Wednesday-Friday, 11am to 9pm; Saturday, 11am to 6pm.
The Ann Arbor Street Art Fair showcases an eclectic lineup of music and dance performances by local and professional groups. Stage performances, located off of Washington Street, are family friendly, forward thinking and innovative. Made possible with a grant from the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs and the Arts Alliance.
Cottonwood Cloggers Wednesday, July 21st - 11:00am
Clogging is a modern dance using double plated jingle taps and is danced to any music that provides a good beat. It has been called the true North American folk dance.
Traver Creek Ramblers Wednesday, July 21st - 12:00pm
The Traver Creek Ramblers is an Ann Arbor based bluegrass band. They have been sharing the sound of traditional bluegrass with Southeast Michigan for over 6 years.
“I’m a 22 year old singer/songwriter from Raleigh, NC. My first gig was when I was 14, opening for a jazz band at a cute little coffee shop in Durham, playing all original songs on a borrowed 12 string guitar. With my brother playing bass with me. It was really rockin’. After that gig, my parents bought me my own real guitar, and I’ve been writing songs relentlessly since. In 2008 I self-released a home recorded demo, played at a bunch of local and not so local venues, and made the decision that, hey, this is really and actually what I want to do with my life, so I’m going to do it. Which leads up to the present. In June of 2010, I’m quitting my lovely animal keeping job and going on a solo tour to try to get my music heard by the peoples.”
EMU Ballroom Dance Wednesday, July 21st - 2:00pm The EMU Ballroom dancers perform swing and Latin dance in all of their many forms in choreographed routines and lead and follow demonstrations.
Yueyang Zhong was the principal erhu musician and the assistant manager of the Chinese Music Ensemble of the Tsinghua University in Beijing, China. Taught by renowned erhu master CaiRu Jiang, she started to learn to play erhu at the age of 6. Zhong has won several prestigious musical awards in China, including Golden Prize in National College Art Competition. She has been invited to many orchestral concerts and art festivals in different counties. Currently Zhong is a Ph. D candidate in the Depart. of Chemistry at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor. After coming to Ann Arbor, she has been invited to Chinese New Year Gala and many cultural events in UM and other colleges around. She was invited by EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) and Confucius Institute at University of Michigan to give a mini concert, collaborating with prestigious Pipa player, Mr. Kevin Liu.
Young Lion of Detroit: De’Sean Jones is a young up-and-coming saxophonist, songwriter, and horn arranger from Detroit, by way of Denver, CO. Since graduating from the Detroit High School for the Arts, De’Sean has gone on to make a name for himself performing with the likes of The Gerald Wilson Orchestra, jazz legend and mentor Marcus Belgrave, Chick Corea, and many more. De’Sean is known for his musical versatility, as he actively performs with and has recorded with gospel artists such as Yolanda Adams, Karen Clark Sheard, and Kierra "KIKI" Sheard. In addition he is a newly added member of the electronic music group UR, or Underground Resistance, playing primarily with the group Galaxy to Galaxy. De’Sean is also known as a leader of his own band "De’Sean Jones & Concept." This musical setting of free jazz, hip hop, and fusion, features more of his creative improvisational abilities. At the age of 21, Jones has accomplished some wonderful achievements and continues to expand his musical experiences and knowledge. Already De’Sean is on the fast track, but this is just the begininng...
iZwicky is a mid-Michigan based group performing contemporary jazz/adult contemporary music. This group was formed by five musicians with a common interest - the love of music - and the desire to share that with others.
Timothy Monger is a founding member and singer/songwriter for Michigan rock group Great Lakes Myth Society. He released his debut solo album "Summer Cherry Ghosts" in 2004. It was picked up by Trolley Bus Records in Japan in 2005. In that same year, Great Lakes Myth Society released their debut self-titled album. The band signed with Michigan indie Quack Media in 2006 and released their sophomore effort "Compass Rose Bouquet" in 2007. Following several successful tours, an appearance at SXSW and shows with Patti Smith, British Sea Power, The Hidden Cameras and many others, GLMS released a new single in early 2008. In 2009, Monger began performing solo again as an acoustic artist and in early 2010 formed a new backing band. He is currently recording his second album with plans to tour following its release.
