Community News

Oswego Music Hall continues its Open Mic Friday series on Friday, March 7.

Show begins at 7:00 PM; sign-ups at 6:30.     

 Guest Host, Dave “Big D” Schneider, leads off Open Mic Friday and will be followed by performers who sign up that night. Doors open at 6:30 with sign-ups taking place then and throughout the evening, as space allows. Musicians typically play three songs each.

All ages and experience levels are welcome. Budding performers, singer-songwriters and musicians of all genres are given an opportunity to perform in a supportive environment using cutting edge professional sound and lighting equipment.

“Big D” has been a part of the local music scene since the early ‘70’s. Over the years, he has proven himself to be one of the area’s finest musicians. “Big D” has been a valued side man for many local favorite bands like The Merry Pranksters, Roosevelt Dean and Hal Casey. He has performed many times as a soloist and has been a front man for his own projects including Big D & The Tasty Café and The Big D Orchestra. He provides a number of tasty cover tunes as well as a number of his originals. His strong vocals are backed up by his solid slide, rhythm and lead guitars. “Big D” is a true professional that will entertain any audience.

Scheduling guest hosts for Open Mic Fridays is Coordinator Bryan Dickenson. Open Mics are held on the Friday night prior to Saturday’s National Stage concert.

The following evening, March 8, Crys Matthews and The Nields will appear on the Main Stage at 7:30pm. Prior to the concert, the public is invited to a Meet & Greet reception at 6:30. During the Meet & Greet, representatives from OCO’s programs such as Services to Aid Families (SAF), Cancer Services, Reproductive Health, and OPTIONS will be on hand to discuss the services available through these programs as well as volunteer opportunities. OCO will also be collecting donations of women’s personal hygiene products and other toiletries as part of the Oswego Music Hall’s International Women’s Day celebration. Some examples of items in need include: feminine hygiene products (tampons and pads), shampoo & conditioner (including dry shampoo), deodorant, toothpaste & toothbrushes, combs/hairbrushes, lotion, perfume, laundry soap, hand sanitizer, and body wipes.

Already being hailed as “the next Woody Guthrie,” Crys Matthews is among the brightest stars of the new generation of social justice music-makers. She is made for these times and, with the release of her new, hope-fueled, love-filled social justice album Changemakers, Matthews hopes to take her place alongside some of her heroes in the world of social-justice music like Sweet Honey in the Rock and Holly Near. With their unparalleled ability to blend pop craftsmanship, folk sensibility, and the influences of ’60s classic rock and ’90s alternative, The Nields have created a distinctive musical style that defies categorization. Their songs, imbued with intelligence and occasional humor, offer poignant observations on life’s unexpected twists and turns. Visit https://www.crysmatthews.com/ or https://nields.com/ for further information and videos.

For a complete performance schedule including the National Stage and Open Mic Friday as well as ticket information, visit the website at https://www.oswegomusichall.org/ or stop at the river’s end bookstore, 19 West Bridge Street in Oswego.

The wheelchair accessible venue is located in the McCrobie Civic Center, on 41 Lake Street in Oswego. It is adjacent to Breitbeck Park and overlooks Lake Ontario and the Oswego Harbor. The atmosphere is  intimate with candle-lit tables surrounding a small stage with light refreshments available. Cash or check only at the door.

Oswego Music Hall is a family-friendly, non-profit organization that has been run entirely by volunteers since its inception in 1977. Volunteers can earn admission to shows through various tasks — from running the sound board to making popcorn. Students can also earn credit for community service. To volunteer, email Volunteer Coordinator Michael Moss at [email protected].

Find more information via the Oswego Music Hall website at https://www.oswegomusichall.org/, the Facebook page, or email [email protected].

Concerts are made possible in part with funding by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the governor and New York Legislature. Other major supporters are the City of Oswego and Shineman Foundation.