The Old Forge Library’s Music in the Gazebo Concert Series continues on Tuesday, August 4, at 4 p.m. with a free performance by George Deveny and Friends. The accomplished trio—George Deveny, Brian Mulkerne, and John Handzel—will treat audiences to an energetic blend of blues, rock, swing, boogie, R&B, and folk, performing a mix of original songs and beloved classics.
A guitarist, songwriter, and member of the New York Blues Hall of Fame, George Deveny is best known for his fiery slide guitar work and has long been a fixture on the Central New York and Capital Region music scene. Throughout his career, he has performed with numerous acclaimed bands, including Dust Devil Band, Blueprints, Homegrown, Tom Healey Band, Slidewinder, Solid Oak Band, Gary Hunt Band, and the Al Nathan Band.
Joining Deveny is Brian Mulkerne, a guitarist and singer-songwriter who has performed throughout the region for more than two decades as both a solo artist and with the Brian Mulkerne Band. His repertoire celebrates the roots of American music, featuring songs by blues legends such as Rev. Gary Davis, Elizabeth "Libba" Cotten, Blind Blake, and Muddy Waters, along with favorites from the Grateful Dead.
Rounding out the trio is veteran bassist John Handzel, one of Central New York's most respected musicians. Equally skilled on electric, fretless, and upright acoustic bass, Handzel first gained recognition as the bassist for the legendary 1970s band Drivin' Sideways. He has since become one of the region's most sought-after bassists, performing with Rebecca Miner, Les Brers, Midnite Mike, The Fabulous Mojos, and many other popular acts.
The Music in the Gazebo Concert Series offers residents and visitors an opportunity to relax, connect with friends and neighbors, and enjoy outstanding live music in a beautiful outdoor setting. Guests are encouraged to bring a lawn chair or blanket. In the event of rain, the concert will be held under the library's large lawn tent.
Weather permitting, the Friends of the Old Forge Library will also offer used books, DVDs, and puzzles for a donation. Proceeds from the sale benefit library programs and services.
The remaining Music in the Gazebo schedule includes:
- August 11: Ann Carey
- August 18: Tom O'Carroll
- August 25: Red Bandana
- September 1: Penny Bianco
All concerts are free and open to the public.
The Music in the Gazebo Concert Series is generously funded by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of Governor Kathy Hochul and the New York State Legislature.
