Grateful Dead cover band Dark Star Orchestra (DSO) has announced their Fall 2024 tour which sees 11 dates in the northeast including 7 dates in NY.
Performing to critical acclaim for over 25 years and over 3100 shows, Dark Star Orchestra continues the Grateful Dead live concert experience. Their shows are built off the Dead’s extensive catalog and the talent of these seven fine musicians.
On any given night, the band will perform a show based on a set list from the Grateful Dead’s 30 years of extensive touring or use their catalog to program a unique set list for the show. This allows fans both young and old to share in the experience. By recreating set lists from the past, and by developing their own sets of Dead songs, DSO offers a continually evolving artistic outlet within this musical canon.
Honoring both the band and the fans, Dark Star Orchestra’s members seek out the unique style and sound of each era while simultaneously offering their own informed improvisations. DSO offers much more than the sound of the Grateful Dead; they truly encapsulate the energy and the experience. It’s about a sense of familiarity. It’s about a feeling that grabs listeners and takes over. It’s about that contagious energy…in short, it’s about the complete experience and consistent quality show that the fan receives when attending a DSO show.
Dark Star Orchestra Fall 2024 Tour Dates:
Nov 15, 2024 – The Capitol Theatre – Port Chester, NY
Nov 16, 2024 – The Capitol Theatre – Port Chester, NY
Nov 17, 2024 – MJN Convention Center – Poughkeepsie, NY
Nov 20, 2024 – Rome Capitol Theatre – Rome, NY
Nov 21, 2024 – Broome County Forum Theatre – Binghamton, NY
Nov 22, 2024 – House of Blues Boston – Boston, MA
Nov 23, 2024 – College Street Music Hall – New Haven, CT
Nov 26, 2024 – Stage AE – Pittsburgh, PA
Nov 27, 2024 – Penn’s Peak – Jim Thorpe, PA
Nov 29, 2024 – The Paramount – Huntington, NY
Nov 30, 2024 – The Paramount – Huntington, NY
For more information on Dark Star Orchestra’s upcoming Fall 2024 tour and to purchase tickets, click here.
This shows offers the opportunity to experience the magic of the holiday season like never before at the Endicott Performing Arts Center. Immerse yourself in the festive spirit with a handpicked selection of captivating Christmas Shows that are sure to create lasting memories for audiences of all ages. Prepare to be transported to a world of wonder and joy with the EPAC Christmas Show December 6 & 7 with 7pm showtimes.
This enchanting production is a heartwarming journey through the holiday season, featuring a dazzling array of music, dance, and captivating performances that perfectly encapsulate the magic of Christmas.
Delve into the enchanting world of The Nutcracker December 12 – 15, a timeless holiday classic that continues to captivate audiences year after year. Follow Clara on her magical journey to the Land of Sweets as talented dancers from EPAC (1st Act) and The FUSE Dance Center of Binghamton (2nd Act) bring this beloved ballet to life with grace, skill, and artistry. This show begins at 7pm on Friday, Saturday and 3pm on Sunday.
Experience a holiday extravaganza like no other with the EPAC Holiday Burlesque Show, Naughty & Nice December 21. This unique and sassy twist on traditional holiday entertainment combines comedy, dance, and glamour to create a festive experience that is both entertaining and unforgettable. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this one-of-a-kind celebration. This show is one night only and begins at 8pm Saturday.
For more information on the upcoming EPAC Christmas Show Series and to purchase tickets, click here.
The Binghamton Philharmonic Orchestra has announced a new concert entitled “Thresholds,” the second event of the M&T Bank Symphonic Series. This event takes place on November 16 at Broome County Forum Theatre.
Composer Hilary Purrington
The program opens with young composer Hilary Purrington’s 2020 piece “Threshold,” an atmospheric soundscape of driving rhythms that explores the boundaries between motion and stillness. Next is Felix Mendelssohn’s evocative Hebrides Overture, one of the masterworks of 19th-century Romantic program music. Finally, the Philharmonic will conclude with the first performance of a symphony by Anton Bruckner in our region in 60 years, the Sixth Symphony in A Major, a monumental work long celebrated for the complexity of its harmonic language and the profundity of its emotional impact. The Philharmonic’s performance of Bruckner’s Sixth Symphony, coinciding with the 200th anniversary of the composer’s birth, will be an unforgettable experience for seasoned classical music lovers and new audiences alike.
The public is invited to a Pre-Concert Chat at 6:30pm, “Mist and Myth in 19th-Century Music,” led by the Philharmonic’s Director of Education and Community Engagement Dr. Julia Grella O’Connell, about the visual and historical imagination in Mendelssohn and Bruckner. The main event begins at 7:30pm. Tickets are $28 to $69. Kids 17 and under attend free, thanks to Symphonic Series Sponsor M&T Bank. Today, the Binghamton Philharmonic serves up to 10,000 people annually through innovative, engaging, and affordable programming, meeting its mission of “Building Community Through the Power of Live Music.” This upcoming “Thresholds” program encapsulates the organization’s mission statement beautifully.
For more information on the Binghamton Philharmonic’s upcoming “Thresholds” concert and to purchase tickets, click here.
American Ballet Studio Company, the junior company of American Ballet Theatre, will be performing on Binghamton University’s stage on November 9.
if it ain’t BA-ROQUE by Hope Boykin, photo by Rosalie O’Connor
Composed of 12-18 rising stars in the ballet world ranging from ages 17 to 21, the American Ballet Theatre Studio Company is a highly mobile unit of the next generation of ballet greats.
Hailing from all over the globe, the ABT Studio Company members are in preparation to enter the professional ballet world, whether that be with American Ballet Theatre or other leading ballet companies worldwide.
Nearly 80% of the current dancers in American Ballet Theatre are alumni of ABT Studio Company, including eight soloists and 14 principal dancers- notable names including Misty Copeland, Isabella Boylston, and Calvin Royal III.
Having performed masterworks, contemporary pieces, and newly commissioned custom ballets around the world, the ABT Ballet Theatre celebrates the excellence of female choreographers throughout their work. Recent years have brought the group to stages in London, Athens, Manila, Hong Kong, and St. Petersburg in a mixed bag of performing arts centers, college campuses, festivals, and galas.
Dying Swan by Michel Fokine, featuring Aleisha Walker – photo by Erin Baino
On November 9, the ABT Ballet Theatre’s global travels will bring them to Binghamton University’s own Anderson Center for the Performing Arts. For one night only students, staff, and visitors alike will be able to experience the talent of ballet’s next greats in the flesh.
Tickets for the unforgettable night of dance are available now, with general public prices starting at just $25. In addition to select discounts, ticket prices for students and children have been cut to just $10 for any seat in the house. For more information and ticket purchasing, visit the Anderson Center Box Office’s website here.
