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May 25, 2023

Peter Schneider concert series returns to Bell Park on Sunday

Phil Morris kicks things off with a 7 p.m. show June 11 at the William Bell

Phil Morris kicks things off with a 7 p.m. show June 11 at the William Bell Gazebo

One of the best things about having a lake downtown is the beautiful backdrop it provides for the Summer Concert Series to be held Sunday nights at 7.

For years, the Peter Schneider Music Concerts have been held on Ramsey Lake, with the majority at the William Bell Gazebo, a stone's throw from the public swimming area. It's a wonderful Sunday evening tradition of settling into lawn chairs or spreading a blanket for the whole family to pile on to.

June's leg of the Series will see three talented acts take the stage on June 11, 18, and 25.

Phil Morris: Phil Morris is the first to go, promising a toe-tapping concert on June 11. He's talented, mesmerizing and loves what he does. The guitar-playing, piano-playing singer/songwriter has been performing for more than 30 years in bars, studios, stadiums and churches.

Says Morris, "I never play songs the same way twice. I change keys and grooves, even lyrics. Sometimes I’ll start a beat or a loop and play to that.

"As an inspiration artist, I always look for the story and often involve the audience in a bit of a sing-along. At the gazebo, I may even have one of my special needs students come and join me in a version of ‘The Dance’ by Garth Brooks. Everybody can make something musical."

As a Christian artist who plays covers from among secular works, Morris looks for ways to unite people and sow love through music. He warns to expect a lot of boogie and country.

Andy Lowe: Andy Lowe may have come from England decades ago, but he's a northerner at heart, always celebrating the region's beautiful rocks, lakes and trees in song. He’ll be hitting the William Bell Park Gazebo at 7 p.m. on June 18.

Lowe says that years ago, "I did a couple of shows at Bell Park with Roger Finlay but this time I’m solo, just guitar and harmonica. I’ll be performing all original songs, mostly about the beauty of living here."

Those who have frequented the Killarney Mountain Lodge over the past 25 years know the joy of listening to Andy Lowe. "Killarney Bay" and "In the Carousel Lounge" are two of his time-tested favourites.

This summer, he’ll be found in Killarney's Canada House, a strikingly beautiful log building filled with art and ambiance. "I play for the visitors from the Viking Cruise ships in the splendour of the Canada House setting."

Lowe's northern songs spread beyond Killarney. "Champion at Pickin’ the Berries" is about his own blueberry picking experiences. "You’re either a picker or you’re not," says Lowe and he's clearly a picker.

Lowe takes us to Burwash of yesteryear in the song "Burwash Train," about the Burwash Correctional Centre. Built by prisoners and housing more than 1,000 people, it closed in 1975. Signs on Highway 69 at the time warned not to pick up hitchhikers.

His songs "Albert and the Slag Pour" and "Smiley's Crew" drill down into the mining industry and history of Sudbury.

Says Lowe, "I continue to enjoy my Thursday evenings at Fionn MacCool's and look forward to many of my songs being incorporated into a stage musical called ‘No Fences’ with the Sudbury Performance Group in 2024."

Chanelle Albert and the Easy Company: On June 25 at 7 p.m., it's Chanelle Albert and the Easy Company's turn to take the gazebo stage. Albert is a multi-talented singer, songwriter, and musician who promises a great family show.

"We’re super excited to welcome the whole family from kids to grandparents," Albert says. "We love playing outdoor shows after so many indoor gigs all winter."

The Easy Company plays old-school-style Rock ‘n Roll from the 1960s and 70s. "We call it Psychedelic Folk Rock … a little bit of folk, a little bit of rock. All of our material is original and we’ll even be premiering a few new pieces at the gazebo."

Albert is accompanied by Andrew Gagnon on drums, Jacob Tyler on bass, and Josh Myre on guitar. They’re greatly influenced by artists such as Supertramp, Genesis and The Moody Blues.

Chanelle Albert and the Easy Company are sought-after performers with many gigs over the summer.

The Peter Schneider Music concerts deliver top-notch, free enjoyment all summer long. Be sure to check out the series on the City of Greater Sudbury website.

Swing Fever Octet: Fast-forwarding to Aug. 20, the final presentation of the series welcomes the Swing Fever Octet at the Katherine Bell Gazebo and deck. Swing Fever plays a mix of well-known big-band tunes, ballroom rhythms and popular covers for a memorable evening under the stars. Simply sit and listen or dance the evening away. It's a traditionally well-attended family night of fun.

Also happening this month

Spring Handmade Market by Makers North: June 17 is a big day for fans of original crafts. More than 80 crafters and artisans can be found at the Southridge Mall from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. This popular event features crafts, clothing and accessories, live music, delicious food, and prizes. Entry is by donation.

Sarah Moreau, owner of Amberhill Gallery and Gift Shop, has been an exhibitor for three years. "One thing I love about Makers North is that they showcase handmade products only, so you can be sure that a lot of love and care have been put into each item," she says.

"I sell crochet accessories and home decor, as well as stickers and prints. I’ve also been working on new products, such as quilted wall hangings."

Moreau is looking forward to visiting other booths while she's at the market.

"This year I’m excited to see local makers like Spore Ceramics, One More Bite Baker, and Lümen Art & Illustration, plus I always look forward to discovering new handmade businesses."

Alternative Art Fair: The Galerie du Nouvel-Ontario's (GNO) seventh Alternative Art Fair of Sudbury (Foire d’art alternatif de Sudbury, or FAAS) returns June 14-17.

This year's festival is in the Donovan with artists celebrating the historic neighbourhood's contributions to the city.

Head down to Kathleen Street to enjoy viewing, wondering, chatting, engaging with artists, and, of course, eating. The event includes the whole gamut from visual arts to performance art. And it's all free.

State of the Arts is a bimonthly article by the Sudbury Arts Council.

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