When you have a parkway like Bidwell that intersects the city’s busiest commercial district, there are certain summer events that people always look forward to. Bidwell is the perfect setting for the Elmwood Village Picnic in the Parkway Summer Concert Series. Whether you’re taking a date or planning a family outing, the concert series is the perfect way to catch some great music while taking in the green scenery of the city. Thanks to presenting sponsor M&T Bank for fortifying what has become a summer tradition in the heart of Elmwood Avenue.
All Tuesday shows are free to the public and begin at 7 p.m. in Bidwell Parkway at Elmwood Avenue. Here’s the schedule:
Tuesday, June 28, kicks off the lineup with the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra, which brings its ongoing 75th anniversary celebration to the Parkway in a rare free public appearance.
“Feel good and move your body” with Buffalo’s own Outer Circle Orchestra, who bring World Beat to the street on July 5th. A stone soul picnic for jazz and soul fans is on the table for July 12, with The Shadows of Motown & Soul Revue, featuring Barbara St. Clair and Billy McEwan.
Looking for a truly exciting and eclectic sound? Gypsy jazz pioneers Babik and their blend of Jazz Fusion, Klezmer, World and Latin music are featured July 19. And don’t forget your dancing shoes (or boots) on July 26, when country and western and Cajun greats The Skiffle Minstrels hit the stage with their unique take on classic standards as well as upbeat originals.
The August lineup will be smoking hot, too. The 12 members of N’Dias will entertain and electrify with their high-energy blend of African roots, percussion and plugged-in sonic style on August 2.
Rounding out the series on August 9 will be The Wendell Rivera Quintet, featuring award-winning percussionist Wendell Rivera, who will deliver Latin Jazz heat, flavor and rhythm to the night.