Band feature “an award-winning songwriter with a poet’s sensibility rich with great storytelling, imagery and a healthy dose of irony, surrounded by a revolving cast of extraordinary musicians.” (Art of the Song)
Starting Friday May 17, live music tavern Twisted Fiddler is hosting 10 Free Friday Night Summer Block Parties at 9 First Street in Troy with outdoor live music, a beer truck and food from the famous Slidin’ Dirty food truck. The Summer Concert Series features top jam and funk artists on weekly “Fiddler Fridays” for 10 Friday nights, May through September, from 7-10 p.m.
Five Friday nights highlights top local music acts while five “Funk Nights” features members of national touring bands. Now in their third year, Funk Nights are held on the last Friday of the month to concur with the downtown-wide Troy Night Out. This year’s artists include some bigger names in the funk/jam scene. “We are continuing to bring live music to downtown Troy and building on the momentum,” said Twisted Fiddler Owner Tim Taney. “This is a great block to have a block party.”
Fiddler Fridays Schedule 7 PM – 10 PM | Gates Open at 6 PM
May 17 – Brian Kane Trio (Country / Southern Rock Night )
Vocalist Brian Kane, a Troy NY Native, takes the stage at the inaugural Fiddler Friday Summer Block Party on First Street.
Joined by Chris Beam on bass, Jeff Prescott on drums, Tony Pellegrino on guitar, and Luke McNamee on sax.
May 31 – Funk Night: Rob Compa (Dopapod ) WSG Mike Oehman (Mihali)
Guitarist Rob Compa of progressive jam band Dopapod takes the Fiddler Fridays stage with special guest saxophonist Mike Oehman of Mihali. They will be joined by Krystal Surgick on vocals, Beau Sasser (of Kung Fu) on keys/organ, Justin Henricks (of Wurliday) on guitar, and Colin Jalbert on drums.
June 14 – Chef Dave’s Blues All Stars
Featuring Chef Dave Rozier, who made his name while performing and cooking at the famous Los Angeles Baked Potato restaurant, on harmonica, Rich Ertelt on guitar/vocals, Chris Beam on bass, Chad Ploss on drums, Keith Pray on sax, Ben O’Shea on trombone, and Sonny Speed on keys.
June 28 – Funk Night: New Orleans Legend Glen David Andrews
Glen David Andrews is a vocalist and trombonist that hails from the historic Treme neighborhood of New Orleans. His commanding voice, fierce trombone sound and electric stage presence create a musical experience that never fails to meet the moment.
He takes the Fiddler Fridays Funk Night stage with Beau Sasser (of Kung Fu) on keys/organ and Justin Henricks (of Wurliday) on guitar.
July 12 – Super 400 (I Heart Troy NY Rock ’N’ Roll)
Super 400, Troy’s fabled rock trio, known far and wide for telekinetic jams and big love, takes the Fiddler Fridays stage for I Heart Troy NY Night.
Featuring Lori Friday on vocals/bass, Kenny Hohman on vocals/guitar andJoe Daley on drums
July 26 – Funk Night: Tim Palmieri (of Lotus), Zdenek Gubb & Adrian Tramontano (of Twiddle)
Three of the biggest names in the funk / jam scene take the Fiddler Friday Funk Night Stage.
Tim Palmieri (of Lotus) on guitar/vocals, Zdenek Gubb (of Twiddle) on bass, and Adrian Tramontano (of Twiddle) on drums.
Aug. 9 – The Deadbeats (Grateful Dead Tribute )
The Deadbeats have been playing Grateful Dead in NY’s Hudson Valley & Capital District for 31 years.
Aug. 30 – Funk Night: Beau Sasser’s Escape Plan
Funk Fusion Organ driven, hard hittin’, boogaloo rooted funk with a rock ’n’ roll spirit.
Beau Sasser of Kung Fu – Keys & Organ Justin Henricks of Wurliday – Guitar Rob Somerville of Deep Banana Blackout – Sax Bill Carbone of Max Creek – Drums Krystal Surgick – Vocals
Sept. 13 – Lustre Kings (Rockabilly)
The Lustre Kings bring their old time rock ’n’ roll sound to the Fiddler Fridays stage.
