Main Street Music series to kick off May 15
Main Street Music — a free, outdoor concert series that features local musicians three nights per week from May through September in Wooster — will kick off May 15.
Summer is approaching, and that means it’s the start of the season for Main Street Music — a free, outdoor concert series that features local musicians three nights per week from May through September. Concerts take place in downtown Wooster on the square, running May 15 to Sept. 20, every Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 6-8 p.m.
Fifty-two concerts are scheduled this year — the most concerts and the most musicians ever employed in a season.
“It’s great to give so many local musicians a platform to share their music with the public and have it be free,” said Guinevere Steensen, Main Street Wooster program manager.
With concert ticket prices out of reach for some, free concerts offer an experience for everyone. The styles of music this year will be a variety including classic rock, classical, jazz, country, folk, alternative and more.
The music series is an opportunity for musicians to give back by sharing their artistry with the community, and also it provides a showcase to reach a variety of residents.
“Quite a few of my musicians have been noticed and booked for bigger things after playing this series,” Steensen said.
It is possible for Ohio weather to be a bit unpredictable at times. Weather cancellations will be posted on social media.
“If skies look scary,” Steensen said, “check our social. Also, if skies have cleared, bringing a towel to dry off seats can be a good idea or bring your favorite foldable chair.”
Support for the series comes from a variety of sources. Main Street Wooster expressed gratitude for everyone who helps bring the series to life. PNC is the presenting sponsor. Platinum sponsors are Wooster Glass Co., Farmers State Bank, Wooster Color Point, The Commercial Savings Bank, Matthew Family Fund, Ralph R. and Grace B. Jones Foundation, and Sprenger Healthcare Systems.
“We also thank our gold and silver sponsors, whom we couldn’t do this without,” Steensen said.
For musicians interested in participating, the applications usually become available around February. Currently, there is a waiting list of performers. Find Main Street Music online at www.mainstreetwooster.org/mainstreetmusic.
“We need to enjoy the sun in Ohio for the brief time of year that we get it,” Steensen said. “This is a relaxed concert series. Come as you are. Bring the kids. They can dance and wiggle. Adults can dance and wiggle too if they want.”