Kidz Bop have announced their 2024 summer tour with four shows across New York. The tour will kick off on June with shows in Buffalo, Bethel, Saratoga Springs and Syracuse this summer.
Kidz Bop connects with kids and families through their best-selling albums, music videos, products and live tours. The music franchise has been expanding internationally and currently records in 5 different languages. The brand has its own dedicated channel on SiriusXM – “KIDZ BOP Radio” (Channel 135) where it’s all Kidz Bop, all the time.
Kidz Bop tour will kick off on June with shows at the Darien Lake Amphitheater in Buffalo on July 7, the Bethel Woods Center for the Arts in Bethel on July 14, the Broadview Stage at SPAC in Saratoga Springs on July 26, the Northwell Health at Jones Beach Theater in Wantagh on August 3 and a show at the New York State Fair in Syracuse on August 24.
Presales for the tour will start on January 22, with the general on-sale starting on January 26. For tour dates and ticket information, visit here.
KIDZ BOP ALL-NEW TOUR
June 27, 2024 — Stamford, CT — Palace Theatre *
June 28, 2024 — Stamford, CT — Palace Theatre *
July 3, 2024 — Gilford, NH — Bank NH Pavilion
July 5, 2024 — Noblesville, IN — Ruoff Music Center
July 6, 2024 — Clarkston, MI — Pine Knob Music Theatre
July 7, 2024 — Buffalo, NY — Darien Lake Amphitheater
July 12, 2024 — Raleigh, NC — Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek
July 13, 2024 — Camden, NJ — Freedom Mortgage Pavilion
July 14, 2024 — Bethel, NY — Bethel Woods Center for the Arts
July 19, 2024 — Rogers, AR — Walmart AMP
July 20, 2024 — Kansas City, MO — Starlight Theatre
July 21, 2024 — Maryland Heights, MO — Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre
July 24, 2024 — Columbus, OH — Ohio State Fair *
July 26, 2024 — Saratoga Springs, NY — Broadview Stage at SPAC
July 27, 2024 — Boston, MA (2 Shows) — Leader Bank Pavilion
July 28, 2024 — Bangor, ME — Maine Savings Amphitheater
August 2, 2024 — Virginia Beach, VA — Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater
August 3, 2024 — Wantagh, NY — Northwell Health at Jones Beach Theater
August 4, 2024 — Hershey, PA — GIANT Center
August 6, 2024 — West Allis, WI — Wisconsin State Fair *
August 9, 2024 — Holmdel, NJ — PNC Bank Arts Center
August 10, 2024 — Vienna, VA (2 Shows) — Wolf Trap at Filene Center
August 11, 2024 — Cuyahoga Falls, OH — Blossom Music Center
August 16, 2024 — Burgettstown, PA — The Pavilion at Star Lake
August 17, 2024 — Tinley Park, IL — Credit Union 1 Amphitheatre
August 18, 2024 — Des Moines, IA — Iowa State Fair *
August 23, 2024 — Toronto, ON — Budweiser Stage
August 24, 2024 — Syracuse, NY — New York State Fair *+
August 25, 2024 — Holmdel, NJ — PNC Bank Arts Center
August 30, 2024 — Franklin, TN — FirstBank Amphitheater
August 31, 2024 — Cincinnati, OH — Riverbend Music Center
September 2, 2024 — St. Paul, MN — Minnesota State Fair *
September 6, 2024 — Phoenix, AZ — Arizona Financial Theatre
September 7, 2024 — San Diego, CA — Cal Coast Credit Union Open Air Theatre
September 8, 2024 — Inglewood, CA — YouTube Theater
September 11, 2024 — Puyallup, WA — Washington State Fair *^
September 20, 2024 — Bend, OR — Hayden Homes Amphitheater
September 21, 2024 — Wheatland, CA — Toyota Amphitheatre
September 22, 2024 — Mountain View, CA — Shoreline Amphitheatre
September 27, 2024 — Austin, TX — Germania Insurance Amphitheater
September 28, 2024 — Woodlands, TX — The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion
September 29, 2024 — Irving, TX — The Pavilion at Toyota Music Factory
October 4, 2024 — West Palm Beach, FL — iTHINK Financial Amphitheatre
October 5, 2024 — Tampa, FL — MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre
October 6, 2024 — Alpharetta, GA — Ameris Bank Amphitheatre
Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC) has announced its 2024 New York City Ballet (NYCB) season, featuring four unique programs from July 9-13 as part of NYCB’s historic 75 anniversary and its 58 season in Saratoga.
Called “the foremost creative ballet troupe in the world” by The New York Times, New York City Ballet will bring its roster of more than 90 dancers under the direction of Artistic Director Jonathan Stafford and Associate Artistic Director Wendy Whelan, accompanied by the New York City Ballet Orchestra, led by Music Director Andrew Litton. New York City Ballet, one of the foremost ballet companies in the world, was founded in 1948 by the legendary choreographer George Balanchine and arts patron Lincoln Kirstein and quickly became world-renowned for its athletic and contemporary style. Today, NYCB continues to be inspired by its founders who envisioned an authentically American expression of ballet with a company that reflects the rich cultural diversity of the city and nation.
“This season marks the occasion of our beloved New York City Ballet’s historic 75 anniversary. We look forward to an incredible week celebrating our shared history over the past nearly six decades, while also pointing toward our exciting future together,” said Elizabeth Sobol, president and CEO of Saratoga Performing Arts Center.
Opening the season on July 9 is “NYCB On and Off Stage,” hosted by NYCB principal dancers for a unique “behind the curtain” experience featuring excerpts from the week’s ballets and culminating with a celebratory after-party.
