There will be a new sound in the air this summer as musicians prepare to perform at the inaugural Tunes on the Tay music series, to be held Wednesday evenings from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Terrace on the Tay riverside landing on historic Mill Street.
Local music lovers and summer visitors alike are invited to enjoy the free, two-hour open-air performances featuring local solo artists, duos, trios and bands in a relaxed setting along the banks of the Tay River.
Co-organizer Brian Perkin, former owner of Lake 88.1, said the music series is intended to support local artists while providing entertainment at one of Perth’s more picturesque locations.
“The Terrace on Mill Street is a bit of a hidden gem,” Perkin said. “It’s right across from Stewart Park by the old swimming hole and features a modest stone amphitheatre. It’ll provide a great venue for artists and an attractive setting for audiences to enjoy the music. And, of course, the incredible dry-stack stone bridge there just adds to the ambience.”
The bridge was built as part of Perth’s 200th anniversary celebrations in 2016 with the help of local volunteers, Algonquin College students and master stone masons from Scotland, Ireland, the United States and Canada. It serves as a focal point of the Terrace, which the Town of Perth completed in 2019.
Co-organizer Andrew McIntyre, a longtime Perth resident and sound technician for the project, said Perth Tourism is partnering with Tunes on the Tay by providing in-kind support for the 10-week series.
“For the musicians, we’ll be supplying the sound system, plus promotion and set-up,” McIntyre said. “And we’re working to attract local business support for the artists as well.”
Most shows will feature two acts showcasing a variety of musical genres. McIntyre hopes the series will also provide mentorship opportunities between experienced musicians and aspiring performers of all ages.
Tunes on the Tay kicks off Wednesday, June 24, featuring emerging local performer Julien Groulx at 6:30 p.m., followed by Perth favourite Matt Dickson at 7:30 p.m.
The 10-week series will continue each Wednesday through Aug. 26, with rain dates scheduled if needed.
The concerts are free to attend, and the Terrace is fully wheelchair accessible.
For more information, or to inquire about performing, email tunesonthetay@gmail.com.
Contact Brian Perkin or Andrew McIntyre for more information at tunesonthetay@gmail.com or call or text: 613-464-2881.
Keep connected to your community—Read the latest Perth Ontario news.