In the finest tradition of rock and roll storytellers comes Nadir. Taking elements of rock and combining them with soul and pure unadulterated funk, Jonah Nadir Omowale and his band aim to move people - in more ways than one. Omowale has been a noted singer/songwriter, producer, journalist, and activist since his solo debut, Distorted Soul 2.0, which was released in 2004 to rave reviews. The album was followed by tours of the southern US, Europe and Canada, and led to a series of remixes in 2007 of the track, “Slave.” Taking a step deeper into his rock origins, Nadir’s second full length, 2008 - Workin’ For The Man, was a combination of live and studio tracks. Alternating from the politically charged to the deeply emotional, it set the stage for a series of changes for the man and the band itself. At the end of 2009, Omowale recruited a new band, featuring keyboardist Alesha Brown, bassist Christopher Spooner, and drummer Mia Treadwell. The quartet has been in the studio working on what promises to be a musical journey through love and pain, choice and consequence, slated for release in spring of 2010. Not content to stay in the studio, Omowale has also just completed a video for the emotionally charged composition, “Guantanamo” from Working for the Man. The track will be released on DJ friendly vinyl through pioneering electronic/techno label Underground Resistance. Nadir is a man with many stories to tell and even more insights to share. His powerful rhythms set the foundation for his perceptive lyrics and in the tradition of all great storytellers, engage the listener and create a strong desire to hear and learn more.
Robert James is a children’s singer and songwriter, based in West Bloomfield, Michigan, aspiring to revolutionize the children’s entertainment industry. He recently released his debut album, “Get on the Train,” which has been met with rave reviews. His music is centered on foundational building blocks, laden with fun, wholesome lyrics, inspiration, imagination and creativity. Robert studied classically with private instructors at Interlochen Center for the Arts. A student of classical piano and percussion, a self-taught guitarist and a perpetual student of world music, Robert has music in his soul. Robert is compelled to share his music with generations of music enthusiasts to come, with the hopes of establishing musical foundations that will last a lifetime. This is his passion.
Saline Dance Alliance
Thursday, July 22nd – 12:00pm
Bio coming soon...
PURe Dance Ensemble
Project Universal Reflection (PURe) Dance Ensemble and PURe Potential (http://PUReDanceEnsemble.com) is an Ann Arbor, MI based dance company directed by choreographer Gina Danene Thompson. Gina received her dance certificate from San Francisco City College. Gina Danene has taught at some of the top dance studios all over California and her career was unparalleled; however, she moved back to MI to bring her unique, top of the line choreography to her roots. PURe Dance Ensemble company members represent many of the elementary schools in A2, all high schools in A2, and students of the University of MI. Gina also trains the nationally ranked and award-winning Ann Arbor Hockettes, the University of Michigan synchronizing skating team, the Ann Arbor Figure Skating Club, and Olympic Medalist Ice Dancers. Gina Danene’s techniques include the Dunham technique, Graham and Horton based Modern, and Afro Haitian. She also teaches classical ballet, jazz, hip hop, tap, and street funk. In addition to her work as a choreographer and dance instructor, Gina Danene is a mentor for her students.
Washtenaw Community College’s Performing Arts Dept. has been performing at the Art Fair for over 25 years. WCC brings many different styles of dance, hip hop, tap, modern, & ballet to name a few. These dances are choreographed by instructors Noonie Anderson and Gayle Martin, as well as student choreographers. The WCC Jazz Combo will also be performing.
“I was ten years old when I first took notice of the ancient country records my grandpa was spinning inside a giant record player beside his exercise bike. I knew even then that to look to the past was to look to my future. So I would squat on the shag carpet in a colorful sweatsuit, smelling the aromas of family dinners and taking in the influences that would flow through the rest of my life. And one day, as fate would have it, a guitar came my way and I was teaching myself the songs I was hearing on those old records. To look forward I look back, to the musical family and my family as well.”
Dear Noble Leader, made of the former members of Jae Stevens Live (JSL), is a side step from the power pop rock genre into the realm of indie/alternative. Playing together since 2005, the quartet emerged from the dimly lit college basements of the University of Michigan. After much experimentation with styles, instruments and members, the current band found its niche and solidified a lineup featuring Jason Gonzales a.k.a Jae Stevens (vocals, guitar), Anders Nilsson (lead guitar), Luke Greskowiak (bass), and Tom Roake (drums). Riding the success of their first release When What if Gets The Best of Us, the quartet has found support for a six-track EP produced and recorded with famed producer Don Debiase - And That’s What Made Her Angry. As the group diverges from the power pop scene in search of composing more cohesive and honest musings, Dear Noble Leader has since self-produced and recorded a 3-track demo. The early recordings have already been drawing attention from the Ann Arbor and University of Michigan community despite the early stages of establishing a presence under a new name and sound. Working on their first full-length album as Dear Noble Leader, the group is currently booking a regional tour slated for the late summer and fall of 2010.