Trumpeter and vocalist Jennifer Hartswick is an original member of the Trey Anastasio Band and has recorded/shared the stage with Herbie Hancock, Phish, Christian McBride, Tom Petty, Aaron Neville, Carlos Santana, The Rolling Stones, Big Gigantic, Dave Matthews and countless others.
Hartswick takes the Fiddler Fridays stage with Beau Sasser of Kung Fu on keys/organ, Justin Henricks of Wurliday on guitar. More musicians TBA
Funk Nights are presented by Beau Sasser (of Kung Fu) and Troy Native Justin Henricks (of Wurliday). The duo of Sasser on keys/organ and Henricks on guitar will back up the headlining musicians on all Funk Nights except July.
Music is Rain or Shine. In the event of rain, the show will be moved inside Twisted Fiddler. Due to limited space, a cover charge may apply.
The Americade Motorcycle Rally will be hosting a two-day block party at Blais Park on the âBring It! Bike Showâ stage in Lake George, from Friday, May 31 until Saturday, June 1. This event is free to the public and features live concerts from six different performers, three on each day, starting at 4:00 pm.
Since May 1983, Americade has served as one of the largest social events in the United States for all who engage in motorcycling. The rally features trade shows, races, both guided and unguided tours, and the most factory demos of any motorcycle exposition in the country.
Created by motorcyclist Bill Dutcher, Americade was originally affiliated with Aspencade, a motorcycle rally located in New Mexico, extending it to the East Coast and aptly naming the convention “Aspencade East.” By 1986, Aspencade East adopted the name “Americade” to signify its newly nationalized audience. That year, Americade became the largest touring motorcycle rally in the United States, with a crowd of 10,000. In 2024, Americade expects to host up to 50,000 people. Despite its massive size, Americade has provided an inclusive and family-friendly space to showcase the best of motorcycling.
In addition to the Block Party, Americade entertains its guests with rodeos, barbecues, and comedy and stunt shows featuring hundreds of local artists and performers. Americade also serves as an active fundraiser, donating to local and regional charities, raising up to $600,000 in previous years. Fundraisers for organizations like Ride For Kids, which is led by cyclists to raise money for pediatric cancer research and treatment, the Wounded Warrior Project, which raises money for veterans, and several more based in the Lake George area will be happening throughout the duration of the rally.
Below is the lineup for both days of the Block Party. For more information, visit here.
FRIDAY, MAY 31
4:00 – 5:30 Southbound Renegade
Inspired by classic southern rock bands like Lynyrd Skynyrd and the Allman Brothers, Southbound Renegade brings their own twist to the genre with a team of musicians from surrounding area bands.
6:00 – 7:40 Blue Moon Band
The Blue Moon Band is a classic rock band hailing from Bolton Landing, NY. Its members are Bill Campbell, Joe McDowell, Patrick Stacey, Kris Gage, and Jason Saris. With a diverse range of inspirations from Elvis to Green Day, Santana to the Cars, and everything in between, Blue Moon shares it’s love of rock and roll with a combination of covers of old favorites.
8:00 – 10:00 Bluz House Rockers
Following their 29th anniversary, Bluz House Rockers headlines the Americade Block Party with a celebration of Blues and Rock and Roll.
SATURDAY, JUNE 1
4:00 – 5:30 Toulouse Street
Hailing from Glens Falls, NY, Toulouse Street has brought soul to upstate New York for over 40 years. On June 1st, they open the Americade Music Festival.
6:00 – 7:40 Dirt Cheap
For over 20 years, Dirt Cheap has delivered a tasting of classic newer rock music, interpreted artfully, energetically, and accurately. Add to this musical recipe rich harmonies and multiple lead singers, it’s no surprise Dirt Cheap has thrived for so long. Come get your serving of rock and roll done properly, done Dirt Cheap!
8:00 – 10:00 Matt Mirabile Band
Matt Mirabile and his band have been wowing audiences throughout the Northeast for nearly 20 years. Inspired by the early roots of Rock and Blues, Mirable and his band provide a fresh spin on classic âAmericanâ music. Mirable rolls into Americade featuring Steve Candlen on drums, Bobbie Vandetta on bass, and Tim Fiato on keys.
