ANNUAL REPORT

SEP 2019 - OCT 2020

INDEX

INTRODUCTION

INDEX OF EVENTS

COMPLETED EVENTS DETAIL

COMPLETED LIVE STREAM DETAIL

COVID AFFECTED EVENTS DETAIL

INDEX OF UPCOMING EVENTS

NON PROFIT CULTURAL PARTNERS

MAINTENANCE AND CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS REPORT

FINANCIAL REPORT

MARKETING REPORT

COVID HANDBOOK To City Manager Jimmy Morales,

The 19/20 season can be viewed as two distinct segments. The first six months represent major improvements and growth, followed by the sudden public closure and responses to the Covid health crisis.

The year began with the renewal of the Rhythm Foundation’s management agreement. Experience and momentum gathered during the first management term were brought to bear and a season of widely diverse cultural offerings was undertaken. Long awaited capital improvements of the canopy covering and new seating system were completed in February. The season was in the middle of the busiest period in mid March when we closed the facility to the public in mid March due to the Covid health crisis. We immediately modified and adapted our operations using live streaming technologies to complete the Rhythm Foundations’s 32nd season. Emergency funding and support from the City, County and Federal government have been critical to sustaining the organization through this prolonged health crisis. We proactively engaged with community partners to identify funding, tech support and best practices for safe operations. Since going virtual in mid-March, we’ve broadcast sixteen (16) full length concerts as live streams to a collective audience of over 100,000 viewers from all over the world.

The 20/21 season ahead is anchored by partnerships with the leading cultural presenting organizations in the South Florida, furthering our goal of establishing the North Beach Bandshell as a major performing arts facility in our region.

Press and community recognition of our work at the Bandshell has been immensely rewarding. Collected within this report are press highlights showing the reach of the now completed 32nd season, updates to maintenance and capital projects at the venue, our compiled financial report and COVID Mitigation handbook. We are extremely grateful to the City of Miami Beach for the critical support of cultural and community programming and operations of the North Beach Bandshell. We look forward to emerging from the health crisis with renewed strength as the Cultural Anchor of the North Beach renaissance.

Sincerely,

James Quinlan, Director

Benton Galgay, Deputy Director

The Rhythm Foundation, Inc In Management of the North Beach Bandshell North Beach Bandshell List of Completed Events 10/01/2019 - 09/30/2020 7275 Collins Avenue, Miamii Beach,B FL 33141

October 2019

CMB Sat 10/12 “Hispanic Heritage Celebration” featuring Tito Puente Jr. CMB Hispanic Affairs Committee, free with RSVP

Rental Sun 10/13 Miami Beach Music Festival featuring many artists, free

Rental Sat 10/19 International Tennis Federation Kickoff Event presented by ITF, free with RSVP

RF/CMB Fri 10/25 Magic City Opera: Hansel & Gretel

RF Sat 10/26 RAM (Haiti) presented by Rhythm Foundation

Rental Sun 10/27 “Kids United” (FR) presented by Silverprod.

November 2019

Rental Sat 11/2 Miami Beach Salsa Festival featuring La Muneca de Salsa presented by Melina, free with RSVP

Rental Sun 11/3 Alexander Abreu & Havana D’Primera

Rental Sat 11/9 Nu Deco Ensemble Fall Concert

CMB Fri 11/15 Mayors Turkey Drive

RF Sat 11/16 Italian HIT Week: Carmen Consoli & Gio Evan

Rental Sun 11/17 Salsa a la Playa

RF Thur 11/21 North Beach Social - Pop Up Food Hall (theme: Giving) Electric Kif and YMU

CMB Tue 11/26 Police Athletic League’s Turkey Drive

RF Sat 11/30 Issac Delgado (copro with Fundarte) - confirmed December 2019

Rental Thu 12/5 Rhye presented by Poplife - confirmed, contracted

Rental Fri 12/13 Entrepreneur Organization Holiday Party

CMB Sat 12/14 MB Fire Dept Toy Drive

Rental Sat 12/14 Miami Beach Senior High Rock Ensemble Homecoming, ‘a tribute to Doug Burris’

Rental Thu 12/19 VH1’s Love & Hip Hop (TV Taping)

RF Sat 12/21 Heavy Pets Holiday Ball

January 2020

RF/CMB Fri - Sun 1/3-5 Shakespeare on the Beach presented by Florida Shakespeare Theater

Rental Sat 1/25 Fortunate Youth

February 2020

Rental Sat 2/1 Gronk Fest

RF/CMB Fri 2/8 Florida Grand Opera

Rental Thu-Mon 2/13-17 GroundUp Music Festival presented by RF & GUM

RF Thur 2/20 North Beach Social - Black History Month - Black Dove, Parks & Rec

RF Fri 2/21 iLe, Dracula

Rental Sat 2/22 SOBEWFF Weekend, include a Nu Deco performance Rehearsal same day

RF/CMB Sat 2/29 Youth Music Festival March 2020

Rental Sat 3/7 Global Cuba Fest (co-pro with FUNDarte, MLP)

ALL EVENTS FOR REMAINDER OF YEAR ARE LIVE STREAMS, WITH NO IN PERSON AUDIENCE

RF Sat 3/14 Betsayda Machado y la Parranda el Clavo

RF Thu 3/19 North Beach Social - Afrobeta

April 2020

RF Thu 4/16 North Beach Social - Jay Thomas

May 2020

RF Thu 5/21 North Beach Social - Matt Sabatella

RF Sat 5/30 Nic N’Taya

June 2020

RF Thu 6/18 North Beach Social - Richie Hell

Rental Sun 6/21 Make Music Miami: Fete Allstars

July 2020

RF North Beach Social - Cravo & Canela

September 2020

Rental Afroroots Festival

Rental Brazilian Film Festival North Beach Bandshell Completed Events 10/01/2019 7275 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach, FL 33141

Hispanic Heritage Celebration featuring Tito Puente Jr. and Melina Almodovar Presented by CMB Hispanic Affairs Committee Saturday, October 12 Free with RSVP Event Time: 7p – 10p Estimated Attendance: 672 Amplified Sound: Yes Alcohol Sales: Yes Celebrate the conclusion of Hispanic Heritage Month with the Miami Beach’s Hispanic Heritage Committee as they partner with the North Beach Bandshell to present Tito Puente JR & Melina Almodovar.

Miami Beach Music Festival featuring Miami Beach Senior Choir, Ovrhol, Isabel Velasquez Presented by Rafael Velasquez Sunday, October 13 Free with RSVP Event Time: 2p – 8p Estimated Attendance: 541 Amplified Sound: Yes Alcohol Sales: Yes Local musicians, dancers, and artists will unite on October 13, 2:00 – 8:00 pm at the North Beach Bandshell to showcase Miami Beach talent and engage in a community discussion on Miami Beach as a tourist capital for art, music and entertainment.

This is sponsored by longtime Miami Beach community activist, Rafael Velasquez, a candidate for Miami Beach Commissioner Group IV.

International Tennis Federation Kickoff Event Presented by International Tennis Federation Saturday, October 19 Free with RSVP Event Time: 4p – 6p Estimated Attendance: 147 Amplified Sound: Yes Alcohol Sales: Yes The International Tennis Federation kicks off the ITF Tournament at the North Beach Bandshell, featuring presentations to the participating athletes.

Magic City Opera: Hansel & Gretel Presented by Magic City Opera and Opera in the Park Friday, October 25 Free with RSVP Event Time: 5:30p -10p Estimated Attendance: 883 Amplified Sound: Yes Alcohol Sales: Yes Magic City Opera & Rhythm Foundation offer a youth oriented Opera this Fall. This family- friendly performance runs just over an hour and features the classic story you know and love, performed in English by a cast of South Florida artists. Children and parents will fall in love with this magical journey into this timeless fairy tale. MB Parks Department is joining in the fun and will be on site dressed as fairy tale characters to distribute candy and prizes to the attendants. RAM in concert Presented by Rhythm Foundation Saturday, October 26 Event Time: 7p – 11p Estimated Attendance: 536 Amplified Sound: Yes Alcohol Sales: Yes Legendary Haitian voudou-rock group brings their signature energetic performance to Miami Beach. Ram performs at the North Beach Bandshell in Miami Beach, Saturday October 26, for a Fete Gede concert. Gede (or guede) is celebrated in Haiti on All Soul’s Day, a time to honor the family of loa voudou spirits who embody the powers of life and death. This festival of the ancestors is much akin to Mexico’s Day of the Dead, or closer to home, Halloween. In Haiti, the holiday is celebrated with ritual, drumming, singing, dancing, drink and laughter. RAM embodies the joy and power of Fete Gede - a full band featuring drumming, rara horns, rock guitar, led by Richard Morse and Lunise.

Kids United Presented by Silverprod Sunday, October 27 Event Time: 4p – 8p Estimated Attendance: 498 Amplified Sound: Yes Alcohol Sales: Yes French youth pop music sensations make their way to Miami Beach. International sensations KIDS: United make their way from France for a family focused performance. Kids United New Generation is a group of 5 children who take back the most beautiful songs celebrating peace and hope. Gloria , Valentina , Nathan , Dylan and Ilyana are true artists passionate about singing.

These new faces succeed Gabriel, Nilusi, Esteban and Erza who have decided to devote themselves to their solo projects.

Miami Beach Salsa Festival Presented by presented by La Muneca de Salsa Saturday, November 2 Free with RSVP Event Time: 5p – 10p Estimated Attendance: 1,153 Amplified Sound: Yes Alcohol Sales: Yes La Muñeca de Salsa invites you to celebrate Salsa music and its culture in Miami Beach! Live Salsa bands, dance showcases, DJs, Latin food, and much more. Featuring Jey Zamorano, Mauricio Cachana, Ana del Rocio, Leonardo Sierra, Luigi Flores, Meca, El Boricua Loco, Salsa Central Dance Studios, Al Son del Swing Miami Dance Studios, Cali Salsa Miami, Janet Seminario, Fernando Garcia Dancers, & DJ Jorgie.

Alexander Abreu & Havana D’Primera Presented by presented by Habana en Miami & Asho Productions along with Searock Ent Sunday, November 3 $45 Tickets Event Time: 6p – 11p Estimated Attendance: 803 Amplified Sound: Yes Alcohol Sales: Yes The first Sunday in November sees the Miami return of acclaimed Cuban Timba & Salsa rockstar & Latin Grammy Nominee: Alexander Abreu & Havana D’Primera! Music and Opening Set by DJ MELAO / Dance Performance by Casino D’Primera Havana D’Primera is the Cuban Timba band directed and founded by Alexander Abreu in 2008, widely recognized as one of the greatest trumpet players of his generation – enriching most of the musical productions on the island. The band was formed by a collective of the best musicians and Cuban-All-Stars artists in the current Cuban scene, including not only revolutionary dominating musicians in the ’90s but also the most talented musicians of the upcoming years. Alexander has established himself as a dominating vocalist and renowned songwriter. His highly sophisticated melodic voice has made him remain as an outstanding vocalist with the added melodic sophistication of a skilled instrumentalist. He is considered one of the most versatile Cuban musicians, who has made his music a fascinating rhythmic and musical fusion of Salsa, Jazz, Funk, and Afro- Cuban.

