Experience Free Live Music in Downtown Los Angeles: The Grand Performances Series
The vibrant cultural tapestry of Los Angeles is set to be woven together once again with the return of the Grand Performances series. This annual summer event celebrates a diverse array of musical genres and cultural sounds, making it a must-attend for both locals and visitors. Starting June 14 and running through August 23, free live music concerts will take center stage every Saturday from 6 to 10 p.m. at California Plaza. Attendees can expect an eclectic mix of orchestral, g-funk, Latin ska, spiritual jazz, soulful house, and psychedelic boleros, among other genres. Additionally, the Fridays in the Amphitheater series will complement the Saturday performances, featuring a dynamic blend of poetry, film, and classical performances from June 20 to August 22.
The goal of Grand Performances is straightforward yet impactful: to make the arts and music accessible to everyone. Rafael González, president and CEO of Grand Performances, emphasizes that this year’s lineup reflects the rich cultural and artistic diversity that characterizes Los Angeles. “If you go up and down this summer’s lineup, you’ll see the cultural and artistic mix that represents the many generations that call L.A. home,” González states. This summer series aligns perfectly with the ongoing effort to democratize arts and music, ensuring that all have a chance to partake in enriching experiences without financial barriers.
The season kick-off on June 14 promises to be electrifying with a special performance by Ozomatli, celebrating their 30-year anniversary. This band has long been a cornerstone of the Los Angeles music scene, renowned for blending musical styles from hip-hop to salsa. Following this energetic opening, concert-goers can mark their calendars for notable events such as "California Love: An Orchestral Celebration of Dr. Dre" on June 28 and Grammy-winning artist Adrian Quesada’s "Boleros Psicodélicos," a genre-defying musical journey, on August 2. These performances are set to not only entertain but also to educate attendees on the diverse types of music that form the foundation of contemporary culture.
Here’s a quick rundown of the concert lineup for the Grand Performances series:
- June 14: Ozomatli: 30-Year Anniversary, with Healing Gems and Anthony Valadez
- June 21: John Coltrane: A Love Supreme at 60, featuring Isaiah Collier, Surya Botofasina, and Jimetta Rose & The Voices of Creation
- June 28: California Love: An Orchestral Celebration of Dr. Dre, featuring DJ Jedi and Monalisa
- July 12: Mystical Melodies with Saami Brothers Qawwal and Chishty Ensemble
- July 19: Berimbau: Sounds of Resilience
- July 26: KCRW Summer Nights featuring Baby Rose, Angélica Garcia, and DJ Francesca Harding
- August 2: Adrian Quesada’s Boleros Psicodélicos II
- August 9: Latin Goes Ska with Western Standard Time Ska Orchestra and The Untouchables
- August 16: DEEP: 25th Anniversary
- August 23: Oro Sólido
These meticulously curated shows promise to be filled with joy, rhythm, and camaraderie, making it a perfect outing for friends or families looking to commune over music. Take some time to explore the different genres and performances, offering a unique opportunity to broaden your musical horizons while enjoying the summer evenings in Los Angeles.
Another striking feature of the Grand Performances series is the initiative to accommodate various art forms through the accompanying Fridays in the Amphitheater series. This collection of events showcases poetry, film, and classical music, expanding the series’ envelope beyond just musical performances. By mixing arts and cultures, Grand Performances highlights the community’s creative spirit, allowing for collaboration and dialogue between differing art forms. Together, these events stand as a testament to Los Angeles’ thriving arts scene.
With an emphasis on free access and community engagement, the Grand Performances series embodies the spirit of Los Angeles—one that embraces diversity, creativity, and unity. Make your way to California Plaza at 350 S Grand Ave., Los Angeles, every Saturday this summer. The concerts are free, eliminating financial barriers and ensuring that all can appreciate the bounty of talent that will grace the stage. For more information and to stay updated on the event lineup, visit grandperformances.org. Don’t miss out on an unforgettable summer filled with captivating sounds and beautiful moments!
