Maverick Concerts invites the community to discover the enduring legend of Woodstock’s first arts colony during a free, family-friendly open house. Rain or shine, this event promises an afternoon of music, fun, and a rare opportunity to explore one of the most acoustically and aesthetically remarkable spaces in the country.
A Day of Music, Discovery, and Community
The Open House will feature live performances by the Onteora High School Chamber Music Orchestra and the Bennett Jazz Ensemble, showcasing the talents of our local youth. Music for the afternoon is coordinated by renowned keyboardist and Woodstock resident Brian Mitchell, who will perform with his band Brian Mitchell & Friends. Known for his work with legends Levon Helm, Bob Dylan, and BB King, Mitchell brings a genre-blending mix of gutbucket blues, funky New Orleans-style R&B, Latin rhythms, and experimental grooves. His band features:
- Brian Mitchell – keyboard and accordion
- Randy Ciarlante – drums
- Ben Zwerin – bass
- Kate Skwire – vocals
- Jackson Speller – guitar and vocals
Mitchell, a five-time Grammy contributor, has just completed two new albums recorded in Woodstock— “Digging the Roots,” a tribute to his musical influences, and “Music from Big Blue,” a collection of original songs inspired by his move from NYC to the Hudson Valley. Both feature Woodstock legends John Sebastian, Cindy Cashdollar, Amy Helm, and others.
Opening the set will be local act Blue Stone Quarry, an acoustic 4-piece featuring sweet harmonies and rustic charm.
Families can enjoy interactive sessions with Catskill Mountain Music Together, designed for babies, toddlers, preschoolers, and their caregivers to explore music through play. Children will also enjoy Hope Farm Petting Zoo, offering hands-on experiences with friendly animals.
Free ice cream will be provided by Stewart’s Shops (while supplies last). Food offerings include healthy and delicious options from Upstate Bowls, and beverages will be available from Kingston’s mainstay speakeasy Stockade Tavern.
Experience a Venue Like No Other
Built in 1916 by utopian novelist, poet and community builder Hervey White, Maverick Concert Hall is a hand-crafted wooden structure renowned for its exceptional acoustics and intimate atmosphere. As the oldest ongoing summer chamber music festival in the United States, Maverick Concerts has hosted world-class performances for over a century, earning recognition for its unique blend of history and artistry. Over recent years, Maverick has expanded its repertoire to include gifted musicians playing a wide range of music genres, ensuring something for everyone’s ears to enjoy.
Looking Ahead: Maverick’s 2025 Season
The Open House marks the beginning of an exciting 2025 season at Maverick Concerts, featuring a diverse lineup of performances including classical chamber music, jazz evenings, family-oriented events, local folk and pop legends, and more eclectic, experimental projects. For the full season schedule and ticket information, please visit maverickconcerts.org/2025-schedule.
Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with a cornerstone of Woodstock’s rich musical heritage. Join us June 7 to experience the magic of Maverick Concert Hall.