Highlighting the residency is George Balanchine’s three-act work Jewels, returning for the first time since 2016 and featuring Fauré’s elegant Emeralds, Stravinsky’sjazz-inflected Rubies, and Tschaikovsky’s symphonic Diamonds.
Emily Kikta in “Rubies”, JEWELS, New York City Ballet, David H. Koch Theater, Lincoln Center, Tuesday, September 17, 2019. Credit Photo: Erin Baiano
Also featured are two evenings dedicated to works by contemporary choreographers including a new work by Amy Hall Garner, which is set to hold its world premiere as part of NYCB’s 2024 spring season. Other works include Gustave le Gray No. 1, a SPAC debut choreographed by Pam Tanowitz and set to the music of Caroline Shaw, Ulysses Dove’s dynamically charged, abstract work Red Angels, and Justin Peck’s sneaker ballet The Times are Racing, heralded by audiences and critics alike since its premiere in 2017.
Rounding out the season will be two performances of some of Balanchine’s most beloved works, including the classic story ballet Swan Lake, the patriotic Stars and Stripes, the SPAC-commissioned work The Steadfast Tin Soldier, based on Hans Christian Andersen’s charming fairytale, and scenes from Coppélia, featuring children from the Capital Region, celebration the work’s 50 anniversary, which held its world premiere at SPAC in 1974.
Daniel Applebaum and Naomi Corti in Gustave Le Gray No. 2, choreography by Pam Tanowitz. New York City Ballet Art Series, Friday, April 29, 2022, David H. Koch Theater, Lincoln Center. Credit Photo: Erin Baiano
Tickets will be available beginning on February 9 at 10 a.m. for members (tiered by level) and on February 22 at 10 a.m. for the general public. Visit here for details.
NEW YORK CITY BALLET: JULY 9 – 13
NYCB On and Off Stage
TUESDAY, JULY 9 @ 7:30 P.M.
NYCB principal dancers host a unique “behind the curtain” experience featuring excerpts from the week’s ballets. A compelling evening for newcomers and fans alike. Immediately following the program is a celebratory “dance party” in the Hall of Springs.
Jewels
WEDNESDAY, JULY 10 @ 7:30 P.M.
THURSDAY, JULY 11 @ 2:00 P.M.
Emeralds (Fauré/Balanchine)
Rubies (Stravinsky/Balanchine)
Diamonds (Tschaikovsky/Balanchine)
Contemporary Choreography
THURSDAY, JULY 11 @ 7:30 P.M.
SATURDAY, JULY 13 @ 7:30 P.M.
New Garner* (TBA/Garner)
Red Angels (Einhorn/Dove)
Gustave le Gray No. 1* (Shaw/Tanowitz)
The Times Are Racing (Deacon/Peck)
Swan Lake & Stars and Stripes
FRIDAY, JULY 12 @ 7:30 P.M.
SATURDAY, JULY 13 @ 2 P.M.
Swan Lake (Tschaikovsky/Balanchine)
Scenes from Coppélia (Delibes/Balanchine and Danilova, after Petipa)
The Steadfast Tin Soldier (Bizet/Balanchine)
Stars and Stripes (Sousa, orch. by Kay/Balanchine)
The Albany Symphony Orchestra announced a February concert to Celebrate 100 years of Rhapsody in Blue with Kevin Cole. The concert will take place on Feb. 10 at the Proctors Theatre.
The Albany Symphony celebrates its living musical heritage through its adventurous programming, commissioning, and recording of new work, and broad community engagement beyond the concert hall. The Two-time Grammy winning Symphony will host a 100th birthday party concert for Rhapsody in Blue, featuring Kevin Cole, the world’s foremost interpreter of George Gershwin’s piano music. The program will include, An American in Paris, Carlos Simon’s AMEN! and Simon Says, and a world premiere trombone concerto by Jack Frerer.
Cole, who has performed with over 100 orchestras worldwide, has appeared several times with the Albany Symphony. He was the first pianist to perform all four of Gershwin’s works for piano and orchestra with the Symphony.
The concert also coincides with the release of a Naxos recording David Alan Miller created with Cole and the National Orchestra Institute Philharmonic. The concert will also feature a trombone concerto created by Jack Frerer and featuring the principal trombonist of the Albany Symphony, Greg Spirdopoulos.
Founded in 1930 in New York’s Capital Region, the Albany Symphony serves a diverse regional audience covering more than seven counties and parts of three states. In addition to an eight-concert subscription season, an annual multi-day American Music Festival including performances by the orchestra’s genre-bending ensemble Dogs of Desire, and a host of education and community outreach events, the Albany Symphony regularly serves as an ambassador for new music and Upstate innovation beyond the Capital Region.
Recognized as one of America’s most innovative and creative orchestras, Albany Symphony is renowned for virtuosic performances featuring classic orchestral favorites, lesser-heard masterworks, and a diverse array of new music from leading and emerging voices of today.
The concert will take place on Feb. 10 at the Proctors Theatre and Tickets are available here.
The Hubbard Hall board of directors has announced they are beginning a search for a new executive director, replacing David Andrew Sinder, who will be leaving for a new opportunity.
The Hubbard Hall Center for the Arts and Education is a thriving arts center dedicated to developing, promoting, and sustaining the cultural life of Cambridge, Washington County, the New York Capital Region, Southern Vermont, and the Berkshires. Since 1878 Hubbard Hall has developed, produced, and presented theater, music, opera, dance, and the visual arts and in recent years has become a world-class development center for new work. Since 1977, its current nonprofit has engaged thousands of artists, students, and audience members.
