The weekly Summer Sounds by the Bay concerts in DiDomenico/16th Street Park are a hit—they’re close to home, and the music is a welcome diversion.
Wednesdays at 7 p.m. crowds gather at the amphitheater on the park’s lower level, swaying to the music, dancing, or just sitting and relaxing.
“I don’t normally go out at night, but I come out for this,” said Prime of Life President Peggy Gilliland at the series’ kickoff on July 8 featuring the Cameos. “When you become a senior, you do all the freebie things.”
Gilliland attended with a number of friends. She said she likes virtually all the musical genres offered, so she comes frequently.
Marie Aguanno of Kennedy Boulevard appreciates that the concerts are within walking distance of home.
“They encourage camaraderie. They bring people together,” she said. “There’s a closeness in the community.”
Aguanno said she also believes the venue would be perfect for a regular movie night during the summer months.
Ken Poesl likes the concerts so much he donated free water for attendees through his company Ken’s Marine.
Peter Amadeo Sr. comes for the jazz and blues bands. His son, Pete Jr., Parks and Recreation director, runs the concerts.
Six-year-old Sally Saied likes the concerts because dancing is one of her favorite activities; she was doing quite a bit of it at the summer’s inaugural concert.
“It’s another service that the city provides, especially during the summer months,” said Amadeo Jr. “We want people to be in Bayonne and enjoy 16th Street Park, right by the water.”
Amadeo promises a summer of musical diversity, from blues and jazz, to British Invasion, oldies, and more.
One of the most anticipated concerts is the July 15 performance of Bobby Valli, the younger brother of Frankie Valli of The Four Seasons. He’ll sing “Sherry,” “Oh What a Night” and other classics.
The city has added four vendors this year recruited by Lauren Dellabella, who manages the city farmers market. Those who want to purchase food while they attend can now do so from The Pimento Grill, Just Delicious Kettle Corn, Lizzmonade, and Squeezed Fruit Juices & Smoothies.
Upcoming acts
The bands, dates, and genres for the remaining summer concerts are: July 22, Large Flowerheads, 1960s; July 29, Epic Soul, rhythm and blues; Aug. 5, The Fabulous Grease Band, 1950s through 1990s; Aug. 12, Cynthia Holiday and Jazzique, blues and Top 40; Aug. 19, The Symphonics, Big Band; and Aug. 26, The Bronx Wanderers, 1950s and ‘60s rock ‘n roll.
Other sponsors
Other concert series sponsors are BCB Community Bank, Kenrich Chemicals, McCabe Ambulance Service, Inserra Shop-Rite, and the Garden State Arts Foundation. The city provides free chairs onsite to concert attendees.
In the event of inclement weather, on concert days call (201) 471-7590, or visit bayonnerec.com or the city of Bayonne’s Facebook page to check on the status of that night’s event.
Joseph Passantino may be reached at JoePass@hudsonreporter.com.To comment on this story online visit www.hudsonreporter.com.