First Night Concerts on Boston Common

by Diane Akerley
(Holbrook, MA)

Boston Pops Concert on Boston Common on a Rainy September Afternoon

Boston Pops Concert on Boston Common on a Rainy September Afternoon

For many years, you had great concerts on Boston Common during early afternoon and evening
such as Jonas Brothers/Kiki Palmer/Drew Seeley. Any any chance of something like that again? We have been disappointed for the
last few years.


Susan's response: Hi Diane - As far as I'm aware, based on the First Night schedule of events (http://schedule.firstnight.org/), all of the concerts are inside this year. There are a LOT of concerts on the schedule - perhaps roughly half of the 200 or so First Night events are concerts, so there will be something wonderful to hear at practically all times during the day. If the weather is bad, we'll all be thankful they're indoors!

Although I don't know why the concerts are now all staged inside (Boston Discovery Guide isn't associated in any way with the group that produces First Night), I would guess that the reasons may be weather-related. Performing in very cold, not to speak of wet (snow, sleet, rain) or windy conditions can be extremely difficult both musically and physically.

Lots of the city's music and cultural institutions, as well as churches with special organs and other musical programs, now participate in First Night, so perhaps it's now more feasible to hold most events inside. This year, roughly 35 different venues are taking part, including places like Symphony Hall, Berklee, and the New England Conservatory.



I also enjoy the outdoor concerts on the Common during the summer and am a huge fan of Shakespeare on the Common during July and August and of course the Boston Pops' July 4th concert on the Esplanade - but I admit to being a total wimp when it comes to standing outside in frigid conditions, as has happened on a few past First Nights. I'm sure that the group that produces this event must have to juggle space availability, possible weather conditions/disasters, and performers' requirements.

There will be a lot of music, as well as other types of performers, in the outdoor Grand Procession parade that kicks off at 5:30 from the Hynes Auditorium, marches down Boylston Street toward the Public Garden, and then winds around Charles and Beacon Streets.

Have a great time at First Night, and Happy New Year!

Susan
Boston Discovery Guide

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First Night Concerts on Boston Common

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Dec 27, 2011
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by: First Night

First Night never had concerts on the Common. There did used to be a Radio Disney-sponsored event not affiliated with First Night on City Hall Plaza, but that hasn't happened in years.

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