One of the best things about summer in Central Saanich is the Wednesday night Music In The Park series in Brentwood Bay’s Pioneer Park. Now in its 17th year, it was one of the original weekly music series to debut in Greater Victoria. That first year, only two concerts were held, but they were so successful the decision was quickly made to offer a weekly concert series the next summer and each summer since.
Beginning with local artists only, the series has since blossomed to include regional, national and international performers. Talent co-ordinator Leslie Gentile says: “We now get dozens of submissions throughout the year from across Canada and the U.S. and have even had a performer from Australia. We could easily fill every Wednesday year-round!” The programming tends towards roots and global music, but has also included blues, reggae, jazz, folk, bluegrass, pop, rock and even tribute bands!
The music is the main draw of course, but the feeling of community created by the weekly event is just as strong. It’s all about families, kids, dogs, food, friends, neighbours and great music. The series has always enjoyed strong support from the community, with over 500 people coming out most nights. A good selection of food vendors adds to the enjoyment. Recent offerings have included everything from Filipino food to pizza to First Nations salmon BBQ to fresh baked desserts!
Up until now, the concerts have been presented on a series of “temporary” stages, dismantled at the end of each season, but plans are now underway for construction of a permanent covered stage, which will serve not only Music In The Park, but many other community arts groups as well, starting in summer 2017.
Upcoming concerts (6:30 p.m. start time) include: August 3, Dirty Mountain Band (roots rock); August 10, Uncle Wiggly’s Hot Shoes Blues Band; August 17, Shaky Ground (five decades of classic hits).
Music In The Park is produced by the Brentwood Bay Community Association and couldn’t happen without the dedication of dozens of volunteers. Visit www.brentwoodbay.info.
