Music resounds throughout summer in Reed City

REED CITY — Musical entertainment abounds on summer weekends in Reed City, with free concert performances that provide an opportunity for family outings, a date night or just an evening to unwind.

From Friday through Sunday, musical artists and groups take center stage at Rambadt Park, located at the city's western end off of Howard Street. The weekend begins with the 18th season of CrossRoads Picnic Showcase, featuring jazz and blues music at 7 p.m. on Friday.

"I'm looking forward to people sitting back and watching the show,"said Tim Scully, organizer of the Friday series. "I like seeing the audience come week after week and bring their friends, and I enjoy working with the musicians."

Scully said he is searching for additional community support and sponsors to keep the series running. To donate, call him at (231) 723-7500.

The CrossRoads Picnic Showcase schedule is as follows:

June 20 — Benny Reeves with the Paul Carey Band

June 27 —  Robin Connell and the Paul Brewer Quintet

July 4 —  Jim Shaneberger Blues Band

July 11 —  Paul Vornhagen

July 18 —  Madcat's Midnight Blues Journey

July 25 —  Freddie Cunningham and The Root Doctor Band

Aug.  1 —  Mary Rademacher Reed withThe Mark Kahny Band

Aug.   8 —  Paul Keller Quintet

Aug. 15 —  Tom n Cherie Hagen Quartet with Rick Reuther

Aug. 22 —  Planet D Nonet

On Saturday night, tunes will take place from 7 to 9:30 p.m. featuring a range of music from the west Michigan region.

"What excites me about Reed City is the variety," said Music in the Park organizer Marilyn Hummel. "It's not all bluegrass or blues, it's something for everyone."

This year's Music in the Park schedule is as follows:

June 7 — Ruth and Max Bloomquist

June 14 — Josh Rose and the Founding Fathers

June 21 — Michigan Mafia String Band

July 12 — Roosevelt Diggs

July 19 — Free Flight

July 26 — Blue Water Ramblers

Aug. 2 — Open Range

Aug. 9 — Drive South

Aug. 23 — An Dro

Aug. 30 — Luke Warm and the Not So Hots

On Sunday, Praise in the Park brings Christian music center stage, with performances beginning at 6 p.m. The performances are sponsored by Liberty Baptist Church of Reed City, First Baptist Church of Reed City and Charity Baptist Church of Paris.

"We want to take the gospel out of our four walls," said pastor Trevor Guiles. "There's something special about being out in creation. It brings the atmosphere out a little better."

Music will be performed by the Liberty Baptist Church Worship Band, but three dates in particular will feature something different. John and Kate and the Sisters in Harmony will perform on June 22 and Men of Grace will take the stage on July 20. The Liberty Baptist youth group band, known as Adrenaline Band, will perform with Rejoice on Aug. 17.

Each concert date will offer a selection of food and beverages and people from all backgrounds and denominations are welcome, Guiles said.