Free Summer Concerts in Brandon Park

In June 2004, the WSO inaugurated this annual series of concerts, which are free to the public. Dunkin' Donuts and Arby's On the Golden Strip in Williamsport are the 2007 season sponsors. Concert Sponsors: Citizens & Nothern Bank, Coca-Cola Enterprises, and Weis Markets. Additional support comes from Wal-Mart. Funding was also provided by the City of Williamsport Cultural Grant Program, an intiative with the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts, administered by the Williamsport-Lycoming Arts Council. Media Sponsors are Lamar Advertising and Clear Channel Communications.

summer 2008 lineup

Prince Charles & The Royaltones (June 15), Penn Central Wind Band (June 29), WSO (July 13), Warren Shand (July 27), Jazzin' (August 3), Billtown Brass (August 17).

brandon park bandshell

Boyd Cummings was so devoted to his sister, Jane Brandon, that, in 1889, he donated land to Williamsport in her name. This tract of land became Brandon Park. Cummings left behind a few rules to govern the future of Brandon Park, and it was his desire that there would always be music. Open-air concerts began (officially) in 1899, and, in 1912, a capital campaign was launched to build what would become the Brandon Park Bandshell.

The Bandshell was dedicated in 1914, and the renowned Repasz Band was the first musical body to give a “real concert” there. The construction of the Bandshell affords natural projection. One can whisper against the back wall of the shell and be heard several rows into an audience.

Over the decades, the Bandshell has hosted countless events and festivals, ranging from big bands to a “Battle of the Bands” for rock acts to gospel concerts. Many newcomers were introduced to Williamsport by attending “Unity Day” (organized by local musician Loni Gamble), a festival that ran for a number of years in the Bandshell. Major artists—including The Captain and Tennille, Maynard Ferguson, and Buddy Rich—have headlined there. According to Internet chat rooms, the Bandshell is a favorite hangout for skateboarders.