La Furia Del Ritmo opens up the GRAM on the Green with WYCE concert series on July 20.
The Grand Rapids Art Museum (GRAM) has announced the 2023 lineup for its 14th annual free summer concert series, GRAM on the Green with WYCE 88.1 FM. Taking place on Thursday evenings from July 20 through Aug. 10, the series brings four evenings of performances by local and regional musical acts to downtown Grand Rapids.
Guests of all ages are invited to relax on the Museum’s outdoor terrace and enjoy free live music, food trucks, a cash bar, and hands-on artmaking activities. Admission to the Museum is also free during GRAM on the Green as part of Meijer Free Thursday Nights.
“The Grand Rapids Art Museum is thrilled to bring another season of free summer concerts to downtown Grand Rapids in partnership with WYCE 88.1 FM,” said GRAM Director of Communications Elizabeth Payne. “GRAM on the Green is part of our ongoing commitment to present accessible and engaging art experiences for our community, and we look forward to another year of celebrating art and music downtown.”
2023 Lineup:
July 20: La Furia Del Ritmo (latin/world)
July 27: Sarena Rae (soul/blues/jazz)
August 3: The Bootstrap Boys (country/americana/folk)
August 10: Pretoria (rock/indie/alternative)
“WYCE is excited for another year of GRAM on the Green,” said WYCE Music Director and series curator Chris Cranick. “This year’s lineup features a mix of Michigan artists making waves in the community. Whether it’s Latin groove, soul, forward-thinking country or modern indie rock, we’re elated to present the diverse lineup of talent this year. Each act is sure to get everyone on their feet dancing. We look forward to connecting with the community at the shows this summer.”
EDITOR’S NOTE: Due to rain, the Concerts in the Park with Reverend Jesse Ray has been rescheduled for Aug. 15.
Jesse Ray Cahue, a.k.a. Reverend Jesse Ray, performs Tuesday, June 13, at Lamar Park. (Courtesy, Reverend Jesse Ray)
“Prepare to rock ’n’ roll’ said Jesse Ray Cahue of Wyoming’s first Concerts in the Park for the 2023 summer season.
Set for Tuesday, June 13, Cahue will take the stage as Reverend Jesse Ray at the free event at Lamar Park, 2561 Porter St. SW.
“It’s all about having a good time,” said Cahue, who makes his debut at the Concerts in the Park on Tuesday. “I grab that electric guitar, tap out on my foot drums and perform a lot of danceable music. It features blues, swing, and rockabiliy. It’s about having fun and bringing the rock ’n’ roll.”
Cahue picked up a guitar at the age of 12 when his “Gumpy” bought his first six-string. Cahue then began playing open mic nights with his mama at his side to gain him entry into the bars. In 2013, Cahue formed Jesse Ray and The Carolina Catfish, which received a nomination for Best Roots/Americana Album at the 23rd Jammie Awards, presented by Grand Rapids radio station WYCE.
Expanding and growing
Looking for new and creative musical opportunities, Cahue developed Reverend Jesse Ray as a one-band blues and rock act. He is equipped with guitar, amplified harmonica, foot drums, and a voice that takes the audience back to the golden age of recorded music.
“Reverend Jesse first appeared as the opener for Rachael Brook at a Grand Rapids Art Museum outdoor concert,” Jesse said. “My band, Jesse Ray and the Carolina Catfish, was supposed to be my creative outlet but it has morphed into its own thing which is great.
“Through the Reverend Jesse act, I am able to do more things, such as original songs as well as pieces that may not quite have fit with the band, and pursue more performing opportunities.”
Some might be familiar with the Reverend Jesse Ray as he is a regular performer at the Tip Top Bar, located in downtown Grand Rapids.
Cahue said he looks forward to checking out the City of Wyoming and rocking out with attendees at Lamar Park.
Heading to the show
Concerts in the Park starts at 6 p.m. with a pre-show and activities for all ages. Food trucks also will be on site. Participants are encouraged to bring blankets and chairs.
All of the Concerts in the Park are recorded by WKTV Community Media and aired on Comcast 24 and streamed at wktv.org. Air times are 5 p.m. Wednesdays, and 11 a.m. and 10 p.m. Saturdays.
2023 Concerts of the Park schedule
June 20: Michael Hulett is a musician and vocalist who performs a variety of music such as jazz, R&B, pop, rock, and a sprinkling of country music.
June 27: Cabildo is a West Michigan-based alternative Latin rock collective that brings a unique blend of cambia, ska, folk, and other genres of music from Latin America.
