Branford Festival

The 39th Annual Branford Festival Returns in 2023!

Schedule:

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Town Hall Stage

5:30 – 6:15 p.m. ~ Branford High School Choir, directed by Mike Martone Jr.

The Branford High School Concert Choir is a mixed choir offered to sophomores through
Seniors. They have been around for over 40 years, improving the quality of their music with each throughout the duration of that time. The ensemble is predominantly student-led. Section leaders teach the music and the choir officers assist in the planning of events. This group’s goal is to encourage students to be self-sufficient learners while also emphasizing the importance of looking at things from another person’s perspective. This core belief is reflected in their diverse Music selections and teaching philosophy which is highly valued and employed by their director Mike Martone Jr. They explore how music plays various roles in different cultures while diving into the origins of the songs they are learning. They hope to share their love of music by telling a story though song, inspiring communities with each performance.

6:45 – 8:15 p.m ~ FreePlay

Freeplay known as “Connecticut’s Hottest Party Band” has been entertaining up and down the shoreline since 2006. The band has evolved over the years, featuring front man Jim Pino Jr. on Saxophone, Harmonica, and Vocals; Musical Director Joey “Pods” Podsiadlo on Guitar and Vocals, World Class Musicians Jerry Langley on Bass and Vocals, Ricky Marshall on Drums and Vocals, Musical Educator Ken Trapp on Keys, and Sammy Mendez on Congas and Percussion. Never the same show twice, the band is known for playing uncharted “Funkified” takes on audience requests. With infectious 4 part harmonies and deep dance grooves, they are called upon regularly for corporate and private events, and larger festivals. They are also known for starting and hosting the Beach Jam for Cancer Patient Care at the Westbrook Elks Club now in it’s 14th year www.beachjam.net

8:45 – 11:00 p.m. ~ The Linda Rondstadt Experience

American Idol Star Tristan McIntosh creates a stunning portrayal of Linda Ronstadt in the prime of her career. Supported by a superb backing band, Tristan’s formidable vocal talent and stage presence will transport you to a time when Linda Ronstadt ruled the airwaves as one of the most popular female vocalists in music history. The Linda Ronstadt Experience takes you on a Musical Journey of Chart Topping Smash Hits, “You’re No Good”, “When Will I Be Loved”, “That’ll Be The Day”, “Blue Bayou” and many more classic hits by Jackson Brown, Elvis Costello, Tom Petty, Neil Young, Warren Zevon and Little Feat to name a few ! Come out and revel in the songs Linda Ronstadt brought to life so beautifully by The Linda Ronstadt Experience. American Idol Finalist Tristan McIntosh takes you on an emotional ride of Purity, Power, and Heartbreak as she soars through these songs as though they live inside her just singing to the heavens.

Kids Activities

Kids’ activities take place on the back part of the Green. Lots of new and fun activities coming to the Kids Space Tent!

Hours:

Friday ~ 6:00pm to 10:00 p.m.