Staff Report / August 2, 2026
PENN YAN – Celebrating its 35th anniversary in 2026, the Penn Yan Community Band is set to make its annual appearance as part of the Yates Concert Series this Wednesday, August 5.
The ensemble offers music lovers a wonderful opportunity to experience the joy of live music and support local talent. The free performance kicks off at 6:30 p.m. on the old courthouse lawn at the corner of Main and Court Streets. In honor of the United States’ 250th birthday, the band will perform a diverse selection of tunes spanning classic favorites and traditional marches to contemporary hits, patriotic pieces, swing arrangements, a dedicated flute ensemble, and featured vocal solos by Aimee Perry and Kat Green.
Key details, logistical reminders, and event highlights for attendees include:
- Admission & Seating: The concert is free and open to the public. Attendees should remember to bring their own lawn chairs or blankets for seating on the courthouse lawn.
- Food & Refreshments: A variety of food will be available for purchase before and during the show. The First Baptist Church will host a cookout selling hot dogs, hamburgers, chips, and sodas from 5:00 to 6:30 p.m., while representatives from the Once Again Shoppe will be selling snacks and refreshments.
- Weather Contingency: In case of rain or inclement weather, the concert will be moved indoors next door to the Penn Yan Academy auditorium.
- Community Support: While the event is free to attend, yellow buckets will be passed during intermission to collect donations from listeners to help fund future concert seasons.
- Sponsors & Funding: Organizers extend special thanks to the show’s generous sponsors: Keuka College, Peter and Mary Beth Gamba, and the Yates County Chamber of Commerce. Additional grant funding is provided by the James P. Gordon Trust and the Auburn Public Theatre Regrants Program, supported by the NYS Legislature and the Office of the Governor.
The 2026 Yates Concert Series will hold its final performance of the summer season on August 12, featuring the Eagles tribute band Lyin’ Eyes.