July 11: Sarena Rae is a Grand Rapids based vocalist covering a variety of musical genres.
July 18: Klay N’ The Mud is a West Michigan-based cover band.
July 25: La Furia Del Ritmo will perform Latin music.
Aug. 1: The Soul Syndicate offers up classic soul, R&B and funk.
Aug. 8: Patty Pershayla & The Mayhaps features a former small-town pageant queen who has turned into a rock ’n’ roll powerhouse.
By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma WKTV Managing Editor joanne@wktv.org
The Soul Syndicate returns to Wyoming’s Concerts in Park on Aug. 1. (Supplied by the band)
There is about 103 days until the first Wyoming Concert in the Park takes place, but who’s counting?
Certainly not the Wyoming Parks and Recreation Department.
“We are thrilled to be able to announce the concert series and help everyone think about those warmer days that are ahead,” said Wyoming Parks and Recreation Director Krashawn Martin.
The Parks and Recreation Department has taken over the coordination of the annual free concert series, which will run every Tuesday from 6—8 p.m. at Lamar Park, 2561 Park St. SW, from June 13 to Aug. 8. (Note: There are no performances during the week of July 4.) All concerts will be recorded by WKTV and aired on Comcast Channel 25 and streamed at WKTV.org.
“This year we are bring some traditional favorites along with some fresh fun to our concert series,” Martin said. “We also are incorporating some different elements to this year series as well.”
Returning favorites The Reverend Jesse Ray (June 13), Cabildo (June 27), and The Soul Syndicate (Aug. 1) will be joined by series newbies Michael Hulett (June 20), La Furia Del Ritmo (July 25) and Patty PerShayla & The Mayhaps (Aug. 8) (For a complete rundown of the performers, music, and dates, go to the end of this story.)
Along with the main stage performers, plans are underway for pre-show entertainment and activities that will be for all ages.
Local food trucks will be on-hand with the the Parks and Recreation Department currently taking reservations for the concert spots.
Cabildo also is returning with a performance on June 27. (Supplied)
“We are focusing on local food trucks of the Greater Grand Rapids area,” Martin said, adding the food truck line-up will be announced at a later date. “We are hoping to provide a space that brings people together to enjoy local bands and local food trucks.”
Concertgoers may bring their own food, however alcohol is not permitted in the park. Attendees also may bring blankets and chairs to sit on while enjoying the performances.
“We’re excited to see the bands and to see everyone happy, enjoying the summer weather and our parks,” Martin said.
The Concerts in the Park 2023 Lineup:
June 13: The Reverend Jesse Ray is a one-man band, rock ’n’ roll experience.
June 20: Michael Hulett is a musician and vocalist who performs a variety of music such as jazz, R&B, pop, rock, and a sprinkling of country music.
June 27: Cabildo is a West Michigan-based alternative Latin rock collective that brings a unique blend of cambia, ska, folk, and other genres of music from Latin America.
July 11: Sarena Rae is a Grand Rapids based vocalist covering a variety of musical genres.
July 18: Klay N’ The Mud is a West Michigan-based cover band.
July 25: La Furia Del Ritmo will perform Latin music.
Aug. 1: The Soul Syndicate offers up classic soul, R&B and funk.
Aug. 8: Patty Pershayla & The Mayhaps features a former small-town pageant queen who has turned into a rock ’n’ roll powerhouse.
Guests are encouraged to bring chairs and blankets to Blandford’s outdoor series. (Supplied)
Starting Aug. 20, live music is back at Blandford Nature Center at Bands at Blandford Outdoor Concert Series returns with a series of four Saturday evening concerts.
The Blandford Outdoor Concert Series will highlight a variety of musical genres for people of differing music-tastes to enjoy. The lineup for this year’s series is as follows: Aug. 20, The Caribbean Soul Experience; Aug. 27, The Fever Haze; Sept. 10, The Rough & Tumble; and Sept. 17, Hannah Rose Graves. Concerts are from 6:30-9 pm at Blandford Nature Center, 1715 Hillburn Ave NW.
This year, the students of Red Rose Music Lab and students of Grandville Arts and Humanities (GAAH): Girls Rock! Grand Rapids will be performing as opening acts. Both of these groups work to empower developing children through instrumental exploration, band forming, and vocal training.
“The Bands at Blandford Outdoor Concert Series began with the goal of connecting people to nature through music,” said Community Outreach Manager, Katie Clouse. “It’s different from the educational, youth-focused programming we regularly offer. This series provides a more relaxed opportunity for people of all ages and outdoor experience levels to enjoy nature.”
