History prof invites bands for park concert
A veteran of the local music scene will be hosting his own concert today in Island Park, located near downtown Mount Pleasant.
Stephen Scherer, professor of history, has been coordinating what he calls a "fairly small-scale romp in the park" on this day since the very early '80s.
"It's a very Gentle Friday thing to do; it's the last day of regular classes, it's spring, it's what we've all been waiting for and it is finally here. It is all good energy and a good mood," Scherer said.
"It is just a bunch of local (musicians) having a fun afternoon playing their music," he said.
The featured musicians at the concert include a solo performance by Fredo guitarist and vocalist Chris Bindschatel, Mount Pleasant graduate student; coffee shop singer/songwriter Sam Stein; former members of The Herd; and The Cosmic Banditos.
All the performers are veterans of the local scene in their own right, just as Scherer is a veteran fan of the bands. Scherer said he has enjoyed frequenting the local live music hot spots for years.
Bindschatel has played Scherer's annual concerts for several years. He described the gathering as a "nice highlight of local music."
"I like the easy and relaxed atmosphere (at the show). If you know Steve (Scherer), he's a lot of fun. Show up and help him celebrate spring," he said.
The free concert will begin at 3 p.m. in the pavilion at Island Park and is open to the public. Guests are invited to bring their own refreshments as long as they "have fun without getting hurt," Scherer said.
