"Musical Storefronts" Popup Concerts Launched on NYC Streets

The series will feature more than 100 New York musicians, from classical to Broadway, performing live inside empty storefronts with an amplified sound system out on the street

Presented by the Kaufman Music Center, and in partnership with the Alphadyne Foundation, the initiative brings live music back to New York City through March 31, 2021.

At a time when most in person performances are canceled due to the pandemic, this opportunity makes it safe for both performer and audience to enjoy live music in a socially distanced setting.

In true pop-up fashion, and with the aim to limit crowd size, the schedule and location will not be announced prior to the concert. On the day of the performance, a QR code announcing the program can be found on a storefront in the Columbus circle neighborhood.

Upcoming artists in the series include JACK Quartet, Orli Shaham, Caroline Shaw, Gil Shaham, Chrystal E. Williams, Attacca Quartet, Timo Andres, Adam Tendler, Gabrielle Stravelli and Rubén Rengel as well as Kaufman Music Center 2020-21 Artists-in-Residence Conrad Tao and Lisa Bielawa.

The series started off this week with violinist Sean Lee. He commented on the experience: “It feels like home again, like I’m on stage and getting to speak to people. It’s so good to see people hungry for music and hopefully brightening their day a bit."

"The continued cancellation of live music, dance and theater events has devastated performing artists, in many cases reducing their income by 90%," Jay Dweck, adviser to the Alphadyne Foundation said. "The Alphadyne Foundation is committed to providing work to musicians, dancers and thespians affected by the pandemic. I saw an opportunity in Manhattan’s empty storefronts to bring live performances safely back to New York City, brought the idea to Kaufman Music Center and together, we are thrilled to bring this project to life."

“We are thrilled to present more than 100 amazing artists at a time when theaters are still dark," Kaufman Music Center Executive Director Kate Sheeran said. "Live music provides joy and inspiration in challenging times, and we are excited to deepen connections with our community through this new series."