Guests may bring blankets and chairs to unwind with an adult beverage and a tasty meal. Beer from Brewery Vivant will be available for purchase along with food from local food trucks/eateries such as El Caribe, Land Whale Deli, and more.
Tickets are $3 for non-members, and free for members and children 12 and under. For members, there is an optional donation of $10 which will go towards supporting Bands at Blandford Outdoor Concert Series and other opportunities that enhance the community’s connection and access to nature. This event is open to the public and people of all ages. Tickets are available now and may be purchased online ahead of the concert, or guests may purchase tickets at the door. Pre-registration is not required to attend.
Molly performs with After Ours on the first GRAM on the Green concert set for July 21. (Supplied)
Concerts return to downtown Grand Rapids this summer with the popular GRAM on the Green, a series that features some of the best local, regional and national acts.
The free summer concert series returns from 6-9 p.m. Thursday (July 21) in front of the Grand Rapids Art Museum.
“For over a decade, the Grand Rapids Art Museum has brought free summer concerts to the heart of downtown Grand Rapids,” said GRAM Communications Manager Elizabeth Payne in a release.
“In partnership with WYCE, we’re excited to continue our tradition of creating accessible arts experiences for our entire community to participate in and enjoy.”
The outdoor music events also include hands-on artmaking, food trucks and a cash bar.
Organizers added that you can “come for the music, and stay for the art, as the Museum is also open late for Meijer Free Thursday Nights.” Admission is free from 5-9 p.m.
2022 GRAM on the Green Lineup:
July 21: Molly + After Ours (Soul + Electronic Jazz)
July 28: Andrea Von Kampen + Brie Stoner (Indie Folk + Alternative Noir Pop)
August 4: The Music That Raised Us (History of Black Music – Spirituals, Motown and Modern Soul)
August 11: The Rachel Brooke Band + The Reverend Jesse Ray (Retro Rockabilly + Western Swing)
Artists are equally excited about the return of GRAM on the Green
“I have played at the art museum many times over the years with different groups, but GRAM on the Green has always had a special vibe to it because of the synergy between WYCE and the GRAM in getting people out to party on a Thursday night,” said Molly, who kicks off the series with mostly original tunes from her EP (available at mollymollymolly.bandcamp.com) and her forthcoming full-length record.
“We’re also thrilled to be sharing the evening of music with our South Bend, Indiana friends the very talented duo, After Ours.”
WYCE-FM (88.1), a non-profit, independent community radio station, is excited to partner with GRAM. And reps are excited to show off some great entertainment.
“The lineup this year offers up a diverse array” of talent, said WYCE music director and series curator Shane German.
“Whether it’s indie-folk, jazz, retro Americana, or a celebration of Black voices in music, we’re thrilled to welcome these incredible artists this year. There are really be something for everyone. We can’t wait to see everyone at the shows this summer!”
Cabildo performs July 21 at Kentwood Summer Concert Series.
The Kentwood Summer Concert Series is not your typical outdoor community event.
Yes, you get live music, of course, and food trucks are on hand to keep you fed.
But you can also bring your own “adult beverages.”
“That’s one of the things that makes Kentwood a little more unique,” said Laura Barbrick, marketing and events coordinator for the City of Kentwood Parks & Recreation department.
Through a special permit with the local police department, attendees can bring their own alcohol (beer and wine) in a designated area. “It just has to stay in the concert zone,” she added.
Fans of the popular concert series will get to bring those “adult beverages” to the show when the Max Lockwood Band kicks off the series at 7 p.m. June 16 on the lawn behind Kentwood City Hall. Bring your own blankets and lawn chairs.
The weekly series continues on Thursday evenings through Aug. 11. See the schedule below. All will be recorded and aired on WKTV.
Another “unique” aspect of the Kentwood series is an opportunity to check out the local farmers market. About a decade ago the market used to be on Saturdays, but changed to Thursdays in this special partnership.
“We polled our residents and discovered there was a need for a weekday evening market,” Barbrick said.
The Kentwood Farmers Market will be from 4:30 – 7 p.m. Thursdays, right before the concert series. (Supplied)
In 2020 they had a few pop-up markets on Thursday nights, and they were very well attended, she said.
“To continue the momentum,” they decided to have the farmers market on the same day. “It’s a great way to cross-promote both events,” Barbrick added.