David has led Hubbard Hall for 10 years and has managed its development as a thriving regional arts and community center, as well as navigated the organization through the challenging time of COVID lockdowns and restrictions. In a statement, he said, “As the Executive & Artistic Director of Hubbard Hall, I’m so proud of all the work we’ve done together over the past decade, especially our support of students, artists, and community members throughout the global pandemic, as well as all of the programming and progress we’ve made together since 2014.”
He went on to say “I’m heartened by the fact that Hubbard Hall is physically and financially in much better shape than when I arrived. I’m thrilled that the past ten years have included so many triumphs with programming, including our seven-year streak with the CCS Drama Club, dozens of artist residencies, hundreds of presentations and productions of theater, opera, dance, and music, and thousands of hours of classes provided to our community.” He will be leaving Hubbard Hall on January 30, as he accepted a new offer at another arts institution.
The recruitment of a new director provides us with a great opportunity to fine-tune the vision of Hubbard Hall in this post-pandemic era. We will focus on strengthening not only the organization’s commitment to delivering high-quality performance and arts experiences, but also on reaffirming our role as an important cultural citizen and leader of the arts communities of Cambridge, Washington County, the New York Capital Region, Southern Vermont and the Berkshires.
Margaret Surowka, Chair of the Board.
The board went on to explain that during the initial transition phase, the day-to-day activities of Hubbard Hall will be handled by the board and current staff, with the job description and other details of the executive search being released shortly.
For more information about Hubbard Hall, visit here.
Neighbor will make their way to Saratoga Springs for the first time on Friday, January 19, having grown a sizeable following in the Northeast over the past five years. They’ll also be at Levon Helm Studios the next night, January 20, for an intimate show, sure to be packed with diehard fans on what looks to be a frosty night.
Speaking with singer and keyboardist Richard James, one had to know – how did it take so long to come to Saratoga Springs?
“Every time we come to Putnam Place with Pink Talking Fish is a blast, and I wanted to make sure the first time we played there with Neighbor, it was a packed house and the date made sense. Having not played Saratoga Springs definitely has driven up interest in the show, and could be the start of something.”
Neighbor is the creation of childhood neighbors Richard James (vocals, keys) and Lyle Brewer (guitar), plus Dan Kelly (bass) and Dean “The Dux” Johnston (drums), together combining ambitious composition, soulful balladry, and a fearless approach to improvisations with intent, creating Neighbor’s “down home” sound.
While James was touring with Pink Talking Fish, Brewer went on to teach guitar at Berklee College of Music, and in 2018 they revisited playing music together. With no barriers, it was like they were back in middle school, writing songs and performing together. The two are now finding balance after five years, between songwriting and jamming on (mostly) original material each night.
photo by Chris Capaci
Having just celebrated their 5 year anniversary as a band earlier this month, but four years ago in early 2020, Neighbor was just getting warmed up when COVID hit, shutting down the live music industry. Thus, in the years that have followed, they have been strategic with their touring schedule.
“All members of the band have families and kids. Lyle is an instructor at Berklee College of Music, and Dean is drum chair at Milton Academy outside of Boston, so routing needs to work out among balanced schedules and family obligations”
This, while also trying to push as hard as they can without burning out or taking away from instruction at these music schools, maneuvering the the band’s direction deftly. The band, collectively, wants to make sure they are not overwhelmed by how much is going on – the number of shows, the time on the road and away from home.
As a band, Neighbor wants longevity, and they’ll defer to taking the slow road instead of rushing.
photo by Chris Capaci
Neighbor saw its genesis well before 2018, going back to when James was on the road with Pink Talking Fish. “I’ve been writing since I ever got into music. Once I got started with Pink Talking Fish, I toured for six or seven years straight, compiled all this original music, and it was eventually time to do something different,” said James. After spending a day in New Orleans with piano legend Jon Cleary and gaining clarity towards a vision for his music, he began a Tuesday night residency at Thunder Road in Somerville, recruiting childhood neighbor Lyle Brewer, hence the band name, Neighbor.
For Neighbor’s five year anniversary, they decided to go back to their roots and recently announced a five week residency, one week for each year as a band, to pay tribute to how things came to be what they are now. James recalls those early Neighbor shows. “There are so many weird, crazy antics we would do at Tuesday night residencies in the past, special guests, switching up instruments, keeping fans on their toes and coming back for more the next week.” They look to bring back this magic with their upcoming residency at Soundcheck Studios, starting February 20 through March 19, every Tuesday night. “A lot of people travel to see us, and although we play the songs differently each night to keep it fresh, to give it that extra factor (horns), keeping it interesting where fans won’t want to miss a show” said James.
There is also the Neighbor rock opera, Silver, which was recently performed with the “Neighbor Nine,” where five additional horns and back up singers join the Neighbor quartet for a surprise factor on any given night. The Neighbor Nine come together with the full band, plus Matt Wayne (saxophone), James Cronin (trumpet), Rob Krahn (trombone), with Renee DuPuis and Joanne Cassidy as backup vocalists. The band has custom baseball jerseys, and if four members are wearing them, you might see the three horns and two singers come out and join Neighbor for some or all of the show.
Performing Silver was hands down the show of the year. I was blown away by the musicianship of the other band members, and even with limited opportunities to practice in advance, we ran a bunch of music during soundcheck and it was all there, no one skipped a beat. To have that trust and perform at the level we did – including songs played that night for the first time – it was magical. Adding in the show was rescheduled from October when the shooting in Lewiston postponed many events, in this case until January – which meant practice during the holiday season, a tough call for family-centric band members, but they pulled it off.
