This year’s slate of performers at Music On The Mountain includes new faces and returning favorites, including a group that performed the very first season of the concert series. The performances at the top of Bay Mountain will feature national and regional touring performers playing a variety of styles, from pop and Broadway favorites to progressive rock, jazz and Americana.
The concerts atop the resort’s ski hill first took place in 2015. The series ran through 2019, but following the pandemic did not restart until last year. The return of the concert series was met with enthusiastic approval, especially by those who had seen Music On The Mountain previously. “Several people I talked to told me how happy they were to see the shows return,” says Jennifer St. Onge, Event Sales Associate at The Homestead.
That includes the members of Blue Water Ramblers. The rootsy folk band based in Grand Rapids played the very first season of Music On The Mountain in 2015. “The Ramblers have played well over 300 venues over the past 35 years and the top of the mountain at The Homestead is one of the best locations in the Midwest, that's for sure,” says bandleader Bear Berends. “Kudos!”
Opening the season will be Alan Hewitt and One Nation on June 17. The longtime keyboardist, vocalist and musical director of Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductees the Moody Blues is returning to his home state. In addition to his work with the Moody Blues, Hewitt has worked with Earth, Wind & Fire, Warrant (writing their hit “Cherry Pie”), Donny Osmond, Greg Adams from Tower of Power, and many others over the years.
The Petoskey native will be performing with his group One Nation, which includes fellow Michiganders guitarist/vocalist Duffy King and guitarist/vocalist Jake Allen, from Indian River and Petoskey, respectively. “We are looking forward to returning to Michigan and to what looks like a one-of-a-kind venue,” says Hewitt. One Nation’s music traverses progressive rock and fusion, showcasing both their vocal and instrumental prowess.
Three favorites from last year return: contemporary jazz guitarist Joe Taylor with his group from New York City, blues-rock singer and guitar slinger Jabo Bihlman and his band, and local smooth jazz favorites East Bay Drive, once again featuring guest vocalist Miriam Pico.
Newcomers to the series include the duo of Kevin DiSimone and Hilary James. He is the former vocalist, keyboardist and musical director for the legendary Barry Manilow, and she is a veteran Broadway actor and singer. Versatile drummer Randy Marsh will be bringing his new organ trio Cat Daddy to the stage. Midwestern troubadour Seth Bernard and his band will showcase his folk and roots originals.
The backdrop for the shows is the sun setting over the sparkling waters of Good Harbor Bay. Seating is provided, though many opt to spread a blanket or lawn chairs on the hillside. Food and refreshments from The Homestead, including wine from Good Harbor Vineyards and Aurora Cellars and Stormcloud beer, will be available onsite.
Tickets for the concerts are $22 for adults and $6 for ages 5-12, and include a ride on the chairlift to the top of Bay Mountain. To purchase tickets, go to tinyurl.com/Tickets-MOTM. Showtime is 7 p.m. except as noted.
TJune 17 Alan Hewitt jazz fusion/progressive rock
July 1 Kevin DiSimone/Hilary James pop/jazz/Broadway tunes
July 8 Blue Water Ramblers Americana
July 22 Randy Marsh/Cat Daddy Jazz organ
Aug. 5 Jabo Bihlman band Blues rock
Aug. 12 Seth Bernard with band Folk/roots
Aug. 19 Joe Taylor Contemporary jazz
Sept. 9 East Bay Drive (6:30 p.m.) Smooth jazz/pop
