4 free outdoor summer concerts in Quincy. Take a musical tour of the last century
QUINCY ‒ Hep cats and jitterbugs will soon be puttin' on the ritz and bebopping around Quincy Center as the city launches its free summer concert series, a musical journey through time from the 1940s to the 1990s.
The first of four concerts takes place Saturday, May 18, at the Hancock Adams Common. Featuring music from the 1940s and '50s, the event runs from 1 to 7 p.m. and includes four bands, classic cars, food and beverage trucks, lawn games and surprise special guests, according to the flyer.
“The wide variety of music offers something for everyone to enjoy," said Mayor Thomas Koch. “It’s a wonderful way to spend an afternoon."
Who is performing?
Headlining the show is Dan Gabel Music, an 18-piece jazz orchestra with a sound and look fashioned after the big band of the 1940s.
The Platters, successors of the legendary 1950s rock 'n' roll quintet founded by bass singer Herb Reed, will perform its distinct brand of smooth vocal harmonies, including timeless hits like "Only You," "Remember When" and "The Great Pretender."
Also on the bill are the Randy Andys, a musical review that melds the swing-era vocal harmonies of the Andrews Sisters with iconic pop hits of later years, according to the the group's website.
Want to cut a rug but don't know a Charleston from a Jitterbug? Lindy Hop, a Boston-based group swing dance instructors who teach moves to people of all ages and experience levels, will be on hand to help.
What to know if you go
Attendants are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets, though seating will be provided in the form of chairs, tables and tents, according to a city press release.
In addition to nearby street parking, there are two parking garages in downtown Quincy, one at Presidents Place and the other at Kilroy Square. The concert is accessible by public transportation, as the Hancock Adams Common is right next to the Quincy Center T station
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Dates for the full concert series
June 26: Music from the '60s and '70s runs from 1 to 7 p.m.
July 6: A "Patriotic Celebration" concert from 4 to 8 p.m.
Aug. 17: Music from the '80s and '90s from 3 to 8 p.m.
All concerts are free and take place at the Hancock Adams Common in Quincy Center.
Peter Blandino covers Quincy for The Patriot Ledger. Contact him at pblandino@patriotledger.com.
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This article originally appeared on The Patriot Ledger: Free Quincy summer concerts: Where, when, parking