New Orleans-based funk-fusion band The Soul Rebels have announced an upcoming show at Anderson Center at Binghamton University.
The Soul Rebels started with an idea – to expand upon the pop music the members loved on the radio and the New Orleans brass tradition they grew up on. They took that tradition and blended funk and soul with elements of hip hop, jazz and rock, all within the style of a modernized and contemporary brass band. The band has built a career around an eclectic live show that harnesses the power of horns and drums in a party-like atmosphere.
The Anderson Center for the Performing Arts welcomes this captivating performance style to Binghamton University on November 1. The Soul Rebels are riding high in 2024 after receiving national attention following the release of their new album, Poetry In Motion. Their explosive stage presence has led to live collaborations with the likes of Katy Perry, Nas, G-Eazy, DMX, Robin Thicke, Macy Gray, and most notably their new supergroup with the legendary Wu Tang Clan.
Tickets for the general public range from $25-40, with a 10% discount on premium seats for seniors, veterans, and Binghamton University faculty/staff and alumni. Student and child tickets cost just $10 for any seat in the house. This show is one you’ll certainly want to be a part of. The group’s unmatched performance energy is something that sticks with you for a while.
For more information on The Soul Rebels’ upcoming show at Binghamton University and to purchase tickets, click here.
The concert features the world premiere of Rumor Mill, an STSC commissioned work by Palestinian-Jordanian composer Dr. Shireen Abu Khader featuring the poetry of Naomi Shihab-Nye.
In addition to the world premiere of Rumor Mill, the Southern Tier Singers Collective gives a guided musical tour of countries surrounding the Mediterranean Sea, including the Levant, Turkey, Syria, Iraq, Spain, Greece, and Italy. The music encompasses works ranging from Gregorian and Greek chant to Renaissance polyphony, to arrangements of folk music from the region. This concert is generously sponsored in part by the Broome County Arts Council, WSKG, and the School of the Arts at Binghamton University.
Dr. Abu Khader will join the Southern Tier Singers’ Collective for a weekend of workshops with students from Binghamton University and area high schools as part of her residency. Students will have the opportunity to hear her works and also experience a variety of Arabic percussion playing traditions. This presentation will conclude with a Q&A and discussion with the artists.
To learn more about Memories of the Mediterranean featuring Dr. Abu Khader, click here.
The Binghamton Philharmonic Orchestra has announced the opening concert of their 2024-2025 season, “Restless Oceans.”
Acting as the Southern Tier’s largest and longest-serving symphony orchestra, the Binghamton Philharmonic Orchestra has been presenting the population of Downtown Binghamton and Broome County at large with an annual series of classical, pops, and chamber music since 1955.
Represented by Local 380 of the American Federation of Musicians and hailing from the Southern Tier, New York City, and beyond, the professional musicians of the Binghamton Philharmonic Orchestra serve up to 10,000 people annually within and beyond the concert hall.
Returning for their 2024-2025 season, the Philharmonic is bringing the concert Restless Oceans to the stage on Saturday, September 28. Taking its name from its first piece, the program spans two centuries of music celebrating the healing power of nature.
Highlights include the titular “Restless Oceans” by celebrated Anglo-American composer Anna Clyne which connects the sound of the natural world to the resiliency of the human spirit, Richard Stauss’s witty and jovial Horn Concerto No.1 that utilizes the French horn to evoke the ancient sounds of the hunt, and the concluding Beethoven’s famous hymn to nature and its restorative powers, Symphony No.6, the “Pastoral”.
Included in the performance of Horn Concerto No.1 is the Philharmonic’s principal horn Alex Shuhan as soloist. Shuhaun is not only the principal horn for Binghamton Philharmonic- he holds the same position in the Fort Smith, Arkansas Symphony Orchestra as well as teaching at Ithaca College as a Professor of Horn. Performing as a soloist in orchestras across the United States as well as touring the globe in the Rhythm & Brass ensemble he co-founded, Shuhan’s performances are not to be missed.
In addition to a riveting concert, the Philharmonic invited the public to a Pre-Concert Chat at 6:30pm, “Sound and Vision in Beethoven’s Sixth Symphony” by the Philharmonic’s Director of Education and Community Engagement Dr. Julia Grella O’Connell. In the season’s first installment of the Philharmonic’s pre-concert talks, Dr. Grealla O’Connell will discuss the avenues Beethoven took to communicate particular visual information to listeners through sound.
Tickets are available now, starting at $28. Kids 17 and under attend free thanks to the Symphonic Series Sponsor M&T Bank. For more information and ticket purchasing, visit the Philharmonic’s website here.
Independent music promotion is the backbone of live entertainment in New York State. Promoters work tirelessly to bring music to venues across the state, putting their expertise to work to showcase local talents.
Whether in small clubs or massive outdoor arenas, promoters bring communities together through music. In the light of continual corporate influence in live music, we at NYS Music highlight and support the work of New York State’s independent promoters who strive to bring music to the masses.
If we missed any independent promoters based on New York State, let us know editors@nysmusic.com.
John Dominis / The LIFE Picture Collection, Getty
Long Island
Louis Navas
Louis Navas is a jack of all trades: visual artist, musician, and event booker. Inspired by the album artwork of Green Day and Iron Maiden, Navas began designing art for musicians at a young age. Following his work as a visual artist, Navas began booking bands he had worked with, making a name for himself by presenting emo and indie groups. 2016 marked a major milestone in his booking career, organizing three major shows, including a 400 person concert in Center Moriches. Navas’ shows drew not only local talent, but also bands from as far as Ohio and Iowa. Navas views the artists he books foremost as friends, and seeks to best represent their wishes for performances.
Ride Waves Entertainment
Based in East Setauket, Ride Waves Entertainment offers promotion, booking, and studio services for Long Island artists. Currently, Ride Waves Entertainment works with a roster of 25 singer-songwriters and bands, presenting shows across Long Island. Dealing with venues on the Fire Island waterfront and Downtown Patchogue and Port Jefferson, Ride Waves Entertainment offers shows in some of the hottest nightlife spots on the Island.
In addition to booking and promotion, the group also deals in production and rehearsal services. Its production arm – Ride Waves productions – dates back to 2000. Following work with DJs and dance groups, JT Aceto founded the production studio to help other artists with his musical chops. Over the years, Ride Waves has produced artists ranging from reggae to house to country. On top of this, Ride Waves offers artists a fully-equipped rehearsal space known as “the Hideout.” Outfitted with a full PA system, drum set, and amps, the space is an affordable option for artists looking to practice. The space also offers music video sessions where artists can record promotional clips for their songs.