Nu Deco Ensemble Fall Concert ft Cimafunk Presented by Nu Deco Ensemble Saturday, November 9 $45 Tickets Event Time: 7p – 11p Estimated Attendance: 800 Amplified Sound: Yes Alcohol Sales: Yes Join Nu Deco Ensemble for an evening of music under the stars Saturday, November 9 at the historic North Beach Bandshell alongside special guest Cimafunk. Bring your family and friends, grab a bite to eat and drink from our food truck lineup and enjoy the music with Miami’s 21st- century orchestra.

Mayor’s Turkey Drive Presented by Mayor’s League of Cities Saturday, November 15 305.673.7000 Event Time: 2p – 9p Estimated Attendance: 500 Amplified Sound: Yes Alcohol Sales: Yes The Mayor’s office invites residents of Miami Beach to receive meal assistance for the holidays. More information available at 305.673.7000.

Italian HIT Week featuring Carmen Consolo & Gio Evan Presented with support from the Italian Trade Commission Saturday, November 16 Free with RSVP Event Time: 7p – 11p Estimated Attendance: 793 Amplified Sound: Yes Alcohol Sales: Yes The 2019 edition of the annual visit by Italian music’s most innovative artists brings Carmen Consoli and Gio Evan to Miami for a free concert!

Carmen Consoli is a Sicilian singer-songwriter-superstar in Italy. She built her audience first as a rocker and a pop singer, but since rocketing to fame in Italy in the early 2000s, she has branched out. Along with the hits and anthems, she has released albums that explore acoustic music of Sicilian and Mediterranean folk instruments. Her music has incorporated folky transparency and pan-Mediterranean heritage, hints of gypsy violins and multileveled lyrics anchored by her lovely smoky voice. She remains one of Italy’s best loved artists, awarded countless music and civic awards, including being named a Goodwill Ambassador by Unicef, and a Knight of the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic. She has released 11 studio albums, amassed 11 platinum and 2 gold record certifications.

Gio Evan is a versatile artist, writer and poet, philosopher, humorist, performer, songwriter and street artist. He spent eight years journeying the world on a bicycle. His travels took him across Europe, then to India, South America and beyond, to live alongside local teachers, musicians, mystics and magicians, receiving shamanic initiations and activations in the vibrational and therapeutic world. When he returned home to Italy, he was filled with gratitude and the need to live amidst art, surrealism, and sacred play. Throughout 2015 he began publishing works of fiction and poetry, and also launched some musical and performance projects. By 2017 he was the most-read Italian living poet! He is also a popular performer in Italy, and has returned to the stage this year.

Italian HIT Week is produced by the Rhythm Foundation with support from the Italian Trade Commission, FIMI, and Puglia Sounds. Partners in the Miami production include the Consolate of Italy in Miami, FIU Italian Club, and FIU Department of Modern Languages.

Salsa a la Playa Presented by Salsa a la Playa Saturday, November 17 Free with RSVP Event Time: 10a – 8p Estimated Attendance: 483 Amplified Sound: Yes Alcohol Sales: Yes Record Collectors and Salsa aficionados from across Miami come together to share their love and knowledge of early century Latin music with the public.

North Beach Social - Pop Up Food Hall Presented by North Beach Bandshell Thursday, November 21 Free with RSVP Event Time: 5:30p – 10p Estimated Attendance: 610 Amplified Sound: Yes Alcohol Sales: Yes North Beach Social begins as a series of four pop-up food halls, featuring North Beach/ Miami Beach restaurants and guest chefs. Guests can dine at a large communal dining table under the newly installed canopy, getting to know neighbors while exploring some of the district’s most enticing food offerings with live music entertainment. Performances in November include Electric Kif and Young Musicians Unite Jazz Collective. Electric Kif are a Miami-based power quartet that explore the boundaries between rock, jazz fusion and electronic drum & bass. Made up of bassist Rodrigo Zambrano, keyboardist Jason Matthews, drummer Armando Lopez and guitarist Eric Escanes, the “Kif” describe their music as “post-nuclear,” a dynamic mash of hard hitting groove, high octane riffs and cosmic melody.

PAL’s Turkey Drive presented by Miami Beach Police Athletic League Tuesday, November 26 BeachPal.org Event Time: 2p – 9p Estimated Attendance: 500 Amplified Sound: Yes Alcohol Sales: N/A The Police Athletic League office invites residents of Miami Beach to receive meal assistance for the holidays. More information available at BeachPal.org.

Issac Delgado presented by Rhythm Foundation and FUNDarte Saturday, November 30 $40 Tickets Event Time: 7p – 11p Estimated Attendance: 751 Amplified Sound: Yes Alcohol Sales: Yes El Chévere De La Salsa! One of Cuba’s biggest stars and a respected musical innovator, GRAMMY-nominated vocalist Issac Delgado returns to Miami in support of his new album. Lluvia Y Fuego (Rain and Fire). The work showcases the effect of his return to his homeland and a re-investment in traditional song forms. The recording features lushly arranged original compositions and tributes to timeless Cuban sonero Benny Moré and Puerto Rican salsa king Cheo Feliciano.

A dazzling live performer who was mentored by legendary Cuban jazz pianist Gonzalo Rubalcaba, Delgado helped pioneer the timba style, as lead singer of the wildly influential group NG La Banda in the late 1980s. Restlessly inventive, he has continually rewritten the rules of Caribbean dance music, constantly playing with time and tempo, employing jazz-inspired passages and mixing in cutting edge rhythms and avant-garde electronics.

Rhye in Concert Presented by Poplife Thursday, December 5 $35 Tickets Event Time: 7p – 10p Estimated Attendance: 902 Amplified Sound: Yes Alcohol Sales: Yes Rhye, known for their dreamlike sultry ballads, return to Miami Beach and the Bandshell for a live performance featuring songs from their new album during Art Basel Miami Beach. Opening set by MONS VI

EO Holiday Party Presented by Entrepreneurs’ Organization Friday, December 13 PRIVATE Event Time: 6p – 11p Estimated Attendance: 150 Amplified Sound: Yes Alcohol Sales: Yes Private Holiday party for Entrepreneurs with fun live 80’s band and food and drinks in the garden.

MBFD Toy Drive Presented by MBFD Saturday, December 14 PUBLIC Event Time: 9a – 11a Estimated Attendance: 500 Amplified Sound: Yes Alcohol Sales: NO MB Fire Department hosts their annual toy drive for community youth at the Bandshell.

Tribute to Doug Burris Presented by Miami Beach Senior High Rock Ensemble Saturday, December 14 $5 Tickets Event Time: 6p – 11p Estimated Attendance: 480 Amplified Sound: Yes Alcohol Sales: Yes Young Musicians Unite presents an evening in tribute to the late Doug Burris, father of the Rock Ensemble and legendary educator of thousands over his 42-year teaching career. The Miami Beach Senior High Rock Ensemble will hold its 47th Annual Winter Concert at the North Beach Bandshell on the Clark Douglas Burris Stage. The night will be filled with performances and a video tribute to the mentor. Performances by Miami Beach Senior High Rock Ensemble, FOOM!, Ben Katzman Degreaser, & The Macsters.

Love + Hip Hop FILMING Presented by VH1 Thursday, December 19 PRIVATE Event Time: 6p – 10p Estimated Attendance: N/A Amplified Sound: Yes Alcohol Sales: Yes VH1 Reality show Love and Hip Hop film a concert at the venue for invited guests.

Heavy Pets Holiday Ball with special guest Roosevelt Collier Presented by Rhythm Foundation Saturday, December 21 $25 Tickets Event Time: 7p – 11p Estimated Attendance: 381 Amplified Sound: Yes Alcohol Sales: Yes The Heavy Pets are a funked-up rock and roll band from South Florida. Called “a living, breathing force of nature” by Relix Magazine, they are known for their songcraft and powerhouse live performances. The band’s energetic, extended sets have been described as “full blown musical salvation” that embodies the sound of their Florida home, weaving together elements of indie rock, funk and reggae into a style that is uniquely their own.

Soft-spoken by nature, south Florida-bred Roosevelt Collier does his hollering on the sacred steel guitar. Brought up in the tradition of the House of God Church, Roosevelt built his reputation alongside his uncles and cousins in The Lee Boys, known for their spirited, soul- shaking live performances. Seated front and center, “The Dr.” leaves an indelible mark on listeners, flooring audiences with his lightning-fast slide work on the pedal steel. He has performed alongside many of music’s most prestigious acts, from the Allman Brothers, to the Funky Meters, to Los Lobos to the Del McCoury Band. Whether on tour with the Lee Boys, bouncing from stage to stage at festivals, or hosting an allstar get down in Miami, when Roosevelt takes the stage, the ear-to-ear grins can’t help but be contagious.

Shakespeare on the Beach Presented by Florida Shakespeare Theater Friday January 3 Free with RSVP Event Time: 7p – 10p Estimated Attendance: 198 Amplified Sound: Yes Alcohol Sales: Yes Florida Shakespeare Company make their debut at the Bandshell during their season of Shakespeare in the Park…except ours is on the beach!

Shakespeare on the Beach Presented by Florida Shakespeare Theater Saturday January 4 Free with RSVP Event Time: 7p – 10p Estimated Attendance: 241 Amplified Sound: Yes Alcohol Sales: Yes Florida Shakespeare Company make their debut at the Bandshell during their season of Shakespeare in the Park…except ours is on the beach!

Shakespeare on the Beach Presented by Florida Shakespeare Theater Sunday January 5 Free with RSVP Event Time: 6p – 9p Estimated Attendance: 399 Amplified Sound: Yes Alcohol Sales: Yes Florida Shakespeare Company make their debut at the Bandshell during their season of Shakespeare in the Park…except ours is on the beach!

