'The Sound of Music" has nothing on Long Island, where every summer not only the hills, but the parks, beaches, fields and even parking lots are alive with the sound of music. From bouncy pop to classic rock, from country to classical, and from blues and jazz to world music, you'll find tunes for every taste. And a devoted music lover can find a free outdoor concert every night of the week.
So tote those folding chairs and blankets, and pack up a picnic dinner or snack: As they say, the best things in life are free.
Summer Showcase Concert Series
Silversmith's Corner, Southold
631-765-3598
northfork.org/calendar
When: 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays through Aug. 27
Presented by a small group of devoted volunteers, with help from Southold Town and the state Council on the Arts, these shows offer East End residents and visitors homey concerts and broader musical offerings. On tap this week: Imagine you're living "The Music Man" at "An Evening of Barbershop Harmony." Coming up: Bluegrass, original guitar music and the traditional season-ender on Aug. 27, the Greenport Band.
Music Under the Stars
Town of Oyster Bay (various locations)
516-797-7900
oysterbaytown.com
When: 8 p.m. daily except Sundays through Aug. 12
Oyster Bay's music fest may be under the stars, but it also boasts a huge roster of stars: This summer, appearances have included Tony Orlando, Eartha Kitt, Melissa Manchester and Air Supply. But the fun's not over. Tuesday's 8 p.m. concert at John J. Burns Town Park in Massapequa boasts Gloria Gaynor celebrating the 30th anniversary of her anthem "I Will Survive." On Wednesday, Billy Joel tribute band Big Shot is joined by prize-winning Long Island band Paging Grace at Theodore Roosevelt Beach in Oyster Bay. The Aug. 12 season- ender features the Spin Doctors at Hicksville High School's field.
Family Summer Concert Series
Village Green, Smithtown Library, 1 North Country Rd., Smithtown
631-265-2072
smithlib.org
When: 8 p.m. Thursdays through Aug. 21
The Friends of the Smithtown Library launched its concert series four years ago, and it's grown so popular you need to get there an hour early to ensure a good view from your blanket or folding chair. The lineup features mainly tribute bands -- Risky Business plays an oldies show this week, followed on Aug. 14 by Streetfighter, a Rolling Stones cover band. Strawberry Fields wrap up the series.