Equilibrium Booking
Jackie Guma – also known as djgoomz – founded Equilibrium Booking back in 2014. Equilibrium Booking began with Guma’s DIY Venue known as “the Basement.” The Basement – located in Port Jefferson – highlighted local artists, showcasing music, comedy, art, and poetry. With weekly shows and open mics, the venue was an inclusive hub for local music until its closure during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Currently, Equilibrium Booking organizes concerts and events across Long Island, in towns like Bay Shore, Patchogue, and Smithtown. In 2024, Equilibrium Booking helped to organize Patchogue’s Alive After Five festival and the Bay Shore farmer’s market. On top of these events, Equilibrium regularly hosts artists at Katie’s of Smithtown bar. With shows engineered and hosted by Guma herself, Equilibrium highlights local musicians each Wednesday with open mic time for local artists to showcase their talents. In addition, Equilibrium collaborates with local visual artists to sell their artwork at these shows.
Star•Pulse Studio
Starpulse Studio offers Long Island-based artists recording, engineering, and promotion services. Sound engineer Joseph Conserva founded StarPulse Studio in 2018 to welcome artists big and small into an affordable recording space. Following 2 years of recording services, Conserva expanded StarPulse into artist booking. Since 2020, he has been joined by graphic designer/curator Jodie Britt, and Equilibrium Booking’s Jackie Guma to highlight local artists in live spaces.
StarPulse Studio handles all aspects of live performances for artists. Their services include booking, print promotion, hosting, and live sound engineering. The Studio frequently hosts shows at Industry in Huntington, often with fun theming. Throughout 2024, Starpulse has hosted artist showcases with astrology, 80s rock, and funk themes.
Munoz Stock
Munoz Stockin’ Events is a promotion group dedicated to showcasing artists across Long Island and New York. Long Island punk group The Muckrakers started Munoz Stock in 2013 to organize an annual Summer Arts festival on Long Island. The Munoz Stock festival provided a DIY space for local musicians, artists, and video game fans to get together and enjoy the Summer scenery of the Island.
Following the success of this festival, Munoz Stock expanded their services to further promote local artists. Munoz Stock frequently books shows at Bay Shore’s TBC Beer Co. and Bethpage’s Nostalgia. In addition to this, the group offers rentals to musicians, including stages, lighting, backdrops, and speakers to help with live shows. Recently, Munoz Stock has also expanded their promotional services to online spaces. On the last Sunday of each month, Munoz Stock hosts Show on the Go – a live artist showcase on their YouTube channel.
Planet of Sound Promotions
Planet of Sound is a Long Island-based music collective that specializes in booking and promotions. They represent a diverse roster of artists, showcasing genres from indie to jazz. Planet of Sound does not just book artists, but rather prides itself on making memorable experiences that highlight Long Island’s rich musical talent.
With everything from restaurant shows and karaoke nights to festivals and open-mics, Planet of Sound brings unparalleled live experiences to Long Island. With these events, Planet of Sound is one of the premier names in cultivating Long Island’s musical talent.
Golden Hour Booking
Golden Hour Booking prides itself in booking only “Golden gigs” for its artists. A staple of Long Island’s alternative scene, Golden Hour has made a name for itself booking local groups as well as nationally-touring acts. With frequent shows across Long Island, Golden Hour Booking ensures that their artists’ talents are displayed to enthralled audiences. Golden Hour Booking frequently holds concerts at Massapequa’s VFW Hall and Long Beach Brewing Company. Through their shows, Golden Hour highlights beloved acts and fosters fan bases for alternative up-and-comers.
A Bob Production Concerts
Promoter Bob Blickwede is dedicated to bringing unforgettable music experiences to Long Island’s South shore. His company, A Bob Production Concerts, has put on hundreds of concerts in South Shore towns, like Amityville and Patchogue, bringing local rock and tribute acts to island hubs. Every weekend, they organize multiple shows at Amityville’s The Warehouse, bringing audiences rock, disco, Americana and more. What makes A Bob Productions famous is their summer concerts, with frequent weekend shows at Tiki Joe’s beachside bars. Audiences can see local dance, rock, and salsa acts with the waves in the background and tropical drinks in their hands. As bassist Jeff Parrett – who has worked with A Bob Production Concerts – has said “these concerts are what summer on Long Island is all about.”
Steve Dassa
“No event is too big or too small” for Steve Dassa entertainment. The Levittown-based company has made a name for itself in bringing the best in entertainment to all kinds of events. Focusing on oldies, doo wop, disco, and Motown, Dassa has made a name bringing classic music acts to events and parties across Long Island. Over the years, Dassa has worked with some of the biggest names in classic music, including Jerry Vale, Paul Anka, and Tony Orlando. With these years of experience, Dassa frequently collaborates with Long Island’s municipal government and radio to put on unforgettable shows. In addition to music, Dassa works with a host of comedians and DJs to put on shows audiences will love.
Ira’sList
Ira’sList is Long Island’s number one live music resource, allowing music lovers to locate live music across the island. Founder Ira Levy wanted a website where people could go to “see where the action is,” so created Ira’sList. The website features an interactive calendar, with pages for venues across Long Island, allowing viewers to find upcoming shows wherever they may be. With venues everywhere from Hempstead to Peconic, Ira’sList presents shows in Long Island’s urban centers to its rural vineyards.
In addition to their online service, Ira’sList produces annual shows in Bethpage and Tobay Beach. As part of their Party in the Park concerts, Ira’sList presents weekly Wednesday concerts in Bethpage State Park, bringing rock, dance, and themed concerts all summer. On top of this, they host Tsunami Thursdays at Tobay Beach’s Boat House, with beach-front concerts and parties each week.
New York City
Independent Music Promotions
Promoter and music writer Steve James Moore founded Independent Music Promotions (IMP) in 2011. The founding of his company came after the release of his best-selling book Your Band Is A Virus – a guide to independent music promotion. Having played in touring acts and been disappointed by promotional firms, Moore is dedicated to providing high quality PR for all IMP’s clients.
IMP focuses on representing bands that push boundaries and can be selective with the artists they promote. IMP’s promotions include traditional services, but also a boundary-breaking alliance with freelance journalists across the country. In addition to this, IMP has a vast media presence, using Facebook, Spotify, and other sites to spread word of their artists. On top of promotion, IMP’s partnerships provide artists with music production and video services. All of their services are marked by the personal touch of Moore, who is renowned for his professionalism and regular contact with artists.
In the past 13 years, IMP has grown to represent over 100 artists, spanning countless genres. Their website highlights a roster ranging from reggae to heavy metal. Among the artists represented are pop singers and experimental industrial projects. Since its founding, the group has expanded to represent artists from not only across the US, but also some from Europe and Australia.
Move Forward Music
Based on Manhattan’s Broadway, Move Forward Music has made a name for itself by breaking some of music’s biggest names. Their ethos is summed up by “Break artists. Build brands. Impact culture.” To do this, Move Forward Music works to promote artists through digital content and merchandising. Their main focus is booking shows and tours, helping to build a name for their artists and highlight their talents in a live atmosphere. In addition to this, Move Forward regularly updates their spotify to highlight new artists, spreading their songs to their many followers.
