The Elmwood Village Association recently announced the line-up for the 2012 Free Concert Series at Bidwell Parkway. This summer marks the 15th consecutive year that the music series has been showcased, and over the years there has been quite a large following of fans. The family-friendly event is intended to get people out using the park system, while introducing them to some of the finest musical acts around. The intention is also to draw people into the city to experience all that that there is to offer. Being situated at the heart of Elmwood Avenue, there are plenty of restaurants and shops to explore. All of the Tuesday shows are free (thanks to presenting sponsors M&T Bank and Damon Morey, LLP), and begin at 7pm.
View image
This means that you can head to Bidwell on Tuesdays, Larkinville on Wednesdays, Canalside on Thursdays and the Albright-Knox back steps on Sundays (see here) in July. Plus, there's plenty of live music to catch on the off-days, or later in the evening. Here's the line-up for Bidwell Parkway:
July 3 - The Shadows Motown & Soul Revue featuring Barbara St. Clair & Billy McEwen
Sponsored by Buffalo Seminary. Backed by some of Buffalo's finest blues musicians, Jazz veterans Barbara St. Clair & Billy McEwen voice the iconic Motown sound in this soulful revue.
July 10 - The Skiffle Minstrels
Sponsored by Rich Products. An eccentric bunch of Buffalo musicians, The Skiffle Minstrels perform an energetic blend of Country-Western and Cajun standards as well as upbeat originals that are sure to "get 'em on the floor."
July 17 - Caitlin and The Moses Band
Sponsored by Gates Circle Wine and Liquor. Led by Caitlin Koch, who has appeared on American Idol and X Factor USA, The Moses Band has been the winner of 3 Buffalo Nightlife Music Awards. Caitlin's considerable poise, natural stage presence and gorgeous, powerful singing voice are sure to carry the night.
July 24 - The Mick Hayes Band
Sponsored by Try-It Distributing. With his sharp dressed attitude and his "born lucky" charm, Mick Hayes is sculpting the sound of Contemporary Blues and R&B with powerful vocals and extraordinary guitar playing.
July 31 - The Outer Circle Orchestra
Sponsored by Delaware District Common Council Member Michael LoCurto. As masters of the African-Caribbean and World Beat sound, Outer Circle Orchestra excites audiences with their eclectic mix of structured and improvised music.
August 7 - Neville Francis and The Riddim Posse
Sponsored by Block Club. Neville Francis, a two-time Juno Award winner, along with the Riddim Posse will impress with their blend of Reggae and Afro-Caribbean music as one of Western New York's favorite party bands.
August 14 - Kevin Doyle and Sol Y Sombra
Sponsored by Sinatra and Company. In the 12 years of their existence, Sol Y Sombra has strived to express a wide range of musical styles including Latin, Jazz, Progressive, and Traditional, representing the musical heritage of multiple ethnicities embodied in the complexity of American life. This show is sure to make you dance!
...using the park system? But this is a PARKWAY. People should not gather in a parkway.
Can I get an amen Mr. Sanders?