By Kellie Van Maele
The Ingham County Chronicle
The committee’s goals are to keep the concerts free, as well as bring in a variety of bands.
“Most importantly we want our community members to be able to enjoy a free night of entertainment,” said Pat Witte, park manager. “It’s a great way to spend a Friday night, especially because it is so family-oriented.”
The goal of the concert series is to bring the community together, but also allow give local bands and businesses exposure.
“Monthly meetings begin in October of each year to start planning,” said Angus McIntosh, committee chairman. “We begin listening to demos of groups in November and December, and narrow down the near 40 entries to 13.”
Committee members bring in a wide variety of bands, from oldies to soul this series.
“Last year we had an average of 740 people per concert,” Witte said. “The weather is a huge factor on attendance, but on a nice night we may have up to 2,000 people.”
As for the future of the concert series, the Bandshell committee wants to continue to improve the concert nights.
“We hope to have more concessions available during the shows beside what the park already sells,” McIntosh said. “Really, we just want to continue to expand the program and get more people to the concerts.”
If you are interested in sending in a demo or sponsoring a concert, visit the Lake Lansing Band Shell website for more information.