WARREN Noon in the Park series features musicians from the area
The program started in 1976.
WARREN -- The 26th annual Noon in the Park series begins at noon Friday and continues each Friday through Aug. 2 in Courthouse Park in downtown Warren.
The event, which runs from noon to 1 p.m., is open to the public. People may bring blankets and chairs.
"Noon in the Park is the longest continuous program sponsored by the Arts Council, and we are pleased the community has joined together to keep it thriving," said Bobbie Brown, director of the Fine Arts Council of Trumbull County.
The Noon in the Park series was introduced in 1976 to provide summer arts experiences. The showcase of regional professional musicians has become more popular with each passing year. The event started with two performances and now offers eight weeks of activity. This year, about 150 musicians will perform.
Financial support
Without the financial support of the American Federation of Musicians Local 118, the event wouldn't be possible, FACT officials said. The federation secures funding from local businesses and corporations to match funds available from the Recording Industries Music Performance Trust Funds, in order to compensate the musicians.
The professional musicians all live and work in the Mahoning Valley.
The 2002 series will open Friday with music provided by Busman's Holiday.
The Don Hartzell Orchestra will make its first appearance at Noon in the Park June 21 followed by the June 28 Community Day in the Park with a performance from Top Notes, directed by Dr. John Vlad.
Community Day in the Park offers nonprofit organizations an opportunity to show the community the services they have available. Any nonprofit organization wishing to participate should contact the FACT office as soon as possible, as space is limited.
In July
July performances included the Norm Yannucci Orchestra; Guys without Ties, directed by Dale Janus; and the Junior Military Band.
Chalk on the Walk is set for 11 a.m. through 1:30 p.m. July 26. Everyone is able to draw on the sidewalks surrounding Courthouse Park during the competition. Drawings from each of the six age groups will be judged and prizes awarded. Chalk is free for all participants.
Ronald McDonald will provide musical entertainment and his annual magic show beginning at 12:30 p.m. July 26.
The Warren Concert Band directed by Paul Rossi performs the final concert in the series Aug. 2.
Vendors have prepared menus for the Noon in the Park event. For more information about FACT events contact the office at P.O. Box 48, Warren 44482, or call (330) 399-1212.