Music under the summertime skies was one of my earliest and fondest memories of childhood summers. Being serenaded while stretched out on a blanket at Ossining's Nelson Park, looking up at the stars, fireflies blinking in silent accompaniment was just...well, magical.
Happily, summer brings many opportunities to repeat the magic, and create new memories, right here in our own backyard...just have to get there early, because you definitely won't be alone!
This coming Tuesday night, July 3, will be your next opportunity, when Westchester County hosts their annual Independence Day Music Fest at the Kensico Dam Plaza in Valhalla. The Bensen-Scott Big Band will be performing, and Westchester ears-not to mention hearts, and even feet!-will be very very happy.
Formed by trumpeters Gene Bensen and Regent Scott, this 20 piece band has been delighting listeners of all ages in the tri-state area since 2001.
Big Band music reaches across generations like few other genres. Bensen-Scott's stylized vocals and updated arrangements stay true to the classic compositions, but give the music a fresh and supple sound.
Lots of brass sets the mood and tempo-adding both nuance and punch: The sound is, well, BIG. Notes can burst out of nowhere; bounce, like gentle raindrops, or linger, floating in the air like delicate, opalescent soap bubbles. Listen to a preview here, and just see if you can resist their The Way You Look Tonight...
Pre-concert entertainment begins at 6 p.m., Bensen-Scott Big Band performs at 8 and will segue into the fireworks display, starting at roughly 9:15. Free, and open to the public, this event is typically the biggest draws in the county. Bring folding chairs or blankets for seating, and a light picnic dinner, and plan to dance on the plaza, but get there early, and CARPOOL!!