They say blood is thicker, but when it comes to musical siblings, being related can often be the kiss of death. Historically speaking, the list of dysfunctional “brother bands” is long and distinguished. From acts like the Everlys, The Kinks, and Duane and Greg Allman, to modern rockers like Chris and Rich Robinson of The Black Crows and Noel and Liam Gallagher of Oasis, tales of in-fighting, lawsuits and bad break-ups are the stuff of legend. Hell, the last thing in the world I can imagine is writing songs with my older brother. Not because I don’t love the guy, but simply because I just wouldn’t feel comfortable sharing my most personal feelings with him that way. But this article isn’t about me, it’s about The Avett Brothers and the shared bond that makes them so special and unique.
The Avett Brothers performing at MVP Arena in Albany, NY 5/23/24
For Scott and Seth Avett, trust is a must and their unwavering belief in each other is largely what’s responsible for carrying the genre-bending folk rockers from Concord, North Carolina all the way to the top. If you’ve never heard them play before, imagine three Bob Dylan’s rolled into one, or a cross between Tom T. Hall and Faith No More, or John Prine meets Nirvana. Hard-working and relatable, above all, the Avett’s are a family band with an uncanny ability to keep it real, no matter how tough times get.
No strangers to the area, The Avett Brothers formed in 2001 and have been making regular stops around the Capital Region for over two decades now. First playing for only a handful of people at a since-closed Italian restaurant in Albany, the Avett’s have also played memorable gigs at Troy’s Revolution Hall as far back as 2007, were regular fixtures during the early years of Mountain Jam Festival, and in recent times, have gone on to headline multi-night runs at Brewery Ommegang and Beak & Skiff Orchards. Their stop at MVP Arena on Thursday, May 23th, was the group’s first Albany date since performing at the Palace Theatre in 2012. Tapping red-hot Americana/roots artist Sierra Ferrell to open the show, fans old and new were all but guaranteed a magical evening of music. It’s just a shame more people didn’t get the memo in time.
Sierra Ferrell performing ahead of Avett Brothers at MVP Arena in Albany, NY 5/23/24
Kicking off the evening with a blistering, but brief set, West Virginia-born songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Sierra Ferrell was stunning from the start. Seen as one of the brightest young luminaries in roots music today, Ferrell’s soulful voice was powerful and confident and instantly won the crowd over on songs like “In Dreams,” “Why’d Ya Do It” and “Jeremiah” from her 2021 debut album Long Time Coming. Along with her dapper and distinguished backing band, Ferrell’s wide rang of styles on songs like “Money Train,” “I Could Drive You Crazy,” and “Dollar Bill Bar” offered a taste of everything from country and ragtime, to foot-stomping folk to straight up rock n’ roll.
Pausing to ask the audience if anyone was looking forward to Del Fest as much as she was, the meager response was broken up by one man who screamed out “Del Yeah!” which elicited widespread laughter. After paying homage to a couple of her heroes by covering Arthur Smith Trio’s “Chittlin’ Cookin’ Time in Cheatham County” and “Years” by John Anderson, the remainder of the set featured material from Sierra’s excellent new album, Trail of Flowers including “American Dreaming,” and the arena-ready, Celtic-like stomper “Fox Hunt” to close out the truly unique set. Proving the hype is real on this one, Sierra Ferrell stood tall in Albany and made instant fans out of many of the first-time listeners.
Sierra Ferrell performing ahead of Avett Brothers at MVP Arena in Albany, NY 5/23/24
After a brief intermission that included songs from local underground folk heroes, the Felice Brothers, the stage was set and I knew I was exactly where I needed to be. It was finally time for The Avett Brothers to take us to church. The rare kind of band that have always been honest with the audience and true to themselves, I may not be a smart man, but even I know that’s hard to find these days. For me, their show at the MVP Arena on May 23th was personal and it hit me over the head like a ton of bricks. Timeless harmonies with lyrics that have helped shape my life in a way few other bands have, I think that’s a big part of the Avett’s secret recipe. An ability to put feelings into words in a way that the common man can understand and relate to. It’s a gift the Avett’s have been sharing with us since deciding to make music a career more than 20 years ago.
The Avett Brothers performing at MVP Arena in Albany, NY 5/23/24
Opening their performance with the beautifully sung vocal prelude of “Never Apart” that featured both Scott and Seth sharing the same microphone, it was the first of six songs that would be played from the band’s recently released self-titled album. Along with older brother Scott on banjo and Seth on acoustic guitar, the group also consists of longtime members Bob Crawford on standup and electric bass, Joe Kwon on electric cello, Tania Elizabeth on fiddle, Mike Marsh on drums and Bonnie Avett-Rini on piano.
