The Eastport Oyster Boys in Concert

A Very Special FallFest Event - Photo-Joe Evans

One of the Chesapeake Bay's most beloved bands is coming to Rock Hall for a very special FallFest celebration as The Eastport Oyster Boys return to The Mainstay on Saturday, October 10th.

After spending the day enjoying one of Rock Hall's most popular annual traditions, make plans to cap off your FallFest weekend with an unforgettable evening of music, laughter, storytelling, and Chesapeake Bay spirit. This promises to be one of the most anticipated concerts of the season, and with the Oyster Boys' devoted following, we strongly encourage purchasing tickets early.

For nearly three decades, Them Eastport Oyster Boys have proudly served as the Musical Goodwill Ambassadors of Annapolis, the Maritime Republic of Eastport, and the Chesapeake Bay, delighting audiences throughout the region and around the world with their unique blend of "music and mirth." Their performances celebrate the people, traditions, history, and unmistakable character of life along the Chesapeake while mixing outstanding musicianship with plenty of good humor.

No two Oyster Boys concerts are ever quite the same. Armed with guitars, fiddle, banjo, keyboards, hammered dulcimer, trombone, melodica, and a boatload of stories, the band effortlessly sails from maritime ballads and island rhythms to Celtic tunes, Americana, swing, boogie, rock and roll, and their own unforgettable originals. Every performance is filled with spontaneous laughter, audience participation, and the kind of easygoing camaraderie that has earned them a loyal following throughout the Chesapeake region.

The Washington Post described their performances as a joyful mix of "droll wit and a veritable cornucopia of musical styles," while Chesapeake Bay Magazine noted that their music reflects "the diversity of Chesapeake culture, its character and its characters." For thousands of fans, the Oyster Boys have become the soundtrack of life on the Bay.

There could hardly be a more fitting way to celebrate FallFest than with an evening of Chesapeake music performed by one of the region's most treasured bands. Whether you're a longtime fan or discovering them for the first time, you'll quickly understand why audiences return again and again for another helping of Oyster Boy music and mirth.

This is expected to be one of the hottest tickets of the fall season. We encourage everyone to purchase tickets early and reserve your seats before this special FallFest concert sells out.

Join us on Saturday, October 10th, for The Eastport Oyster Boys in Concert — A Very Special FallFest Event. It's the perfect ending to a perfect day in Rock Hall.

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Buffalo Rose Returns to The Mainstay

The Mainstay is delighted to welcome back one of the most exciting young acoustic bands on today's Americana scene when Buffalo Rose returns to Rock Hall on Saturday, October 17th as part of the Hedgelawn Foundation Bluegrass Series.

Following a memorable Mainstay debut, Buffalo Rose quickly became an audience favorite with their remarkable musicianship, breathtaking vocal harmonies, and fresh, contemporary approach to acoustic music. Their return engagement promises another unforgettable evening filled with soaring melodies, infectious energy, and heartfelt songwriting.

Hailing from Pittsburgh, Buffalo Rose has earned national recognition for its vibrant blend of Americana, folk, bluegrass, pop, and soul influences. Rather than simply recreating traditional acoustic music, the six-piece ensemble brings a modern spirit to the genre with inventive arrangements, outstanding instrumental performances, and three exceptional lead vocalists whose harmonies have become the band's signature sound. Their music is both sophisticated and accessible, equally at home in an intimate listening room or on a major festival stage.

The band has shared the stage with artists including The Wood Brothers, Tyler Childers, Billy Bragg, The Travelin' McCourys, Lake Street Dive, The Lone Bellow, and The Infamous Stringdusters, while earning accolades at major showcases including South by Southwest and Folk Alliance International. Their collaboration with legendary songwriter Tom Paxton produced the acclaimed Rabbit EP, and their original music continues to receive national attention for its creativity and originality.

What truly makes Buffalo Rose special, however, is the joy they bring to the stage. Their concerts effortlessly move from exuberant, foot-tapping numbers to intimate ballads, all delivered with warmth, humor, and an unmistakable sense of camaraderie. Every member contributes to a rich tapestry of sound that leaves audiences smiling long after the final encore.

If you joined us for one of their previous performances at The Mainstay, you already know why we've been eager to welcome them back. If this will be your first opportunity to experience Buffalo Rose, prepare for an evening that celebrates everything we love about live acoustic music—beautiful harmonies, remarkable musicianship, thoughtful songwriting, and the shared connection between performers and audience.

Join us on Saturday, October 17th for the return of Buffalo Rose and discover why this extraordinary ensemble is one of the brightest rising stars in contemporary Americana. Thanks to the generous support of The Hedgelawn Foundation, The Mainstay is proud to continue bringing outstanding bluegrass and acoustic artists to Maryland's Eastern Shore.

