Colts Neck Community Band   

Friday, June 5, 7:30 p.m.   

Enjoy an evening of music with The Colts Neck Community Band at the Thompson Park Activity Barn. The band has been recognized as one of the finest in the state of New Jersey, and will perform a variety of music, from light classical to marches to Broadway favorites. For more information about the Colts Neck Community Band, visit www.coltsneckband.org. Indoor seating is available or bring your lawn chairs or blankets and have a picnic outside before the show. For more information, call 732-542-1642, ext. 4653.

  

Sentimental Journey Big Band Concert - America's Swinging Two-Fifty!   

Friday, June 12, 7-8:30 p.m.   

There's no better way to celebrate America's 250th anniversary than with American music written in styles that developed right here at home! Jazz began in New Orleans, Louisiana, around 1900, and the music spread north in the 1910s and 1920s. Band leaders hired larger groups, and composers added arrangements, leaving room for improvisation. Dancers of all races crowded ballrooms to hear the swinging bands of Glenn Miller, Duke Ellington, Benny Goodman, Count Basie, and others. Coast-to-coast radio broadcasts introduced the Swing Era to living rooms in almost every state. Sentimental Journey Big Band, featuring vocalist Altha Morton, brings back the classic melodies of the 20th century with a patriotic theme. Bring your lawn chairs or blankets, food, and soft drinks. The concert is outdoors at the Theatre Barn; however, inclement weather will move the concert indoors.

   

American Folk Rock with Jackson Pines   

Friday, July 17, 7-8:30 p.m.   

Jackson Pines are a Billboard and PBS featured band from the Pine Barrens of Jersey, who play original songs and centuries-old folksongs from the woods where they grew up. They just released their new album Wheel and were recently named "Band of the Year" by NewJerseyStage.com and The Aquarian Magazine, for notably combining the sounds of rootsy Americana with modern lyrical storytelling. Known for their live shows, the boys weave fingerpicking, fiddle, and stand-up bass with vocal harmonies. Bring your lawn chairs or blankets, food, and soft drinks. The concert is outdoors at the Theatre Barn; however, inclement weather will move the concert indoors.

    

JO & the Highland Express Concert   

Friday, August 21, 7-8:30 p.m.   

A recent addition to the Jersey Shore music scene, JO & the Highland Express, has emerged as a musical force to be reckoned with as a favorite of funk & soul music fans. Inspired by saxophonist John Orlando "JO", the band seeks to recreate the musical masterpieces of the funk & soul greats throughout the ages. Putting their own original spin on each song, their curated show experience includes the music of iconic artists such as Stevie Wonder, Aretha Franklin, Kool & the Gang, The Commodores, The JB's, Maceo Parker, The Meters, Billy Preston, Parliament Funk, Dr. John, War, and many others. Comprised of an incredible cast of experienced musicians, a Highland Express show will take you on a memorable musical journey. Bring your lawn chairs or blankets, food, and soft drinks. The concert is outdoors at the Theatre Barn; however, inclement weather will move the concert indoors.

    

I Hear America Singing   

Saturday, August 22, 7-8:30 p.m.    

Creative OPERAtions presents I Hear America Singing. In honor of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States, this special concert celebrates the many voices that have shaped our nation’s musical soul. This inspiring program weaves together classical vocal works, beloved folk songs, spirituals, and piano music to tell the story of America through sound. Featuring music by influential American composers such as Aaron Copland and Florence Price, alongside other trailblazing voices, the concert reflects the diverse traditions and shared spirit that define our cultural heritage. The evening brings together three professional vocalists and a pianist, with projected visuals that highlight composer stories and historical moments, transforming the performance into an immersive and educational experience for audiences of all ages. Hear America’s story — sung, shared, and brought to life through music. Please Note: This is a free event; however, registration is required. To ensure a comfortable experience, guests with mobility considerations or who use walking or mobility aids are encouraged to contact Rachel Cohen at 732-542-1642, ext. 4648, to arrange reserved Register Online (#PA086A)