Nonprofit Puts On Free Concerts To Build ‘Community Through Music’
By Matthew J. Buettner, CBSDenver.com
DENVER (CBS4) – A nonprofit organization in Denver dedicated to building community through music is putting on a series of free concerts this year.
Levitt Pavilion Denver began its string of free concerts this summer. The nonprofit is working to get its new venue in Denver’s Ruby Hill Park operational by July 2017, but the organization has been putting on the free shows in Civic Center Park this year in advance of that.
“We believe in embracing the local, including the musicians, architects, construction company, staff, artists and sponsors. Levitt Pavilion Denver is more than just another music venue — it is a nexus for local nonprofits and arts groups across the Rocky Mountain region,” according to levittdenver.org.
The organization’s CEO and executive director is Chris Zacher, who was previously the vice president and president of the popular City Park Jazz series.
“Since 2012 he’s led Denver’s effort to create the new Levitt Pavilion at Ruby Hill Park,” according to the nonprofit’s website.
Colorado native Chase Wessel is the group’s production manager.
“Chase has been involved in all facets of the live music entertainment industry, getting his start at local venues … in 2011 he was hired as the lead musical tech on the Conan show. There he had the opportunity to work with hundreds of acts, from up-and-comers like Kendrick Lamar, to musical legends like Ringo Starr and Alice Cooper.”
Also among the nonprofit’s leadership are partner liaisons Andy Thomas and Josiah Albertsen, as well as production assistant Charis Denny Millar.
Levitt Pavilion Denver still has three more upcoming free shows in Civic Center Park. They are as follows:
Young Dubliners – Sept. 16, 6:30 p.m.
Stooges Brass Band – Sept. 23, 6:30 p.m.
John Fullbright – Oct. 7, 6:30 p.m.
LINK: Remaining 2016 Concert Calendar
The nonprofit is also hosting a fundraising concert on Oct. 7 at Summit Music Hall on Blake Street. Laith Al-Saadi with Brent Cowles and Garrett Lebeau headline and the ticket cost is $25.
“Each ticket includes an exclusive opportunity to try ‘The Smoothness’ collaboration beer, as well as unlimited Jameson Irish Whisky, Great Divide Brewing CO. beer, sliders, appetizers and more.”
The 2017 concert calendar has yet to be released, but the nonprofit plans to feature local performers frequently. The new venue will have a capacity of 7,500 and the shows there will be a mix of free and ticketed shows.
Levitt Pavilion Denver also offers many volunteering and sponsorship opportunities.
LINK: Make A Donation
Additional Information From Levitt Pavilion Denver
When complete in 2017, Levitt Pavilion Denver will feature:
• 50 free concerts annually with local, regional, national and international acts
• A rich spectrum of music genres: R&B, country, rock, Latin, blues, jazz, children’s and more.
• Relaxed, open lawn setting
• Local food vendors
• State-of-the-art sound and lighting
• Easily accessible location near public transportation and bike paths
• Family-friendly environment
Outside of Levitt Pavilion Denver concert series, the state-of-the-art amphitheater will be available for use by schools, arts organizations, outside promoters and other nonprofits.
Visit the Levitt Pavilion Denver website for much more information on the nonprofit and its mission.