Fortunate Youth, Passafire, Artikal Soundsystem Presented by Deuterman Productions Saturday, January 25 $20 Tickets Event Time: 6p – 11p Estimated Attendance: 680 Amplified Sound: Yes Alcohol Sales: Yes Fortunate Youth is a collective of five outstanding musicians/producers who have taken the worldwide music scene by storm. Spreading inspirational messages of Peace, Love, and Unity, Fortunate Youth connects music lovers from all over the world, creating a global family of positivity and progressive ideals. FY was born in Hermosa Beach California, a popular beach town in Los Angeles County. Four members attended high school together (Jered Draskovich, Corey Draskovich, Travis Walpole, and Greg Gelb) linking with Mississippi transplant Dan Kelly (singer). The band has toured heavily since 2009 with over 27 tours nationwide and abroad. Fortunate Youth has released 4 full length studio albums, Three of which hit #1 on the Billboard and iTunes Reggae charts. “It’s All A Jam” (2013), “Don’t Think Twice” (2015), and “Fortunate Youth” (2017)

Gronk’s House Presented by Medium Rare Saturday, February 1 SOLD OUT Event Time: 1p – 7p Estimated Attendance: 2,500 Amplified Sound: Yes Alcohol Sales: Yes Superbowl related festivities taking place in and around the Bandshell.

Opera at the Bandshell / Florida Grand Opera Presented by MB Arts in the Parks Saturday, February 9 FREE Event Time: 6p – 10p Estimated Attendance: 640 Amplified Sound: Yes Alcohol Sales: Yes Opera in the Park returns to the North Beach Bandshell as part of Miami Beach’s Arts in the Parks program. Florida Grand Opera presents classic arias, art songs and treasured Broadway numbers. Enjoy an operatic evening outdoors under the stars featuring FGO Studio Artists at the North Beach Bandshell.

GroundUp Music Festival curated by Snarky Puppy Presented by GroundUp Music & Rhythm Foundation Friday, February 14 $85 / $225 Tickets Event Time: 2p – 11p Estimated Attendance: 1,440 Amplified Sound: Yes Alcohol Sales: Yes The fourth annual GroundUP Music Festival returns to the oceanside North Beach Bandshell in Miami Beach, Florida, February 14-16, 2020. Hosted by three-time Grammy award-winning collective Snarky Puppy, GroundUP will feature a special set from the band each day along with performances from an eclectic list of international artists.

Joining Snarky Puppy is iconic singer-songwriter/keyboardist Michael McDonald from The Doobie Brothers and Steely Dan performing with Chris Potter, Michael League and Jamison Ross for a special acoustic set, progressive future funk collective Lettuce, saxophone virtuoso Chris Potter as artist-at-large, Grammy Award-winning Mexican folk-fusion singer Lila Downs, powerful jazz trumpeter Christian Scott aTunde Adjuah, jazz drummer and songwriter Brian Blade & The Fellowship Band, jazz vocalist Cécile McLorin Salvant, and more. The Valentine’s Day weekend event also features global artists from Colombia, Portugal, Brazil, Chile, Switzerland, and Greece, making it a true exploration of world music.

GroundUp Music Festival curated by Snarky Puppy Presented by GroundUp Music & Rhythm Foundation Saturday, February 15 $85 / $225 Tickets Event Time: 1p– 11p Estimated Attendance: 1,800 Amplified Sound: Yes Alcohol Sales: Yes GroundUp Music Festival returns to the Bandshell with a signature highlight of our annual program. Snarky Puppy conclude each night with their trademark compositions.

GroundUp Music Festival curated by Snarky Puppy Presented by GroundUp Music & Rhythm Foundation Sunday, February 16 $85 / $225 Tickets Event Time: 12p – 10p Estimated Attendance: 1,650 Amplified Sound: Yes Alcohol Sales: Yes GroundUp Music Festival returns to the Bandshell with a signature highlight of our annual program. Snarky Puppy conclude each night with their trademark compositions.

North Beach Social - Pop Up Food Hall Presented by North Beach Bandshell Thursday, February 20 Free with RSVP Event Time: 5:30p – 10p Estimated Attendance: 750 Amplified Sound: Yes Alcohol Sales: Yes North Beach Social begins as a series of four pop-up food halls, featuring North Beach/ Miami Beach restaurants and guest chefs. Guests can dine at a large communal dining table under the newly installed canopy, getting to know neighbors while exploring some of the district’s most enticing food offerings with live music entertainment. Performances by Black Dove and City of Miami Beach Parks & Rec Dept.

ILe Presented by Rhythm Foundation Friday, February 21 $25 - $35 Event Time: 7p – 11p Estimated Attendance: 326 Amplified Sound: Yes Alcohol Sales: Yes iLe’s voice is the instrument of a time traveler, traversing back-to-the-future Latin music with beautiful melodies and powerful messages. She visits the North Beach Bandshell with her band on February 21, touring in support of her second release “Almadura (which was just nominated for 2020 Grammy)” the evolution of an artist carrying forth Puerto Rico’s musical heritage.

As a young teen, iLe (then known as sassy rapper PG-13) sang with Calle 13, the legendary reggaeton group formed by her older brothers Residente and Visitante. But with her 2016 solo debut, fans expecting Latin hip hop were surprised by a torchy time warp. With gorgeous old- school boleros and bugalu, iLevitable won the 2017 Grammy, for Best Latin alternative. Like Calle 13, it was also a family affair – produced with her brothers; the album featured songs written by her sister Milena, their father Joey Cabra, and even their grandmother Flor Amelia de Gracia, an artist from Puerto Rico in the 1950s and 60s. With her new work Almadura, iLe continues to step up as a musical innovator, a feminist, and an activist. Her music, still lush and lovely, also reflects the harshness of the last few years in Puerto Rico. The devastation brought by Hurricane Maria, the sweeping protests this summer that led to the ouster of the disgraced governor, political upheaval – iLe stands as a leader of la resistencia, fighting the patriarchy and colonialism. The music is a battle cry, but one with gorgeous arrangements. Classic rhythms like bomba y plena, rumba, bolero, and mambo infuse the songs, alongside subtle electronic elements and rootsy hand percussion – all anchored by iLe’s signature voice.

South Beach Wine and Food Festival present Nu Deco Ensemble Presented by SOBEWFF Saturday, February 22 $95 on SOBEWFF.org Event Time: 7p – 10p Estimated Attendance: 580 Amplified Sound: Yes Alcohol Sales: Yes #SOBEWFF is throwing the ultimate concert under the stars! We’ve tapped Nu Deco Ensemble, an orchestra as vivacious and captivating as Miami itself, for this open air concert experience. Nu Deco Ensemble, an eclectic chamber orchestra designed for the 21st Century, will take over the North Beach Bandshell to perform their re-imaginings of artists such as Outkast and Daft Punk, as well as new music by some of today’s most exciting living composers - with a special guest performance by 90’s icon, Grammy Award-winner and frontman of legendary group RUN DMC Rev Run. Relax and absorb this evening of music under the stars, followed by refreshing sips of wine and spirits from the Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits portfolio and bites from the Miami Design District’s favorite food hall, Politan Row Miami. Seating for this event is first come, first served.

Miami Beach Youth Music Festival Presented by City of Miami Beach and the Rhythm Foundation Saturday, February 29 $5 Event Time: 3p – 11p Estimated Attendance: 2,840 Amplified Sound: Yes Alcohol Sales: Yes Tickets are $5, and all proceeds support music programs in Miami Beach public schools!

The City of Miami Beach and The Rhythm Foundation are proud to announce twelve youth performers selected to perform at the North Beach Bandshell Stage and eight artists to perform on the Acoustic Garden Stage on Saturday, February 29, 2020 as part of the fourth annual Miami Beach Youth Music Festival. The festival will begin at 3 pm and culminate with a performance by headliner South Florida band FOOM!

Artists performing on the Bandshell stage: All-Star Live Modern School Of Music, Arrowhead, Avalanche, Genre 2, Isabella Velasquez, Michi Sanz, Peach, Ripcord, Sunset 4, Visions, Young Musicians Unite Jazz Collective.

Artists performing on The Acoustic Garden Stage: Esteban, Isabella Rose Sky, Julia Grace, Malena Kingston, Mark Charnetski, Mihi Singer, Nina Marie, Rat’s Mouth Jazz Collective

Featured artists: Fienberg Fisher K-8 Rock Ensemble, Nautilus Middle School Jazz Band, and the winner of Miami Carnival’s Junior Pan Championship. The festival will also encourage attendees to explore their own talent as they visit the instrument petting zoo where you can receive a free mini-music lesson from Young Musicians Unite and a musical instrument-making booth courtesy of The Bass Museum.

Other activations at the event include an ‘Imagination Playground hosted by CMB Parks Department, food vendors and other family-friendly activities.

All admissions proceeds benefitting Miami Beach Senior High Rock Ensemble, Nautilus Middle School Music Academy, Fienberg Fisher K-8 Rock Ensemble, South Pointe Elementary Rock Ensemble and Young Musicians Unite.

Global Cuba Festival 2020 presented by FundARTE, Miami Light Project, The Rhythm Foundation Saturday, March 7 $30 Event Time: 7p – 11p Estimated Attendance: 350 Amplified Sound: Yes Alcohol Sales: Yes

Brenda Navarrete is one of Cuba’s most celebrated rising stars, fusing ancestral Afro-Cuban heritage with contemporary jazz influences. A singer and percussionist, Navarrete plays the batá, a set of three double-headed drums that are traditionally used in Afro-Cuban religious ceremonies. Her skill breaks a santería taboo, which holds that women are forbidden to even touch the batá. She has collaborated with and played alongside Cuba’s musical elite, including Alain Perez, Rodney Barreto and Roberto Carcasses, the founder of Cuban all-star funk/jazz band Interactivo, which is responsible for producing a handful of other Cuban stars including Telmary and Cimafunk. She also plays with Afro-Cuban folkloric percussion troupe, Obiní Bata.

Cuban bassist Yelsy Heredia, living and working in Madrid since the late ’90s, toured with Diego El Cigala for 13 years, along with other beloved icons like Bebo Valdés, Chucho Valdés, Omara Portuondo, Ernan Lopez Nussa, and Dayme Arocena. Even while touring with these giants, Heredia harbored a passion for changüí, the distinctive and less-known rhythm of his native Guantanamo, in eastern Cuba. Changüí is the traditional rhythm of the sugar cane farms; it was the first contemporary music to combine Spanish canción and guitar with African rhythms and percussion. It is considered a predecessor of son montuno, which makes it the grandfather of modern salsa.

Heredia’s 2019 solo project of changüí tunes, Lo Nuestro, was nominated for a Latin Grammy. He will bring his music to the Bandshell for this special concert, accompanied by a band of other top Cuban musicians. North Beach Bandshell Live Streams 03/01/2020 – 09/30/2020 7275 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach, FL 33141

Betsayda Machado y la Parranda el Clavo Presented by Rhythm Foundation Saturday, March 14 FREE ONLINE Event Time: 8:00p – 10p Estimated Attendance: 7,129 views, 15,516 reached Amplified Sound: Yes Alcohol Sales: NO

The City of Doral in partnership with Rhythm Foundation planned to present Betsayda Machado & Parranda El Clavo at the highly anticipated fourth annual Ritmo Doral, a multinational concert and cultural event scheduled for March 14, 2020. Given the escalating Coronavirus crisis, the free public event was cancelled; however the artists had already arrive from Venezuela! We worked with the artist to stream their performance live to an audience for free online.