“I wonder which brother is better Which one our parents loved the most
I wondered what my dad would say He said, “I love you and I’m proud of you both In so many different ways
Always remember there was nothing worth sharing Like the love that let us share our name”
Lyrics from “Murder in the City”
The genre-bending folk rockers would show off their experimental side next on the digitally enhanced “Satan Pulls the Strings” before landing on the lone song played from 2012’s The Carpenter, the foot stomping singalong, “Live and Die.” From there the band would play a powerful rendition of their introspective hit, “Morning Song”, which received the biggest cheers of the night thus far. Bouncing back with the upbeat lead single from the new album, “Love of a Girl” set the stage for an early highlight of the show, the sentimental fan favorite “Murder in the City.” A song that embodies what The Avett Brothers are all about – a brilliant combination of lyrics, melody and chord progression – its mantra about family and love was stunning and poignant.
Seth and Scott Avett performing at MVP Arena in Albany, NY 5/23/24
Pausing for a moment to let the song resonate, fiddle player Tania Elizabeth, battling through some minor feedback, had her turn in the spotlight with an extended solo on “Le reel du pendu / Les bars de la prison,” shredding the hairs of her bow to a rabid applause as the rest of the band rejoined the stage behind her. After working their way through another new one “Country Kid,” the band would tug at the heart strings on “Living of Love”, our first song from The Avett’s breakthrough 2007 album, Emotionalism, before another well-penned Scott song, “Vanity,” forced the audience to take a critical look inside themselves.
Picking up the pace now, the momentum of the show took a major turn when The Avett’s launched into 2009’s high octane “Kick Drum Heart,” getting the entire crowd up on their feet and clapping in unison when suddenly, Seth Avett jumped off the stage with his wireless guitar, ran the length of the floor while high-fiving fans and soloing all the way into the upper deck of section 123 of the MVP Arena before making his way back to the stage for the songs epic conclusion. Completely connected with the crowd, the band easily could have stopped the show here and no one would have complained, but luckily for everyone in attendance, the magic was only just beginning.
Feeding off the crowds energy, Seth Avett runs wild at MVP Arena in Albany, NY 5/23/24
Transporting listeners to a contemplative space on “Cheap Coffee,” a song that features heartwarming audio samples and feels radically different from most of their other work, the tone was set for another beloved staple and perhaps most well-known song, “I and Love and You.” With the crowd taking over and singing those same words back in unison, it was a moment that truly gave you goosebumps. With the audience firmly in their grip, the placement of the sentimental love letter “I Wish I Was” flowed perfectly.
Watch fan shot footage of The Avett Brothers performing “I and Love and You” in Albany, NY 5/23/24
Until this point in the night the band had let their songs do most of the talking, so when older brother Scott took to the microphone and starting speaking from the heart, you knew he had something significant to say. Reflecting on the moment, he mentioned how he “looks out there and sees people that I connect to, how grateful [he] is and that those people are the reason they are here tonight.” Saying, “The opportunity to do that is amazing, it’s our life’s work, and we are so blessed to do it.” Reminiscing about what it was like getting reviews in the early days, Scott commented how “It was an interesting part of our journey, reading what people said about us. Eventually we had to stop reading until we could get to a point where we could do it without being crushed.
We would get things written about us like, “The Avett Brothers show potential, but write small songs,” to which the Albany crowd loudly started booing. “We booed them too, but later we realized writing small songs is kind of an awesome thing.” Seth would playfully stop him there and say, “What is this old man with a banjo talking about?” before continuing with similar sentiments. “In any event, we were always very excited to be written about no matter what they said. I do recall we had hoped to be compared to our heroes. We didn’t get that so much, but we did get comparisons to The Muppets. Those were very good days, very exciting days. We thought it might be fun to give you a glimpse of what those early shows were like. Instead of talking about it, we’re gonna try and illustrate it and there’s only one group in the whole world that can help us do that and luckily, here in Albany they are here tonight! So without further ado, would you please help us welcome to the stage… The Avetts.” Erupting in a massive applause, the spotlights then revealed three Muppet-like alter egos of the band – Seth Monster, Scott Monster and Bob Monster – who would go on to ‘perform’ “Hard Worker” and “I Would Be Sad.” You can watch fan shot footage of that in the clip below.