Move Forward Music has a track record of promoting mega-stars at the beginning of their careers. Their early promotions included Kendrick Lamar and Syracuse-native Post Malone. Move Forward Music has recently organized shows across the boroughs for artists big and small. Among these shows were concerts by rapper Danny Brown, Outkast’s Andree 3000, and a double-set by up and comers Ovrkast and Chenayder.
Rocks Off NYC
Rocks Off calls itself “NYC’s sweetest independent concert promoters.” Since its founding, Rocks Off has booked shows across New York City, including venues like the Bowery Ballroom and Music Hall of Brooklyn. The centerpiece of their operations is the Rocks Off Concert Cruise Series. With a fleet of concert-ready ships, Rocks Off hosts upwards of 200 shows on the water around NYC each year from April to October. Their ships include spacious stages, and crisp light and sound capabilities, making for an unforgettable experience. Their fleet includes ships of all sizes, including the 100-capacity Lucille, and the four-decked Liberty Belle. This ensures that artists can find a setting that matches the desired scale for their shows.
Among their upcoming cruise concerts are industrial up-and-comers Model/Actriz and punk legends Black Flag. Additionally, tribute shows to everyone from Pink Floyd and Taylor Swift are common events hosted by Rocks Off.
Dayglo Presents
Dayglo Presents is one of New York City’s foremost entertainment companies. Founded by Peter Shapiro, the company is dedicated to putting on extraordinary shows in premier concert environments. While founding Dayglo Presents, Shapiro brought decades of experience in the music industry, previously promoting for legends like the Grateful Dead. Dayglo Presents boasts magnificent venues across the New York Metro Area, including the Brooklyn Bowl and Port Chester’s historic Capitol Theatre. The recently renovated Capitol Theatre boasts 1,800 seats and arena-scale lighting and sound systems, making it one of Downstate New York’s greatest venues. Since its founding Dayglo has expanded to cities across America, and hosts the annual Lock’n Festival in Virginia.
Since beginning operations, Dayglo has prided itself in promoting up-and-comers while working with some of the biggest names in music. Across its venues, the company has collaborated with everyone from R.E.M. to Lauryn Hill. The one thing that unites all of Dayglo’s operations is a genuine dedication to bringing high quality music to fans across the country.
SLP Concerts
SLP Concerts has been a staple of music promotion in the Northeast for almost 80 years. Since its founding in 1946, the company has expanded from its base in Haddonfield, NJ to produce shows everywhere from Delaware to Connecticut. With services including talent acquisition, event management, and concert promotion, SLP’s services cover everything a live artist would need. Over the years, SLP has produced shows in both small clubs and massive arenas, working with megastars like Taylor Swift and Green Day.
SLP also boasts the historic Troy Savings Bank Music Hall outside of Albany. This historic venue, dating back to 1875, has world-renowned acoustics. During its operations, it has hosted legends like Dizzy Gillespie, Yo Yo-Ma, and Ella Fitzgerald.
Frank Wood Productions
With over 50 years of promotional experience, Frank Wood has made a name for himself as one of the most prolific promoters in New York City. While Frank Wood’s work mostly focuses on well-known acts and indie bands, he also handles cover acts. Over the years, he has produced for legendary acts like the New York Dolls and Slade. Frank Wood offers artists access to home clubs around the city, where he produces weekly concerts. On top of this, he boasts the ability to place a band in almost any club throughout the NYC area. In addition to local shows, Frank Wood has organized concerts throughout the US, Europe, and Japan, bringing New York’s music across the world. On top of his promotional and booking services, Wood prides himself in giving back to the community. His promotional agency frequently collaborates with charities helping those with AIDS and 9/11 First Responders.
Baker Concerts
Baker Concerts is an event promotion company operating in New York City and Connecticut. At the center of Baker Concerts’ operations is Times Square’s Palladium Theatre. Over the past year, Baker Concerts has produced near weekly concerts at the venue. At the Palladium, Baker Concerts has hosted everyone from German power metal band Dragonforce to Latin Grammy-winner Pedro Capo. The 2,100-person capacity venue features video streaming capabilities to broadcast the stage to screens across the theater. Baker Concerts has many performances scheduled for the remainder of 2024, including shows by metal legends Sepultura, and pop-rock trio Hansen.
Hudson Valley
Black Dog Promotions
Based in New Windsor, NY, Black Dog Promotions prides itself in the booking and promotion of bands in New York and Connecticut. Black Dog Promotions grew out of the Hudson Valley radio station WXAX, known for its 24-hour rock and metal airplay.
Throughout the years, WXAX’s focus on broadcasting local bands evolved into show promotion and booking. Black Dog Promotions is currently running the “I Am Wayward” tour of metal acts across the Northeastern United States, and promoting shows up and down the Hudson Valley. They place musicians and listeners at the forefront of their business, using their extensive online presence to keep in touch with locals and venues to organize rock shows that best serve the Hudson Valley community.
River Spirit Music
River Spirit Music prides itself in organizing intimate shows for singer-songwriters in the Hudson Valley. At River Spirit, promoters are driven by a genuine love for music, putting immense personal work into every show they organize. At the heart of River Spirit’s operations is their House Concert Series. These shows bring touring acts to an intimate in-home space in Hastings-on-Hudson.
These shows bring world music to audiences, while giving them the chance to interact with the performing artists. With a 40 person capacity, these shows never feel too crowded, and give each audience member a chance to get personal with performers. In addition, River Spirit frequently hosts onstage concerts at Tarrytown’s Music Hall. With this intimacy and passion for music, it is no wonder why River Spirit is one of the Hudson Valley’s premier promoters of Americana, folk, and jazz.
Impact Concerts
Impact Concerts is dedicated to bringing carefully curated events throughout New York’s Hudson Valley and Catskill regions. Their events bring the community together through showcases of music, arts, and food. Among the many shows Impact Concerts produces are six annual music festivals: July Jam, Woodsist Festival, Positive Jam Festival, Soulshine Festival, Follow the Arrow Festival, and the Felice County Fair.
Impact Concerts shows highlight both local Hudson Valley artists and musicians from around the world. Among their largest collaborators is Palenville’s indie-folk group The Felice Brothers. In addition, Impact Concerts has drawn legends of indie, folk, and jazz to their festivals, highlighting everyone from indie icons Yo La Tengo to Ethiopian jazz legend Hailu Mergia.
Capital Region
A Little Booking Ageny
Based out of Latham, A Little Booking Agency brings entertainment of all types to the Capital Region. With a team of booking agents, they organize musicians, DJs, comedians and more to perform at local concerts, festivals, and parties. The agency prides itself on its many connections with local venues, ensuring that artists can find the right fit for their shows. A Little Booking Agency has especially found success booking hip hop shows around Albany. They are currently organizing a French Montana, Fivio Foreign, and Fabolous show at Albany’s Palace Theatre in August.
