The Clark

By Caedy Shultz-Loomis, Membership Coordinator

Summer has arrived, and we are very excited to present a lively new lineup of free outdoor concerts for this summer’s July band concert series!

Part of my job here at the Clark is to book and manage these concerts, and I have met some incredible artists through the years. My process for finding and choosing artists is always a really fun and enlightening experience. When I am looking for bands, I look at venues within the region that are of similar type and size to us. I check out the artists on their upcoming roster, as well as the artists who have performed at each venue in the past. I often look for local groups who can easily travel to the Berkshires, and I sometimes come across groups who are already traveling this way and are able to add the Clark to their schedules.

I try to book as wide a variety of artists as I can so that there is always something new going on at the Clark for all of our visitors to enjoy.

This summer’s concert series will kick off with The Doerfels on July 5. The Doerfels perform lively progressive acoustic music that is a blend of rock, bluegrass, gospel, country, and jazz. Back by popular demand, The Doerfels are not to be missed!On July 12, we will be treated to a special performance by The Sweetback Sisters. The charismatic Sweetback sisters combine their passion for classic country music with new interpretations of country music traditions to create a fresh take on what it means to be country.We will welcome local favorites, The Sister City Jazz Ambassadors on July 19. Led by Pittsfield guitarist/banjo player Andy Kelly, this popular local band performs a wide range of jazz music, from New Orleans style to modern jazz fusion.The series will conclude with a very special and truly unique performance by Kinobe. Gifted, multi-instrumentalist, vocalist, and composer Kinobe and his band are at the vanguard of Ugandan performers representing the inspired synthesis of African roots and global fusion.Bring your family and friends, a picnic basket, and a blanket to the Clark for these free outdoor concerts. Barbecue fare will be available for purchase and the galleries will remain open until 6:00 pm.

Booking and managing the concerts at the Clark is a passion of mine and one of my favorite things that I do at the Clark. I am really looking forward to a great season and to seeing many new and familiar faces in the crowd again this year!