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COLUMBIANA -- The city's annual summer concert series in Firestone Park will begin this weekend.
The series, organized by the Columbiana Park Board, is free to the public and features a wide range of live music from area and nationally known bands.
Concerts are scheduled from 2 to 4 p.m. at the gazebo two Sundays a month in June, July and August. Concerts are not held during inclement weather.
Park board member and concert chairman Greg Gustafson said the concerts will open with the Boardman High School Band this Sunday, June 11.
"The band has some amazing talent, both vocal and instrumental," Gustafson said.
Gustafson, who has chaired the concert series the last eight years, said he searches out a variety of music with entertainers that will perform country, rock and oldies, folk, blues and hits from the past and present.
"Some of the performers have toured the country, like the House Band, and some have made CDs and recorded in Nashville, like Leanne Binder. Others are extremely popular local bands," he said.
The House Band is scheduled to perform on July 9 and Leanne Binder & Friends will perform July 23.
Gustafson said the House Band is usually the largest draw for the concert series.
"This talented group is amazing with Mark DeVicchio, a lead singer that can do it all," he said.
Anyone who likes old fashioned country music will enjoy Sarah Warner & Friends, which will close out the series on Aug. 27, he added.
Other performances include a local duo known as The Conkle Brothers that feature original songs and cover songs, while the Rt. 45 Band will feature country and western and pop, with lead singer Karen Kelly.
The Conkle Brothers will perform on Jun 25 while the Rt. 45 band is scheduled for Aug. 13.
"With the variety of talent we provide there is something for everyone to enjoy a relaxing afternoon in one of the prettiest parks in the area," Gustafson said.
Concerts are funded by sponsors, grants and donations. Donations are also collected the day of each concert.
Gustafson said the largest sponsor is the Columbiana Community Foundation.
"Their generosity has allowed us to continue each summer with the summer concert series. Many local businesses also contribute greatly for which we are extremely grateful," he said.
In addition, several local churches also provide sponsorships as well as free ice cream and water during select days.
Free ice cream will be served during the June 25 and Aug. 13 performances.
"It's just a great afternoon of entertainment that we as a board and community are happy to be able to provide," Gustafson said.
He also thanked Tim Reash, park and cemetery manager, and his staff for their upkeep of the park.