A socially distanced, limited seating, outdoor concert series.
Join us on Friday, October 8th at 7:00 pm for a picnic casual outdoor concert at Wildwood's Butler Gazebo. Online Ticket sales end 2 hours before the concert begins. Walk up tickets are available. This concert features Jazz artist Merlon Devine.
A contemporary jazz saxophonist inspired by his abiding faith in God, Merlon Devine is a lyrical soloist with a smooth, groove-based sound. Devine often performs in church, and sees his role as helping set the tone for praise & worship services. A native of Little Rock, Arkansas, he was raised in a musical, gospel-loving family with a mom who sang and a father who played guitar. Along with his nine siblings, Devine grew up singing in church, and first began playing saxophone in school around age ten. After launching his professional career, he caught the attention of keyboardist Ben Tankard, who utilized him for several recordings. Also, there were opening slots for artists like Kirk Whalum, Donnie McClurkin, Fred Hammond, and others. As a solo artist, Devine debuted with Due Season in 2002. Since then, he has released a handful of well-received independent albums including 2004's Breathe, 2006's holiday-themed Unwrap the Gift, and 2008's Set the Atmosphere, Vol. 1. Love Divine followed in 2014. In 2017, Devine's sixth studio album, Now, peaked in the Top 20 of Billboard's Contemporary Jazz Albums chart.
Bring your own blankets and chairs. Concessions available at event for donations. In the event of rain, concert will be moved to Wildwood's Pavilion or to the Cabe Festival Theatre. Please bring a facemask to wear when social distancing is not possible and for use in indoor facilities.