As summer rolls into Eden Prairie, the local community is gearing up for a series of lively evenings at Staring Lake Amphitheatre. Music lovers of the area are in for a treat with a lineup that promises to cater to a variety of tastes and ages. Starting the weekend, the Eden Prairie Community Band, with its wide-ranging repertoire and a special original composition, serenaded the park on Thursday, July 10. The ensemble boasts over 60 adult musicians and is a staple of the community, having been established back in 1973.
Following the band's performance, the Two Sundays Big Band took the stage on Friday, July 11, introducing an energetic blend of jazz, ranging from classics to original pieces. Despite originating from a mere gathering of middle-schoolers, the now 20-piece ensemble showcases the budding talent of young musicians. Onlookers prepared for a full-bodied swing experience, celebrated the sounds of tomorrow's jazz scene. According to a bulletin provided by the City of Eden Prairie, the band brings "high-energy jazz with a mix of classics, fresh arrangements and original tunes."
Closing out the weekend, on Sunday, July 13, audiences were treated to Lehto & Wright's performance. Their distinctive acoustic mix, rooted in Irish and American folk, combined with the raw vigor of progressive rock, offers a stark contrast to the preceding jazz nights and elevates the concert series' diversity. It is this eclectic fusion that captures the essence of storytelling through music.
Looking ahead to next week's events, the Staring Lake Amphitheatre plans to shift gears, inviting families to partake in "KidStock | Science Heroes" on Tuesday, July 15. Engaging the kids with interactive STEM experiences, the event showcases demonstrations aimed at educating through enjoyment. Proving "that science is anything but boring", the Science Heroes are expected to bring a show filled with color and explosive energy that will spark curiosity in young minds. And for those preferring a more pastoral setting, the Picnic on the Farm event is on Wednesday, July 16. The gathering at Dorenkemper House offers not just live music and games, but also the chance to dive into the city's history with tours led by the Eden Prairie Historical Society.
The tuneful celebrations continue later in the week with the Mississippi Hot Club stirring the jazz spirit on Thursday, July 17. With their gypsy jazz melodies laced with modern influences, the group is booked to entice the crowd with their "virtuosic style and expert arrangements." Finally, Sawyer's Dream caps off the week on Friday, July 18. Their presence promises to connect the dots between yesteryear's Americana and the modern threads of pop, rock, and soul. For more details on these and other calendar listings, music enthusiasts and families seeking summer fun are encouraged to visit Eden Prairie's official website.