Guthrie Bell Productions
“Grapplin’” Greg Bell is entering his 32nd year of bringing live music to the Capital Region. Bell founded Guthrie Bell Productions alongside Jeff Guthrie back in 1993, and has not looked back on music promotion since. Since his start, Bell has helped spotlight up-and-comers, as well as booked nationally touring acts. Bell strives to foster a sense of community by collaborating with artists, promoters, and venues across the region.
In his 30 plus years, Bell has frequently booked shows at Albany’s The Hollow and Palace Theatre, as well as classic venues like Valentines. Documentarian Frankie Cavone has recently released a film covering Bell’s journey to promoting legend status. Watch it here.
Sugar Productions
Sugar Productions is a promotional company dedicated to bringing great music to Albany. With frequent shows at Ophelia’s live music space, Sugar Productions crafts unmatched concert experiences. With premier live acts, premier sound production, and backing visuals, their shows illustrated unmatched excellence in the field. Sugar Productions is currently organizing Albany’s annual Pearlpalooza festival.
Featuring a day’s worth of live performances from local artists, local vendors, and fine dining. This event highlights Sugar Production’s dedication to providing the community with amazing live experiences. With every show they organize, Sugar Productions places the audience at the forefront, while still showcasing incredible local talent.
Step Up Presents
Step Up Presents founder Ted Etoll has over 20 years of experience in the field of live booking. Etoll prides himself in presenting timeless acts, rather than just who is fashionable. In their years of promotion, Step Up Presents has produced shows for legends like Dweezil Zappa, Richard Thompson, and Yes.
As co-owner of Albany’s Empire Live, Etoll provides a premier concert space for acts he promotes. With 2 stories, and a 1,000 person capacity, Empire Live provides a premier multi-genre live space. In addition, Step Up Presents frequently puts on shows at The Egg in the heart of Albany.
518Scene
518Scene prides itself as the Capital Region’s “curated source for cool music, film, art & culture.” Musician and journalist Brendan Manley founded 518Scene in 2022, bringing years of experience in Albany’s alternative scene with him. Inspired by the pandemic, Manley founded a simple yet comprehensive online resource for Albany’s music fans. With a passion for the local arts scene, 518Scene helps shine a spotlight on underground shows and acts across the Capital Region. With their vast online presence, 518Scene is the premier stop for anyone interested in upcoming punk, metal, and alternative events around Albany.
Black N’ Blue Productions
Black N’ Blue Productions specializes in bringing all things heavy to New York’s Capital Region. Specializing in rock, metal, hardcore, and punk, Black N’ Blue is the premier promoter for intense underground acts around Albany. In addition to highlighting local talent, Black N’ Blue has produced shows for international touring acts across the region. Partnering with Empire Live, Black N’ Blue frequently puts on shows at their two story, 1,000-person capacity venue. Their shows extend far beyond this, with shows across the Albany metro and even into Canada. Remember to pack your ear plugs, because Black N’ Blue produces some seriously loud shows that audiences are sure to remember.
North Country
Roost
Roost is the Adirondack’s premier entertainment promoter, dealing in everything from music, art exhibitions, and santa meet and greets. With a host of destination websites, organizers can advertise their events, gaining exposure from the thousands who frequently view the pages. Roost’s work goes beyond just event promotion, working to forge a sense of community among locals and event organizers, ensuring that all of their events are as engaging as possible. Roost prides itself in sustainability, providing high quality events for locals, while stimulating the local economy and protecting the region’s pristine natural landscape.
Hartstone Productions
Hartstone Productions has made a name for itself bringing concerts and festivals to the Adirondacks for years. At the heart of Hartstone Productions is their many annual summer music festivals held in Lake George. Their productions, like Memorial Meltdown, Adirondack Independence, and Rock the Dock have highlighted major rock, folk, and jam bands.
With the ability to draw names like Dispatch, the Revivalists, and Mihali to their waterfront venue at Lake George’s Charles R. Wood Park, Hartstone Productions never fails to put on an unforgettable show. In addition to their renowned festivals, Hartstone Productions regularly produces shows at Saratoga Spring’s Putnam Place, highlighting genres from synth-pop to bluegrass.
Plattsburgh Blues and Jazz
Plattsburgh Blues and Jazz (PB&J) is a nonprofit dedicated to bringing award-winning jazz and blues performers to the shores of Lake Champlain. Since its founding, PB&J has drawn talent from across the US and Canada to perform at Plattsburgh’s music venues. Among their many shows have been performances by Grammy-winners, Kenny Neal and Joe Louis Walker, as well as up-and-comers like Vanessa Collier and Nick Schnebelen.
PB&J frequently hosts shows across Plattsburgh’s clubs and venues, with many summer shows planned at Retro Live. The highlight of PB&J’s work is the annual Summertime Blues Party. The outdoor brings the community together through blues and zydeco performances, food, and lakefront fun. As a nonprofit organization, all of PB&J’s earnings go back to bringing blues and jazz excellence to Plattsburgh.
Syracuse
CEG Presents
CEG Presents is an independent company that provides booking, artist management, and promotional services for the Syracuse area. Mike Maietta and Howie Schnee founded Creative Entertainment Group (CEG) in 1994, bringing two decades of music industry experience. As a student at Syracuse University, Maietta began to produce shows, eventually working for the likes of Bob Dylan, Dream Theater and the Allman Brothers. With Schnee’s experience producing concerts across Upstate New York and marketing for Carnegie Hall, the duo became one of the premier promoters in Syracuse and beyond.
As part of their services, CEG not only books artists but assists with day-of help, including merch tabling at shows. In addition to this, they pride themselves in their promotional work, releasing press mailings, and creating graphics for online advertisement of shows. CEG Presents is currently regularly hosting “Dead Country Tuesdays” concerts across NYC in addition to other concerts.
Creative Concerts
Creative Concerts prides itself in being one of Upstate New York’s largest independent promoters. They have worked with thousands of artists spanning countless genres. Over the years, Creative Concerts has put on shows everywhere from intimate clubs to massive outdoor festivals. Since their start, Creative Concerts has expanded to put on shows in Buffalo, Syracuse, Binghamton, Rochester, Albany, and everywhere in between.
Filthy Nasty Productions
Since their start in 2014, Syracuse’s Filthy Nasty Productions has grown into one of the largest independent promoters in not only New York, but the whole country. Filthy Nasty Productions’ promoters bring decades of experience, carefully collaborating with venues and promoters across the country to ensure artists get the best possible shows. They pride themselves in their membership in the National Independent Venue Association (NIVA). Under this partnership, Filthy Nasty productions works with other independent agencies, helping to cultivate the rich ecosystem of local promoters across the nation. Filthy Nasty Productions currently produces over 300 annual shows, reaching audiences everywhere from CNY to Nashville.