Richard James
That rock opera is based on the whole idea behind Neighbor – “let’s go out and have fun,” as James puts it. “The moment this stops being fun, it’s time we should stop doing it. We thought it would be fun to write a rock odyssey. Lyle and Richard grew up on rock operas, and we gave it a go during COVID, escaping the division in the country while settling on a story: two guys plan to leave the planet, stumble upon a guy who has the answers, and take off on an interstellar adventure, spread out over 10 songs, ” “Magic Marble Crew,” “Magna Zero” and “We Need You” among them. The story unfolds as the pair discover different civilizations, steal a spaceship, all in the pursuit of finding a home where everyone looks out for each other – neighbors helping neighbors, if you will.”
Having just released 30 shows on Nugs.Net and a thorough collection of music on the Neighbor Bandcamp page, Neighbor’s diverse catalog of hundreds of songs makes them one of the most exciting and unpredictable live bands in the music scene today. Don’t miss them at Putnam Place on Friday, January 19, and Saturday, January 20 at Levon Helm Studios.
January is in full swing and while the month is quiet for live music, drummer and multi-talented musician Joshua West has a few shows around the state that are well worth checking out, including a run of shows around his 30th birthday in Albany, Plattsburgh and Burlington.
A singer, songwriter, guitarist and percussionist born and raised in Upstate NY on the shores of Lake Champlain, surrounded by the beauty of the Adirondack Mountains to the south and the Green Mountains of VT to the east.
From a young age, Joshua began studying an array of instruments and musical mediums ranging from orchestral percussion to vocal performance, rhythm guitar to world music. He has performed with numerous bands across the United States and internationally and shared stages with The Wailers, O.A.R., SOJA, Black Uhuru, Michael Franti, Rusted Root, Goose among others.
With a blend of reggae, hip hop, folk and soul, meshed with conscious lyrics that question the state of our world today, West will be celebrating his 30th birthday with stops in his ‘hometowns,’ starting at Lark Hall on January 25th, performing with Quantum Cosmic, then heads up to Burlington for a show at Nectar’s the next night to perform with Annie in the Water, then closes out the weekend at Olive Ridley’s in Plattsburgh with West’s new band on January 27.
That new band – the Joshua West Band – integrates West’s original music that hasn’t found it’s way into his other groups where he is a drummer or percussionist. West’s vocals will be front and center with his eponymous band, stepping out as a guitarist, vocalist and percussionist. The lineup features Jack McChesney (Satyrdagg) on drums, Mowgli Giannitti (Satyrdagg, The Reflexions, Heavy Nettles) on bass, Ty Miller (The Reflexions) on guitar/vocals, Van Garrison (All Night Boogie Band) on keys, and Connor Dunn (Let’s Be Leonard) on saxophone.
Coming up in February, Annie in the Water will kick’s off Winter Carnival at The Waterhole in Saranac Lake on February 2, prepared to warm up the crowd even if the temperatures are below freezing outside.
West has also recently released Let Your Voice Be Heard, and is back in the studio, currently recording “Something in the Water,” inspired by the pocket of roots reggae music that has come out of the Finger Lakes (John Brown’s Body, 10 ft. Ganja Plant, Thunderbody, Mosaic Foundation, Giant Panda Guerrilla Dub Squad, Root Shock). West shares that his collaborators include an all-time favorite rhythm section of Tommy Benedetti (John Brown’s Body, Dub Apocalypse) and Nate Edgar (The Nth Power, John Brown’s Body) along with members of Giant Panda and featured vocalists.
Joshua West’s recent debut album Let Your Voice Be Heard is now available on all major streaming platforms.
In the midst of his sixth decade in the music industry, Albert Lee is halfway through yet another month-long tour, with a stop scheduled at the Strand Theatrein Hudson Falls on Jan. 20. The guitar virtuoso, whose accolades and bonafides continue to grow, is showing no signs of slowing down, celebrating his 80th birthday not that long ago.
I had the humbling opportunity to chat with Mr. Lee in the week leading up to his scheduled Jan. 20 appearance at Strand Theatre in Hudson Falls. In a conversation that dances through and around his storied career, one thing is undeniable: the sheer passion he has for his craft. What follows is our conversation.
Lucas Garrett: How’re you doing today, sir?
Albert Lee: Pretty good, pretty good. Thanks. Relaxing.
LG: Great to talk with you today. You’re going to be in the area at The Strand Theatre in Hudson Falls on Jan. 20th.
AL: Yeah, that’s right. Looking forward to it.
LG: It’s awesome that someone such as yourself is coming to a hometown theatre. You’ve been involved in the music industry for a while.
AL: Yeah.
LG: What started all of it for you? What made you say, “This is what I want to do with my life?”
AL: I started playing when I was 13 or 14, and you know, it was exciting. I wasn’t really interested in school; I left school at 15, which you could do at that time in England. I did a couple of day jobs, you know… my main interest was playing the guitar, and pretty soon, I was able to pretty much do it for a living.
photo by Lucas Garrett
LG: How many years did it take for you to do it full-time for a living?
AL: Oh, pretty soon, really. I wasn’t trained to do anything else. I was on the road at 16 – I did a couple of day jobs when I got back from those tours. What I was able to earn in a week was more than I could earn as a 17-year-old… I could earn more playing guitar, and went on from there.
