LIVE MUSIC HAUNTS Where to hear local and touring musicians around the North By Brighid Driscoll Live music is abundant in northern Michigan, and with it plenty of places to sit back, relax, and enjoy with friends and strangers alike. From farms, parks, and beaches to wineries, bars, and clubs, there’s an atmosphere for all. We’ve chosen a sampling of NoMi’s coolest live music haunts to make the most of these fleeting summer days.
SCENIC: Bonobo Winery, Old Mission Peninsula
If you like a glass of wine paired with your jams, look no further than Bonobo in Traverse City. This Old Mission winery offers a bonus of vineyard and Grand Traverse Bay views while you tune in. The wine is grown and made on-site, made further appealing by having celebrity co-owner Amy Smart’s name attached to it (Rat Race, anyone?). Every Friday evening, a musician or DJ performs on the Bonobo patio. Musicians are Michigan-based and start playing around 5:30pm and wrap by 7:30pm. No tickets or cover fees, just good wine with friends. Coming soon, folk singer-songwriter Luke Woltanski (Aug. 12), the bluesey Sam & Bill (Aug. 19), and eclectic acoustic pop duo Rhett & John (Aug. 26). Small plates and charcuterie are available to order while you sit back and sip. If you can’t choose between red and white, tastings are $20 and fun, with a knowledgeable staff member to guide you. Check their website for their upcoming music lineup at bonobowinery.com/ events-2.
SCENT-SATIONAL: Lavender Hill Farm, Boyne City
Immerse yourself in the purple waves (and soothing scents) of Lavender Hill Farm in Boyne City. Their live music series, simply called The Series, is held in a renovated 1920s barn, where local and traveling talent grace the stage every summer from June until September. Some will remember the previous barn live music series at Aten Place, which had a rich history of live music that grew from a house concert and potluck dinner combo back in 1995. More dishes and more people began showing up, until 23 years and some 200 shows later when Lavender Hill Farm took over continuing the tradition at their farm. The Series intentionally chooses a variety of musical performers that will give everyone something to look forward to. Upcoming acts include the Tom Petty tribute band The Insiders (Aug. 13), slide guitar expert Mark Lavengood and his band (Sept. 3), and Charlevoix-based Horton Creek Bluegrass (Sept. 4). Visit their website for tickets and more information at lavenderhillfarm.com/the-series.
10 • aug 08, 2022 • Northern Express Weekly
ARTSY: Michigan Legacy Art Park, Thompsonville
Located within woodlands near Crystal Mountain, Michigan Legacy Art Park (MLAP) makes for a magical outdoor music experience. This Benzie County treasure sits on a 30-acre preserve, and throughout the acreage are over 50 sculptures that mesmerize and educate, along with a trail system that allows visitors to see them up close. Early on in the trail is an amphitheater where MLAP is currently hosting their Summer Sounds Concert Series. Every Friday night, a musician plays from 7pm to 9pm. The last show of the summer is this week on Aug. 12 with Hatchwing Rider, which brings a mix of Americana, rock, country, soul, and blues. Early bird tickets are $10 and available on their website at michlegacyartpark.org/summersounds-2022, or at the door for $15. Kids 12 and under are free. Make a night of it by arriving early to explore the trail and bringing a picnic basket to the show. (Pro tip: Outdoor seating is rustic, so bring chair pads or blankets!)
