100th Sunset Driveway Concert Performed In Concord Thursday

CONCORD, NH — Musicians in the West End, who have been performing just before sunset as a way of filling the neighborhood with sound during the new coronavirus pandemic, will host their 100th performance Thursday.

Thursday will mark 100 consecutive performances of the Sunset Driveway Concerts, held off the intersection of Auburn Street and Columbus Avenue. The musical gatherings, organized by the Rev. Tim Wildman, regularly feature both professional and amateur musicians, including musician Mary Fagan, and others from the neighborhood, including young people.

Most of the musicians who have played during the series are expected to attend Thursday's performance.

Wildman started the performances after a neighbor suggested the idea of providing some fun during the stay-at-home period of the pandemic. The musicians have played, rain or shine, and even in snow, too, every night.

"This journey with our amazing neighborhood on Columbus and Auburn and our 'neighborhood' on Facebook Live every single night has been so heartening," Wildman said. "The sense of connection, solidarity, and love has helped us all keep hope alive."

Selections are put together in advance of each performance and have featured jazz standards, show tunes, and other pieces and songs. Each night the set concludes with celebration applause for essential workers, medical staffers, supermarket employees, and others, as well as performances of "Sweet Caroline" and "Taps."

Social distancing is expected whether you reside in the neighbor or not and face coverings are recommended, too.

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