This Thursday’s installment of the Summer Music Series at City Park promises to be a nostalgic tribute to country music legends.
The featured act, Country Best in Class, specializes in classic country tunes and showcases talented performers embodying iconic figures like Sherry Wilson Braid as Patsy Cline, Reinnie Leavitt as Loretta Lynn, Dave Roberts as Johnny Cash, and Tim Wilson as Conway Twitty.
Local musician J.P. Chandler will kick off the evening with his own set, adding to the diverse lineup of musical talent.
Hosted by Artsbridge, the weekly Summer Music Series takes place from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at the City Park bandshell, with a designated rain location at the horseshoe pit.
This Thursday’s concert is made possible through sponsorship from CFI Engineering and the city of Parkersburg. The members of Country Best in Class are also actively involved in various other performing arts groups within the community. Sherry Wilson Braid, in addition to her musical prowess, is a nurse for Wood County Schools and a member of the popular local band Track 9, having received recognition from the Actors Guild of Parkersburg for her outstanding performances.
Reinnie Leavitt, director of cancer services at Camden Clark Medical Center, brings her musical talents from her years with Laurel Creek and the southern gospel trio The Williams Family.
Tim Wilson, with a lifelong passion for singing, serves as an IT systems administrator and has a rich background in choral music.
Dave Roberts, known for his deep, resonant voice, has a long-standing connection to the local theater scene and holds a prominent role in information systems and technology.
Sherry Wilson Braid, the driving force behind Country Best in Class, envisioned the group about two years ago to celebrate not just Patsy Cline but also other beloved legends of country music.
“We each bring something special to our respective roles,” Braid remarked. She highlighted the natural fit of each member portraying their chosen legend, emphasizing the camaraderie and friendship among the performers, particularly noting her close bond with Reinnie Leavitt.
The concert will feature a repertoire of 18 songs made famous by Cash, Twitty, Lynn, and Cline, performed solo, in duets, and collectively. Selections include classics such as “Folsom Prison Blues,” “Hello Darling,” “Coal Miner’s Daughter,” and Patsy Cline’s timeless hit, “Crazy.”
While admission to the concerts is free, donations to support the ongoing series are encouraged. The Summer Music Series continues each Thursday through August 22, with upcoming acts including a diverse array of local talent spanning genres from folk to rock.
For those seeking an evening of memorable music and community spirit, City Park’s Summer Music Series offers a delightful opportunity to enjoy live performances in a picturesque outdoor setting.
