Concerts on the Square returns to state Capitol lawn

MADISON, Wis. (WMTV) - Classical music will once again fill the streets of downtown Madison. The first of six Concerts on the Square for the 2022 summer season begins on Wednesday.

If you’re looking to get a good seat, the Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra says people can start putting picnic blankets out starting at 3 p.m. at the King Street corner of the Capitol Square. The concert will begin at 7 p.m.

The 39-year-tradition returns to the Capitol Lawn after a two-year hiatus due to the pandemic. Last season, the Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra performed at Breese Stevens Field in Madison.

Wednesday night’s concert is a Motown Celebration featuring Spectrum, a musical vocal quartet covering music from artists like The Temptations and Bruno Mars.

Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra Music Director Andrew Sewell says Concerts on the Square is one of Madison’s finest traditions.

“It’s become an iconic part of the Madison summer,” said Sewell. “People realize that generations have come and gone and continue to celebrate. It’s just a chance for music to bring people together.”

There will be food and drink vendors setting up in the area if you’re looking to pick-up dinner while downtown.

Here’s a full list of concert dates:

• June 29 – Motown with Spectrum
• July 6 – Summer Celebration
• July 13 – Reflections on Liberty
• July 20 – The Planets & Ho-Chunk
• July 27 – Rachmaninov’s Third
• Aug. 3 – Finale with Foley

Admission is free, but if you’re looking to support live classical music in Madison or the Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra, you can join the Friends of the WCO program. For more information on how to sign up, click HERE.

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