The Summer Concert Series was started by one of the four senior coalitions that merged to become NewBridge Madison. In 1993, the North/Eastside Senior Coalition (NESCO) initiated the Summer Concert Series at Warner Park in order to bring people together and provide older adults in the area with free, high-quality summer entertainment. The trial run was a success.
These concerts not only brought out older adults who were members of the coalition but also many individuals and families from the community. Concert attendance has increased from 650 (total for all six concerts) in the initial year to over 2,500 the past year few years. Now the concerts attract not only older adults but also younger adults with disabilities as well as families with young children.
Hundreds of older adults and families have come to love these concerts each year. It has become a fabric of the local community. “The summer concert series is our (NewBridge) opportunity to give back to our community,” said Deenah Givens, Program Coordinator. “It’s such a joy to see people dancing and having a good time! And, so fun to see older adults enjoying who wouldn’t normally be able to attend an event like this.”
2026 lineup
2026 lineup
Universal Sound
June 8th
Universal Sound has been a staple of the Madison music scene since 1971.
The band performs a variety of material, as is evident with a quick review of their current song list where they implement two, three and four-part harmonies in addition to their outstanding instrumentation. All four members started their careers as professional musicians in their teens and collectively have countless years of expertise, entertaining the public at various venues. Their musicianship and vocal abilities have made USound a consensus top three group in Madison Magazine for several years running, and has enjoyed popularity throughout the state.
M Trane
June 15th
One of the Coolest Bands in Madison
Get ready for an unforgettable evening of soul-soaked jazz and rhythmic grooves as MTrane Plus takes the stage. Known for their rich percussion, multi-instrumental flair, and deep roots in Madison’s spoken word and cultural scene, this band delivers a sound that’s both timeless and electric. Whether you're a jazz aficionado or just looking to vibe with good music and great company, this is the place to be.
Orquesta SalSoul del Mad
June 22nd
Madison’s Premiere Latin Fusion Band
Bringing Emotions To Life Through Music Salsa and Soul, They combine the best of two cultural worlds bringing together the fire of latin rhythm and the groove of soul. Orquesta Salsoul Del Mad will have young and old dancing in the aisle and on the ceiling. Voted best latin performer of the year by MAMA (Madison Area Music Award) as well as a 2022 and 2023, 2024, WAMI (Wisconsin Area Music Industry) award nominee. This Orquesta is made up of some of the best local musicians representing the international diversity of Madison. They were first introduced to the public at the 2015 Latino Musical Festival and are looking to book other venues appropriate for a 15 piece group.
Gin Chocolate & Bottle Rockets
July 13th
A TRIBUTE TO THE TRIO…DOLLY, LINDA & EMMYLOU
Gin, Chocolate & Bottle Rockets crafted a tribute to Dolly Parton, Linda Ronstadt and Emmylou Harris titled “Legends in Harmony,” that boasts some of these artists’ greatest hits, delivered with GCBR’s signature powerful vocal blend. This 2-set, multimedia show features songs like 9 to 5, You’re No Good, Desperado and Two More Bottles of Wine.
https://www.ginchocolateandbottlerockets.com/dolly/linda/emmylou
Ladies Must Swing
July 20th
A BIG BAND IN TUNE
Our story is about inspiration and encouragement given by lovers of good music and finding out what entertains and makes them happy. Over 27 years ago, LMS became Ladies Must Swing which came from Linda Marty Schmitz, President of the Madison Jazz Society, which also gave us our very first performance opportunity!
The presence of women playing jazz has gotten a lot of attention over the last decade and we are grateful for that. We intend to keep the musical momentum going and invite you to come see us, hear us, dance to us, celebrate with us, and re-live history!
