Acts sought for downtown Geneva music day

Shopping in downtown Geneva could soon have a soundtrack of its own.

The Geneva Cultural Arts Commission wants musicians to play in public areas throughout the district.

"Music in the Alleys" will debut Sept. 29. From 3 to 6 p.m., groups and individuals can play at four sites. Each will be allotted 30 minutes. There will be an emcee at each site.

Musicians must first sign up with the commission by Monday. To register, go online to www.genevarts.org or call Kim Warren, the city staff liaison to the commission, at (630) 232-8171.

The rain date is Sept. 30.

The mini concerts are another attempt by the commission to bring more arts activities to Geneva.

"When we were first formed we were brainstorming what kind of events we would like to hold," said Robert Hillery, vice chairman of the commission. He recalled that when he moved to Geneva there was a festival where a band was playing in an alleyway near the old Potter's Place restaurant on State, and that it drew a crowd. He suggested doing that again.

Musicians can play in the parking lot of Viking Office Supply at 124 W. State St.; the parking lot of the Tallgrass development sales office at 22 N. Third St.; a pedestrian walkway between Stockholm's Pub and Isabella's Estiatorio at 330 W. State; and an alley between the Geneva History Center, 113 S. Third St., and Gallery One.

Acoustic and classical musicians have expressed interest, Hillery said, including a harp player.

But if you want to wail on your harmonica, or sing, that's welcome too.

"We'll take whatever there is as long as . . . it is a family event. We don't want cussing and swearing," said Jan Schmuckal, commissioner.

Electricity will be supplied, but musicians must bring their own amps, microphones and other equipment. They are free to collect tips, or to sell CDs after their set.

So far, only one day is scheduled. They'll see how it goes before deciding if it should be done again, and how often.

"We're just trying to get more events going on all the time instead of during the main festivals," Hillery said.