Raised in the small village of El Clavo in the Barlovento region, the Parranda El Clavo are a group of friends making music together for more than 30 years, the spirit-shaking percussive Afro-Venezuelan-soul known as tambor. South Florida audiences discovered this electrifying group last year during their month-long residency at the Colony Theater in Miami Beach. Working with Miami New Drama, they developed the musical Viva La Parranda, to share the stories of the group and their village.

Describing their 2018 NPR Tiny Desk Concert, one journalist wrote, “Watching Betsayda Machado y Parranda El Clavo perform is like peering back in time. The large bamboo cylinders, the djembe-like drums and the large friction drum together create a symphony of interlocking polyrhythms that was unlike anything I'd heard. Machado's vocals soar over the unrelenting rhythms.”

Afrobeta at North Beach Social Presented by Rhythm Foundation & City of Miami Beach Thursday, March 19 FREE ONLINE Event Time: 8:00p – 10p Est. Attendance: 13,342 views, 31,319 reached Amplified Sound: Yes Alcohol Sales: NO

The Rhythm Foundation planned to present Afrobeta at the March Edition of the North Beach Social, a series of four pop-up food halls, featuring North Beach/ Miami Beach restaurants and guest chefs. The event allowed guests to dine at a large communal dining table under the newly installed canopy, getting to know neighbors while exploring some of the district’s most enticing food offerings with live music entertainment. The event as planned was cancelled because of the closure of the facility related to the Coronavirus crisis. We were able to pivot and produce this performance as a live stream free to an online audience at the time originally scheduled.

Miami’s avant-dance duo Afrobeta has been tearing up dance floors in their hometown since 2006. The band was formed by Cuci Amador and Smurphio, whose mutual love of classic songwriting, Cuban pastries and dancing until 5 am inspired them to make music together. Afrobeta has also toured internationally, performing at some of the largest music festivals and venues in the world including Glastonbury, Space Ibiza, Burning Man, Ultra Music Festival editions in Miami, South Korea and Brazil, Camp Bisco, and Identity Festival. Afrobeta’s fourth full-length album, Illusion Motel, is written and produced by the duo and will be released on their imprint, Pubic Zirconia.

Jay Thomas at North Beach Social Presented by Rhythm Foundation & City of Miami Beach Thursday, April 16 FREE ONLINE Event Time: 8:00p – 10p Estimated Attendance: 2,795 views, 4,332 reached Amplified Sound: Yes Alcohol Sales: NO

The Rhythm Foundation planned to copresent Jay Thomas at the annual event Out in the Tropics, opening for Franscisco, El Hombre. We were able to retain the programming from various shows in our spring season and reorient them into the North Beach Social Program, in this case we presented Jay Thomas for the evening. North Beach Social, a series of four pop-up food halls, featuring North Beach/ Miami Beach restaurants and guest chefs. The event allowed guests to dine at a large communal dining table under the newly installed canopy, getting to know neighbors while exploring some of the district’s most enticing food offerings with live music entertainment.

The event as planned was cancelled because of the closure of the facility related to the Coronavirus crisis. We presented this performance for free to an online audience at the normally scheduled time of the North Beach Social.

Jay Thomas makes sweet, electric poetry. The beat drops, the strings swell, the voice swoons over guitar tunes. Jay Thomas plays guitar and vocals accompanied by his partner Oscar Quesada on cello, keys and beats. In 2019 they released their first album as Jay Thomas, Fantasma Tropical.

Matt Sabatella at North Beach Social Presented by Rhythm Foundation & City of Miami Beach Thursday, May 21 FREE ONLINE Event Time: 8:00p – 10p Est Attendance: 4,242 views, 10,129 reached Amplified Sound: Yes Alcohol Sales: NO

The Rhythm Foundation planned to present Matt Sabatella at the May Edition of the North Beach Social, a series of four pop-up food halls, featuring North Beach/ Miami Beach restaurants and guest chefs. The event allowed guests to dine at a large communal dining table under the newly installed canopy, getting to know neighbors while exploring some of the district’s most enticing food offerings with live music entertainment. The event as planned was cancelled because of the closure of the facility related to the Coronavirus crisis. We presented this performance for free to an online audience at the normally scheduled time of the North Beach Social.

With vocals, guitar, banjo, and mountain dulcimer, Matthew Sabatella connects people with music that is woven into the fabric of the United States. For nearly two decades, he has followed the threads of traditional folk song, revealing a tapestry of music created by American colonists, pioneers, sailors, lumberjacks, immigrants, '49ers, farmers, mountaineers, slaves, soldiers, cowboys, railroaders, factory workers, and activists. In his solo performances, Sabatella tells his own story of discovery while digging deep into his repertoire of folk, bluegrass, old-time country, fiddle tunes, Appalachian music, ragtime, blues, spirituals, railroad and cowboy songs, work songs, sea shanties, Old World ballads, and more.

Nic N’Taya Presented by Rhythm Foundation & ASHO Productions Saturday, May 30 FREE ONLINE Event Time: 8:00p – 10p Est Attendance: 10,336 views, 28,846 reached Amplified Sound: Yes Alcohol Sales: NO

The Rhythm Foundation broadcasted a live stream of Cuban Salsa and Changüí artist Nic & N’Taya with a socially distanced band, in a closed-set performance from the North Beach Bandshell.

Changüí is a style that originated in the early 19th century in Cuba's eastern region of Guantánamo Province, specifically Baracoa where slaves worked the sugarcane plantations and refineries. Changüí combines the structure and elements of Spain's canción and Spanish guitar with African rhythms and percussion instruments of Bantu origin. Changüí is considered a predecessor of popular modern styles like Son Montuno - the ancestor of modern salsa.

Nick "N'Taya" Martinez is a sparkling high-voltage bandleader and singer who has channeled the spirit and drive of the Timba & Changüí genres to a new generation of Salsa dancers. With his band N'Taya he takes these classic forms to popular dance clubs and Latin music parties. This live stream will feature his 11-piece band, performing in guidance with covid-19 safety practices.

Salsa Dance schools participated in a virtual dance challenge through Zoom. La Energia de Salsa project will be selecting dancers from the challenge to be featured in an upcoming Nic & N'Taya music video. We encouraged viewers to join in.

Richie Hell at North Beach Social Presented by Rhythm Foundation & City of Miami Beach Thursday, June 18 FREE ONLINE Event Time: 8:00p – 10p Estimated Attendance: 1,820 views, 5,332 reached Amplified Sound: Yes Alcohol Sales: NO

We were able to retain the programming from various shows in our spring season and reorient them into the North Beach Social Program, in this case we presented Richie Hell for the evening as an expanded offering of our North Beach Social Streams. We presented this performance for free to an online audience at the normally scheduled time of the North Beach Social.

Richie Hell transcends the terrestrial with his psychedelic take on intercontinental rhythms and uplifting mantric live shows. Born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, where he's widely known both as DJ and producer, he arrived in Miami in 2015 and quickly became a favorite behind the decks at clubs around the Magic City. An avid record collector, Richie absorbs influences from every reach of the musical spectrum, adding his universal steady beat to produce a groovy, shamanic experience. His original psych-infused electronic tunes are as satisfying on the dance floor as they are at a festival, where his legendary live performances include hieroglyphic visuals. These are just a few of the tricks in his magic bag, which have catapulted him to playing concerts and festivals all over the world. With three EPs released and a full-length LP out this summer, Richie Hell is ready to soundtrack today’s global dance party. At this show he will be performing with his band and playing the new single “Amazonia” featuring Los Mirlos as well as other tracks from his upcoming LP that will be released on Sweat Records Records.

Make Music Miami: Fete Allstars (Members of French Horn Ensemble + Papaloko) Presented by Rhythm Foundation, Buskerfest, Cultural Service of the French Consulate in Miami & City of Miami Beach Sunday, June 21 FREE ONLINE Event Time: 8:00p – 10p Estimated Attendance: 1,641 views, 3,954 reached Amplified Sound: Yes Alcohol Sales: NO

We were able to retain the programming from various shows in our spring season and reorient them into our digital offerings, in this case we planned our program as a free concert during the worldwide effort Fete de la Musique. Miami's Fête de la Musique, part of Make Music Miami, returned this year with a unique program that respected social distancing no matter what activities are proposed - from streamed performances during morning rush hour in the city's public transit, online music workshops, traveling music bus, to live streams of concerts and house parties with Miami's favorite local bands and much more.

We broadcasted a live stream of our Make Music Miami concert featuring the Fête All Stars, led by Vincent Raffard of the French Horn Collective on trumpet, guitar, vocals; Michel Gonzalez on guitar; Jeff Kipperman on bass; Fabio Patino on drums; Jude Papaloko on vocals and Haitian drum; Clark on keyboard and Haitian drum from a closed-set performance at the North Beach Bandshell on Sunday, June 21 at 8pm from our Facebook Live for FREE with RSVP.

The program also included live video from Liset Alea, a Miami expat now living in Paris. Alea moved to France, as a featured chanteuse with retro pop group Nouvelle Vague. She contributed an original tune and some beloved covers, streamed from her Paris balcony. We also streamed videos by French artists selected by the Miami Office of Cultural Services of the French Embassy in the US.

Held annually on June 21, Make Music Day is part of the international Fête de la Musique which began in Paris in 1982 as an idealistic holiday celebrating the summer solstice on June 21st. The daylong, musical free-for-all celebrates music in all its forms, encouraging people to band together and play in free public concerts. It has evolved into a global music festival, taking place in over 100 countries all over the world.

Forró Cravo & Canela at North Beach Social Presented by Rhythm Foundation & City of Miami Beach Thursday, July 16 FREE ONLINE Event Time: 8:00p – 10p Estimated Attendance: 5,700 views, 6,046 reached Amplified Sound: Yes Alcohol Sales: NO

We have been able to retain the programming from various shows in our spring season and reorient them into the North Beach Social Program, in this case we plan to present Forró Cravo & Canela for the evening as an expanded offering of our North Beach Social Streams. We presented this performance for free to an online audience at the normally scheduled time of the North Beach Social.

The band brings the beloved accordion-fueled party music of Northeastern Brazil to South Florida. The group, led by Gabriella Lacombe (vocals) and Eduardo Veronez (percussion), began playing together in 2016. They quickly became one of the most popular Brazilian bands in Florida, recently winning “Best Band” the Brazilian Press Award.

