MEDINA, Ohio -- For the past eight years, local jazz enthusiasts have had the opportunity to attend free summer concerts performed by prominent bands on Medina's square.
But unless sponsors and donors step up soon, this year's Jazz Under the Stars season will be canceled.
Members of Cleveland Opera Theater perform Opera Under the Stars in Medina's Uptown Park. (Photo Courtesy of ORMACO)
Ohio Regional Music Arts and Cultural Outreach (ORMACO) has organized an outstanding lineup for this season. Saxophonist Bobby Selvaggio and his combo are slated for June 2, followed by Opera Under the Stars (members of the Cleveland Opera Theater) on June 16. On July 7, Medina percussionist Ryun Louie is set to take the gazebo stage. Akron-based Joe Leaman and his trio are to perform on Aug. 4, and Moustache Yourself would bring gypsy jazz to the park on Aug. 25.
That will all happen only if ORMACO can raise the funds to pay the artists.
The general public might not realize that while these concerts are free for them to enjoy, they are quite expensive to produce. According to ORMACO Executive Director Thomas Sigel, "Planning begins about a year and a half in advance. Like public radio and television, 'the programs we bring are made possible by viewers and listeners like you.'
"In the past, we have not had a problem with area individuals and businesses helping underwrite this great summer concert series, but for some unknown reason, funding is not happening this year," Sigel said.
To date, the organization has received three small donations from individuals, and the Medina County Convention & Visitors Bureau has generously supplied funds to pay for artist fees for one concert.
All concerts begin at 7 p.m. in Uptown Park on the square. In case of rain, the concerts are held at the United Church of Christ at 217 E. Liberty St., right off the square.
In addition to providing excellent music for the audience, restaurants and businesses profit from the influx of music lovers. The mission of ORMACO is to make music, arts and culture accessible to all, with a focus on programs for underserved, disadvantaged and rural populations.
If you are interested in saving one or more of these performances through sponsorship or underwriting, contact Sigel directly at 330-722-2541. To learn more about the organization, visit www.ormaco.org.