“People who attend the concert series might not have known about our Farmers Market before. But now our concertgoers love to shop the market and buy local products before grabbing a seat on the lawn for the show. It really has been a win-win and has helped grow both the market and our concert series.”
The Kentwood Farmers Market takes place next door from 4:30-7 p.m. in the parking lot behind City Hall.
Concerts take place from 7-8:30 p.m. on the lawn behind Kentwood City Hall, 4900 Breton Ave. SE. Admission is free. A variety of food trucks also will be on hand.
The lineup of bands includes a variety of styles and diversity, which was intentional, Barbrick said.
“Typically, in January, we put out a poll on social media asking the community who they want in our lineup,” she said. “We take the results from the poll and go through all the band applications to determine the lineup.
“Diversity is very important to our selection. We serve a very diverse community and want our music selection to represent our residents and culture.”
Crowds can range from 500-1,000 people, depending on the popularity of acts.
But everyone has a great time, she said.
“We’ve received a lot of positive feedback from residents over the years. We have some families that come to every single show,” Barbrick said.
“People love the opportunity to be outdoors and enjoy a free concert. We love it when the crowd is dancing and asking for an encore. It’s very rewarding to see the smiles and hear the applause after each show.”
Parking for shows will be limited at both City Hall and the Library, according to the city’s website. Additional parking is available at the Kentwood Justice Center (4740 Walma SE), Kentwood Public Works (5068 Breton SE), Kentwood Baptist Church (2875 52nd St), and there is street parking in nearby neighborhoods.
If you miss a show you can watch it here at WKTV On Demand.
John D. Gonzalez is a digital journalist with 30-plus years of experience as a food, travel, craft beer and arts & entertainment reporter based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He also co-hosts the radio show and Podcast “Behind the Mitten,” which airs at 6 p.m. Sundays on WOOD-AM and FM. Follow him on his journey to discover what’s next. You can find him on Twitter as @MichiganGonzo, on Instagram @MichiganGonzo and Facebook at @GRGonzo. He also relaunched his YouTube Channel. Email him story ideas and tips at michigangonzo@gmail.com.
Hip-hop, rap, reggae, contemporary R&B, teen pop, and dance-pop — there is no denying that the music of the nineties was eclectic.
And while categorizing the era may be nearly impossible, it’s cross-pollination of sounds left a boundary-break legacy that remains today. One of which was grunge music, an alternative forum of rock music that bands such as Nirvana, Pearl Jam, and Alice in Chains were most known for.
It was, according to West Michigan band PROJECT 90, “the last golden decade of guitar-driven rock” which is the reason the five residents came together in 2016 to form the West Michigan-based group.
The nineties rock tribute band performs at Lamar Park Tuesday, July 27, as part of the Wyoming Concerts in the Park series. The concert is at 7 p.m.
PROJECT 90 comes to Lamar Park on Tuesday, July 27. (PROJECT 90)
“I thought it was an amazing crowd for the first night out there and in fact, I think it is the biggest opening crowd that I have seen,” said Mayor Jack Poll as he commented to the council at its Monday night council meeting about the Wyoming Concerts in the Park series. “It seemed to kick off really well.
“They are only doing four or five of them this summer…I always wander before time and talk to a lot of the folks that were there and there was just real enthusiasm to have it back and some of it may be due to COVID, but everyone wants to be outside and communicating with other people. So I thought the attitude and the response there for (the first week) was wonderful.”
Part of the goal of the Wyomig Community Enrichment Committee, which hosts the concerts for the city, is to offer a variety of music, according to LeighAnn TeBos, chair of the Wyoming Community Enrichment Commission. The second week featured the Yellow Brick Road Dueling Pianos with members performing an array of cover songs from such performers as Journey, Queen, Lady Gaga, and Elton John. This week is nineties music and the last concert, Aug. 3, will be country as local group Mustang Band performs.
In its five years, PROJECT 90s has racked up a number of awards including being named as best cover band in 2018 by “Revue” magazine. The group’s catalog includes an array of music from some of the leading nineties performers such as blink-182, Green Day, Bon Jovi, Radiohead, Smash Mouth, Cracker, Alice in Chains and 3 Doors Down. The five-piece rock band features lead vocals and corny jokes by Mark Gardner, guitars by Nolan Romzek and Brian Zeemering, bass and vocals by Matt Vail, and Stephen Legg on drums.
Lamar Park is located at 2561 Porter ST. SW. The concerts are recorded by WKTV and rebroadcasted on Comcast Channel 25 at 5 p.m. Wednesday and 11 a.m. and 10 p.m. Saturday.
