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Music at the Arboretum concert series starting

• May 17, 2025
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ORMACO’s Music at the Arboretum outdoor concert series will return this year. The free musical series will take place at Secrest Arboretum on Wooster’s Ohio State University campus. Concert dates for 2025 are Fridays, May 23, June 27, July 25 and Aug. 15 at 6:30 p.m.

The series is sponsored by the nonprofit Ohio Regional Music Arts Cultural Outreach Inc. Its mission is to make music, arts and culture available to all. During its 15 years, ORMACO has provided the region with over 1,000 outreach programs, presenting experiences that are often free or low-cost.

Music at the Arboretum is the brainchild of Thomas Sigel, ORMACO’s founder and executive director. In its fifth year, it’s a collaboration between ORMACO, the Secrest Arboretum and Friends of the Arboretum.

Sigel first learned about the arboretum when someone suggested he visit to get landscaping ideas. While touring the grounds, he discovered the outdoor amphitheater wasn’t being utilized. The idea was realized when he suggested it would be a great setting for an outdoor musical series.

“The first season was a success, and we have continued to attract more concert lovers each year as word has spread about these outstanding concerts,” Sigel said.

Every year different ensembles are brought to the series to introduce the audience to a variety of musical genres. This year’s performers include the following:

—May 23: The Blue Ribbon Trio, playing a blend of bluegrass, old time, baroque and blues.

—June 27: Sammy de León y Su Orquesta, playing a broad spectrum of Latin dance music styles.

—July 25: The Back Porch Swing Band, playing a variety of music ranging from Americana standards and early country to tapping swing and early rock ‘n’ roll.

—Aug. 15: Classical guitarist Robert Gruca and flutist Linda White, The Gruca White Ensemble, featuring music from multiple cultures and genres.

“All the ensembles are highly talented professionals,” Sigel said.

No tickets or reservations are needed for the events, which will take place rain or shine. In the event of inclement weather, concerts will be held at the Secrest Welcome and Education Center at the same location. There is some seating available, and those attending are welcome to bring lawn chairs, blankets, picnics and beverages, but alcohol is not permitted at the arboretum.

Light snacks are available for purchase for $1, which benefits the nonprofit. Items for sale include soft drinks, water, cookies, candy and chips. Parking is free. There is a shuttle for those needing assistance from the parking lot to the concert site.

ORMACO works throughout the year to raise funds to make concerts free to the public, relying on grants and individual donations. The Ohio Arts Council pays a portion of the artists’ fees.

However, the current administration continues to slash funding for many nonprofits.

“Funds are threatened,” Sigel said. “We do not know how much government underwriting support we will receive for the next fiscal year. People need to speak out to their local and state government representatives to let them know that the arts are vital. The arts also drive economic development as people spend money (dinner, restaurants, shopping) in a community.”

Find ORMACO online at ormaco.org/ to learn more about this series and other musical performances in the area. Donate at ormaco.org/ways-to-give/.

Volunteers also are always needed at the concerts to help with concessions, handing out programs, and helping people to and from their seats. Interested volunteers can call Sigel at 419-853-6016.

“The Music at the Arboretum Summer Concert Series not only presents top-notch professional concerts at no cost, but also showcases the beautiful arboretum,” Sigel said. “Come out for a fantastic evening where music and nature meld together to create a memorable experience. There is no need to travel to the big city and spend a huge amount of money when you have the luxury of attending professional concerts in your backyard.”