Fourth season of the Free Idabelle Firestone Fall Concerts to debut

COLUMBIANA -- The Firestone Park Cultural and Custodial Committee (FPCCC), a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization, will be hosting its fourth season of free fall concerts at the Idabelle Firestone Gathering Place and Garden at the Harvey S. Firestone Park in Columbiana, beginning on Sunday, Aug. 30, with local talent from the area.

The Oak Street String Band will open the free series of performances at 3 p.m. playing and singing a selection of familiar "old time" music with a unique repertoire of early American folk music featuring the popular string instruments of the era. The next local group to perform that day will be Tapestries of Ohio, a medieval musical ensemble with a cappella performances, period instrument music, and themed Renaissance entertainment in colorful costumes.

"While it's our aim to bring in professional performers who present classical crossover concerts, we do like to give our very talented local musicians a chance to perform for the community on our stage as well," said Pat Tingle, founder of the concert series, who added that the outdoor hilltop Gathering Place, with its beautiful blooming bushes and flowers, was built in the park during the extensive efforts to restore the park to its former glory over the past several years by both the FPCCC and the Restoration and Beautification Committee of Columbiana, to honor Idabelle's many accomplishments in art, music and flowers in her era. "It's a true architectural wonder that you just have to see," she said.

The free concerts will continue every Sunday in September at 3 p.m., with the Tamburitzans, performing next on Sept. 6, a national folk dance and musical ensemble presenting the dazzling music and costumes and intricate dance steps of eastern Europe. (This is the only particular show that will be performed at Columbiana High School's auditorium and not at the park.) Next on Sept. 13, the Suburban Brass Quintet, a musical ensemble specializing in brass instrument performances with a wide repertoire of music and patriotic tunes, will perform. Down Und Kraut Polka Band -- an uplifting group of musicians playing your favorite polka songs and Octoberfest music -- will liven up the stage on Sept. 20.

Highlight of the season and rounding out the season will be the Dave Banks Big Band and the Rat Pack on Sept. 27, as ultimate tribute performers step into the shoes of Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Sammy Davis Jr. for a live performance of famous nostalgic songs, antics and joking, just like the originals. (Star Las Vegas performer, Nickolas Brooks, is flying in from across the country for this show.) Backed by the fabulous Dave Banks 16-piece orchestra, attendees will think they've been transported back in time to the famous Sands Hotel in Las Vegas.

"We were very fortunate to put this unique schedule of musical performances together to the delight of our community," Tingle reported.

Covered lawn seating is provided and guests may also bring their own lawn chairs and blankets. Shuttles will also be available to take visitors up the hill to the concert venue. The concerts will run "rain or shine" with rain venues announced appropriately. Just check the Firestone Park Cultural and Custodial Committee on Facebook for updated information in the event of inclement weather or call the Firestone Legacy and Event Center at 330-397- 4706 for more information.

"You may also keep an eye out shortly throughout the community for articles and flyers to remind music lovers to attend this entertaining series of free community concerts in beautiful Firestone Park," Tingle said.