They are a familiar sight to the outdoor summer concert series: two guys with two pianos better known as the Yellow Brick Road Dueling Pianos.
The group is headed to Wyoming next week for the second Concerts in the Park series set for Tuesday, July 20, at Lamar Park, 2561 Porter St. SW. The concert starts at 7 p.m.
The Yellow Brick Road Dueling Pianos perform Tuesday, July 20, at Lamar Park. (Supplied)
“We are very excited to be able to bring the concerts back,” said LeighAnn TeBos, chair of the Wyoming Community Enrichment Commission. The commission oversees the annual Concerts in the Park. “It is truncated this year, but it is all about getting Wyoming back into the grove of things.”
That was definitely the case with the July 13 concert featuring The Soul Syndicate. Despite the threat of rain, there was a big crowd and lots of dancing.
“When there are dance tunes, people definitely come out,” TeBos said with a laugh.
And there will be dance tunes Tuesday, July 20, as Grand Rapids only traveling dueling piano show takes over the Lamar Park stage. The duo performs a number of rock classics from such groups as Queen, Journey, Lady Gaga, and, of course, Elton John. There also will be lots of audience participation time as the group performs iconic songs that anyone will know the chorus to such as “Sweet Caroline,” “Margaritaville,” and “Don’t Stop Believin’”.
Next up for the Concerts in the Park will be the Project 90 (featuring favorites from the nineties), July 27; and country and classic rock covers from the Mustang Band, Aug. 3. All concerts are free. Concerts start at 7 p.m. at Lamar Park.
The concerts are recorded by WKTV and rebroadcasted on Comcast Channel 25 at 5 p.m. Wednesday and 11 a.m. and 10 p.m. Saturday.
St. Joe Today invites the community to celebrate all things Southwest Michigan during the Love Local Weekend July 16-18. The Mike Yore Memorial Car Show kicks off the weekend on Friday, July 16, from 4- 8 p.m. in downtown St. Joe. View classic cars from days gone by as they line up along Lake Boulevard. Attendees will “cruise” along the bluff and enjoy classic hits spun by local DJ Mark Durocher, as they take in more than 150 eye-catching vehicles in this charming lakeside town.
Cars can start parking in the event zone along Lake Boulevard at 1 p.m. on Friday. Cars need to be in place no later than 4 p.m., please enter at Lake Boulevard and Park Street. All participants must register day of between 4 – 6 p.m. at the Honor Credit Union tent located on the corner of Lake Boulevard and Broad Street. For more information or to sign up for participant reminders, visit stjoetoday.com/mikeyore. The Mike Yore Memorial Car Show is sponsored by Honor Credit Union, Edward J. Todd, JVIS USA, Wojtowicz Law PLC and SWMI Brew Tours.
“Love Local Weekends are jam packed with summer fun,” said Amy Zapal, executive director, St. Joe Today. “Area residents and visitors are sure to enjoy extended shopping hours, free gift wrapping, new products, featured menu items, specials and a wide variety of area events.” Visit stjoetoday.com/lovelocal for a complete list.
As part of the Love Local Weekend, the Friday Night Concert Series showcases area talent. This free, hour-long concert, which starts at 7 p.m., will be held at the John E.N. Howard Bandshell and will feature Lake Effect Jazz Big Band.
Then on Saturday, July 17, the Love Local Weekend continues with the Race for YMCA 5K/10K presented by TCF Bank held at the Margaret B. Upton Arboretum at 8:30 a.m. Money raised will benefit the Y’s Annual Campaign which provides financial assistance for memberships and programs to local children and families in need. That same morning, head over to Lake Bluff Park for two events – the St. Joe Farmers Market from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (extended hours) and the Lake Bluff Artisan Fair from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free tote bags will be handed out to the first 250 attendees at the St. Joe Farmers Market. For more information, visit stjoetoday.com/farmersmarketand stjoetoday.com/artisanfair.
Saturday evening, the Southwest Michigan Symphony Orchestra hosts Belting Out Broadway at Silver Beach Shadowland Pavilion at 6:30 p.m., gates open at 5:30 p.m. Ticket information and details can be found at smso.org. That same night, visitors and residents will enjoy the Summer Movie Series, hosted by the City of St. Joseph. Saturday’s movie, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (1990), will begin at 7 p.m. at the St. Joseph High School (Drive-In). Visit stjoetoday.com/movies for a complete summer movie schedule.