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Ramilya Saubanova & Evanghelina Ciobanu

Hedgelawn Classical Music Series in Memory of Judy Kohl

Sunday, October 18 • 4:00 PM

The Mainstay opens its new classical music season with an afternoon of extraordinary music featuring pianist Ramilya Saubanova and cellist Evanghelina Ciobanu, two gifted musicians joining together for a program that spans centuries of great classical repertoire.

The concert will showcase both artists in duo and solo performances, offering audiences the opportunity to experience the remarkable warmth, power and intimacy of the piano and cello in The Mainstay’s listening-room setting.

The program includes music from J.S. Bach’s timeless Cello Suites, along with cello sonatas by Johannes Brahms and Dmitri Shostakovich, two composers who explored the expressive possibilities of the cello and piano in dramatically different ways. The afternoon will also look beyond the traditional repertoire with a solo piano work by composer Mark Maarder and music for cello by contemporary composer and cellist Andrea Casarrubios.

From the elegance of Bach to the Romantic richness of Brahms, the intensity of Shostakovich and the voices of contemporary composers, this promises to be a beautifully varied program and a wonderful beginning to another season of classical music at The Mainstay.

Join us on Sunday, October 18 at 4:00 PM for an intimate afternoon with two exceptional musicians and some of the most expressive music in the classical repertoire.

Dick Durham 84: A Sunday Afternoon Jazz Celebration

Some performers simply become part of the fabric of a place, and Dick Durham is certainly one of those performers at The Mainstay. His history with our stage stretches all the way back to The Mainstay’s beginnings, and through the years he has remained one of our most requested, most entertaining and most remarkable musical friends. The Mainstay’s own historical roster places Dick among the distinguished jazz artists who have helped define the venue over the years.

On Sunday, October 25 at 4:00 PM, we’ll continue a favorite Mainstay tradition by celebrating Dick’s 84th birthday with an afternoon of great jazz, good humor and the kind of musical spontaneity that has made his concerts so memorable.

Dick is a true jazz piano virtuoso whose influences include Erroll Garner, Oscar Peterson and Teddy Wilson. His career has included opening for the Count Basie Orchestra and sharing bills with such greats as Stanley Turrentine, Grover Washington Jr. and Billy Cobham. A pianist, composer and arranger, he has twice received Maryland Governor’s Citations for excellence in the performing arts.

For this birthday celebration, Dick will be surrounded by some very good musical company. Max Murray returns on upright bass, a longtime Durham collaborator and highly respected veteran whose career includes service with the U.S. Naval Academy Band. Greg Burrows brings his signature drive and swing to the drums; Greg is a bandleader and recording artist in his own right whose résumé includes New York sessions, television and film work, international performances and the Blue Man Group. Rounding out the quartet is guitarist Shawn Qaissaunee, adding another musical voice to what promises to be a particularly lively afternoon.

This won't simply be another jazz concert. It’s a birthday party, a reunion and a celebration of one of the musicians who has helped make The Mainstay what it is. Expect swing, improvisation, musical surprises, a few stories and plenty of Dick Durham personality along the way.

Come spend a Sunday afternoon with an old friend and four terrific musicians as we raise a musical toast to Dick Durham at 84.

Sunday, October 25 • 4:00 PM • Tickets $25

Myrna Sislen and Jeffrey Meyerriecks, founding members of the acclaimed Washington Guitar Quintet, reunite for a special musical celebration of Brazilian Soul, the landmark 1981 collaboration between legendary guitarists Charlie Byrd and Laurindo Almeida.

Drawing upon the irresistible rhythms and sophisticated melodies of Brazilian choro and bossa nova, Myrna and Jeffrey recreate the warmth, intimacy, and remarkable interplay that made the original recording so memorable. The program also carries a particularly meaningful connection to Charlie Byrd, with whom both musicians shared a rich musical history through their years with the Washington Guitar Quintet.

For this very special Mainstay performance, the duo will be joined by two outstanding special guests and Mainstay favorites: Chuck Redd on drums and Amy Shook on bass. Together, this exceptional quartet will bring added depth, swing, and rhythmic energy to an afternoon celebrating the sophisticated sounds of Brazilian jazz.

Elegant, rhythmic, and filled with the unmistakable spirit of Brazil, Brazilian Soul celebrates not only an extraordinary recording, but also the enduring musical legacy of Charlie Byrd and Laurindo Almeida through musicians with a genuine connection to that remarkable musical tradition.

Sunday, November 1 at 4:00 PM
Tickets: $25

The Mainstay Celebrates the Harlem Renaissance!

