Write a commentOswego Music Hall continues its Open Mic Friday series on March 22. Shows begin at 7:00 PM; sign-ups at 6:30.
Guest Hosts, Frank Stepanek and Julie Clement (Frank & Julie Duo) leads off Open Mic Friday and will be followed by performers who sign up that night. Doors open at 6:30 with sign-ups taking place then and throughout the evening, as space allows. Musicians typically play three songs each.
All ages and experience levels are welcome. Budding performers, singer-songwriters and musicians of all genres are given an opportunity to perform in a supportive environment using cutting edge professional sound and lighting equipment.
Frank & Julie are a Central New York Duo on lead guitar and bass, both sharing vocals. They perform originals, Americana Reggae, Blues, and some pop. They perform all around Central NY and recently at a Reggae Fest in Chico, California.
Frank Stepanek, lead guitarist/vocalist, is a three time Grammy nominated artist and has appeared on VH1 and NPR's Tiny Desk. He toured internationally with legendary reggae group Black Uhuru as recently as 2023. His first tour with them was at the Glastonbury Festival, England 1989.
He recorded three CD’s with Black Uhuru (Brutal, Now, and Iron Storm). Live concerts with Black Uhuru have featured him in North America, Europe, and New Zealand. The shows have included Red Rocks, One Love Reggae Festival, Austin Reggae Festival U.S., Reggae Geel Belgium, Chiemsee Reggae Festival and Lorelei Festival Germany, One Love Festival New Zealand.
Julie Clement is the Bassist and vocalist. She has an AAS in Music and a BA in Communication Studies. She is a Part-time Music Director and Organist/Pianist at a church.
Scheduling guest hosts for Open Mic Fridays is Coordinator Bryan Dickenson. Open Mics are held on the Friday night prior to Saturday’s National Stage concert.
The following evening, March 23, Shawna Caspi and Rachael Kilgour,will appear on the Main Stage at 7:30pm. Visit https://shawnacaspi.com/ and https://rachaelkilgour.com/ for further information.
For a complete performance schedule including the National Stage and Open Mic Friday as well as ticket information, visit the website at https://www.oswegomusichall.org/ or stop at the river’s end bookstore, 19 West Bridge Street in Oswego.
The wheelchair accessible venue is located in the McCrobie Civic Center, on 41 Lake Street in Oswego. It is adjacent to Breitbeck Park and overlooks Lake Ontario and the Oswego Harbor. The atmosphere is intimate with candle-lit tables surrounding a small stage with light refreshments available. Cash or check only at the door.
Oswego Music Hall is a family-friendly, non-profit organization that has been run entirely by volunteers since its inception in 1977. Volunteers can earn admission to shows through various tasks — from running the sound board to making popcorn. Students can also earn credit for community service. To volunteer, email Volunteer Coordinator Michael Moss at ocpaoswego@gmail.com.
Find more information via the Oswego Music Hall website at https://www.oswegomusichall.org/, Facebook page, or email ocpaoswego@gmail.com.
Concerts are made possible in part with funding by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the governor and New York Legislature. Other major supporters are the City of Oswego and Shineman Foundation.
Oswego Music Hall Events Calendar
Mar 22 Open Mic w/Hosts Frank Stefanek and Julie Clement (Frank & Julie Duo)
Mar 23 Shawna Caspi and Rachael Kilgour (Women in Music Series)
Apr 12 Open Mic w/Host Mark Zane
Apr 13 Big Sky Quartet
Apr 20 Count Blastula w/Special Guest Mike Dubaniewicz, Jazz by the Lake
Apr 26 Open Mic w/Host Larry Kyle
Apr 27 Livingston Taylor w/Ash & Eric opening
May 11 Season Finale - Sam Robbins & Emerging Artists Showcase