On Sunday, July 18 the Love Local Weekend wraps up with a free Municipal Band – Jazz Band Concert held at the John E.N. Howard Bandshell at 7 p.m. Zapal said this weekend is a wonderful way to celebrate the summer season, “Whether you enjoy the beaches, our beautiful downtown shops and restaurants, Whirlpool Compass Fountain, area events, or local wineries and breweries there is something for everyone!”
Hastings Live is returning in 2021. It may look different than it has in the past– there may be ticketing for some events and venue changes for others, but it is happening!
“We are thrilled to be hosting Hastings Live again,” said Thornapple Arts Council Executive Director Megan Lavell. “We’re making safety our first priority as we move forward with our 2021 programming. We know this season is going to feel different than years past, and we appreciate everyone following the safety protocols to keep the community safe and keep the program going all summer.”
“We have been working with the Barry-Eaton Health Department, Hastings City Police, and the Hastings Department of Public Services to safely plan the upcoming Hastings Live season,” said Hastings Downtown Development Director Dan King. “Please stay tuned to local medial sources and social media for updates as the season draws closer.”
In addition to the Downtown Sculpture Tour (new sculptures are being installed April 27) Hastings Live includes Hastings City Band, Community Concerts, Fridays at the Fountain, and Friday Night Features, Hastings Live at Summerfest, and the Playing at the Plaza Thursday morning children’s entertainment series.
Playing at the Plaza will be held at the Thornapple Plaza this summer to allow children and their families more room to dance, sing, and play while maintaining social distancing. Wednesday and Friday evening and Summerfest concerts will also be held at the Thornapple Plaza which is adjacent to downtown Hastings and its charming and unique shops and restaurants, many located in HOPS, Hastings’ new downtown social district (log on to https://downtownhastings.com/social-district-hops/for more information). It is also located next to the Riverwalk Trail which hugs the banks of the scenic Thornapple River.
Friday Night Features showcase some of the region’s finest up-and-coming performers along with established artists. Friday Night Feature concerts start at 7:30 p.m. at the Thornapple Plaza The Friday Night Features lineup includes:
June 18 Simply Queen June 25 Rev. Peyton’s Big Damn Band July 2 Denise Davis July 9 Arena Rock July 16 Jake Kershaw July 23 Roosevelt Diggs July 30 Brian Randall Band Aug. 6 The Insiders Aug. 13 The Army Band Aug. 20 The Accidentals
Hastings City Band has been entertaining audiences for more than 150 years. Members are high school aged and up. All Hastings City Band performances are held on Wednesday at the Thornapple Plaza and start at 7:30 p.m. Hastings City Band performance dates are:
June 2 June 9 June 16 June 23 June 30
Community Concerts feature some of the area’s finest local talent. All Community Concerts are held on Wednesday evening at the Thornapple Plaza and start at 7:30 p.m. This year’s Community Concert line-up includes:
July 7 Out of Favor Boys July 14 Thornapple Jazz Orchestra July 21 Gooder ‘n Grits July 28 Geez Louise Aug. 4 Allie Garland and Awesome Sauce Aug. 11 Jesse Cline Aug. 18 Grumpy Old Men Aug. 25 An Dro
Fridays at the Fountain start at noon on the Barry County Courthouse lawn on the southwest corner of the intersection of Church and State streets. In the event of inclement weather, Friday at the Fountain concerts will be canceled. This year’s line-up includes:
June 18 Gary Niemensky June 25 Chuck Whiting Jr. July 2 Ellie Youngs July 9 Susan Harrison July 16 Daves at 7 July 23 Hastings Heartbeat July 30 Kilkenny Corkers Aug. 6 Community Music School Aug. 13 Dede and the Dreamers
Playing at the Plaza is a children’s music, entertainment and education series will be held at the Thornapple Plaza Thursdays at 11 a.m. during the 2021 season. The line-up includes:
June 17 Brianna Harm June 24 Ben Jammin July 1 Kalamazoo Exotic Animals July 8 Drumming with Dede July 15 Tunes and Tales with Trisha July 22 Palamazoo Aug. 5 Stormy the Magician Aug. 12 Mime Rob Reider
Hastings Live at Summerfest is the last concert series of the summer. All concerts will be held at the Thornapple Plaza on the Friday and Saturday of the last full weekend in August. The line-up for this year includes:
Friday, Aug. 27 4-5:15 p.m. Crooked Root 5:45 – 7 p.m. Zion Lion 7:30 – 9 p.m. Crush Between sets Brianna Harm
Saturday, Aug. 28 2-3 p.m. Brother Adams 3:30 – 5 p.m. Silent Bark 5:30 – 7 p.m. Toppermost 7:30 – 9 p.m. Aeroforce Between sets Expressions Dance Studio
Please note: Due to ongoing public health concerns, Hastings Live events will observe what safety measures are deemed necessary when the series begins. While all events will remain free, some may be ticketed to limit audience sizes. Please check the City of Hastings and Thornapple Council websites, City of Hastings and Hastings Live Facebook pages throughout the season for updates on bands, venues and current health department guidelines.
