The upcoming season will feature four major concert events, staged at the corner of West Jefferson and Franklin Streets, starting at 8:00 P.M.
- Saturday, Julyv10 - Syracuse Symphony Orchestra
- Saturday, July 17 - Central New York Jazz Orchestra*
- Saturday, August 7 - Syracuse Opera
- Saturday, August 14 - Mario DeSantis Orchestra
Opening Acts preceding the above main attractions start at 6:30pm and will feature a fresh line-up of new young talent.
Grant Cooper, former Resident Conductor of the Syracuse Symphony Orchestra known to CNY audiences for his exuberant interactive style, will lead SSO in the Saturday, July 10 opener of the 26th Annual Candlelight Series in downtown Armory Square.Staged at the corner of West Jefferson and South Franklin Streets, the concert begins at 8:00 pm., promising to be a special crowd pleaser with Cooper conducting the Symphony's program of stirring marches, swinging Dixieland, George M. Cohan's patriotic tunes, and Broadway favorites.
Beginning at 6:30 pm, ahead of SSO on July 10, another outstanding group will win audience applause. The Salvation Army Syracuse Citadel Choir is brought back to Armory Square following rousing performances appreciated by many during last year's holiday season. The New Life Choir was formed in 2000 with 7 members under the direction of Marilyn Wilburn. Comprised of Syracuse area Christian men and women, choir participation has grown over the past 10 years to 25 singers under the direction of Noretta Dozier and featuring soloists Wilburn, Anita Simms and Dwayne Stafford. The group has performed at events out-of-state and recently headlined the Jamestown Juneteenth Celebration.
On July 17, the Central New York Jazz Orchestra performs classic to modern big band swing music, led by director and trombonist Bret Zvacek and featuring special guest jazz vocalist Cindy Miller, veteran of the Glenn Miller Tribute Orchestra and the Gap Mangione Big Band. The evening's opening act brings back the talented Stan Colella Parks & Rec All-Stars band of young musicians, under the direction of Joe Carello, lead alto sax player in the CNYJO. The two performance groups engage in a year-round program partnership, with CNYJO providing charts, training, instruments and rehearsal space to the younger 'All-Stars.'
On August 7, Syracuse Opera is back with "Arias at the Armory," filling the Square with favorite operatic music sung by the best of CNY talent. (This year's opera program and vocalists will be announced later.)
Concluding the Series' main events on August 14, The Mario DeSantis Orchestra returns with a much-anticipated line-up of guest artists, including Isreal Hagan, Keith Condon, and Maria DeSantis. Founded by father Mario, Maria sums up the orchestra's unique programming as “always bringing CNY vocal power and exciting new arrangements of the classic hits from every decade!”
Aside from Candlelight's free entertainment, the Series boasts other crowd pleasers. Area restaurants feature Candlelight menus for those choosing to dine outdoors, and for those who prefer to create their own picnic, there is plenty of room in the Franklin St. Park and along side lawn chair seating in full view of the stage. For audience safety and convenience, all Armory Square streets are closed to vehicle traffic by 5:00 pm. However, there is plenty of parking available in lots and garages outside and around the perimeter of the Square.
Armory Square Association's Candlelight Series is free to the public and made possible by a grant secured by Senator John A. DeFrancisco and with additional support by the City of Syracuse and the Downtown Committee. The Armory Square Association is especially grateful for the program's corporate and other business donors. They are: Robert Mondavi Winery, Eric Mower & Associates, AmeriCU, T. J. Sheehan Inc., Pastabilities, Jefferson Clinton Hotel, RHS Holdings, LLC, Pioneer Companies, Kitty Hoynes, Blue Tusk, P J's Pub & Grill, Eureka Crafts, Jet Black, Lemon Grass & Bistro Elephant.
