Current Event and Performance Schedule:
It must be summer !
Yes, the unofficial start of summer has occurred - Memorial Day weekend. Purists will point to June 21 as the official change of seasons, and they would be correct. We, however, prefer to observe the more common transition of scheduling, differences in language, and adjustment of lifestyles for our purposes. For example, how many people ask, "What do you plan to do for your fall vacation?" Yet, the approach of Memorial Day weekend triggers those conversations about summer.
We'd like to remind you of a recent article in the Marion Star, which cited local options for live musical performances. We were mentioned favorably, along with several quotes provided by our Director, Bill Swihart. Also mentioned was the Marion Area Orchestra, operating under the baton of George Schram. An additional reference was made in the announcement of the Marion Gala, scheduled for June 1, in Marion's beautiful Palace Theatre. (http://www.marionmade.org/gala/ ) We have been included as a featured performer, along with Ryan Ratliff, Ann Schertzer, and Mally Reber. In mentioning this we aren't attempting to "blow our own horn", pun intended, but to remind you of the wonderfully talented performers who call Marion "home".
We are now in possession of the "final" version of the 2019 Summer Concerts in McKinley Park schedule. The groups listed represent a range of musical styles from big band, to jazz, and Blue Grass. Each are known for excellent musicianship, and several were scheduled as a result of audience inputs from previous seasons.
As noted elsewhere, attendance at all of the performances is free. Each is scheduled to start at 7pm, with a cautionary note. As this is an outside venue, the weather plays a significant part in the experience. Performances will be held when it is cool, hot, windy and not, rarely in the rain, and never when lightning is present. (This last point was added at the insistence of our tuba section, who hold the equivalent of a 50-pound lightning rod up in the air during performances.) Experienced audience members usually bring lawn chairs, their favorite non-alcoholic beverages, and some mosquito spray. Frequent attenders also bring a picnic supper, either for before or during the performances.
Without further to-do, here is the 2019 schedule:
June 16 The Marion Concert Band
June 23 The Palace Theatre Big Band
June 30 Geeze Cats
July 7 The Marion Concert Band
July 14 Muleskinner Band
July 21 Aly Ryerson, Jazz Flutist with Trombones Plus
July 28 The Dixie Krauts
Aug 4 The Marionaires
Aug 11 The Marion Concert Band
Before closing we'd like to extend our appreciation to the 2019 sponsors. Their contributions permit the summer series to occur, allowing us to attract quality performers to our area. The complete list is found on our "Sponsors" page. When you patronize those businesses, please mention how much you appreciate their contribution to providing quality live music for our community.
On that note we'll close for now. As we make our way through the new year, we wish great things for you and yours, and remember - make time to be good to yourself!
See you at the show!
