From barbershop quartets to contemporary rock, it’s obvious variety was the key word for this year’s Concerts in the Park series beginning June 7.
‘One thing we did was try to do a little variety in the music that we selected,? said Carolyn Bennett, Director of the Oxford Downtown Development Authority. ‘There’s something for everybody.?
All concerts are held in downtown Oxford’s Centennial Park from 7-9 p.m. every Thursday night. (See ad on page 9).
Parking and admission are free. Enjoy food, beverages and shopping during the concerts.
Bennett said a Concerts in the Park committee had the fun task of finding the talent to hit the gazebo stage every Thursday night this summer.
People of all ages are invited to check out the Motor City Music Cartel’s smooth Motown style, get some country twang with the Christy Howard Band and even hear the side-splitting comedy and music routine of Mike Ridley.
Bennett said she’s still looking for local restaurants to vendor food for the concert dates, but that Victoria’s Delights will definitely be providing some cool ice cream.
The Concerts in the Park series, according to Bennett, is not only for bringing more people into the downtown area, but paints a picture of the community.
‘It provides a different perspective of downtown,? she said. ‘What downtowns can be and what they should be ? a gathering place for people.?
DDA board secretary Sue Bossardet said the concerts are the perfect opportunity to show off the ‘jewel? that is Centennial Park.
‘It’s kind of like the main streets of old,? she said. ‘It’s what small towns are all about.?
For those businesses interested in becoming a vendor or sponsor for the concert series, Bennett urges you to call her at (248) 770-8587, or visit www.downtownoxford.org.

Concert schedule
? June 7 ? Motor City Music Cartel (Motown)
? June 14 ? Penumbrae
(Contemporary Rock)
? June 21 ? Christy Howard Band (Country/Blues)
? July 5 ? Millish
(Contemporary Celtic)
? July 12 ? The Hummingbirds (Country/Roots)
? July 19 ? Stewart Francke (Contemporary)
? July 26 ? Company of Strangers (Country)
? August 2 ? Elmo Thumm (Acapella)
? August 9 ? Sweet Adelines (Barbershop)
? August 16 ? Mike Ridley
(Music and comedy)
? August 23 ‘Jam Samich
(Contemporary Rock/Jam)
? August 30 ? Rich Eddy’s Rockin? Oldies (1950s-60s)