The Westcott Street Cultural Fair is being inducted into the SAMMYS Hall of Fame. The announcement came at Tuesday’s release of the nominees for the Syracuse Area Music Awards celebration next month. For over 30 years, The Westcott Fair is known for featuring a wide range of music genres and artists on its festival stages. Chairperson Sharon Sherman is largely credited with the festival’s success, but wants to share the honor with others.
“And it’s an all volunteer effort. It’s to all of the volunteers who work so hard to put it on. And I feel it especially spotlights our performing arts committee which is made up of mostly musicians and they pick the musicians every year.”
Sherman adds that gender is also a criteria for performers the committee considers along with different age demographics of music performers. Long-time volunteer Mark Bostick (BAH – stick) says the festival offers true music variety.
“So we have terrific music, local, a lot of return acts. People love to play the fair. We never have the same musicians two years in a row. So, that gives a better chance for people to get in and do it for their first time.”
Bostick also hosts Top of the World Sunday nights on WAER. The SAMMY’S Best Jazz nominees are Bob Holz, Dave Solazzo and The Bridge, Salt City Voices and Venessa Vacanti. The Awards Show is set for Friday, March 8th at the Palace Theater.