The Mainstay will step back into one of the most exciting and influential periods in American cultural history on Saturday, November 7, with a special Harlem Renaissance Centennial Celebration beginning at 7:30 PM.

Featuring Kent County’s own Karensomerville Band with New York City jazz and soul vocalist Donnie T. Smith, the evening will celebrate the music, energy, elegance and creative spirit of the Jazz Age. Guests are encouraged to join the fun by dressing in their finest 1920s or 1930s-inspired attire.

The Harlem Renaissance was a remarkable period of cultural growth and innovation that flourished during the 1920s and 1930s. African American writers, musicians, artists and dancers created work that transformed American culture. Jazz and blues were at the heart of the movement, as Harlem clubs, ballrooms and speakeasies became gathering places for new music, dancing and creative expression.

The program follows a successful Harlem Renaissance-inspired celebration held in Caroline County last April. Presented as the Riverside Speakeasy at the Market Street Public House in Denton, the event brought Karen Somerville and Donnie T. Smith together for an evening of live music, conversation and vintage elegance. The enthusiastic response inspired this presentation on The Mainstay stage.

A native of Worton Point, Karen Somerville is a vocalist, songwriter, producer and arranger whose music encompasses jazz, gospel, blues, folk and a cappella singing. She is known throughout the region for her work with the Karensomerville Band and the acclaimed vocal ensemble Sombarkin’.

Somerville is also a local historian dedicated to preserving Kent County’s African American heritage. Her work includes “A Legacy of Praise and Worship in the African American Church,” a documentary exploring the history and influence of African American churches in the region.

Donnie T. Smith is a New York City-based vocalist and songwriter known for his powerful baritone voice and expressive performances. His music blends jazz, R&B, soul, gospel and contemporary influences. Smith studied jazz and contemporary music at The New School’s College of Performing Arts, where he now teaches.

Smith has appeared with artists including Andrea Bocelli, The Eagles, Kenny Loggins and Gavin DeGraw. He has performed at Madison Square Garden, Barclays Center, City Winery and other major New York venues, as well as on “Live with Kelly and Ryan” and “Good Day New York.”

The musicians planned for the evening include:

• Karen Somerville, vocals
• Donnie T. Smith, vocals and emcee
• Gerry Werner, piano
• Jeff Davis, bass
• Greg Burrows, drums
• Rob Diener, trumpet

Together, the ensemble will revisit the swing, sophistication and soulful expression associated with the Harlem Renaissance while celebrating the movement’s lasting influence.

The evening is generously sponsored by the Durham Family, whose support helps The Mainstay continue presenting outstanding jazz and culturally significant programming.

Period attire is encouraged but not required. Flapper dresses, beads, cloche hats, pinstriped suits, suspenders, bow ties and other vintage touches are welcome.

The Harlem Renaissance Centennial Celebration begins at 7:30 PM on Saturday, November 7. Tickets are $30 and are available at www.mainstayrockhall.org or by calling 410-639-9133.

Come step into the bold elegance of Harlem’s golden age for an evening when the music swings, the room sparkles and history comes alive.

The Mainstay Players Present a Tribute to American Bandstand

Turn up the music, clear the dance floor and get ready to travel through four unforgettable decades of American popular music!

On Friday, November 13, The Mainstay Players will return to the stage with a lively new production celebrating American Bandstand, the legendary television program that brought the latest music, dances and performers into American homes for generations.

This year’s show will be especially fitting as the nation celebrates America’s 250th birthday. The Players will perform a crowd-pleasing collection of hits from the 1950s through the 1980s, revisiting the songs and dance crazes that helped create the soundtrack of American life. Audiences can expect familiar favorites, great harmonies, plenty of surprises and many opportunities to sing and dance along.

Guiding the evening will be the ever-entertaining Brian Moore and Leslie Sea of WCTR Radio. Together, they will bring their humor, energy and unmistakable chemistry to the Mainstay stage, helping the show capture the fun and spontaneity that made American Bandstand a cultural institution.

This will mark the fifth major production by The Mainstay Players, following their popular tributes to the Beatles, the music of Laurel Canyon, New York City and the Grand Ole Opry.

The Mainstay Players are a talented and enthusiastic group of Mainstay performers and supporters who volunteer their time and musical abilities to create entertaining programs that bring the community together. Each production also gives local and regional musicians an opportunity to collaborate, form new musical friendships and experience the excitement of performing on The Mainstay stage.

Just as importantly, these shows help raise much-needed funds for The Mainstay. The Players donate their performances so that proceeds can help keep live music thriving in Rock Hall and support the future of the community’s “Home of Musical Magic.”

These productions are about much more than presenting a collection of songs. They celebrate the shared memories that music creates, introduce audiences to the remarkable talent found within our community and give everyone in the room a chance to become part of the show.