Syracuse Shows LLC
As head of Syracuse Shows LLC, Matthew Dunn brings over 20 years of experience promoting live music events. Dunn’s career began in 1998, marketing and managing artists for Syracuse’s Equal Vision and Trustkill Records companies. After years of success promoting bands and teaching at Syracuse University, Dunn threw his hat into the ring with his own company, Syracuse Shows LLC. In its over 19 years of existence, the company has produced over 600 shows with 400 different artists. Their shows have drawn a combined total of 250,000 fans to Syracuse. Dunn’s shows gravitate towards artists in the punk and metal genres. Over the years, Syracuse Shows LLC has produced shows for household names like Fall Out Boy, Paramore, and My Chemical Romance.
Ithaca
Kevin Black Presents
Kevin Black is an Ithaca-based booking agent and promoter renowned for bringing live acts to Upstate New York. KBP uses the strategy of pairing local up-and-comers with nationally-known touring acts in shows across the region. Kevin Black works with venues and artists to craft the perfect environment for their shows. With shows everywhere from Ithaca to Saratoga, KBP brings world-famous acts across Upstate, while providing a vehicle for local talent to expand their fan bases. In addition to booking, KBP offers sponsorship opportunities for artists, including massive print and digital marketing rollouts on top of live appearances. As their website exclaims, KBP “doesn’t just book bands, we create shows that people remember!”
Practice at Presets
Practice at Presets is a live music curator dedicated to bringing your favorite bands to venues around Ithaca. Its founder Aaron Robbins is a premier booker of both local talent and well-known acts. Robbins expertly matches performers to venues across Ithaca to create unforgettable live experiences.
With frequent shows at Sacred Root Kava Bar and The Upstairs, their shows range from intimate bar sets to invigorating punk shows. With special events, like the monthly Punk Rock Happy Hour, Practice at Presets’ shows never fail to leave an impression on those who attend.
DSP Shows
Based in both Ithaca, NY and Northampton, MA, DSP Shows is one of the nation’s premier independent promoters. DSP founder Dan Smalls has put on live shows dating back to 1988. In 2008, he founded Dan Smalls Presents, which was rebranded DSP Shows in 2015. In his 36 years of music promotion, Smalls’ business has grown to organize over 800 annual shows across the Northeast. DSP has worked with legends of folk and indie, including Joan Baez and Vampire Weekend. In New York, DSP frequently puts on shows at Albany’s Lark Hall, Ithaca’s State Theatre, and the Bethel Woods Center for the Arts. In addition to individual shows, DSP produces the annual Cayuga Sound Festival in Ithaca and Green River Festival in Greenfield, MA.
TJ Schaper
TJ Schaper brings years of experience as a performer and educator to his work in music promotion. Following graduation from Ithaca College, Schaper has been heavily involved in Ithaca’s music scene, performing with a host of ska bands. His entry into music promotion began during the pandemic, when live music had all but dried up. Schaper along with friends organized the monthly Ithaca Night Bazaar, a presentation of local arts, music, and foods. Going off of this success, Schaper opened his own venue, Deep Dive. Now, the venue hosts over 100 performances every year. At Deep Dive’s heart are its weekly musical performances, offering visitors the chance to see punk, jazz, and Americana.
Southern Tier
Magic City Productions
Magic City Productions LLC prides itself as Binghamton’s foremost music promoter. With access to Binghamton’s largest venues, Magic City has made a name for itself producing electrifying live experiences in the Southern Tier. The company frequently puts on shows at the Visions Veterans Memorial Arena and Broome County Forum Theatre, bringing locals shows from acts like Styx and the Dropkick Murphys. Their operations have expanded outside Binghamton and even into other states. Some highlights include Alice Cooper at Utica’s Stanley Theatre, and a sold-out show by Charlie Sheen in Cleveland. Whether it is in Binghamton or beyond, Magic City Productions knows how to put on superb shows that draw in massive crowds.
Rochester
Rochester Entertainment Events
Promoter Randy Peck founded Rochester Entertainment events in 2008 to book national touring groups in Rochester. With Rochester’s Montage Music Hall at the heart of the company’s events, artists can play in a premier 400-person venue. To date, the venue has hosted annual events, including Rochester’s International Jazz Festival and Fringe Festival. Since its start, the company has expanded to booking shows everywhere from Buffalo to Syracuse. Rochester Entertainment Events’ venues range from 200-5,000 person capacity, giving artists plenty of options for the right size show. The company currently has 15 concerts already booked for the remainder of 2024, including metal and rock acts, as well as tributes to classic groups.
Greg Burt
Greg Burt is the booking manager for Rochester’s Photo City Music Hall. Since 2016, PCMH has been one of the most forward-looking venues in Rochester. Booking artists spanning genre and nationality, PCMH provides Rochester with a wide variety of genres. PCMH also runs Photo City Presents, a booking company for artists around the Western New York. Photo City Presents regularly books artists in Rochester, Buffalo, and Niagara Falls, producing ranging concerts from emo to pop. On top of these concerts, Photo City Presents also regularly organizes themed musical events for WNY. Upcoming events include Y2k and Spongebob themed dance parties, and tributes to acts like Led Zeppelin and Chappel Roan.
Shaking Up Rochester
WRFZ 106.3 is a non-profit community radio station located in the heart of Rochester. Across their near-daily programming, they spotlight music by local artists. Of special note is the Shaking Up Rochester program, hosted by Lorraine Parr. Every Tuesday and Thursday, Parr presents two hours of music and discussions with local Rochester artists. This program provides a forum for artists to discuss issues, the local music, scene, and upcoming shows. On top of this, the program’s online accounts, such as their Facebook page, frequently highlights shows by local artists across Rochester.
Danny Deutsch
For 16 years, Danny Deutsch has sat at the helm of Rochester’s Abilene Bar & Lounge. Deutsch brings with him experience booking bands that dates back to 1977. He began booking legendary acts like the Ramones, Go-Gos, and John Lee Hooker at Scorgie’s before expanding to venues across the city. He continued this for over 20 years, before opening Abilene in 2008. Now, up-and-comers from around the country seek out Abilene as not only a performing venue, but place to hang out. Since its start, Abilene has hosted artists ranging from the folk-punk of Sarah Shook to The Blasters’ rootsy rockabilly. Abilene offers an intimate barroom atmosphere, also holding some summer shows on an outdoor stage.
Western New York
Jeffrey Standish
Jeffrey Standish is the founder of Buffalo’s Coming of Rage Productions. For more than five years, Standish has worked in promotion and booking for extreme metal bands. With frequent shows at Mohawk Place in Downtown Buffalo, Standish is one of the most prolific metal bookers in Western New York. At the center of Coming of Rage Productions is their annual Rage Fest. 2024 Marks Coming of Rage’s fifth year hosting the festival, drawing death and black metal bands from across the country to Buffalo to play.
