Cathy Dobson
Residents have been hearing the Sounds of Summer, literally, thanks to the largest free concert series in Sarnia’s history.
The uptake was immediate when City Hall put out a call for local artists to perform, says Rachel Veilleux, Sarnia’s community services co-ordinator.
“We had a lot of interest and the slots filled up very fast, but the scheduling was tough.”
So the number of parks where entertainers provide free summertime evening shows was expanded. Paul Blundy Park on Front Street now offers live music on Thursdays through July and August.
“We’re giving it a trial run,” said Veilleux. “During the pandemic we noticed a lot of buskers using Paul Blundy and realized it’s a great location.
“Not only is there a lot of foot traffic along there, I think the music really adds to the ambience of downtown,” she said.
Other concerts take place in Canatara Park at the wedding pavilion on Mondays; at Centennial Park’s Suncor Agora on Tuesdays; the Kenwick Park gazebo on Wednesdays; and at Germain Park on Thursdays. All performances begin at 7 p.m.
Many entertainers have been a part of the city’s summer concert series for years, while others are new to it. Residents have enjoyed the Sounds of Summer since 1989, when the first weekly shows began at the Dow People Place in Centennial Park.
Veilleux believes Sarnia’s is the longest running concert series around.
This year, the Sounds of Summer provides a whopping 51 nights of free entertainment, featuring both professional musicians and hobbyists. Upcoming acts include blues and rock with Little Town (June 23), classic rock from The Rents (June 27), Forest Excelsior Band (jazz-Latin-pop on June 28), Lambton County Fiddlers (June 29) and classic pop with 402 West (June 30).
The city provides each act with a stipend of $250, on average. The program gives performers exposure and the community easy summertime entertainment to the community.
“It’s been two years since we could have the concert series and people are excited to see activities back on the stage,” Veilleux said.
The traditional Scottish Night kick-off in Centennial Park drew about 75 people.
Veilleux is hoping that any shows cancelled by rain can be rescheduled in September.
Sounds of Summer shows are list in The Journal’s What’s Happening section. For the full schedule visit www.sarnia.ca.
And, if that’s not enough free music for you, this week happens to be Music Week, a new event sponsored by Tourism Sarnia-Lambton, from June 18-25.
There’s still time to find a band at a local establishment helping celebrate Sarnia’s music scene, says TSL’s Mark Perrin.
“Music Week looks to develop, inspire and unite the music community throughout Lambton County,” he said.
For a list of the 30-plus acts performing for Music Week, visit OntBlueCoast.com.
The Arts Journal reflects Sarnia’s cultural life. Send your ideas to [email protected].