“We have some of our favorite bands returning this year,” said Julie Stafford, a Rotarian who helps put the summer line up together. “They represent a great mix of musical styles and they play a lot of our old and new favorite tunes. I’m sure folks will find plenty of opportunities to dance and singalong. The other cool thing about our schedule this year is that folks will recognize familiar band members most every week. We really do have a ton of local talent close to home.”
Concerts start at 7 p.m. every Thursday between June 22 and Aug. 3. The Rotary Food Truck will serve hot dogs, popcorn, ice cream and more starting at 6:45 p.m. Bring a chair, blanket and your appetite.
All concerts are free thanks to a number of local businesses that partnered with Rotary. These sponsors include Rackham Chiropractic Plus, Commercial Bank, Lum and Russell Insurance with Farm Bureau, Hungerford Nichols CPAs + Advisors, Isabella Bank, Marshall Funeral Home, Montcalm Community College, Winter Insurance and the Knights of Pythius Fund at the Greenville Area Community Center. The Daily News is the media sponsor.
“There aren’t many things you can do these days for free,” Stafford said. “We are so lucky to have local businesses that understand the importance of creating free access to family friendly activities and that are committed financially to helping make these events happen. Plus, how can you beat the setting?”
Should weather be an issue, updates will be posted on the Greenville Rotary Club’s Facebook page.
36th annual Rhythm on the River Concert Schedule
June 22
Hark Up Horns: The Hark Up Big Band is made up of West Michigan — and local — talent that plays everything from traditional Big Band to Jazz/Swing to Pop/Rock. You will want to dance and sing along.
June 29
Kenny & The JJs: This three-piece local band plays a variety of music including classic rock, classic country and more. Band members include Kenny Abbott, Jamie Ballard and Jamie Sorsen.
July 6
She’s a Villain: This 2-piece acoustic band plays a little bit of everything from country to rock, 80s to today’s hits. With Josh on guitar and Sam with the microphone, they have released a bull album and a five-song EP or originals.
July 13
Sea Cruisers: A long-time Rhythm on the River favorite, the Sea Cruisers have brought the best sounds of the 50s, 60s and 70s to mid-Michigan for more than 30 years.
July 20
Messin’ Around: Playing music from the 60s to now, this band has been a presence in the local music scene for more than a decade. Their music appeals to all ages, from 2 to 92, and will inspire you to dance and sing along.
July 27
Flashback: A local oldies band, plays music that takes people back to the days of their youth, with songs you can’t help but sing along to.
Aug. 3
Flat River Big Band: Beginning as an offshoot of the Danish Festival Band in 1981, this 19-piece group first performed in 1982 and has been playing together ever since. They play the type of swing band music you would hear from the Glenn Miller Band, the Benny Goodman Band, or the Duke Ellington Band in the 1940s.