The Black Swamp Conservancy has a great new way for you to enjoy a summer evening in Toledo with a new concert series on the Maumee River. One Wednesday per month from July through September, Black Swamp Conservancy and all attendees will board a band onto a pontoon boat and take off down the river, playing all the way.
Rob Krain, Executive Director of Black Swamp Conservancy, said, “We are hoping to host some really fun events that enhance our community’s connection to the Maumee River, our great natural resource. In the process, we are hoping to build more awareness of Black Swamp Conservancy and the work the organization is doing to protect and enhance wetlands and other natural habitats that help contribute to cleaner water in northwest Ohio. For the inaugural season, we are focusing our efforts on three events. We are hoping that these are a success and we can expand the series in future years to include additional dates and more great artists.”
The events will take place from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm. Those wanting to join in on the fun can rent kayaks from Maumee Tackle for $45, or bring their own boats for $15. Children under 18 may only participate if in a tandem kayak with an adult. Please call before registering to ensure availability. Tickets are required for each concert.
Upcoming Performances
July 24 – Shamarr Allen
Hailing from the Lower 9th Ward of New Orleans, Allen got his start as a teenager playing in the iconic New Orleans group Rebirth Brass Band and later was a touring member of the powerhouse funk-jazz band Galactic. Allen calls his style “bridge music” because it brings together a variety of sounds and musical leanings including jazz, Hip-Hop, rock, funk, blues and country. As a bandleader he has played at the White House and serves as a musical/cultural ambassador for the United States to Brazil, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan and Congo.
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In 2020 Allen established “The Trumpet Is My Weapon,” a gun exchange program, which trades trumpets and music books in exchange for guns brought in by New Orleans youth, which are then turned over to New Orleans Police Department and dismantled.
August 14 – Charlie Millard Band
From Michigan’s northern lower peninsula, the Charlie Millard Band has developed a style so unique and beautiful, it’s hard to put into words. Charlie describes it as “small movies for the ears.”
The trio has been extensively touring music venues and festivals across the US and Canada, grabbing the attention of concertgoers and the music industry at every stop. This is a band that is on the verge of playing big big stages, don’t miss them.
September 11 – Ben Gage Band
Ben Gage grew up in the rust belt of Northeast Ohio, spread out in the countryside along the great Lake Erie. His roots run deep beside the hard working blue collars that Ohio has to boast. That tenacity, love of family and respect for a long day can be seen in his music. He doesn’t shy away from life’s ups and downs and sews human experience within all his songs, artfully, without the need to bash you over the head with ideas. In fall 2021 Gage quit his job in the tech-sector to pursue music full time.
Wednesday, July 24. Wednesday, August 14. Wednesday, September 11.
5:30pm to 7:30pm. $45 with kayak rental. $15 when you bring your own boat.
International Park. 419-833-1025. blackswamp.org/event/paddle-groove-music-on-the-maumee
