Chamber of Commerce Draws Headline Bands to Dexter for 2012 Summer Concert Series

Dust off your lawn chairs, grab a blanket and cooler and head over to in downtown Dexter on Friday for the annual Summer Music Series kick-off.

Starting this month, 12 bands will take to the gazebo stage each Friday through Aug. 31 from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.

"We have a different genre of music almost every night," said Abby Goldberg, Dexter Area Chamber of Commerce executive director. "We're trying to get as many people out as possible."

New acts this year include John Latini, Chef Chris, Driven Sideways, and the Jake Reichbart Trio.

"Otherwise it is pretty much the same, which is what people have come to expect and love," Goldberg said.

Some of this year's returning favorites include Men in Black (July 13), Salmagundi (Aug. 17), and The BackBeats, a Beatles Tribute Band (June 29).

While many of the bands and entertainment acts have secured a sponsorship through local businesses, Goldberg said sponsors are still needed to help fund jugglers for children's entertainment, and promotional materials for advertising.

"We are still looking for sponsors. This is a great way to be a part of the community through donation, we see hundreds of people throughout the whole summer and this year we are working on getting more recognition to our sponsors so they are really seen as a community partner," she said. "Most of the bands are sponsored, but there are costs each week and any donation is a huge help."

Sponsorships range in price from $100 to $500. The top $500 level sponsors can have a presence at the park and will have the opportunity to introduce a band and talk about their business prior to the concert.

As in years past, businesses are encouraged to hold extended hours to capitalize on the extra foot traffic downtown.

"People who come out want to do more than go to restaurants," Goldberg said. "We hope many of the merchants will keep their doors open for a few more hours on Friday nights during the summer."

Goldberg said since its inception in 2009, the concert series has gotten better each year.

"So many people enjoy these concerts. It is really rewarding for our committee to see the number of people that turn out each week to enjoy the charm of our community ... plus you can’t beat great live music in the summer," she said.

A complete summer music schedule is available on the chamber's website. All concerts are free and open to the public.