Killer Night Out, formerly known as The Mea Culpa, is the brain child of brother and sister duo Charmrock and Mara. The sound produced by Killer Night Out has been compared to Led Zeppelin, Green Day, and Janis Joplin. Charmrock and Mara started out in a family band managed by their father, much like the Jackson 5. The band was short lived. They went separate ways musically and geographically, but they reunited when Charmrock moved back to Michigan from L.A. and needed a place to crash. They played their first gig as a duo called the Culprits in a coffee house in Adrian, MI. They added a drummer and off they went. Coatsy brings a flavorful medley of snare work and a passion for percussion that has put him in a league of his own. Killer Night Out has played from their home state of Michigan to California and shared the stage with acts like Marcy Playground, Cold and Taproot. The future holds more radio time and a debut album that will break musical barriers and captivate the new generation. Members: Mara - Vocals and Keyboard; Charmrock - Vocals and Guitar J – Bass; Coatsy - Drums Genre: Fusion Rock; Homebase: Adrian, MI Preview the music on the web at www.myspace.com/themeaculpa
Hullabaloo is an Ann Arbor, Michigan-based music collective that produces original music blended with Latin rhythms. Performing with up to twelve members, the Hullabaloo experience is an upbeat showcase of musical expression. Hullabaloo prides itself on being able to produce original music in many different genres that appeals to nearly any type of audience. Their unparalleled energy and unique sound has lead Hullabaloo to perform regularly over the past ten years at night clubs, festivals and municipal events throughout the Midwest. "A group that puts some electricity in their unique mix of afrobeat, jazz and blues" -Linda Yohn 89.1 WEMU "The band wows crowds with its concerts and mostly original songs. Self-described as "semi-chaotic," the band lives up to its billing." -The Farmington Observer "Ann Arbor’s Hullabalo…makes a groovy racket that only re-enforces their name, but does so with a metered, horn-driven swing touching on ska, punk and blues with some just nice slices of Dixieland swirled up in there somewhere." -Ryan A. Bunch, Toledo City Paper
At the crossroads of rhythm and soul there is a sound that demands to be heard. A sound that rocks across color lines and speaks to the heart of a listener. The sweet spot where that sound lives is where you’ll find The Sugar People. It’s not for everyone - the sound is more about vibe than edge, more soul than shout. Their smooth blend of styles results in the best kind of pop music, not cheesy, but catchy, something to sing in your car, on your way to work, or hanging with your friends. The Sugar People - have a taste!
Emerson Summer Strings Friday, July 23rd – 11:00am
Students from across Ann Arbor join the Emerson Summer String Orchestra to learn a fun and lighthearted program of music. From Vivaldi to Old Joe Clark, this crew performs music that will keep your toes tapping!
The band’s sound can be traced to southwest Louisiana’s traditional music mixed with some crossover tunes as in “Cluck Old Hen” or “Rueben’s Train” or some forgotten gospel song of the “Okay” label. This music usually keeps uneasy company with slicker stuff. It’s what we consider down home sawing or two-steppin’ on a sawdust floor…that’s what we’re really talking about. So come hear the band, move a little, and have some fun.
Named after their first gig at the Ann Arbor City Club, First Friday Cocktails performs a well-rounded repertoire from doo wop to country to jazz standards, performed a cappella. With their collective experience in a cappella and vocal training at the University of Michigan, the members of FFC have found this to be a perfect opportunity to continue their musical experiences beyond college and continue to enrich the Ann Arbor community. As the group has designed itself to be available to perform at a large variety of functions they are sure to appeal to both young and old. The ladies of First Friday Cocktails do their best to make their unique blend of class, sass, and musicianship difficult to forget.
Percussionist Curtis Glatter and trumpeter James Cornish have recorded extensively for over 20 years. Both are composers, multi-instrumentalists, improvisers and proud of their Michigan heritage. The Glatter/ Cornish duo are currently working in a variety of ensembles and will be touring the nation together this summer to record in Ann Arbor, Hamtramck, Chicago and Columbus.
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Uncle Dave Lewis Friday, July 23rd – 3:00pm
Before 1980: Classical Music education and composition, electronic experiments, dada poetry readings, a little punk rock singing. 1980-1991: A lot of bands - 11,000 Switches, Cointelpro, Manwitch, Lopez Sophisticates, Rasputin Rembrandt, No Name Maddox, Dolt! and Rakehell. Solo electronics as The Master of Horror. Producer and "president" of Hospital Records, Cincinnati and co-founder, with Dan Williams, of Art Damage radio program. 1992-1998: Based in LA Basin, led Black Mystery Handshake out of San Pedro. Classical composing really picks up again at this point also. 1999-present: After a stint of a couple of years back in Cincinnati, resettled in Ann Arbor, MI, to work for All Music Guide. Led Uncle Dave and the Lookout Boys. Also continues to write classical music, work in electronics, collect records and a bi-weekly radio program on WCBN-FM Ann Arbor.
Mister Suit Friday, July 23rd – 4:00pm
Mister Suit is the pseudonym used by Garrett Jones for his recording project based in Ann Arbor Mi. The band is composed of Garrett Jones (guitar, vocals); Julian Anderson (drums); Milan Anderson (bass) and Gareth Walters (keyboard, backing vocals and percussion). Julian Anderson calls the group "rock n roll." Back to Top
Gun Lake
Friday, July 23rd – 5:00pm
Mark Fain wrote some songs. Ben and Aaron from Lightning Love liked them and agreed to play along. Now they’re recording an album for you to listen to and playing shows for you to attend.
