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With so many live music venues around the region, it’s no secret that locals love to spend their time tuned into the classic hits or experimental songs of modern artists. While the Hudson Valley’s many destinations for live shows offer astonishing architecture, like The Local in Saugerties, or celebrity-owned allure, like Daryl’s House in Pawling, nothing quite compares to the magical ambiance of Candlelight concerts.
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At two beautiful venues in the Hudson Valley and Capital Region, the concerts illuminate the room with the light of a thousand candles, breathing new life into well-known buildings. Both the Listeso Quartet and the Highline String Quartet put an ethereal twist on rock and roll classics and modern pop hits with the use of string instruments, so you’ll hear your favorite music live never before. Whether you’re on the hunt for an exciting way to enjoy your favorite band or you want the most romantic date night in the region, a Candlelight concert is the experience you’ve been waiting for, and you won’t want to miss these upcoming shows in Albany and Poughkeepsie.
The Kenmore Ballroom
76 North Pearl Street, Albany
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From Bach to The Beatles
September 6, 6 p.m.
Did you ever expect to hear the music of Johann Sebastian Bach and The Beatles at the same concert? Secure tickets to this Candlelight event to do just that and hear the classical stylings of Bach alongside The Beatles’ “Strawberry Fields Forever” and “Hey Jude,” among others.
80s Rock Anthems
September 6 & November 22, 8:30 p.m.
Calling all fans of ’80s rock! Head to the Kenmore Ballroom this fall to hear some headbanging songs in a whole new light. If you’re dying to know what Pink Floyd, Elton John, The Police, U2, Guns N’ Roses, and other popular bands sound like on the violin, this one’s for you.
Featuring Vivaldi’s Four Seasons & More
September 7 & November 22, 6 p.m.
Celebrate the music of Antonio Vivaldi in an immersive setting at this Candlelight concert that brings compositions like The Four Seasons and Libertango to life. Experience the Listeso Quartet in all its glory as it performs these pieces from the famed Italian composer.
A Tribute to Queen
September 7, 8:30 p.m.
Perhaps one of the most well-known bands in history, Queen’s music shines center-stage this September in Albany. The string quartet will play favorites like “Don’t Stop Me Now,” “Somebody to Love,” “We Will Rock You,” and, of course, “Bohemian Rhapsody” in the dim of the candlelight for a magical night. Hurry and secure your seat for this one; tickets are going fast.
Living Water Church
260 Mill Street, Poughkeepsie
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Ed Sheeran Meets Coldplay
September 13, 6 p.m.
With a program that intersperses Ed Sheeran’s and Coldplay’s hits, you’ll get to catch a little of both artists in Poughkeepsie this September. Tune into “Clocks,” “Photograph,” “Give Me Love,” “Sky Full of Stars,” and “Bad Habits,” among others.
Rings & Dragons
September 13, 8:30 p.m.
Fantasy fans are invited to this one-of-a-kind concert in Dutchess County to hear themes from Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit. The tentative musical program includes “The Caverns of Isengard,” “Gollum,” “Misty Mountains Colds,” and “The Passing of the Elves.”
The Best of The Beatles
October 4, 6 p.m.
In case you miss Albany’s Beatles concert, head to Poughkeepsie in October for the revolutionary band’s hits on the strings. Expect “Here Comes the Sun,” “Come Together,” “Lucy in the Sky With Diamonds,” and “Yesterday” at the magical event.
Neo-Soul Favorites Featuring Songs by Prince, Childish Gambino, & More
October 4, 8:30 p.m.
A mesh of soul and R&B music makes this Candlelight concert one of the most anticipated yet. Marvel at the Highline String Quartet as they play songs from a mix of modern and past artists, including SZA, Frank Ocean, Childish Gambino, Solange, Sade, Alicia Keys, Lauryn Hill, and more.
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