So join The Mainstay Players for an evening of music, memories, laughter and community spirit.

After all, it’s got a good beat, and you can dance to it!

For nearly two decades, Sue Matthews and Robert Redd have been bringing their popular “Songbook Series” concerts to The Mainstay, celebrating the timeless music of the Great American Songbook. Now, they have finally decided to record some of their favorites.

Joined by an outstanding group of musicians, James King on bass, Charlie Young on saxophone, and Lenny Robinson on drums, Sue and Robert recorded their new CD, “Perfect Match,” this summer at the award winning Tonal Park studio in Takoma Park, Maryland.

On Saturday, November 14, the entire group comes to The Mainstay to bring that recording to life on our stage.

The evening will feature selections from “Perfect Match,” including such enduring standards as “Skylark,” “P.S. I Love You,” “Over the Rainbow,” and “As Long As I Live,” along with many more favorites from one of the richest eras in American popular music.

As audiences have come to expect from their Songbook Series concerts, Sue and Robert will do more than simply perform the songs. Throughout the evening, they’ll share stories about the singers who made them famous and the remarkable composers and lyricists who created them.

It promises to be a wonderful evening of great songs, great musicianship and the stories behind the music, presented by two longtime Mainstay favorites and some very special musical friends.

On Sunday, November 15, Lutenist Ronn McFarlane, a Mainstay audience favorite, will perform on lute, works by English, Italian, French, and German composers from the 16th and 17th centuries. These works feature John Dowland, Francesco da Milano, Hans Newsidler, Robert Ballard, and – of course -- that all-time favorite and most prolific composer: Anonymous.

GRAMMY-nominated lutenist, Ronn McFarlane strives to bring the lute - the most popular instrument of the Renaissance - into today’s musical mainstream and make it accessible to a wider audience. Since taking up the lute in 1978, Ronn has made his mark in music as the founder of Ayreheart, a founding member of the Baltimore Consort, touring 49 of the 50 United States, Canada, England, Scotland, Netherlands, Switzerland, Germany, and Austria, and as a guest artist with Apollo’s Fire, The Bach Sinfonia, The Catacoustic Consort, The Folger Consort, Houston Grand Opera, The Oregon Symphony, The Portland Baroque Orchestra, and The Indianapolis Baroque Orchestra. Born in West Virginia, Ronn grew up in Maryland. At thirteen, upon hearing “Wipeout” by the Surfaris, he fell madly in love with music and taught himself to play on a “cranky sixteen-dollar steel string guitar.” Ronn kept at it, playing blues and rock music on the electric guitar while studying classical guitar. He graduated with honors from Shenandoah Conservatory and continued guitar studies at Peabody Conservatory before turning his full attention and energy to the lute. McFarlane was a faculty member of the Peabody Conservatory from 1984 to 1995, teaching lute and lute-related subjects. In 1996, Mr. McFarlane was awarded an honorary Doctorate of Music from Shenandoah Conservatory for his achievements in bringing the lute and its music to the world. He has over 40 recordings on the Dorian/Sono Luminus label, including solo albums, lute duets, flute & lute duets, viola da gamba & lute duets, lute songs, the complete lute music of Vivaldi, a collection of Elizabethan lute music and poetry, and recordings with the Baltimore Consort. Ronn has composed new music for the lute, building on the tradition of the lutenist/composers of past centuries. His original compositions are the focus of his solo CD, Indigo Road, which received a GRAMMY Award Nomination. In 2010 Ronn founded Ayreheart, an ensemble brought together to perform new compositions as well as early music. Ayreheart’s first CD release, One Morning, consists of all- original music by Ronn McFarlane. Ayreheart’s 2016 release, Barley Moon, blends folk music and art music from Renaissance and Medieval England, Scotland, and Wales. Ronn's solo album, The Celtic Lute (2018), features his arrangements of traditional Scottish and Irish music from the 17th and 18th centuries. Fermi’s Paradox (2020), A Star in the East (2021), and And So Flows the River (2023) with Carolyn Surrick, viola da gamba, feature an eclectic blend of Renaissance, Baroque, original music, hymns, and folk tunes from Ireland, Scotland, England, and Sweden.

The Mainstay welcomes Dede Wyland and Big Howdy on Saturday, November 21, for an exciting evening of progressive bluegrass.

Known internationally for her clear, powerful voice and her work with Tony Trischka and Skyline, Dede leads a remarkable group of musicians whose repertoire blends bluegrass classics, compelling original songs, inventive instrumentals and contemporary selections. With an eye on the future and a nod to the past, Big Howdy brings modern polish, spirited playing and the unmistakable drive of traditional bluegrass to The Mainstay stage.