The Circle Theatre’s last of its three-part Circle Summer Fundraising Concert series on Wednesday, Sept. 16. The outdoor concert will be at 7 p.m. on the lawn of the Circle Theatre which is the Aquinas College Performing Arts Center located at 1703 Robinson Rd. SE.
The outdoor, family-friendly, socially distant concert will feature the best of West Michigan musicians performing a variety of music. The concerts will take place on the lawn of the Circle Theatre. Patrons are urged to bring a picnic, good friends, and relax while enjoying the music.
Social distancing between groups is required, so feel free to spread out and enjoy the great summer weather! Tickets are $25 and all proceeds go directly to Circle Theatre.
September’s fundraising performance will feature performances by Lisa Knight, Ellie Frances, and Larry Young. Musicians for the performance include Perry Moody, John Parker, and Danny Robinson. Songs will include “What’s Going On,” “Master Blaster,” “Mustang Sally,” “Chain of Fools,” and others.
Circle Theatre is committed to keeping the health and safety of our patrons, volunteers, performers, and staff our top priority. It is because of this, that the decision to postpone our 68th season was made. This extended intermission has left Circle Theatre with the task of raising $200,000 to cover costs during this time. With the support of the community, Circle Theatre has raised $100,000 to date.
To learn more about Circle Theatre, the September concert and other programs, visit circletheatre.org.
Classic rock and power ballard will be the music track for this Thursday’s Sound of Summer concert program.
Jaded 8 will be the guest performers for the free 7 p.m. concert at Cutler Park, 6701 Cutler Park SW, just west of 68th Street and Division Avenue.
Being one of the few outdoor annual concerts taking place this summer, it is apparent from Jaded 8’s Facebook page that the group is excited to perform this Thursday.
“We’ll be cramming every song possible into the show because WE MISS PLAYING and WE MISS YOU!,” the band wrote on its Facebook. “And we are even going to practice for it, so you know we’re serious!”
Jaded 8 was formed in January 2010 and is currently made up of three members who have been rocking the Lakeshore since then. Mark Pawlak, a co-founding member of the band is on guitar and vocals together with his co-founder Lee Nelson, who is on the drums and vocals. Jeff Post joined them later on and is on the bass guitar and also vocals.
“We love classic rock…and we perform to honor those incredible artists who brought this timeless music to the ears of multiple generations,” according to the band’s our story on Facebook. “Whether you’re a boomer or a Gen-X, Y, or Z’r, you will know these tunes and you will be singing along with every song.”
Sounds of Summer organizers are not oblivious to the current COVID-19 situation and therefore will be observing public health guidelines, such as groups having to stay six feet apart.
Upcoming performances include Oat Bran Boys July 16, dusty Chaps July 23, and LWND July 30. For more information about the Sounds of Summer, click here.
Previous Sounds of Summer concerts are now airing on WKTV Channel 25 at 8 p.m. Tuesdays and 9 p.m. Saturdays.
Trumpeter extraordinaire Max Colley III will kick off the 2020 Sounds of Summer concert series tomorrow at Cutler Park.
The popular concert series is one of the few free concert series that will take place this summer. The concert is set for 7 p.m. and organizer Patty Williams said there will be social distancing guidelines including groups sitting at least six feet a part.
Colley has earned many honors over the years including being named the 2014 Musician of the Year by the West Michigan Jazz Society. He has performed with several area groups such as the Grand Rapids Jazz Orchestra, The Truth in Jazz Orchestra and Gumbo Nuveau, as well as his own Max Colley III Quartet.
Through his Facebook, Colley has stated he is excited about being able to performing considering so many summer concerts have been cancelled.
“I always look forward to this and try and keep it fresh and new each year,” Colley wrote on his Facebook page. He has been part of the Sounds of Summer concert series for about 20 years. “It will be hot, but I guarantee it won’t be snowing!”
Joining Colley on stage is Jordan VanHemert on sax, Kazuki Takemura on bass, Elijah Cosby on drums, and Colley will be trumpet and drums.
