Strathmore's Free Summer Concert Series Brings the World to You

Strathmore’s Free Summer Outdoor Concert Series begins today at 7 p.m. with the German band LaBrassBanda taking the stage. This summer, has eight international acts scheduled for every Wednesday.

Tickets are not required for the events, and patrons are encouraged to bring blankets and lawn chairs to stay comfortable outside.

Parking is available in the Grosvenor Metro Station garage for $4.75.

The BBQ Shack will have pulled pork sandwiches, hamburgers, beer, wine and other concessions for sale.

Tonight’s band, LaBrassBanda, hails from the Bavarian region of Germany. Breaking through any discernible genre label, the band blends international influences including techno and folk to make original compositions.

“The sound is not unlike Bavarian sausage meat: You don’t know what’s in it, but it’s tasty,” the band said in an interview with Deutsche Welle TV.

The band’s instruments are even unconventional for a five-piece, combining brass with a bass guitar and drums.

LaBrassBanda traveled by tractor and bicycle for their Austria tour and also made their way to Zimbabwe to perform.

The Roving Street Players Nicolo the Jester and Michael Rosman will open for the band today from 5:30 and 7 p.m.

Next Wednesday, the Rafi Malkiel Quintet will be at the Outdoor Summer Series. Originally from Israel, the quintet infuses jazz with Latin and Caribbean influences.

Finally, Strathmore has announced that D.C.’s own Chopteeth Afrofunk Big Band will be playing July 6. Heavily influenced by the Nigerian saxophonist Fela Kuti, Chopteeth brings a hip-swaying, foot-stomping, head-bobbing groove to the Summer Concert Series.

The 14-piece band will play again at Strathmore for the Simon & Garfunkel and Paul Simon tribute concert.

Strathmore will be providing weather updates and information on any delays or cancellations on their Twitter and Facebook pages. Strathmore asks that patrons do not bring their pets to the outdoor concerts.