Afroroots Festival Presented by Community Arts & Culture Saturday, September 12 FREE ONLINE Event Time: 8:00p – 11p Estimated Attendance: 6,700 views, 14,600 reached Amplified Sound: Yes Alcohol Sales: NO

Community Arts and Culture celebrates the 22nd Annual Afroroots Music Festival, and the first Virtual Festival edition. The evening features performances from Johnny Drear, Venezonix, Cortadito, Al Sarah, and The Spam Allstars, with host George Collinet from Afropop Worldwide!

Brazilian Film Festival: Opening Night Film & Performance Presented by Infinnito Brazilian International Film Festival Sunday, September 27 FREE ONLINE Event Time: 7:00p – 10p Estimated Attendance: 1,700 views, 4,400 reached Amplified Sound: Yes Alcohol Sales: NO

Inffinito Film Festival celebrates the kick off of 2020 Festival edition with a special performance by Miamibloco alongside Rose & Max Ramatis, with opening set by DJ Lupa. Following the performance, the public is invited to view a free Documentary film screening - Quero Botar Meu Bloco Na Rua. North Beach Bandshell COVID-19 Affected Events 03/01/2020 – 09/30/2020 7275 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach, FL 33141

POSTPONED: No Place for Hate presented by City of Miami Beach Thursday, March 12 (NEW DATE TBD) Free with RSVP Event Time: 6p – 8p Estimated Attendance: 0 Amplified Sound: Yes Alcohol Sales: No Please join us as Miami Beach Senior High, Miami Beach Nautilus Middle School, Miami Beach South Pointe Elementary, North Beach Elementary, Biscayne Beach Elementary, Miami Beach Fienberg Fisher K- 8, Treasure Island Elementary and Ruth K. Broad Bay Harbor K-8 Center earn the respected Anti-Defamation League' s No Place for Hate® designation for their efforts to combat bullying in our public schools.

POSTPONED: Orchestra Miami’s Beethoven on the Beach presented by Orchestra Miami Saturday, March 14 (NEW DATE TBD) Free with RSVP Event Time: 7p – 10p Estimated Attendance: 0 Amplified Sound: Yes Alcohol Sales: Yes Orchestra Miami return to the Bandshell with Beethoven on the Beach.

POSTPONED: Collie Buddz, Keznamdi, and 4th & Orange Presented by Deuterman Productions Wednesday, March 18 (NOW 09-30-2020) $25 - $125 Event Time: 6:00p – 10p Estimated Attendance: 0 Amplified Sound: Yes Alcohol Sales: Yes Deuterman Productions Presents: Collie Buddz, Keznamdi, and 4th & Orange

Buddz exploded onto the scene a few years ago when critics and tastemakers alike embraced him - Spin Magazine proclaiming, "Buddz proves the pop rule: Catchiness transcends color." From Vibe Magazine to Entertainment Weekly, Collie Buddz made quite an impression with music critics.

"As an artist, I want to expand musically. I'll always do Reggae. I did Reggae music because I was good at it and that's what I knew and loved growing up. But at the same time, when I put on my producer hat and I hear a riddim, it might not be in my comfort range, but whatever I hear on the track dictates what I'm going to make. I really only care about making good music. For that to happen, it can't live in a box."

Keznamdi - Our respective legacies live, breathe, and thrive through our lineages.Rather than leave behind material totems and trinkets, we really impart wisdom, history, and memories on the next generation. Keznamdi carefully considers this with every move he makes.

A tight bond at home prepared him to build a formidable legacy both personally and creatively. Born in Kingston, Jamaica, he remained surrounded by music as mom and dad led the iconic reggae outfit Chakula. By five-years-old, he contributed his first track “Mix A Color” to the Save the World children’s compilation and turned heads locally. Professional obligations brought the family to Tanzania. At 12-years-old, his eyes quickly opened to the importance of a global upbringing.

“My parents showed me the world. I’ve seen many different cultures and experienced different languages, foods, religions, and people. It made me grow.” Relocating to Ethiopia four years later, he continued to soak up African culture before finally settling in California for college at St. Mary’s on a soccer scholarship. Following a career-ending injury, music became the central focus. 2013 saw him make his debut with the independent Bridging the Gap EP, scoring #1 on iTunes Top Reggae Albums Chart and the Billboard Reggae Albums Chart. He quietly built a fan base with consistent performances around Jamaica, maintaining a prolific output in the process. He joined forces with one of Jamaica’s most famous producers for the song “Grade,” which continued to stoke excitement.

CANCELLED: North Beach Social - Pop Up Food Hall Presented by North Beach Bandshell Thursday, March 19 Free with RSVP Event Time: 5:30p – 10p Estimated Attendance: 0 Amplified Sound: Yes Alcohol Sales: Yes North Beach Social is a series of four pop-up food halls, featuring North Beach/ Miami Beach restaurants and guest chefs. Guests can dine at a large communal dining table under the newly installed canopy, getting to know neighbors while exploring some of the district’s most enticing food offerings with live music entertainment. Performance by Afrobeta & yoga activation by SKYLIGHT YOGA.

Miami’s avant-dance duo Afrobeta has been tearing up dance floors in their hometown since 2006. The band was formed by Cuci Amador and Smurphio, whose mutual love of classic songwriting, Cuban pastries and dancing until 5 am inspired them to make music together. Afrobeta has also toured internationally, performing at some of the largest music festivals and venues in the world including Glastonbury, Space Ibiza, Burning Man, Ultra Music Festival editions in Miami, South Korea and Brazil, Camp Bisco, and Identity Festival. Afrobeta’s fourth full-length album, Illusion Motel, is written and produced by the duo and will be released on their imprint, Pubic Zirconia.

**ELEMENTS OF THIS PERFORMANCE WERE PRESERVED AS A LIVE STREAM THAT TOOK PLACE ON THE EVENT DATE AT 8PM**

CANCELLED: Ballet Flamenco la Rosa presented by BFLR Sunday, March 22 Ticketed Event Time: 7p – 10p Estimated Attendance: 0 Amplified Sound: Yes Alcohol Sales: Yes Ballet Flamenco La Rosa's company’s mission is to present authentic Flamenco dance with live music in a theatrical setting, expanding the art form beyond traditional limits to appeal to broad- based audiences. A non-profit organization, Ballet Flamenco La Rosa is known for its high artistic level, stellar Guest Artists and dedication to nurturing and perpetuating the rich art of Flamenco, delighting standing room only audiences for over three decades. CANCELLED: Howard Jones Acoustic Trio presented by Deuterman Productions Saturday, March 28 $30 Event Time: 7p – 11p Estimated Attendance: 0 Amplified Sound: Yes Alcohol Sales: Yes Howard Jones Acoustic Trio is an intimate stripped-down trip through Howard’s 30-year music career. Featuring Howard on electric piano, Robin Boult (Roger Daltry, Dave Stewart, Fish) on acoustic guitar and Nick Beggs (Kajagoogoo, Belinda Carlisle, John Paul Jones) on chapman stick, these shows deliver a fresh take on Howard’s best-known hits. These shows also provide the opportunity for the audience to hear first-hand about the inspiration behind Howard’s beloved material as well as stories from his touring career.

Electronic music pioneer Howard Jones has been a constant presence on the international touring scene for the past three decades, playing live in a number of different configurations including intimate solo shows and dates with his full high-tech band set-up. His most recent album is TRANSFORM, his first new studio album in nearly a decade. Released earlier this year (2019) to critical acclaim, TRANSFORM features several collaborations with electronica luminary BT. Of the album, Paste avowed, “TRANSFORM is remarkably consistent to Jones’ lush brand of synthpop…a balance of what is familiar and what is innovative, new magic from old spells” while Pop Matters declared the album to contain “dazzling synth sounds, catchy melodies and introspective and life-affirming lyrics – but with a contemporary feel”.

POSTPONED: Trevor Hall presented by Deuterman Productions Friday, April 3 (NOW TENTATIVE FALL 2020) $30 - $130 Event Time: 6:30p – 11p Estimated Attendance: 500-750 Amplified Sound: Yes Alcohol Sales: Yes Trevor Hall realized at a very young age that music was more than just a passion. As an eleven year old, playing harmonica beside his father in the cradle of the weeping willows of South Carolina, music quickly became his most intimate companion, guide and creative outlet. In his elementary years, he began to write his own songs and perform them locally.

At sixteen he recorded his first record, and the following year he left South Carolina to study classical guitar at Idyllwild Arts Academy, an international boarding school east of Los Angeles. There, Trevor was introduced to yoga and certain spiritual practices found in India, which greatly influenced his music and his life journey. During his senior year, Trevor signed a record deal with Geffen Records and his career as a musician formally began.

For the past ten years, Brett Dennen – with his poet’s perspective, off-kilter vocals, humor, and limitless musical freedom – has turned dancing like no one’s watching into a lifestyle. As a songwriter, performer, watercolor artist, and environmental conservationist and outdoorsman, the shows he performs and the events he hosts generate positive impact. He gathers people together to consistently try to make the world a better place.

As a young man in Northern California, Dennen’s passion for environmental conservation and his outrage at injustice led him to work as a camp counselor for at-risk youth. There, he used music as a teaching tool. Through song, he could pull different demographics of kids together, he could communicate in a different way with those who found trouble finding their own words. CANCELLED: Easter Service Presented by King Jesus International Ministry Sunday April, 12th Free Event Time: 12p – 3p Estimated Attendance: 500 Amplified Sound: Yes Alcohol Sales: Yes King Jesus Int’l Ministry opens the doors of the Bandshell for their Easter service on Miami Beach. Food and refreshments are to be served as well as activities for kids available throughout the event.

POSTPONED: Florence Foresti Presented by SilverPROD Wednesday, April 15 $39 - $170 Event Time: 7p – 10p Estimated Attendance: 800 Amplified Sound: Yes Alcohol Sales: Yes ollowing her high school studies in literature, theatre and dramatic expression at Saint-Just de Lyon, France, Florence Foresti entered a school for cinematography at Lyon. After her studies, she appeared in the French television show Thalassa. At 20, Florence enrolled in a course in classical theatre at Lyon, which she quit after just two days. She had a few other jobs, including working for EDF in Lyon, before finally becoming a computer graphics artist. But she didn’t give up on her artistic ambitions, and in 1998 made her début at the café-théâtre Le nOmbril du mOnde (“The navel of the world”), as part of an all woman trio Les Taupes Models (a pun between French “Model Moles” and English “Top Models”) with Céline Ianucci and Cécile Giroud, while simultaneously working as a computer graphics artist. The trio was noticed while touring and Anne Roumanoff proposed to make the act the first part of her show.