I went off to Germany, and been in a number of bands over the years. Very fortunate to go from one to another.
LG: Anyone with access to the internet is able to quickly lookup all that you’ve done in your impressive career, but are there any moments that really stand out for you?
AL: Oh, yeah! I felt very fortunate with my heroes, The Everly Brothers, for many years. I was friendly with Don Everly, in the 1970’s, when he and his brother weren’t talking to one another. I was also working with Joe Cocker and Emmylou Harris in the 1970’s – I was busy. Then, The Everly Brothers got back together in the early 1980’s… I thought, “This is great! At last, I get to play with The Everly Brothers, even if it’s for a couple of nights.” They decided to go back on the road for albums, and that went on for 25 years or more.
LG: Were you with them that whole time?
AL: Oh yeah! I was with them from 1983 until they finished in the early 2000’s.
LG: Now, you’re going on tour, and playing all these theaters. What other shows are you doing on this tour? Are you in bigger theaters? Smaller theaters?
AL: This tour finishes on Feb. 3rd, and in fact, we finish up in Clear Lake, Iowa, in a big dance hall where Buddy Holly did his last gig. They always celebrate Buddy Holly, and Richie Valens, and the Big Bopper around that time each year. I’ve done that half a dozen times now.
photo by Lucas Garrett
LG: How does it feel to still be on the road? Do you have the same appreciation for it that you’ve had?
AL: Yeah. I’m out here most of the year. It gets hard, you know? This tour is a month, then I’ve got two or three weeks off, and then I go to England for about two or three weeks, and back home again for a month or two, then back out again. I’ve just turned 80 a couple weeks ago.
LG: Well, happy birthday, belated!
AL: Thanks. I never thought this would be happening, but here we are! I’m glad the gigs are there and that I feel well enough – fit enough – to do it.
LG: What inspires you to keep this relentless touring schedule? Where do you find the energy to keep going like that?
AL: Well, we enjoy the work, you know? Sometimes the long trips… we have some long drives some days – couple hundred miles; three hundred miles – I don’t enjoy sitting in the van that long, but it’s what we have to endure to be able to do the gigs. We get there, and the people are happy to see us, and we can relax, have a nice meal, and do the gig. Hopefully get a good night’s sleep, and do it all again the next day.
LG: It’s all part of the deal, right?
AL: Yeah.
LG: What do you to pass the time in between shows?
AL: Well, when I’m home, there’s lots to do. Things fall behind at the house, and I’ve got cars to fix. That takes time, hahaha. The day I left the gig, the window mechanism broke in our car. I’ve got three days to fix it before I have to drive somewhere with a car full of equipment. I’ll manage it.
LG: Listening to you play is always a pleasure. I’m curious if you have any kind of routine that you practice by?
AL: I have to say, after all these years, I don’t pick the guitar up very often, you know? I’m lucky that the licks are still there – they’re always there. When you get to my age, the skin gets thin and you lose the calluses on your fingers. That’s a real pain.
LG: Who are some of your influences as a guitarist?
AL: I don’t listen to a lot of new music. I do know there are a lot of great guitar players out there – a lot more than when I started playing. There’s a lot more competition now. Hahaha. I was inspired by all the early rock and roll guitar players like Scotty Moore with Elvis Presley, and James Burton who played with Ricky Nelson and Elvis. Hank Garland. There were so many great players. I learned to play by learning their solos, you know? That showed me the way around the guitar so I was able to play it with ease.
LG: This show at Hudson Falls on Jan. 20th, what can people expect from this show? Do you have anything special planned?
AL: I’m pretty lazy, really. I think they’ve heard a lot of these songs before, you know, but I’ll be adding some new twists to them. I play differently every night, you know?
LG: Mhm.
AL: I try to keep it fresh for myself. The musicians I play with, it’s the same way. We’re improvising… there’s a set way of doing the songs, but we’re improvising our way through each night.
LG: Who’ll be with you that night?
AL: JT Thomas on keyboards. He also works with Bruce Hornsby. David Chamberlain is on bass; I’ve known him a long time. Jason Smith on drums. We’re all good friends and we like to work together. They’re not always available, so I’m glad that I’m able to get these three guys on tour. These guys have been with me for quite a few years, now, and I’m glad they can do it.
LG: I want to thank you, very much, for taking time out of your day. It was great talking with you.
AL: Oh yeah, you’re welcome. Thank you.
LG: Have a great show, and keep rocking on.
AL: Alright. Well, thank you so much for your interest, I appreciate it.
Referred as a singer with an exquisite tenor, echoing Bruce Springsteen and Billy Joel in the piano pop, Seth Glier will perform at the Eighth Step in Schenectady on February 10. This will be the singer’s return to the Capital Region after appearing in October alongside folk singer Tom Rush.
Growing up in Massachusetts, Glier grew up singing a lot of traditional shape note choir music from Appalachia and mountain music from the countries of Bulgaria and Georgia. The singer also grew up in a singing camp called Village Harmony, but now as an artist and activist Glier’s love and understanding of nature, his care for social justice and his music are synchronous. The singer also dedicated his latest album Rise to supporting Trout Unlimited, a national organization dedicated to conserving, protecting, and restoring America’s coldwater fisheries and their watershed.
The singer’s commitment to using songwriting as a tool for positive change has prompted him to work with the students in Parkland, FL for the ‘Parkland Project’. The project aims to connect Parkland neighborhoods to five schools, three County Parks, and Pacific Lutheran University. It also provides a safe route for people of all ages and abilities to get around in the areas that currently have few sidewalks and bike lanes.
