Free summer concert series starts today

A free summer concert series on the grass amphitheater on the Capitol Complex lawn in downtown Carson City starts today with the Mile High Jazz Band.

The 18-piece big band will feature vocalist Sheryl Adams in its performance of dance hits by Count Basie and Duke Ellington.

It's the first of six free performances held adjacent to the Capitol by the Carson City Redevelopment Authority.

"Its a wonderful way to bring the family outdoors for free entertainment," said the city's special events manager, Kevin Ray.

Candy Duncan, executive director of the Carson City Convention and Visitors Bureau, said she is excited to be able to list the series on the bureau's Web site and calender of events.

"My favorite part about the whole thing is the concerts showcase a really beautiful part of downtown Carson City," Duncan said. "It really has a nice family feeling."

The audience is welcome to bring a picnic basket, refreshments and chairs.

"I like to tell people either a blanket or a low-back chairs," Ray said.

The concerts are a hit with kids.

"They enjoy it as well," Ray said. "You see them running all over the place."

The concerts run every Sunday evening through Aug. 10, starting at 6.

"The timing is perfect," Ray said. "It's just starting to cool down nicely by the time it starts and when it's over it's still light enough that people can feel comfortable driving home."

Upcoming performances include Hired Help, Playa Papaya, Doodoo Wah, the High Desert Brass Band and, as a finale, the Northern Nevada Bluegrass Association.

Doodoo Wah consists of Ron DeLacy and Dave Cavanagh, who teamed up in 1990. They're described in their press release as "a politically incorrect folk duet."

"They're really fun," Ray said.

He also enjoys the High Desert Brass Band.

"They were phenomenal last year," said Ray of the horn blowers. "People really loved them."

The concerts are funded entirely by the Carson City Redevelopment Authority, he said.

"Their mission is to bring people into downtown and this is a great way to do it."

IF YOU GO

What: Sunday Summer Concert Series

Where: In the circular amphitheater on the legislative lawn, south of the Capitol at Carson and King streets.

When: 6 p.m. today

Cost: Free

ON THE NET

www.visitcarsoncity.com