Madison Gazebo Concert series opens May 29

The Zooks will open the 2014 Madison Gazebo Concert series on May 29 at 6:30 p.m. (CONTRIBUTED)

MADISON – A longtime, summer tradition, Madison Gazebo Concerts will return on May 29.

Gazebo concerts symbolize Madison’s qualify of life. “The concerts are such nice family-oriented events that encompass babies to 80-year-olds. They all have a good time,” coordinator Laura Pope said.

Pope has scheduled the concerts for four years. “We have some favorites that are back this year and several new groups,” she said.

The gazebo stands on the Village Green along Front Street in the downtown historic district. Held on Thursdays, the concerts run from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

The Zooks will open on May 29 with rock and dance music from the 1960s through 1980s. Pope is rescheduling the group for June 5.

Microwave Dave will perform on June 12. On June 19, Southern Splendor a capella singers and rock guitarist Robbie Eichman will share a double bill.

Max Russell and Tres Locos will play the blues and rock covers on June 26. Madison City Youth Orchestra and fusion violinist Winslow Davis are slated for July 3. Madison City Orchestra will entertain on July 10.

On July 17, the crowd can enjoy The Beasley Brothers’ pop and rock covers. Guitarist Shane Adkins and Maple Hill Celtic Band will perform on July 24. On July 31, Divide by Zero will bring blues and classic rock.

Pope fondly remembers the first year that Microwave Dave performed. “The weather was really stormy, and Dave and I decided to go ahead. The weather broke and was beautiful. The crowd was great.”

Madison Arts Council coordinates the free concerts. “MAC is proud to have support of Jerry Damson Automotive Group and Madison Hospital this year,” Pope said.

MAC board member Heather Alvarado is working with local businesses and groups to host children’s activities at the concerts. Planned activities include coffee-filter butterflies, flowers, bookmarks and mini-theatrical games.

Groups handling these activities are All Things Theatrical, MindGear Labs, Lily Pond Art Studio, Best Friends Forever and Friends of the Madison Library.

Gourmet teas, shaved ice and pizza vendors will be on-site.