Doors will open at 7 pm on February 10 and tickets can be purchased here and through Proctors Box Office (518) 346-6204.
The Big Loud Rock Heavy-hitter Hardy announced his ‘QUIT!!’ tour that will kick off in May with shows in Saratoga Springs and Darien Center this summer.
The Philadelphia-born singer HARDY will kick off his tour on May.30 which will make a stop at the Broadview Stage at SPAC on June 7, and the Darien Lake Amphitheater on June 8. The singer/songwriter’s upcoming tour will also feature Nashville-based Multi-Platinum country singer Kip Moore, Mercury Nashville recording artist Travis Denning, and a maverick country music based in Alabama, Ella Langley.
This will mark as a return for the artist as Hardy soared to new heights in 2023 with the release of critically acclaimed half-country, half-rock sophomore album the mockingbird & THE CROW, adding to nearly four billion career streams and a “the mockingbird & THE CROW” Tour that ended last year.
Tickets for the ‘Quit!!’ tour go on sale on Friday, January 19 at 10 a.m., with select fan pre-sales starting on Tuesday, January 16. Buy tickets here.
HARDY SUMMER 2024 ‘QUIT!!’ TOUR May 30 – Rogers, AR – Walmart AMP *◎ May 31 – St. Louis, MO – Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre *◎ June 1 – Noblesville, IN. – Ruoff Music Center *◎ June 6 – Toronto, ON – Budweiser Stage *◎ June 7 – Saratoga Springs, NY. – Broadview Stage at SPAC *◎ June 8 – Buffalo, NY – Darien Lake Amphitheater * June 14 – Charlotte, NC. – PNC Music Pavilion *✭ June 15 – Raleigh, NC – Coastal Credit Union Music Park *✭ June 20 – Holmdel, NJ – PNC Bank Arts Center *✭ June 21 – Mansfield, MA – Xfinity Center *✭ June 22 – Gilford, NH – BankNH Pavilion *✭ June 27 – Camden, NJ – Freedom Mortgage Pavilion *✭ June 28 – Bristow, VA – Jiffy Lube Live *✭ July 25 – Cincinnati, OH – Riverbend Music Center * July 27 – Tinley Park, IL – Credit Union 1 Amphitheatre * * Travis Denning ✭ Ella Langley ◎ Stephen Wilson Jr.
In the heart of the Capital Region, you’ll find more than just streets and buildings â you’ll discover a lively melody that reverberates through Albany, Saratoga Springs, Schenectady, and Troy. These cities collectively host a variety of venues, each adding its unique flavor to the local music scene.
From lively stages to cozy spots, every venue contributes to the dynamic soundtrack of the region stretching from Lake George to the tip of the Hudson Valley.
The Arthur Zankel Music Center at Skidmore College has a capacity of 600. Offering a highbrow lineup featuring classical and jazz artists, the center also occasionally hosts mainstream heavyweights. The venue, with upgraded facilities, provides a unique experience for both students and the wider community.
Address: 815 N Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
Situated in the heart of historic Saratoga Springs in the Capital Region The Brook Tavern is a beloved neighborhood gathering spot at the crossroads of Union and Nelson Ave. Only a short walk from the Saratoga Race Course and within walking distance of Congress Park, it offers a convenient and welcoming locale for locals and visitors alike. Don’t miss the live music every Tuesday, adding a delightful rhythm to the vibrant atmosphere.
Address: 139 Union Ave, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
Bye-i ⢠Brewing is dedicated to delivering the Capital Region the beer they deserve, prioritizing quality over profit. As they aspire to become a symbol of American culture, their commitment extends to community involvement and giving back to those who support their growth. The brewery also features live music as a focal point of its offerings.
Caffè Lena is the oldest continuously operating folk venue in the US. With a capacity of 110, it has hosted iconic artists like Bob Dylan and Emmylou Harris. The venue’s intimate setting underwent a $2 million renovation in 2016, offering a cozy space for folk enthusiasts to enjoy live performances.
Nestled in downtown Albany, Capital Repertory Theatre (theREP) stands as an acclaimed professional theater, recognized for its diverse range of productions. From contemporary and classic drama to off-Broadway musicals, cutting-edge comedy, and world premieres, theREP’s year-round season draws theater enthusiasts of all ages. Beyond providing opportunities for seasoned professionals and rising stars, theREP extends its impact by offering unique educational programs to students in the Capital Region.
Centre Street Public House and Beer Garden (Schenectady)
Centre Street Public House and Garden offers a distinctive and inviting atmosphere, featuring top-notch craft brews, a gastropub menu, and exquisite banquet facilities. Additionally, the venue hosts weekly live music, adding a vibrant and entertaining element to its appeal.
Opening in 1976, the Cock n Bull celebrates a near half-century of great food and more recently, Music in the Barn. As notes by the business, the custom of playing music in a barn has been a lively part of American rural life since the 19th century, with the acoustics of the Cock n Bull’s post-and-beam barn continuing this regional tradition.
Established in 1874, Cohoes Music Hall in Cohoes is the fourth oldest operating music hall in the US. It hosts solo artists, theater troupes, jazz acts, and tribute bands. The venue actively supports up-and-coming acts, contributing to the local arts community.
A distinctive landmark in Albany’s skyline, The Egg offers two theaters with capacities of 982 and 450. Completed in 1978, it hosts a range of events, from jazz-rock acts to ballet performances. The Egg stands out not only for its unique architecture but also for its diverse programming, including roots, rock, jazz, and comedy.
