By Sona Schmidt-Harris | [email protected]

Holladay was ready to rock at the season opener of the Concerts on the Commons series.  Kendrick Zane “The Piano Guy,” was also ready to play before a live audience after an extended absence likely due to COVID-19.

“My voice is having some problems tonight,” Zane said. All were getting reaccustomed to being in an audience, being around people, and performing. However, this did not keep Zane and Holladay residents from having a good time.

Zane, replete with a band, began the concert with “What a Fool Believes.” His second piece was an original composition about a rough experience Zane had in New York City. However, in homage to The Big Apple, he followed with “New York State of Mind.” The saxophonist was smooth, and Zane was particularly grateful to have him on stage.

A true showman, Zane lively tapped his left foot like he was both reaching for and creating the beat. Another showman was the guitarist who looked like he was genuinely having a great time, smiling and moving his body with every note.

The audience could make requests before and during the concert. With requests like “Time in a Bottle” and Elton John songs, it was clear that the audience appreciated older tunes.

Zane encouraged crowd participation, and the audience sounded great with its part in “Rocket Man.”  “Benny and the Jets” was another crowd favorite.

The skies were hazy due to the fires in Oregon and California, but a breeze blew through about 8:45 p.m., and it became downright pleasant on The Commons behind City Hall.

“Good-bye Love,” an original tune, was about Zane’s breakup with his girlfriend, something about which he now laughs.  

It was impressive to see just how many lyrics and wide-ranging music Zane keeps in his head.

There was reserved seating for those who have trouble sitting in a lawn chair, and many took advantage of the more comfortable chairs.

No matter where they sat, people were glad to be back. This included the Petersons and the Bartons.

Todd Peterson said, “It’s a really exciting, fun night here at the venue.” 

Gene Barton said, “We came because of the Petersons. We came because of the music and just a summer evening.”

Margie Barton said, “The Petersons told us about this, and I love outdoor concerts in the summer. I have been missing them.”

The concert was made possible in part by Utah’s Excellence in the Community, which has provided free concerts in Utah since 2012, primarily by Utah artists. The program has been growing in popularity. Their YouTube channel has over a million hits from people all over the world. Their theme: “Music to match the mountains.”

For a schedule of more free concerts in Utah through Excellence in the Community, visit: www.excellenceconcerts.org

For a schedule of upcoming Concerts on the Commons visit: www.holladayarts.org/concerts-on-the-commons.