“Music on the Square” harmonizes with Oil Heritage Festival Art Show
The Oil City Main Street Program’s “Music on the Square” concert series continues Wednesday, July 20 with a performance by Max Schang and Sweet Atmosphere. The free concert is scheduled in conjunction with the opening reception of the Oil Heritage Festival Art Show, set for 6 – 9 p.m. that evening.
In addition, the Oil City Elks will also be offering a food concession and tables on Sycamore Street.
The group features well-known Blues guitarist Max Schang, who has played the Chicago Blues Festival, toured Europe twice with the late Chicago legend Eddie Shaw, and studied Gypsy Jazz in Paris; harmonica virtuoso Clint Hoover, who has played professionally for over 30 years, and bassist Jim Spears, who regularly plays bass with Max Schang’s Trio of Blues and has performed with national and local artists including B.E. Taylor, Sweaty Betty Blues Band and many others. The name ‘Sweet Atmosphere’ is a nod to Django Reinhardt’s ‘Douce Ambiance.’ The trio’s playlist includes Django Reinhardt songs plus a broad variety of European swing style music.
Wednesday’s performance is one of the many Oil Heritage Festival events, stated Kathy Bailey, Main Street Manager.
“We’re excited for the opportunity to be a part of the festival once again. This Music on the Square is timed in conjunction with the Oil Heritage Festival Art Show Opening Reception, set for 6-9 p.m. the same evening in the National Transit Building and other nearby locations. It blends a wonderful evening of art and music in downtown Oil City.”
The Oil Heritage Festival Art Show is coordinated by the Oil City Arts Council and ARTS Oil City, and will continue July 21 (12-4 p.m.), July 22 (12-6 p.m.), July 23 (12-6 p.m.), and July 24 (12-4 p.m.).
2022 Music on the Square events have been planned for June, July and August with the next event featuring The Route 8 Band on August 11. Music on the Square was spearheaded by the Oil City Main Street Program in 2015. Performances are held in the center paved area of the Oil City Town Square. Attendees are encouraged to bring a lawn chair or blanket to sit on. Concerts are free, open to the public, and made possible by the Jack Rowley Charitable Trust. For more information, contact the Oil City Main Street Office at 814-677-3152.