Address: Agency Building 1, S Mall Arterial, Albany
ââOwned by Michell Ramsey, who also owns Jay St. Pub in Schenectady, The Electric Grinch derives its name from a Schenectady bar of the 1970s and 1980s. Situated at 116 Jay Street, the venue offers live music and a full bar, with operating hours on Wednesday and Thursday from 4 p.m. to midnight, Friday from 4 p.m. to 1 a.m., and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 1 a.m.
Empire Live in downtown Albany, a top music venue in the Capital Region, features two stages: Empire Live and Empire Underground. With a 1,000-person capacity, Empire Live offers a spacious setting and excellent stage views. In contrast, Empire Underground, located in the basement, provides a more intimate experience with a 350-person capacity.
The Step stands as America’s oldest continuously running non-profit coffeehouse and concert stage, showcasing the finest independent acoustic music in Upstate New York, Western Massachusetts, and lower Vermont. Featuring a diverse range of genres, including contemporary and traditional folk, blues, jazz, bluegrass, Celtic, and more, our five-decade performer roster reads like a folk Who’s Who. From Pete Seeger and Janette Carter to The Chicks and Jeff Daniels, The Step continues to bring exceptional acoustic performances to its audience.
The Curtis R. Priem Experimental Media and Performing Arts Center (EMPAC) is a multi-venue arts center at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, opening in 2008. A variety of adventurous programming in music, performance, media, theater, and much more can be found at EMPAC, including a state-of the-art concert hall, leading the New York Times to call EMPAC a âtechnological pleasure dome for the mind.”
Since 1985, The Fuze Box has been a historically diverse live performance venue, consistently at the forefront of championing the next generation of alternative misfits and miscreants.
The Glove Theatre opened in 1914 and hosted movies, music, vaudeville, and civic events, and in 1920 it became the flagship theatre and home office of Schine Enterprises until 1965. In 1971 the venue officially closed, though it did have a few civic engagements during that decade, and reopened in Oct. of 1997 with the âThe Phantom of the Glove.â The Glove Theatre is a non-profit organization dedicated to establishing an accessible expression platform for the arts that engages, entertains, and educates the regional community, giving economic opportunities to the Southern Adirondack and Mohawk Valley regions.
The Hangar is a concert venue and event space showcasing both local and national acts, with most shows occurring on Friday through Sunday nights. Nestled by the Hudson River in Troy, it offers an intimate, roadhouse-style experience for music enthusiasts. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, The Hangar consistently features entertaining bands, providing a great setting for friends and fellow music fans. The attentive, friendly, and professional bar staff enhance the overall experience.
Established in 2013, The Hollow Bar + Kitchen stands as a celebrated and distinctive downtown Albany establishment. It holds the distinction of being the sole 4-star restaurant in the Capital Region. Under the guidance of Anna Weisheit, the 2016 Albany Chef’s Food & Wine Festival Rising Star Chef Winner, The Hollow offers a remarkable combination of a craft beer bar and a recognized live music venue, making it a unique and acclaimed destination.
The Inn at Saratoga (Saratoga Springs) The Inn, adorned with live music, becomes a haven for relaxation and entertainment.. The monthly-updated music calendar ensures a delightful experience for patrons seeking a harmonious blend of ambiance and talent.
In the evening, The Kings Inn hosts live music performances, enhancing its hospitality-driven atmosphere. The staff, known for their patience, plays a pivotal role in ensuring a welcoming environment. For those seeking prompt service, The Kings Inn stands out. Visitors have praised the bar for its exotic ambiance, making it a notable venue where bands regularly perform.
Lark Hall, a historic music venue was originally constructed in 1916 by the Daughters of the Eastern Star. Meticulously restored and equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, it provides a unique and unmatched experience for both performers and audiences alike.
Situated in the heart of the Lark Street district, Lark Tavern, an iconic establishment in the Capital District since 1933, serves as a cherished watering hole and gathering spot for locals. With a rich tradition centered around food, drink, and entertainment, the revamped Lark Tavern adds a retro vintage flair to the Tavern experience, featuring live music for an added vibrancy.
The Linda â WAMCâs Performing Arts Studio (Albany)
Founded in 2002, The Linda â WAMCâs Performing Arts Studio, is a meticulously restored 1926 bank situated in the heart of Albany’s Central Avenues Business District. This versatile venue serves as a multi-purpose auditorium and recording studio, welcoming a diverse array of events such as concerts, debates, lectures, films, celebrations, and more, many of which are broadcasted across WAMC’s seven-state listening area and online at wamc.org.
The Arena hosts a variety of events including concerts, family shows, sporting contests and trade shows. Home to the AFL Albany Empire, and the Siena Saints MAAC basketball team, the MVP Arena is a regular host to premier NCAA events.
No Fun, presented by Pint Sized, serves as the primary hub for experimental music aficionados in the Capital Region. Recognized as a live music venue, it is celebrated for providing a platform for avant-garde and cutting-edge musical performances.
Opening its doors in 1931, it has hosted iconic acts like The Rolling Stones and Bruce Springsteen. The Palace Theatre continues to feature Broadway plays, dance concerts, and movies, providing a stunning setting for diverse performances.
Originally a vaudeville venue, it has evolved into a multi-genre event space hosting Broadway musicals, dance concerts, and movies. Proctors continues to adapt its mission to the contemporary environment while maintaining its historical charm.
Formerly known as Putnam Den in Saratoga Springs, Putnam Place underwent a major transformation into a classy music venue, nightclub, and event space. With a capacity of 500, it has become a year-round destination, hosting diverse acts and contributing to Saratoga’s vibrant nightlife.