Karate Sleepover
Karate Sleepover is Jamestown’s premier comedy booking agency. Founded in 2017, it has quickly grown to work with over 50 venues across WNY. In its 7 years of operation, Karate Sleepover has booked 150 different comedians in 93 standalone shows, as well as 120 open mic events. Karate Sleepover places an importance on finding the best fit show for its comedians, not only booking shows but also providing all the PA equipment needed for a show.
Since its founding, Karate Sleepover has built a record of successful shows across WNY and received renown from community members. Wendy Mccain, the executive director of Struthers Library Theatre, said “I honestly could not imagine the success we’ve had with Karate Sleepover. Every event has been absolutely hilarious.”
Gulf of Mexico Productions
Gulf of Mexico productions lives up to its tagline of “Good Shows for Good Bands,” bringing quality concerts to Buffalo and Rochester. With booking agent Blaise Przybyla, the company has made a name for itself organizing indie, alternative, and emo shows across Western New York. Gulf of Mexico Productions places their artists and audiences at the forefront of their operations, making shows as accessible as possible. With affordable prices for shows, Gulf of Mexico Productions assures as many people as possible in the community can enjoy the artists they book.
MNM Presents
For 23 years, MNM Presents has been a staple of Buffalo’s electronic music and rave scenes. Inspired by warehouse raves and Phish shows he attended, MNM’s founder Mike T. Marshall decided he wanted to organize shows himself. These shows began in January 2001, with MNM’s weekly Drum & Bass nights on Main Street. Throughout the 2000s and 2010s, MNM Presents expanded into all types of dance music, especially dubstep.
Throughout the years they have organized shows for stars like Diplo, Marshmello, and dedmau5. With frequent shows at the Town Ballroom and Riverworks, MNM Presents has access to some of Buffalo’s most sought after venues. With over 1,000 raves, concerts, and other events under their belt, MNM Presents is the top name in Buffalo’s dance music scene.
After Dark Presents
After Dark Presents has been a staple of Upstate New York’s music scene since its founding in 2001. Over the past 23 years, it has grown into Upstate’s largest independent promoter. They produce over 250 shows every year, ranging from intimate club spaces to headlining acts at large outdoor spaces. After Dark prides itself in working with thousands of artists, spanning all genres.
Their past work has included promotion and booking for legendary New York acts, such as Taking Back Sunday. Currently, After Dark presents concerts in Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse, Albany, and the Finger Lakes region of New York.
Twenty6 Productions
As their mission statement says, “We don’t just produce events; we create experiences that resonate.” Twenty6 Productions has lived up to this ethos, providing start-to-finish event management for artists. Their services include event management, budgeting, and staffing, handling all aspects of live shows. In addition, Twenty6 Productions uses creative and experimental marketing practices to make sure their artists reach as many people as possible. Twenty6 Productions prides itself in its high standards for its events, and ability to cultivate meaningful relationships with artists. With shows across Buffalo and beyond, Twenty6 Productions is one of the premier production agencies in Western New York.
Funtime Presents
Artie Kwitchoff and Donny Kutzbach founded Funtime Presents in 2004, bringing years of experience in the music industry with them. Kwitchoff began his career as the manager for the platinum-selling Goo Goo Dolls, before wanting to branch out and help the local music scene. Joined by ARTVOICE music editor Donny Kutzbach, the duo left their promotion jobs to helm Funtime Presents.
While based in Buffalo, Funtime Presents has organized shows everywhere from Canada to California. Within Buffalo, the company has worked to book shows at many of the city’s largest musical venues, including the Outer Harbor Concerts, Canalside Concert Series, and Artpark Mainstage. With this unmatched experience, Funtime Presents is one of the premier promoters in Buffalo.
Anita West
Anita West has made a name for herself as one of Buffalo’s most prolific music promoters. After moving to Buffalo from Cleveland, West emerged as a leading personality on “97 Rock” radio. On her self-titled show, she presents audiences the best in rock music, and interviews figures in the local music scene. Buoying off this radio success, West has emerged as a leader in Buffalo’s music promotion industry. She previously brought shows to the Tralf, before its closure in 2021. Now, West frequently books and promotes shows at Niagara Falls’ Rapids Theatre. Over the past three years, West has frequently presented blues shows at the 1,700-person theatre. With her experience in the local scene, her shows can draw music lovers from Buffalo and Canada to any show she puts on.
New York State contains diverse music scenes, with unique venues and events in all corners and counties. From Ithaca to Binghamton, Elmira to the western Finger Lakes and everywhere in between, there is much to explore the venues of New York’s “607.” The Southern Tier has much to offer with theater companies, museums, theaters, and college campuses, there is a venue for every event.
Atomic Tom’s, a venue in Binghamton, holds weddings, art galleries, benefits, and musical performances. The first Friday of every month, Atomic Tom’s hosts a “First Friday Concert.” Admission is always free, and a cash bar is available.
Anderson Center for the Performing Arts (Binghamton)
As part of Binghamton University, Anderson Center for the Performing Arts enhances the local community with culturally significant performances. The Anderson Center contains three theaters: the 1170-seat Osterhout Concert Theater, the 408-seat Chamber Hall (pictured below) and the 558-seat Watters Theater.
Since 1903, Bailey Hall has been used by Cornell University to host musicians and ensembles. The Cornell University Department of Music sponsors more than 100 concerts, encompassing a broad spectrum of the world’s art and music.
The Bundy Museum of History and Art is a rich piece of Binghamton history and hosts events and fundraisers. The Bundy Museum is also home to WBDY 99.5 FM, a community radio station that enriches Binghamton’s artistic and intellectual life.
Cranberry Coffee House is Binghamton’s premier folk music venue. It is also home to The Middle Set, their open mic event. Hosted on the third Saturday of every month, The Middle Set gives artists, musicians, and story-tellers of all ages a chance to perform.
Deep Dive hosts weekly trivia and karaoke nights, as well as concerts and private events. Deep Dive also hosts concerts and jam sessions frequently in a wide variety of genres.
Diversion Brewing Company has been serving the Chemung community since 2016. Diversion hosts a wide variety of events, including musical performances. In the summer of 2017, they started their “Tunes & A Truck” program, where local musicians and food trucks come to the brewery every Saturday.
The Downstairs is a membership-based art gallery and community listening room. With a maximum capacity of around 50 people, The Downstairs is ideal for an intimate concert. The Downstairs also hosts weekly comedy open mics every Tuesday, and exists for the benefit of local artists; The venue does not take a percentage of the proceeds from ticket or merchandise sales.