Florence Foresti’s career was launched. In 2001 her first one-woman show, Manquerait plus qu’elle soit drôle (“The only thing missing is that she be funny”) won the Jury prize at the Antibes festival. Her style bears comparison with that of Muriel Robin and Sylvie Joly, as well as with some of the ‘attitude’ and voices of Dieudonné M’bala M’bala and Élie Semoun. She appeared in the Stéphane Bern programme 20h 10 pétantes, and then on Laurent Ruquier’s On a tout essayé, playing zany characters. In 2005 she starts her seconde one woman show, Florence Foresti fait des sketchs (“Florence Foresti Makes sketches”). And in April 2006 she spent at the Olympia in Paris ! In July 2007, she gave birth to her daughter, Toni. In the wake, she plays in a play L’Abribus with Philippe Elno.

POSTPONED: North Beach Social – North Beach Beirgarten Presented by PRISM Creative Thursday, April 16 (NEW DATE TBD) Free with RSVP Event Time: 6p – 10p Estimated Attendance: 500-750 Amplified Sound: Yes Alcohol Sales: Yes North Beach Social is a series of four pop-up food halls, featuring North Beach/ Miami Beach restaurants and guest chefs. Guests can dine at a large communal dining table under the newly installed canopy, getting to know neighbors while exploring some of the district’s most enticing food offerings with live music entertainment. Performances by Freddie and the Mercury’s ( AKA Patrick and the Swayzees ). POSTPONED: Los Amigos Invisibles + Aterciopelados Presented by Poplife Friday, April 17 (NOW TENTATIVE APRIL 2021) $35 and up Event Time: 6p – 11p Estimated Attendance: 500-750 Amplified Sound: Yes Alcohol Sales: Yes Los Amigos Invisibles + Aterciopelados, together at the North Beach Bandshell on April 17th.

CANCELLED: Sueña Miami Presented by Miami Children’s Chorus Saturday, April 18 Free with RSVP Event Time: 6p – 10p Estimated Attendance: 500-750 Amplified Sound: Yes Alcohol Sales: Yes Miami Children’s Chorus invite Emily Estefan to perform her original music as well as classic latin hits accompanied by the Children’s Chorus and her full band.

POSTPONED: Takht Al-Nagham: Syrian Music Preservation Society Presented by Rhythm Foundation Sunday, April 19 (NEW DATE TBD) $20 - $50 Event Time: 7p – 10p Estimated Attendance: 250 - 500 Amplified Sound: Yes Alcohol Sales: Yes As the performing arm of the Syrian Music Preservation Initiative, Takht Al-Nagham Ensemble keeps alive traditional music and repertoire of the historic city of Aleppo, Syria – cultural heart of the Arabic musical world. The group is led by violinist and oud player Sameer Ali, who formed the group along with other top Syrian artists, now scattered in exile. A native of Syria now living and working as a doctor in New York, Ali is a member of the National Arab Orchestra.

Takht Al-Nagham sextet will feature Muhammad Qadri Dalal, a virtuoso oud player, a true master Of improvisation in Arab music. Dalal visited Miami as a member of the Al Kindi Ensemble, with the landmark Whirling Dervishes of Damascus tours in 2001 and 2004, and now lives in Alexandria, Egypt.

CANCELLED: Out in the Tropics: Francisco, El Hombre Presented by Fundarte Thursday, April 23 Free with RSVP Event Time: 7p – 10p Estimated Attendance: 250 - 500 Amplified Sound: Yes Alcohol Sales: Yes

FRANCISCO, EL HOMBRE is a quintet from Sao Paulo formed by two Mexican brothers and three Brazilians. They are spark and explosion, glitter, indie rock infused with cumbia and maracatú. Rolling Stone Brazil called them a mix between Manu Chao and Naçao Zumbi, a modern incarnation of tropicalia.

The band take their name from the legendary Colombian folkloric traveling minstrel. Very fitting for a group that satisfies their musical wanderlust with near-constant tours across Latin America. When they were nominated for a Latin Grammy (Best Portuguese Language song) in 2017, they watched the ceremony on a TV in a boteco (small bar) in Northeastern Brazil. Through their music, videos and live shows, the group addresses pan-Latin culture, LGBTQ rights, feminism, and social and political movements in Brazil. “We are the borders we have crossed,” they claim. Opening set by JAY THOMAS, the Miami-based troubador. “The beat drops, the strings swell, the voice swoons over guitar tunes.”

This first US tour is supported with a grant from Southern Exposure: Performing Arts of Latin America through the Mid Atlantic Arts Foundation, and is co-presented with FUNDarte as part of their Out in the Tropics Series.

POSTPONED: Afro Roots Music Festival Presented by Community Arts & Culture and Rhythm Foundation Saturday, April 25 (NOW TENTATIVE SEPTEMBER 2020) $TBD Tickets Event Time: 6p – 11p Estimated Attendance: 500 - 750 Amplified Sound: Yes Alcohol Sales: Yes

Sinkane was born in London to Sudanese parents, raised in Ohio, and now calling New York City home. The former skate punk turned afro-funk whiz Ahmed Gallab refines his sound and message to peak form on his seventh studio album, 2019’s Dépaysé, (French for “to be removed from one’s habitual surroundings”), and dedicates it to the brave men, women and children fighting against oppression in places like Brazil, Sudan, and all over the world. Indie rock fans may know Sinkane from his work playing with groups like Caribou, Yeasayer and Of Montreal. Afrobeat fans know him as the musical director and vocalists for the Atomic Bomb! Band (along with fellow members David Byrne, Money Mark, Damon Albarn, Dev Hynes and others), rediscovering the work of Nigerian funk pioneer William Onyeabor. Rhythm Foundation fans know him for his epic concert in 2016. It is a pleasure to welcome him back to the Bandshell!

Alsarah is a singer, songwriter, bandleader and a somewhat reluctant ethnomusicologist. Born in Khartoum, Sudan, she relocated to Yemen with her family before abruptly moving to the USA, finally feeling most at home in Brooklyn, NY where she has lived since 2004.

Alsarah & the Nubatones were born out of many dinner conversations between Alsarah and percussionist Rami El Aasser about nubian ‘songs of return’, modern migration patterns and the cultural exchanges between Sudan and Egypt. A common love for the richness of pentatonic sounds, and shared experiences, they expanded the conversation to include Armenian- American oud player Haig Manoukian and French-born Togo-raised bass player Mawuena Kodjovi. Under the leadership of Alsarah, the Brooklyn-based group’s sound grew into what they have dubbed as ‘East-African retro-pop’.

Opening DJ set by DJ Le Spam

POSTPONED: Guitars Over Guns: Student Showcase Presented by Guitars Over Guns Saturday May, 2nd (NOW TENTATIVELY NOVEMBER 2020) Ticketed Event Time: 2p – 6p Estimated Attendance: 400 Amplified Sound: Yes Alcohol Sales: Yes Students from each of GoGo’s county-wide programs get a chance to get on stage and show off what they've been working on this school year. Live music, dancing, visual art, drinks & eats, great company, and a good cause – what's not to love? These young artists will knock your socks off with their creativity, exuberance, and rockstar talent. Plus, 100% of your ticket purchase goes toward our music mentorship programs for the most deserving youth in our community! POSTPONED: The Motet + Roosevelt Collier //RF Season Fundraiser Presented by Rhythm Foundation Saturday May, 9th (NEW DATE TBD) $25 - $250 Event Time: 6:00p – 11p Estimated Attendance: 500-750 Amplified Sound: Yes Alcohol Sales: Yes The concert is in conjunction with Rhythm Foundation’s Season Fundraiser. You can purchase a ticket for the concert only, or for the concert and fundraiser. -Tickets for the Concert (8-11PM): $25 General Admission -Tickets for the Concert & Fundraiser (6-8PM): $150 for 1 person (open bar, delicious hors’ d’oeuvres, silent auction, and concert) $250 for 2 people (includes all of the above + Rhythm Foundation Membership)

Throughout history, unity starts on the dance floor. From ancient tribal cultures to neon nightclubs, beats bring bodies together. Grooving in unison, the movement generates friction, sparks, and light. The Motet harness this pure energy with an energetic mélange of boisterous badass funk, swaggering soul, and thought-provoking pop.

The Denver-based septet is Dave Watts [drums], Joey Porter [keys], Garrett Sayers [bass], Ryan Jalbert [guitar], Lyle Divinsky [vocals], Drew Sayers [sax], and Parris Fleming [trumpet]. The group, who regularly sell-out the legendary Red Rocks Amphitheater, is making their Miami debut at the North Beach Bandshell on Saturday May 9, with a warm up set by sacred steel master Roosevelt Collier.

“The essence is always going to be the groove, but we wanted to expand the idea of what a funk album could be,” says Lyle. “Of course, you want a driving backbeat. However, with the division that’s going on in this country and the world, I think it’s every artist’s responsibility to create a conversation. That conversation doesn’t have to be political either. It can be about love or an introspective journey. I think the commentary should be on what it’s like to be alive today. By drawing on funk, we create a fun, palatable musical vehicle for the message to go down. Our goal is for you to recognize we’re all dancing on the same dance floor—even though our steps may look a little different.”

‘Sacred Steel’ master Roosevelt Collier started out playing in the House of God Church in Perrine, Florida, alongside his uncles and cousins in The Lee Boys, learning to play pedal steel guitar with the spirit from an early age. The Lee Boys became one of most influential Sacred Steel bands, touring with major artists and becoming festival favorites throughout the US. Awed by Collier’s soul-shaking live performance and lightning-fast slide work, Snarky Puppy’s Michael League invited Collier to participate in his international project Bokanté in 2017. Collier soon branched out as a bandleader, leading a band of incredible musicians at world famous ‘get- downs’. Collier encapsulates all his experiences and influences, turning in a potent mix of blues, gospel, rock and, in Roosevelt’s words, “dirty funk, swampy grime”. CANCELLED: Kendji Girac Presented by SilverProd Thursday May, 14th $39 - $150 Event Time: 6:30p – 10p Estimated Attendance: 500-750 Amplified Sound: Yes Alcohol Sales: Yes Kendji is coming to the North Beach Bandshell! The 23-year old winner of The Voice France in 2014; NRJ Music Awards for Francophone Breakthrough of the Year and “Color Gitano” as Francophone Song of the Year visits Miami Beach as part of his US tour, presented by Silverprod Productions. His album Kendji sold over 1 million copies by October 2015 certifying Diamond and becoming France’s second highest selling album of the year. He is currently the biggest selling alumni of The Voice worldwide. His follow-up recordings continued the success, including hits like Andalouse, Conmigo, Me Quemo, Les yeux de la mama, No Me Mirès Màs” (jointly with Soprano), and many more. Opening set by the talented singer Alma.