Master of Muppets: Watch fan shot footage of The Avett’s performing “Hard Worker” live in Albany, NY 5/23/24
Smiles for miles all around, the real-life Avetts would get serious once again, performing a flawless version of the song “Shame.” A true emotional journey of “ups and downs,” the band would bounce back with an upbeat rocker from the new album, “Orion’s Belt” before going all the way back to 2006’s “Left on Laura, Left on Lisa.” After a cathartic rendition of “Head Full of Doubt/Road Full of Promise,” the Muppet version of the band would return for a set closing singalong of the funky hit single “Ain’t No Man” resulting in a veritable party-like atmosphere on and off stage.
“When nothing is owed or deserved or expected And your life doesn’t change by the man that’s elected If you’re loved by someone, you’re never rejected Decide what to be and go be it”
-Lyrics from “Head Full of Doubt/Road Full of Promise”
After exiting the stage to a standing ovation, the band would take a little extra time soaking it in before returning. “Ya know it’s funny how in some rooms three thousand people can sound like twenty thousand, so thank you for that.” Choosing to play the closer from the new self-titled album, “We Are Loved,” the vocal harmonies were about as beautiful as it gets.
Seth Avett performing at MVP Arena in Albany, NY 5/23/24
After paying homage to David Childers & The Modern Don Juans by covering “The Prettiest Thing,” the career-spanning show came to a proper close with Seth saying “Albany, thank you so much for letting us play for you. This is our last one and we are honored to do it with you,” as the band strummed the opening chords of perhaps the most emotional song in the Avett catalog, “No Hard Feelings.” Fading out with the repeating lyrics of “I have no enemies” sending chills up your spine, you knew you had just witnessed something special.
Scott Avett performing at MVP Arena in Albany, NY 5/23/24
With polished harmonies and heartfelt melodies, a charismatic stage presence and a wealth of wisdom contained within the lyrics, these songs feel timeless and should be heard by everyone. Rich with “repeat customer” appeal, the brothers Avett are veritable song-writing machines and put every ounce of energy and life experience they have into their craft. Even after a two-plus hour performance, there were still so many “favorites” left on the table in Albany. It’s no wonder people are so willing to travel from all over to see this band again and again.
With 3 Grammy nominations so far and over 2 million monthly listeners on Spotify alone, it’s easy to see the broad appeal and why the Avett Brothers continue to connect. From their first time in Albany playing at an Italian restaurant where people were more interested in pasta than what they were doing, to now playing the city’s biggest Arena two decades later, it’s fair to say this family band finally has Albany’s undivided attention now. At least they do mine. Salute.
No Enemies: Watch fan shot footage of The Avett Brothers performing “No Hard Feelings” in Albany, NY 5/23/24
The Avett Brothers | 5-23-2024 | MVP Arena | Albany, NY Setlist: Never Apart (w/ Vocal Prelude), Satan Pulls the Strings, Live and Die, Morning Song, Love of a Girl, Murder in the City, Le reel du pendu / Les bars de la prison, Country Kid, Living of Love, Vanity, Kick Drum Heart, Cheap Coffee, I and Love and You, I Wish I Was, Hard Worker, I Would Be Sad, Shame, Orion’s Belt, Left on Laura, Left on Lisa, Head Full of Doubt/Road Full of Promise, Ain’t No Man. Encore: We Are Loved, The Prettiest Thing (David Childers & The Modern Don Juans cover) No Hard Feelings.
Sierra Ferrell | 5-23-2024 | MVP Arena | Albany, NY
Setlist: In Dreams, Money Train, Why’d Ya Do It, Chittlin Cookin’ Time in Cheatham County (Arthur Smith Trio cover), Jeremiah, I Could Drive You Crazy, Years (John Anderson), Amierican Dreaming, Dollar Bill Bar, Fox Hunt.
The Sembrich in Bolton Landing, NY has opened its lakeside museum and grounds for its 100th anniversary season. On top of exhibitions, tours, and information talks, the museum will host a number of musical performances throughout the Summer.
