NORWICH – The NBT Summer Concert Series continues to bring free live music to East Park every Thursday night through August 27.

Sponsored by NBT Bank and presented by the Chenango Blues Association, the long-running series has been a summer staple in the heart of downtown for roughly three decades. With several shows still ahead, residents and visitors can take advantage of the remaining performances, which feature a lineup of artists across bluegrass, soul, rock, Americana and New Orleans-inspired sounds.

“It’s incredibly rewarding to see East Park come alive with music and energy as people gather week after week to enjoy these performances together,”said Rachel Flanagan, treasurer of the Chenango Blues Association.

Each Thursday, East Park transforms into a lively outdoor venue. All shows begin at 7 p.m., except for the August, 20 “double-header,” which starts at 6 p.m. Organizers arrive early to set up sound equipment, fencing, lighting, signage, artist tents, merchandise, and more show aspects on concert days.

Food vendors are on site every week, and East Park Place is closed to accommodate vendors, the beer garden, and touring equipment. While concertgoers pull up with their own lawn chairs to secure the best seats to catch the stage performance.

Upcoming Concerts:

August 6 – The Garcia Project – A crowd favorite recreating the music and spirit of the Jerry Garcia Band.

August 13 – Eddie 9V – Rising artist delivering soulful, vintage-inspired rock and roll.August 20 – Chenango Blues Festival kicks off with a double-header starting at 6:00 p.m. featuring Desoto Tigers Testimony and John “Papa” Gros, bringing a special evening of blues and New Orleans-inspired sounds.

August 27 – Shinyribs – Known for their genre-blending sound and engaging live shows that mix roots music with humor and energy.

The August 20 concert serving as a double-header starting at 6 p.m. instead of the usual 7 p.m. allows for two artists to take the stage on the same night. Organizers plan this to serve as a kickoff for the 33rd annual Chenango Blues Festival, held that weekend.

“A lot of people come into town, and a lot of them come into town early. So we like to kind of bring in a bigger show,” said Eric Larsen, President of the Chenango Blue Association.

The concerts are held rain or shine, and open to all ages.

“It's an all-ages crowd. It's 1 to 91. And as we always say, that's not an expression. I will be able to find you somebody who's 1 and somebody who's 91 at the show. It's an all-ages, everybody enjoys it,” Larsen said.

The Summer Concert Series remains free, thanks to support from NBT Bank and local Foundations including the Greater Norwich Foundation, the R.C. Smith Foundation and other local partners.

“We’re grateful for the support that allows us to bring nationally recognized artists to Norwich and keep these concerts free for the community,” said Flanagan.

“NBT Bank is proud to support a tradition that brings people into the heart of downtown Norwich and strengthens connections across the community,” said NBT Bank CEO Scott Kingsley. “Events like this not only create memorable experiences for residents but also help showcase the region and support local businesses throughout the summer.”

The Chenango Blues Association is an all-volunteer organization dedicated to presenting live music experiences “by fans, for fans.” In addition to the NBT Bank Summer Concert Series, the group produces the annual Chenango Blues Festival, now in its 33rd year, taking place August 21–22 at the Chenango County Fairgrounds. Headliners include Booker T. Jones, the Record Company and Charlie

Musselwhite with GA 20.

For more information on the concert series and festival, visit www.chenangobluesfest.org.