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Garden Jams: Wednesday night outdoor concerts return to Penn Museum in July

June 27, 2024

Penn Museum’s popular outdoor music concert series, Garden Jams, kicks off Wednesday, July 10, with a live performance from the West Philadelphia Orchestra. Garden Jams at the Penn Museum begin at 5 p.m. every Wednesday in July (except July 3) and feature live music and happy hour with cocktails and food trucks in historic Stoner Courtyard, along with after-hours access to the Museum’s galleries and exhibitions, including Ancient Food & Flavor, until 8 p.m.

Founded in 2006, the West Philadelphia Orchestra (WPO) plays original tunes written by its own band members. Percussionist and WPO Founder Gregg Mervine says the band was inspired by the “fanfares” of Eastern Europe and many other sources.

“Balkan brass bands are the most prominent influence, and we always mix in a few classic tunes from that repertoire,” Mervine explains. “We’ve had a lot of fun in the past—weaving in and out of the gardens and fountains, parading around with kids, and creating a wide-open, free-flowing environment at Garden Jams.”

Other performers in this year’s Garden Jams line-up include:

• Wednesday, July 17

Zydeco-a-Go-Go

A spicy mix of Louisiana Cajun two-steps, old-school Zydeco, vintage New Orleans rock and roll jukebox hits, and bayou country blues, Zydeco-a-Go-Go delivers favorites such as Fats Domino’s Blueberry Hill and Bobby Charles’ See You Later, Alligator.

• Wednesday, July 24

Glenn Bryan and Friends

Offering an unforgettable dynamic sound of diverse influences spanning jazz, classical, R&B, and Latin vibes, Glenn Bryan and Friends delivers an original musical journey that blends rich textures and classical training on piano, organ, and keyboards.

• Wednesday, July 31

Guachinangos

A Latin fusion like no other, Guachinangos offers electrifying stage energy and irresistible rhythms that blend Mexican and Colombian influences. This event is sponsored by the Mexican Cultural Center.

Tickets are $15 (general admission); $5 for PennCard holders, and free for Penn Museum members. Private tables and add-on experiences, such as pre-paid drinks and private guided tours through the Penn Museum, are also available with advance purchase. Go here for more details.

In case of inclement weather, concerts will move indoors.

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