Listening to live music is one of life’s most delightful pleasures, and Johns Creek offers several opportunities for its residents to enjoy musical performances. From the Johns Creek Symphony Orchestra to the Newtown Park Amphitheater concert series, if you love folk, rock, country or instrumental ensembles, we’ve probably got you covered.
The Johns Creek Symphony Orchestra is the only professional symphony orchestra outside of Atlanta. Its instrumentalists average 16 years’ experience in professional orchestras and hold advanced degrees, diplomas and international training. Led by Maestro and founder, J. Wayne Baughman, the orchestra brings the citizens of Johns Creek the world’s greatest symphonic music performed at the highest artistic level. JCSO’s season runs from fall to spring, and includes multiple performances. The Johns Creek Symphony Orchestra adds heft and credibility to Johns Creek’s arts and culture.
One of the things I’m most proud of is the Newtown Park Amphitheater Concert Series. Our Recreation and Parks team has recruited some top-notch local talent, including the popular band, Cryin N Drivin. People who attended our inaugural series last summer especially liked tribute bands playing familiar songs, so we’re bringing in bands like the Molly Ringwalds, a 1980s-era act from Sheffield, England, that dresses like many favorite performers, such as DEVO and Queen. The Billy Joel tribute band The Stranger, featuring native Long Islander Mike Santoro, and Electric Avenue, another popular band whose repertoire includes oldies, rock, disco, Motown and other genres.
The series opened June 20 and closes Saturday, September 19, with the renowned ‘90s band, Drivin N Cryin, whose album “Fly Me Courageous” album went gold. The Atlanta-based group has toured with Neil Young and Soul Asylum, and has remained well-loved in the Southeast.
If you haven’t been to the amphitheater, it’s a great summer experience. It’s an open-air, covered venue with terraced lawns for picnics. Bring your own food and drink (no alcohol, please). Or you can buy great food and adult beverages from one of the food trucks at the show. And best of all, the concerts are free.
The Autrey Mill Unplugged Concert Series started earlier this year and offers singer-songwriters performing in historic Warsaw Church at Autrey Mill Nature Preserve and Heritage Center. The 150-year-old church seats about 80 people and provides an intimate setting for enjoying acoustic music. Musical styles range from folk to country and soft rock. Shows are monthly through the summer. The concerts, start at 8:00 p.m. with pre-concert complimentary light refreshments plus beer and wine for purchase at 7:00 p.m. If you haven’t seen Autrey Mill’s Heritage Village at night, it is worth your while. With the old buildings and soft lighting, it really is magical.
They say music is a trigger for memories. I know sometimes I hear a particular song and I’m transported back in time. So gather up your friends and your family and take advantage of these great concert opportunities and make some memories!
to your business!