Marcella Sembrich (1858-1935)
The Marcella Sembrich Memorial Association seeks to spread appreciation of opera and classical music through performance and education. The association was formed in honor of Polish soprano Marcella Sembrich (1858-1935), who conquered opera stages across Europe and the US.
As part of the Metropolitan Opera, Sembrich sang 466 performances, singing alongside legends like Enrico Caruso, and performing for Europe’s monarchs. When not performing, Sembrich lent her voice to some of the earliest commercial records for the Victor Talking Machine Company. Following her retirement, she founded the Juilliard and Curtis Institute vocal programs. The Sembrich maintains her manor and studio on the shores of Lake George, where she would hold lessons and benefit concerts in the summer.
Following Sembrich’s death in 1935, the manor was converted into a public museum of arts and music. The Spanish revival mansion and its 4.5 acre grounds are open to the public, and host an array of performances and exhibitions.
The Sembrich Studio Museum
The estate hosts Sembrich’s original collection of letters, artworks, and awards from her career. On top of this, there is a summer exhibit regarding Sembrich’s role as a fashion icon. This exhibition features gilded age fashion accessories, such as Sembrich’s gloves, and custom pieces by Louis Vuitton. On top of display, there will be information regarding the trends that spawned these items, and the controversies caused by them. The museum will also hold the special exhibition “Mastering Mozart,” celebrating the Mozart operas that launched Sembrich to stardom. The centerpiece of the exhibition is Sembrich’s couture Queen of the Night costume from The Magic Flute.
The museum will also host the “Century of Sembrich” Summer festival, celebrating Sembrich’s legacy in Lake George. The Summer concert series will feature renowned concert artists and ensembles, beginning on June 5, with a performance by the Opera Saratoga in the studio museum. Performances of note include the cutting-edge wind quintet WindSync, and Polish violin virtuoso Kinga Augustyn.
On top of classical performances, the festival will also feature film screenings, and talks. Especially of note are Anthony Davis, the composer of the opera X, who will give a special Juneteenth talk. Additionally Vincent Caruso, host of Sirius XM’s Symphony Hall, will give a studio talk on June 15th. With this variety, the Summer festival offers plenty of chances for the community to get involved and educated with classical and operatic music. The schedule for the 2024 Summer Festival is listed below.
WindSync
2024 Summer Festival Schedule
6/5, 7:00 PM – Festival Artists from Opera Saratoga 6/9, 2:00 PM – 2024 Young Performers Showcase 6/15, 2:00 PM – An Afternoon with Vincent Caruso (Studio Talk) 6/19, 7:00 PM – A Juneteenth Celebration with Anthony Davis (Studio Talk) 6/24, 7:30 PM – FILM: The Magic Flute (1975) 6/26, 2:00 PM – Seagle Festival Season Preview
7/6, 7:00 PM – Classical Splendor 7/8, 7:30 PM – FILM: The Opera House (2017) 7/11, 7:00 PM – A Night at the Museum 7/13, 7:00 PM – Chopin… and all that Jazz 7/17, 2:00 PM – Harmonia Ensemble 7/25, 11:00 AM – Peter and the Wolf by WindSync 7/27, 7:00 PM – WindSync Woodwind Quintet 7/28, 7:30 PM – FILM: Fitzcarraldo (1983)
8/1, 10:00 AM – Seagle Festival: Dragon’s Breath (Children’s Opera) 8/2, 7:00 PM – From Steam Launch to Stucco: The Story of The Sembrich Studio (Studio Talk) 8/4, 7:00 PM – Composers Sembrich Knew 8/7, 2:00 PM – Jomion and The Uklos 8/12, 7:30 PM – FILM: Veselka (2024) 8/17, 7:00 PM – Violinist Kinga Augustyn 8/21, 7:00 PM – ArcoStrum 8/24, 7:00 PM – At That Hour, Act One (World Premiere) 8/25, 2:00 PM – At That Hour, Act One (Encore Matinee) 8/26, 7:30 PM – FILM: Falling for Figaro (2021) 8/28, 2:00 PM – Cantrip 8/31, 6:00 PM – Chopin by Candlelight
The Sembrich museum and grounds are open daily from May 24-October 14. Tickers for the “Century of Sembrich” Summer Festival are on sale now. For more information on the Sembrich and its summer events, visit the link here.