CANCELLED: Kev Adams Presented by SilverProd Sunday June, 7th $39 - $150 Event Time: 6:30p – 10p Estimated Attendance: 300 - 500 Amplified Sound: Yes Alcohol Sales: Yes French celebrity Kev Adams is coming to the North Beach Bandshell! The 29-year old Comedian, Actor, Screenwriter visits Miami Beach as part of his US tour, presented by Silverprod Productions.

CANCELLED: Alexander Abreu Presented by ASHO Productions Sunday June, 14th $25 - $60 Event Time: 6:30p – 10p Estimated Attendance: 500 - 750 Amplified Sound: Yes Alcohol Sales: Yes The Miami return of acclaimed Cuban Timba & Salsa rockstar & Latin Grammy Nominee: Alexander Abreu. North Beach Bandshell List of Upcoming Events 10/01/2020 7275 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach, FL 33141

All Programs are subject to change:

Thu. Oct 8, 2020 Miami Broward Virtual Carnival Welcome to Miami Kickoff Celebration featuring South Florida’s top DJs Live-streamed – Free with RSVP Show Time - 6:00 PM

Fri. Oct 9, 2020 Miami Broward Virtual Carnival Virtual Steel, Top Steel bands from throughout South Florida perform. Live-streamed – Free with RSVP Show Time - 7:00 PM

Sat. Oct 10, 2020 Miami Broward Virtual Carnival Junior Carnival, Carnival host committee tells the history of Carnival Live-streamed – Free with RSVP Show Time - 7:00 PM

Sun. Oct 11, 2020 Miami Broward Virtual Carnival Our Carnival Kingdom, live acts from throughout the Caribbean Live-streamed – Free with RSVP Show Time - 6:00 PM

Mon. Oct 12, 2020 Mind Body Soul Sound Bowl meditation hosted by Baptist Health Live-streamed – Free with RSVP Show Time - 6:00 PM

Thu. Oct 15, 2020 Guitars Over Guns – Alumni Showcase Teachers and past students from Guitars Over Guns come together to stream an evening of hits live from the Bandshell stage. Live-streamed – Free with RSVP Show Time - 8:00 PM

Thu. Oct 29, 2020 Nu Deco Ensemble ft Jose James Nu Deco Ensemble kicks off their virtual season at the Bandshell. Live-streamed – Free with RSVP Show Time - 7:00 PM

Sat. Oct 31, 2020 Hansel & Gretel North Beach Bandshell kicks off their Arts in the Parks virtual program for the season with a presentation of Hansel & Gretel as performed by Magic City Opera. Live-streamed – Free with RSVP Show Time - 6:00 PM Sun. Nov 1, 2020 Calvary Church Service Calvary Church congregation gather to commemorate the anniversary of the church forming in Miami Beach with a day of worship. Live-streamed / In Person – Free with RSVP Show Time - 11AM

Sat. Nov 7, 2020 Miami Beach Salsa Festival A salsa concert featuring Melina Almodovar ‘La Muñeca de la Salsa’ special musical guests Tito Puente and Nic N’ Taya Live-streamed – Free with RSVP Show Time - 8:00 PM

Fri. Nov 13, 2020 Orchestra Miami - Beethoven on the Beach Orchestra Miami, conducted by Elaine Rinaldi Live-streamed – Free with RSVP Show Time - 7:00 PM

Sun, Nov 15, 2020 Arsht Center Presents Free Gospel Sundays Featuring Pastor Marc Cooper (of Miami Mass Choir) and Friends Live-streamed – Free with RSVP Show Time - 5:00 PM

Thu. Nov 19, 2020 North Beach Social / Give Miami Day Electropico pioneer Mr. Pauer in concert, filmed for TV Music show Live-streamed – Free with RSVP Show Time - 8:00 PM

Fri. Dec 4, 2020 Filmgate Interactive Media Festival Award Ceremony and Interactive screening of Republique Live-streamed as a ticked event Show time - 7PM

Sat, Dec 12, 2020 Nu Deco Ensemble - Season at the Bandshell The orchestra in concert at the Bandshell, with special guest Larkin Poe. Live-streamed as a ticketed event Show Time - 8:00 PM

Sun. Dec 13, 2020 Dance NOW! In Concert World premiere of “this moment, here” a commentary on the zeitgeist of life in coronavirus times, told through the language of dance Live-streamed – Free with RSVP Show Time - 7:00 PM

Thu. Dec 17, 2020 North Beach Social RF Signature Series, Artist Virgo, filmed for new TV variety show Live-streamed – Free with RSVP Show Time - 8:00 PM Fri. Dec 18, 2020 MBSH Rock Ensemble - A Tribute to Doug Burris The annual alumni reunion concert brings together the popular school-based group with bands by former Rock Ensemble members. Live-streamed – Free with RSVP Show Time - 7:00 PM

Fri. Jan 8, 2021 South Beach Jazz Festival - SOBE Goes NOBE Matthew Whittaker and guest Live-streamed and General public TBD – Free with RSVP

Sat. Jan 16,2021 Arsht Center presents a celebration of Martin Luther King Live Stream event and invited public

Sun. Jan 17,20201 ZOSO Ultimate Led Zeppelin Experience General Public ticketed event

Thu. Jan 21, 2021 Screen Dance Film Festival presented Miami Light Project General Public Film Screening

Sat. Jan 30, 2021 Nu Deco Ensemble - Season at the Bandshell The orchestra in concert at the Bandshell, with special guest Cory Wong Live-streamed and in person as a ticketed event Show Time 7PM

Sun. Jan 31, 2021 Sasha Wortzel : Rising presented by Illuminarts +Oolite Arts Attacca Quarlet + Caroline Shaw Live Steam event / General Public TBD Sat. Feb 6, 2021 Florida Grand Opera presented Miami Beach Arts in the Parks Live Steam event / General Public TBD

Fri-Sun Feb 12-14th Ground Up Music Festival 2021 Live Steam event / General Public ticketed event

Thur Feb 18th North Beach Social Live Stream event / General Public Free event

Fri. Feb 19, 2021 Orchestra Miami tribute to Astor Piazzola Live Stream event / General Public TBD Sun. Feb 28, 2021 South Beach Wine and Food Festival Seated Brunch with a Variety Program

Sat Mar 6, 2021 Global Cuba Festival presented by FUNDARTE & Miami Light Project Live Stream event / General Public TBD

Sat Mar 13, 2021 Youth Music Festival presented by Rhythm Foundation & City of Miami Beach Live Stream event / General Public TBD

Sun Mar 14, 2021 South Florida Symphony Orchestra / Peter and the wolf Live Stream event / General Public TBD

Wed Mar 17, 2021 Collie Buddz in Concert General Public ticketed event North Beach Bandshell Presenters List 2021 Season 7275 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach, FL 33141

Non Profit Presenters:

Given the unique characteristics of the open air Bandshell, the long standing track record of management by Rhythm Foundation, plus new features like the canopy, flexible seating system and in-house live stream capability, a wide range of Cultural Organizations have chosen to bring programs to the North Beach Bandshell. Ballet Flamenco la Rosa, Buskerfest, Community Arts & Culture, Cultural Service of the French Consulate in Miami, Dance Now!, Florida Grand Opera, Florida International University, Florida Shakespeare Theatre, French Cultural Services FundARTE, Guitars Over Guns, Ground Up Music Foundation Hue’d Songs, Inffinito, Italian Trade Commission, Magic City Opera, Miami Carnival, Miami Children’s Chorus, Miami Dade College Live Arts, Miami Light Project, Miami Music Festival, Nu Deco Ensemble, O Miami, Oolite, Orchestra Miami, Power Access, Seraphic Fire, Siempre Flamenco, South Florida Seniors in Action, South Florida Symphony Orchestra, Young Musicians Unite. North Beach Bandshell Potential Rent Waiver 2021 Calendar Year 7275 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach, FL 33141

1 Shakespeare on the Beach 17 FIU Wine and Food 2 South Beach Jazz Festival 18 FIU Santa Fe Opera Premiere / 3 Nu Deco Ensemble Bandshell Recording Project. 4 Ground Up Music Festival 19 O Cinema 5 Global Cuba / Fundarte 20 Miami City Ballet 6 Afro Roots Festival 21 Pastor Marc Cooper and Friends 7 Young Musicians Unite 22 Dance Now 8 Infinitto Brasil Nova 23 Miami Light Project Screen 9 Arsht Center MLK day Dance 10 Carnival Miami 24 Miami Dade College Live Arts 11 Film Gate 25 Oolite Arts 12 Guitars Over Guns 26 Flamenco La Rosa 13 Make Music Miami 27 Miami Beach Pride 14 Orchestra Miami 28 Jewish Film Festival 15 MB Salsa Festival 29 Miami Childrens Chorus 16 Seraphic Fire 30 Artisan Market North Beach Bandshell Maintenance & Covid Report 10/01/2020 - 07/01/2020 7275 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach, FL 33141

Work Completed:

(10/2019) Work with Property Management to purchase new Lighting Equipment

(11/2019) Work with Parks and Property Management to replace the emergency push bars on all exits in bowl

(12/2019) Worked with Property Management to decommission equipment from Byron Carlyle Theatre

(01/2020) Delivery and Installation of the Canopy structure completed

(01/2020) Painting of the Exterior of the facility completed

(01/2020) Illuminated exit signs were installed and completed for all exits

(02/2020) New seating system delivered

(02/2020) Ribbon cutting for the canopy

(02/2020) Repaired floor in the men’s bathroom tiles

(02/2020) Repaired the south tower ceiling after a portion of the stucco fell

(03/2020) Terrazzo flooring was resurfaced and treated

(03/2020) Canopy inspections complete

(03/2020) Coronavirus State of Emergency shut down has triggered emergency preparedness plans, the venue has been cleaned and prepped for a long period of inactivity

(04/2020) Staff made available upgrades to the venue and protocols to accommodate for public health and safety at the virtual events we have performed at the venue.

(04/2020) Worked with Parks dept on creating a purchase order for (completion of seating project) by acquiring a manufactured riser system to enhance the rear/sloped area of the Bandshell for increased seating opportunities.

(05/2020) Staff upgraded current inventory of tables and chairs for food and beverage services, making repairs where necessary as well as a fresh coat of paint and sealant.

(05/2020) While our operations remain paused to the public, we continue to observe and quantify the potential upgrades or changes needed to return to operation. We give consideration as well to the increased role streaming plays in the venue – and the relevant precautions we need to take as well when laying out the venue for the multitude of uses we provide to the community.

(06/2020) Coronavirus State of Emergency shut down has triggered the creation of a manual to bring the venue into the ‘new normal’ Miami Dade County operational guidelines keeping in mind General Use, Retail Use, Arts & Cultural Facility Use, and Concessions services meeting the Restaurant Guidelines. This manual was approved by the County on 06/12/2020, however at this time the facility remains closed due to the developing COVID-19 situation. This manual is attached within this document.