Danny Kline’s songs have been called "ghostly" and "medicinal" by audiences over the years. With scenes of desert highway landscapes, bloody cornstalks, and coal-faced switchmen his song-writing is that of an American hymn. Kline’s music has been heard throughout the U.S. and Europe, on stages with the likes of Joe Henry, Emmylou Harris, and Buddy Miller. Whether in bands like Delta88 and The Original Sinners, or playing solo, Kline’s approach is to let the moment reinvent the song. To allow the people and places within the songs to be seen with a fresh eye. Danny is currently working on his third full-length album (his first solo record) and preparing for the release of an EP produced by Joe Henry.
Cat Canyon & the Captivators
Friday, July 23rd – 7:00pm
Cat Canyon and the Captivators are a full throttle Rockabilly, Rock, Blues, and Swing trio. Their live shows are energy packed and their following is growing with each performance. Cat and the Captivators will be bringing you a blend of original and cover songs so get ready to get up off your chairs and dance, enjoy, and be captivated by Cat Canyon and the Captivators. www.catcanyonband.com Back to Top
Third Coast Kings
Friday, July 23rd – 8:00pm
The Third Coast Kings are a proper deep funk and soul outfit. In the tradition of sixties and seventies funk groups, the Kings detonate with an explosive sonic force that is guaranteed to make you move. Their gritty sound is the raw concoction of horn driven hooks, devastating rhythm and an overall tightness that has made them a favorite in the Metro Detroit area. They draw influence from the great James Brown, as well as the many artists whose music was carefully salvaged by the crate digging revolution. Most importantly, the Kings make it a point to remain true to the style and technique of playing proper deep funk and soul.
Robert James is a children’s singer and songwriter, based in West Bloomfield, Michigan, aspiring to revolutionize the children’s entertainment industry. He recently released his debut album, “Get on the Train,” which has been met with rave reviews. His music is centered on foundational building blocks, laden with fun, wholesome lyrics, inspiration, imagination and creativity. Robert studied classically with private instructors at Interlochen Center for the Arts. A student of classical piano and percussion, a self-taught guitarist and a perpetual student of world music, Robert has music in his soul. Robert is compelled to share his music with generations of music enthusiasts to come, with the hopes of establishing musical foundations that will last a lifetime. This is his passion.
Ann Arbor Music Center
Saturday, July 24th – 1:00pm
The Ann Arbor Music Center was founded in 1998 by Alex Johnson, a local guitarist, musician, composer and teacher. The programs at the AAMC are designed to offer students a well-rounded music education that is rich in the study of music fundamentals and application of those skills. The best known of these programs is the Rock Band School where students gain experience in a real rock band setting, guided by an experienced, professional musician. The students of the Ann Arbor Music Center are taught to be versatile, literate, confident and genuinely prepared for any musical setting.
Rampage Swing Orchestra Saturday, July 24th – 3:00pm
The Rampage Swing Orchestra has one purpose: to play high energy swing music that will keep you on the dance floor all night long. Our large repertoire of swing music from the ‘20s to present day includes songs from Jimmy Dorsey, Count Basie, Duke Ellington, Nat King Cole, and many of the greatest American songwriters of the 20th century. Our close contacts with the swing community allow us to pick just the right range of tempos and styles that will keep dancers on their feet all night long.
National Ghost Saturday, July 24th – 4:00pm ”A stew that features exquisite harmonies and excellent songwriting as core ingredients.” --Metro Times
National Ghost was formed in 2006, comprised of members from various prominent Detroit acts. Their music is eclectic and original; rich vocal harmonies rounded out by well-thought arrangements, and top notch instrumentation. Careful and well executed, yet open and boundless at times, the band strives to forge new ground with nods to the elders as well. Each musician brings their unique background and ideas into the fold. They write about everything; conspiratorial reptiles, loving tributes to both heroes and foes, and ice cream. They bring ambitious, unfettered enthusiasm to each song they play as their set smoothly glides from melodic rock to sonic groove and beyond. National Ghost is currently in studio working on a follow up to last winter’s debut disc.
Instrumentation:
James Church - Guitar, Keys, Vocals;
John Mabilia - Guitar and Vocals;
Stewart Preston - Bass and Vocals;
Randy Nelson - Drums and Percussion;
Graham Strachan - Lead Vocals, Harmonica and Percussion
A collaboration of diverse musicians inspired by the spirituality of music, NoteWorthy’s style is a fusion of old-school and new, and appeals to a wide spectrum of tastes. Whether they are playing a bluesy rendition of a classic hit or an original creation, NoteWorthy keeps it raw, intense and real.
