Peabody readies for Summer Concert Series

PEABODY – Peabody?s 16th annual Summer Concert Series kicks off next week with a blend of performances that are sure to satisfy everyone?s musical appetite.Festivities begin Sunday, June 29 with North Shore Acappella singing classic tunes from the 1940s to current hits of today. The 5-member, award-winning group has played in Peabody for 12 out of the last 16 summer events. Their unique blend of voices come from area natives Tommy Duarte, Paul Lopes, Jimmy Martin, Vinny Straccia, and Jimmy Caserta.Dick Kaplan?s Excellent Jazz Band will be back to spice things up a bit on July 13 with their performance mix of swing, classic rock, and traditional jazz.?We got so many great reviews last year,” said Mary Bellavance of the Mayor?s Office. “People just really enjoyed them. They?re a real fun jazz band.”Former Tanner City Idols winners Joe Ruggiero and Robin Rossignoll will join forces as R&R Entertainment on July 20, and audience members can catch a glimpse of the new 2008 Tanner City Idols on Aug. 10.The Brian Maes Band will hit the stage a week later on Aug. 17.?We try to work the schedule so we have a little something for everyone,” said Bellavance. “(They?re) one of those right down the middle groups.”Bellavance likened Maes to the styles of folk singer James Taylor.Closing out this year?s 6-event series is the Beantown Swing Orchestra who first got their start in Peabody three years ago.?This might be the last year they play for us,” said Bellavance. “They?ve kind of made the big time.” Bellavance said the city took a chance booking the newly formed 18-member big band years ago and were pleased at how well they went over.All events will take place from 6-8 p.m. on the Leather City Common in downtown Peabody. They?re free and open to the public.?Last year we switched from Sunday to Thursday, but that didn?t work out as well,” said Bellavance. “We decided to go back to the Sunday night?It?s a nice way to end the weekend.”