The Sounds of Summer includes family friendly activities. All performers start at 7 p.m. The shows are sponsored by Byron Township.
“We know that people really look forward to this,” said Byron Township Supervisor Tom Hooker about the annual Sounds of Summer concert series. “We just felt this was an opportunity for people to get out and look forward to something that was different.”
Upcoming performances include Jaded July 9, Oat Bran Boys July 16, Dusty Chaps July 23 and LWND July 30. For more information about the Sounds of Summer, click here.
Continuing concerns about community health and safety due to COVID-19 has brought organizers to cancel two of the area’s biggest outdoor summer concert events.
The Grand Rapids Symphony officially announced last night that it had cancelled all Symphony events through July 31. This includes the D&W Fresh Market Picnic Pops at Cannounsburg Ski area, which runs during the month of July, and the July Patriotic Pops concert at Grand Rapids’ Ah-Nab-Awen Park. The Patriotic Pops concert has been rescheduled for July 14, 2021.
This morning, the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park officialy announced it has cancelled its 2020 Fifth Third Bank Summer Concerts series.
Grand Rapids Symphony
“It’s with a heavy heart that the Grand Rapids Symphony has had to cancel this summer’s D&W Fresh Market Picnic Pops at Cannonsburg,” said Principal Pops Conductor Bob Bernhardt. “We are so looking forward to the day we can safely return to live performances and large public gatherings, and until then, we wish everyone good health and safety, and send our sincerest gratitude for your continuing support.”
Grand Rapids Symphony President and CEO Mary Tuuk added that “While our currently planned July concerts are cancelled, we are thrilled to be able to to give the gift of music back to the Western Michigan community in August through innovative ways.”
Symphony officials stated they are looking to offer community concerts with the format being determined by health and safety guidelines. Since March, the Grand Rapids Symphony musicians and members of the entire GRS family have continued to release virtual performances on the From Our Home to Yours seres on Facebook and YouTube. (See video above.) More than 40 videos currently are available.
All exchanges and refunds for the Picnic Pops must be made through the original point of purchase. If you purchased tickets through Ticketmaster, you must contact Ticketmaster regarding your tickets. For the Grand Rapids Symphony, you may contact the office by mail, Ticket Exchange, Grand Rapids Symphony, 300 Ottawa Ave. NW, Suit 100, Grand Rapids, 49503; email tickets@grsymphony.org; or phone 616-454-9451, ext. 4. The GRS office will remain closed indefinitely with the staff working remotely to help patrons.
Meijer Gardens officials are exploring options to present local and regional performers as part of a modified Tuesday Evening Music Club later in the summer.
Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
First thing this morning, Meijer Gardens patrons received noticed that the 2020 Fifth Third Bank Summer Concerts at Meijer Gardens had been cancelled.
“Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and after close consultation of government issued public health pronouncements and orders and numerous conversation with our concert promoter and others, we have made the extremely difficult decision to cancel this year’s Fifth Third Bank Summer Concerts at Meijer Gardens,” said Meijer Gardens President and CEO David Hooker. “We are looking forward to a summer full of live music once again filling the Frederik Meijer Gardens Amphitheater in 2021 and we’ve already begun planning the 2021 Fifth Third Bank Summer Concerts at Meijer Gardens.”
Tickets for the series had not gone on sale.
The official announcement from Meijer Gardens does state that officials are exploring options to present local and regional performers as part of a modified Tuesday Evening Music Club series later this summer should the COVID-19 situation improve.
Soccer coaches still needed for the spring youth soccer program.
Although spring has just arrived, the Wyoming Parks & Recreation Department is already thinking about summer.
With the release of the summer brochure, registration for summer programs has begun. To see what opportunities are available, take a look at the summer brochure online or pick one up at the Wyoming City Hall, 1155 28th St. SW. There are summer concerts, participate in a fitness class (or two), or sign your child up for one of the camps. There are many more offerings. Don’t forget, registration is also open for fall soccer and football programs.
Register for any of these programs online or by phone at 616-530-3164.
Also, for the spring season, the Wyoming Parks and Recreation is still in need of a few volunteer coaches, head and assistant, for the spring youth soccer program. If you or someone you know would be interested, please contact the Wyoming Parks and Recreation Department ASAP at parks_info@wyomingmi.gov or 616-530-3164.
Do you like what you see? Do you have an idea for a new program? The Wyoming Parks and Recreation Department invites residents to send feedback to parks_info@wyomingmi.gov.
