Free outdoor concerts have been a QSO tradition for more than two decades, showcasing local talent and presenting international themes and classical favorites from around the world in a relaxing part setting as well as other open environments throughout the Borough of Queens.
Each concert is carefully planned by to reflect the music of the season and many concerts also feature a special guest artist. In the past, concerts have featured Willie Martinez’s La Familia Sextet and even Queens Borough President Melinda Katz.
In addition to classical programming from Beethoven to Puccini and beyond, these concerts feature popular orchestral pieces from Broadway musicals and American summer classics from the likes of Sousa and Bernstein, among many others. These concerts provide community access to world-class music as well as bring the people of Queens together for fun and informal events in addition to strengthening community ties.
These concerts continue the New York City tradition of free, open-air summer orchestral concerts and have become a fixture in their communities. Recently, in addition to performing at some of our most popular locations such as the great lawn at St. John’s University, we have been expanding our location base, bringing the light of music to parks in some of Queens greatest communities and their surrounding area, such as Forest Park, St. Alban’s Park, and Socrates Sculpture Park.
Concerts on the Green began in Forest Park with a simple performance by a small number of QSO musicians and just over 30 audience members, and has since grown to include the full QSO ensemble with 3,000-10,000 audience members at each concert.
Audience members are encouraged to bring a blanket or chair along with some food and drinks to enjoy as they take in a wonderful concert in a relaxed setting on a lovely summer evening.
For more information on Great Lawn Concerts, please call 718-570-0909 or visit the contact page.