Binghamton’s beloved restaurant, Downtown, often hosts events for the community. Weekly trivia nights and drag brunches are available, as well as performances by local bands.
Fanatics Pub is a venue in Lima that serves pizza, hamburgers, and wings. Beloved by the local community, concert-goers enjoy the cozy atmosphere and talented acts, most of whom are Blues artists. Fanatics also hosts trivia and comedy nights.
Since 1975, The Hangar Theater has been supporting and enhancing Ithaca’s arts. The Hangar Theater is dedicated to producing quality performances and inspiring community through their programs. The theater strives to be an artistic home that nurtures a lifelong love of the performing arts. Arts education is central to the Hangar Theater’s mission, and they offer numerous programs for children, including the summer Mainstage and KIDDSTUFF productions, an annual production of A Christmas Carol, and the Lab Company.
Known for their live music and fresh wings, The Hornet’s Nest hosts local musicians and karaoke nights. Events are announced on their Facebook, which is available below.
Located in Elmira’s historic Federal Building in the business district, the Ill Eagle hosts events and live music. The Ill Eagle has multiple event rooms, each restored to accommodate guests. The largest event room, the old courthouse, can accommodate up to 200 people.
Irish Kevin’s is an Irish Bar known for its Irish cuisine and talented performers. They are known for their award-winning, house-seasoned corned beef and friendly atmosphere.
Since 1991, the Kitchen Theater Company has offered talented and determined young artists a place they could work together and hone their craft. In 2010, KTC made history by becoming the first theater company in Ithaca to own its own space. Throughout its history, KTC has produced over 200 plays, including 34 world premieres by Adam Bock, Tanya Barfield, Darian Dauchan, and many others.
Moe-Town is an outdoor music venue in Addison that hosts local, regional, and national bands. In addition to concerts, Moe-Town hosts Spring/Fall Festivals, Halloween parties, and overnight camping. Lawn chairs and coolers are welcome, and food and drinks are available.
New Leaf Cider Company is a winery that hosts events and performances. There are weekly open mics, as well as trivia nights every Thursday. They also host stand up comedy the last Thursday of every month and host private events.
The Phelps Mansion was built in 1871 and owned by Sherman David Phelps, an entrepreneur and one-time mayor of Binghamton. The mansion was designed by Isaac G. Perry, who also designed the Binghamton Inebriate Asylum (1858) and helped complete the New York State Capitol Building (1899). The museum hosts fundraisers and concerts, and a psychic fair the first Friday of every month.
The Range is a Western-themed bar that hosts musicians nearly every weekend. The Range is located above Trader K’s in Ithaca’s commons. Their diverse set of performances promises something for every taste.
Sach’s Tee House is a bar that hosts outdoor music. Their new patio is open, and they host trivia nights every Thursday. Known for their trendy and welcoming atmosphere, Sach’s combines traditional sports bar elements with live music.
Endicott’s Little Italy Heritage Center is a non-profit dedicated to preserving Endicott’s Italian neighborhood. A surge of Italian immigrants came to Endicott hoping to work for Endicott-Johnson (EJ) Corp. Italian immigrants created the vibrant neighborhood community the Heritage center works to preserve, The Stage at Little Italy hosts an annual Italian Festival, GUSTO, as well as farmers markets and other community events. They also put on productions in George W. Johnson Park.
The State Theater opened in 1928, and has been a significant venue in the Finger Lakes region ever since. Its 1,600 capacity makes it the largest venue in Ithaca. The theater fell into disrepair, and the owner even considered demolition in the mid ’90s, but Historic Ithaca acquired the building in 1998 and committed to revitalizing the building, and it became a designated landmark.
Tap House 66 is a bar that supports local musicians and hosts performances often. Known for their delicious food and talented local artists, more information is available at the website below.
Since its opening in 2010, The Westy has become a staple of the Ithaca community. They host an open mic every Thursday at 9 PM, food trucks in the summer, and numerous concerts.
Hailing from Ithaca, six-piece funk band NEO Project dazzles audiences with their energetic stage presence and hypnotic fusion music. Their unique, high-energy sound and performances have blown crowds away for the better part of a decade. With an interesting mix of genres and insatiable chemistry, NEO Project is sure to put on an unforgettable performance.
Since 2012, the band has been on a mission to make crowds dance with their stellar improvisation and musicianship. NEO Project is made up of Elly Holiday and Jimbo Scott as lead vocalists, John White on keyboards and backup vocals, Dwight Carroll on electric guitar and vocals, Franklin Henry on electric bass, and Mike McCoy on drums. As well-decorated veterans of the music industry, including past careers as music professors, soul practitioners, and even a former Motown sideman, they each hold a deep love and passion for funk, soul, jazz, and R&B music.
In their many years of touring and making music, NEO Project has worn many hats when it comes to performing. Originally, they began as a funk band, but soon after realized their true potential in becoming an all-out dance band that blends a multitude of genres. Bringing in inspiration from Afro-Caribbean music, as well as soul, jazz, and R&B, NEO Project combines the genres that were truly inspirational to them, with their own improvisational twist.
Eventually, through years of fine-tuning their sound, NEO Project became exemplary of the great diversity within the music industry, proving that genres can absolutely coexist and share the spotlight at the same time. Along with their own original music, NEO Project reinterprets some of the best soul, jazz, and funk music out there with their own unique twist, covering a wide range of artists from Deee-Lite to James Brown. Their unique sound has brought thousands from all over the state to bars, concert halls, and festivals to enjoy some new-age fusion in classic old-fashioned styles.
Throughout the last ten years, the NEO Project family has performed all over New York, bringing the energy to music festivals and concert series alike. On July 11, the band headlined a performance at the Ithaca Summer Concert Series; their most recent surmounting success right from their hometown. Their most recent gig at the Finger Lakes Cider House brought the house down with their incredibly dynamic and original performance.
NEO Project’s funky, charming tunes have brought them widespread critical acclaim, from magazines to newspapers and more. “There’s a new band based in Ithaca, NY that will have you tapping your toes and shakin’ your groove thing to its unique, fun style of Neo Soul, Funk, Jazz, Rock, and Afro-Caribbean world grooves,” says Roger Theies of What’s Hot? magazine. Harry Segal of The Dock calls them “the tightest funk fusion band in the land!”
After a rousing ten-year anniversary, NEO Project’s reign is far from over. Catch NEO Project at The Range, 119 E State St, Ithaca, for a surefire performance that will never make you want to throw away your dancing shoes. The end of a busy season awaits the band as August begins, with headlining performances at the Geneva Lakefront Summer Concert Series on Wednesday, August 14. On September 2, NEO Project will perform for a private member’s exclusive event at the Ithaca Yacht Club, followed by a headlining performance at the Corning Harvest Fest on Saturday, September 21.
For any information on the band, be sure to visit their official Facebook page, linked here.