Renowned as Troy NY’s premier live music venue, The Rustic Barn Pub consistently delivers high-quality live entertainment, emphasizing the importance of exceptional performances. Committed to creating memorable experiences, they invite audiences to join them on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights for live music spanning a diverse range of genres.
Saratoga Performing Arts Center (Saratoga Springs)
Located in Saratoga Springs, SPAC is a versatile venue with a capacity of 25,000. It hosts a diverse range of events, from performances by The Philadelphia Orchestra and New York City Ballet to Live Nation’s pop, country, hip-hop, and classic rock acts. Surrounded by natural beauty and historic architecture, SPAC provides a unique experience, attracting top artists across genres.
Address: 108 Avenue of the Pines, Saratoga Springs
Nestled in the heart of downtown Saratoga Springs, NY, Saratoga City Tavern is a vibrant establishment offering a selection of over 110 draughts, delectable cuisine, and entertainment seven days a week. With five floors, this Saratoga, NY bar and tavern ensures there’s something to delight every visitor.
Nestled in the heart of downtown Saratoga Springs, Spa City Tap & Barrel stands as the city’s newest hangout. With a rustic charm and a modern touch, this cozy pub offers 32 beers on tap, signature cocktails, and a pub-style menu perfect for pairing with any sporting event. Patrons can enjoy live music on weekends, along with game nights and themed events throughout the week, making Spa City Tap & Barrel a vibrant destination for entertainment. Open seven days a week, it’s the ideal spot to experience Saratoga’s lively atmosphere.
Built in 1875, Troy Savings Bank Music Hall in Troy is celebrated for its exceptional acoustics. With a capacity of 1,253, the venue attracts classical, folk, and Americana performers. The Music Hall preserves its 19th-century charm, providing an intimate connection between performers and the audience.
For over 50 years, the UAlbany Performing Arts Center has stood as a prominent cultural asset for the University at Albany and the wider Capital Region community. Hosting the Prime Performance Series annually, the center brings a diverse array of national and international artists in music, dance, and theatre. With five distinctive performance theatres, a dance studio, rehearsal spaces, and dedicated libraries, the UAlbany PAC serves as a vibrant hub for artistic endeavors.
Additionally, A Place for Jazz shares a few dozen or so venues in the Capital Region that offer Jazz occasionally, or regularly.
Just north of the Capital District are a few venues that may fall outside of the typical ‘Capital Region’ geographic definition, but are still under an hour drive to see great live music.
Charles R Wood Theater (Glens Falls)
The Charles R. Wood Theater is a year-round performing arts facility in downtown Glens Falls, offering cultural events and productions with three spaces in the building for events – a 300-seat theater, a 3,000 square foot rehearsal hall, and over 2,600 square feet of lobby space.
The Festival Commons at Charles R. Wood Park, located at the southern end of Lake George, is home to many events during the summer, most notably Memorial Meltdown and Adirondack Independence Festival, and much more in between. The grounds also include a skatepark and have public restrooms, all within walking distance of “The Queen of American Lakes,â Lake George.
Cool Insuring Arena is a multi-purpose sports and music arena located in downtown Glens Falls. When they are not home to the Adirondack Thunder of the ECHL, the former Glens Falls Civic Center has hosted a great number of classic concerts – The Who’s first comeback show in 1989, Phish performing The White Album in its entirety (and playing past 3am), among many others – and has many great years left as the Glens Falls region sees a renaissance in their downtown over the past decade.
DJ’s Niteclub is a seasonal club in Lake George, New York that offers a view of the village strip. They offer a variety of music and night life in Lake George for locals and tourists alike.
The building structure of Fort Salem Theater dates back to 1774, and after fires and rebuildings, by 1882, a chapel made this future theatre and arts venue, complete. Improvements in the 1970s made Fort Salem the premiere summer stock theater in the Northeast, with family-oriented musicals, comedies and dramas. Renovations from 2006-7 brought Fort Salem into the 21st century, with seats donated from Broadwayâs Helen Hayes Theater. The theater is under new ownership and reopened in June 2021.
Since 1878, Hubbard Hall has developed, produced, and presented theater, music, opera, dance, and the visual arts and in recent years has become a world-class development center for new work. A non-profit since 1977, Hubbard Hall attracts artists, students, and audience members as a fertile training ground for both young and seasoned artists, Offering classes in dance, theater, music, movement, visual arts, puppetry, creative writing, martial arts, yoga, and even gardening, this multi-purpose venue gives students of all ages an opportunity to train, collaborate, and thrive.
Built in 1911, The Park Theater is the premier entertainment venue located in the heart of downtown Glens Falls. The theater holds a rich history within the community and has been revitalized as a destination for performing arts, weddings, and events.
A former lakeside teaching studio of internationally renowned soprano Marcella Sembrich (1858-1935), The Sembrich has a distinguished operatic career and musical legacy, offering a variety of programs, articles, and multi-media presentations online and in person.
The Strand Theatre opened its doors on January 17, 1923, and after being closed for a period of time, was reopened on October 7, 2016 through the nonprofit Hudson River Music Hall Productions, which came together in 2010 with the goal of helping to rehabilitate old buildings in Hudson Falls. Having a huge calendar each month (see below) with a wide variety of genres, shows and experiences, the Strand Theatre holds the distinction as the only major music venue in Washington and Warren Counties that is open year-round. Part of a chain of Strand Theatres built in the early 20th century, other venues under the name Strand can be found in Plattsburgh and Schroon Lake, as well as others that have closed over time.