(06/2020) Working with Parks and Property Management we created a punchlist of projects to take complete at the Bandshell (current list and status attached within this document).

(06/2020) Working with Parks we installed equipment, plumbing, and electrical for hot water in both bathrooms, backstage and the public restrooms.

(06/2020) Terrazzo resurfacing was attempted once more, however the current status remains inconsistent with the original surface.

(06/2020) Canopy elements were repaired by DBC Contractor after inspection by Douglas Wood firm. Large lifts were used to remove the fabric and then elements that were showing early signs of rust were resolved.

(06/2020) Worked with Property Management on the creation of a purchase order for the LED Wall to be acquired based on the Miami Dade County grant award for FY1920. Target completion of purchase and installation prior to 09/01/2020.

(07/2020) Working with local providers, we set up a new layout for production use of the venue to be able to screen and rapid test all personnel prior to entry for COVID-19.

(07/2020) Worked with Parks to complete purchase order of for manufactured riser system for the rear/sloped area of the Bandshell for increased seating opportunities.

(08/2020) Worked with Property Management on an updated storage and emergency preparedness plan, renewed City personnel ability to access venue in case of emergency.

(09/2020) Worked with Property Management to identify pathway to install 3-bin sink in back of house, prepared back of house for future install.

North Beach Bandshell Maintenance Report 10/01/2020 7275 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach, FL 33141

Action Items:

- Punchlist of items needing attention from City Departments with current status on following page.

- Upgrade connectivity within the backstage, install a rooftop / overhead cable organizer and run permanent lines for audio, video, and fiber internet to both dressing rooms, production office, and equipment room.

-Replace the electronic components of this machine for a budget of approximately $10,000.

- Secure contractor for maintenance and install / removal of Canopy for Hurricanes, etc.

- Receive and install equipment of Riser system for use in Rear Viewing Area, plan storage and maintenance

- Complete purchase order of LED wall funded by MDC CAP Grant 1819

- Continue to identify new methods of screening public health in partnership with State, County, and Municipal partners. Monitor industry issued guidelines to bring relevant businesses back online safely and incorporate them into our operations plan.

- Repair and replace roof for Satellite towers and main Backstage structure.

- Work with Property Management to install low voltage power and data lines to satellite towers for use with increased security cameras positions and communication with stage A/V systems. Set new capabilities due to extended down time, and need to trace visitors.

- Work with City to design and install projection system for Canopy and exterior ‘Soundscape North’

- Work with City to develop plan for design and installation of 2nd phase canopy

- Work with City to develop plan for design and renovation of BOH storage and catering area.

- Purchase electrical converter boxes, cables, and ADA approved ramps to be prepared for expanded use as well as logistics for adding a virtual component to future live productions.

“PUNCHLIST”

INFRASTRUCTURE NEEDS / NB BANDSHELL UPDATED 10/01/2020

REOPENING MEASURES

● Install sanitary 3 compartment sink with hot water​- PM has work order prepared ● Install sanitary Hand wash sink with hot water​ - included in 3 sink job ● Add security cameras to system​ (increase visibility of back of house and ingress / egress for contract tracing (data and low voltage power needed at towers) - waiting for proposal from PD ● Replace/install exhaust fans in bathrooms​ - pending install for restrooms backstage ● Install sanitation stations​ - need free standing units for public areas, PM has inventory ● Increased sanitation services via city vendor ​- proposed schedule on page 2 ● No touch door handles ​- pending install for public restrooms ● Remove aluminum benches

MAINTENANCE ITEMS

● Replacement of electronic components on digital marque ( current system requires constant repair, out of warranty, has outlived useful life).(Seeking replacement in 2022 budget or before - Replacement quotes to be sent in separate email. ● Replace CVT tiles in backstage - property has on work order ● Perimeter sconce lighting fixtures (removed, need replacements) - property needs to install ● Add additional bumper on loading dock / repair weld on dock gate - property planning repair ● Gutter system installed on eastern edge of the stage roof and flashing on towers - Condition was noted (as it was raining during walkthrough), property agrees some form of gutter or flashing in needed to get the water off the building ● Window thresholds repair windows from water damage in production office - needs immediate attention

IMPROVEMENTS

● Coordinate grant purchase of LED Wall with PM ● Roll down gate to create secure and weatherized seal of stage (tied to funded purchase of LED video wall and new stage lighting system) ● Coordinate with Ocean Terrace streetscape project: - discussed, need to identify who will manage this effort Adjust fence line with newly aligned driveway Planned storage footprint - seating carts, staging equipment Planned footprint for catering staging and concessions Planned Dumpster and Recycling storage area (to code) Newly configured loading ramp in driveway

“PUNCHLIST”

INFRASTRUCTURE NEEDS / NB BANDSHELL UPDATED 10/01/2020

PROPOSED SANITATION WORK ORDER

WEEKLY DEEP CLEANING OF ENTIRE FACILITY CMB - 52 CLEANINGS

PLANNED ANNUAL EVENT SCHEDULE OF 100 EVENTS TRF - 1,000 HOURS (WORK WOULD INCLUDE PRE/ POST SHOW CLEANING AND DURING SHOW PORTER SERVICE FOR RESTROOMS) (10 HOUR SHIFTS AVERAGE FOR STAFF) Cirrus Systems, Inc. 200 West Road Portsmouth NH 03801 United States

Invoicing Address: North Beach Bandshell North Beach Bandshell 7275 Collins Ave 7275 Collins Ave Miami Beach FL 33141 Miami Beach FL 33141 United States United States  (305) 672-5202 Shipping Address: North Beach Bandshell, Shipping 7275 Collins Ave Miami Beach FL 33141 United States Quotation # S07111

Your Reference: Quotation Date: Expiration: Salesperson: North Beach Bandshell Blade M 11/02/2020 01/31/2021 Sean Cutler

DESCRIPTION QUANTITY UNIT PRICE TAXES AMOUNT

Display

[CRM] Blade M 9mm Module 24.000 Units 299.00000 Tax Exempt $ 7,176.00 BladeM 9mm, full color [CRM] Aluminum Frame Kit 24.000 Units 0.00000 Tax Exempt $ 0.00 [CRM] Controller M1 - CirrusComplete 1.000 Units 1,400.00000 Tax Exempt $ 1,400.00 M1 Controller

[CRM] [CRM] LTW Power Injector Kit 0.000 Units 75.00000 Tax Exempt $ 0.00

Subtotal $ 8,576.00

Additional Items

[CRM] Blade M 9mm Service Module 0.000 Units 200.00000 Tax Exempt $ 0.00

Subtotal $ 0.00

Shipping

CUSTOM Fedex Domestic Freight Economy 33000-33399 Zone 132 1.000 Units 447.74640 Tax Exempt $ 447.75

Subtotal $ 447.75

Tel: (877) 636-2331 Mail: [email protected] Web: https://cirrusled.com Page: 1 / 2 The Rhythm Foundation, Inc.

PROFIT AND LOSS October 2019 - September 2020

TOTAL Income Admissions -206.66 Door Donation 1,164.00 Facility Fee 7,239.00 Merchant Fees -277.27 Total Admissions 7,919.07 Contracted Services 120,031.34 Management Fee 45,000.00 Total Contracted Services 165,031.34 Corporate Support 40,773.33 Grants Foundation 12,922.67 Local 159,788.00 State 33,001.25 Total Grants 205,711.92 Misc Income 0.00 Private Individual Contribution 3,267.20 Membership 20,815.00 Total Private Individual Contribution 24,082.20 Venue Rental 87,025.00 Discounts -22,590.00 Total Venue Rental 64,435.00 Venue Services & Usage 218,532.82 Expenses -166,476.58 Total Venue Services & Usage 52,056.24 z F&B Concessions Income 35,351.48 z F&B Concessions Profit Share Other 0.00 Total z F&B Concessions Income 35,351.48 z Merchandise Income 80.66 z Vendor Fee 0.00 Total Income $595,441.24 Cost of Goods Sold Purchases-Merchandise 5,778.00 Total Cost of Goods Sold $5,778.00 GROSS PROFIT $589,663.24 Expenses Administrative Personnel 0.00 Admin Payroll Salary 226,236.96 Other Payroll Expense 2,397.06

Accrual Basis Tuesday, October 20, 2020 10:34 AM GMT-04:00 1/3 The Rhythm Foundation, Inc.

PROFIT AND LOSS October 2019 - September 2020

TOTAL Payroll Taxes 16,264.89 Total Administrative Personnel 244,898.91 Bad Debt 2,083.33 Bank Services 580.00 Box Office Cash 0.00 Documentation 5,807.00 Dues and Subscriptions 1,405.82 F&B Expenses 6,207.70 Insurance 1,717.50 D&O 1,528.00 Health 30,631.63 Liability Insurance 12,949.41 WorkersComp 405.00 Total Insurance 47,231.54 Licenses and Permits 10,095.54 Marketing 34,290.09 Miscellenaeous 0.00 Outside Artist Fees 20,200.00 Outside Other Fees Accounting 3,864.67 Development 28,525.00 GraphicDesign 3,955.00 Other Subcontracted Work 7,498.00 WebDesign 3,169.75 Total Outside Other Fees 47,012.42 Production Expense 449.00 Equipment Rental 42,499.84 Security 9,810.00 Total Production Expense 52,758.84 Production Personnel Tech & Sound 46,975.00 Video Production 5,925.00 Total Production Personnel 52,900.00 Sales Tax -285.25 Supplies Event Supplies 13,065.07 Office Supplies 6,818.22 Total Supplies 19,883.29 Ticket Printing 204.95

Accrual Basis Tuesday, October 20, 2020 10:34 AM GMT-04:00 2/3 The Rhythm Foundation, Inc.

PROFIT AND LOSS October 2019 - September 2020

TOTAL Travel In County Hospitality 3,375.72 Hotels 271.63 Total In County 3,647.35 Total Travel 3,647.35 Utilities 1,438.39 Venue Operating Maintenance 15,477.80 Venue Operating Supplies 17,394.37 Total Venue Operating Maintenance 32,872.17 Venue Personnel Admin Payroll Expense 1,000.00 Cleaning 13,528.50 FOH Mgr 2,650.00 FOH Staff 12,755.00 Total Venue Personnel 29,933.50 Total Expenses $613,165.59 NET OPERATING INCOME $ -23,502.35 NET INCOME $ -23,502.35

Accrual Basis Tuesday, October 20, 2020 10:34 AM GMT-04:00 3/3 North Beach Bandshell Marketing Report 10/01/2019 - 09/30/2020 7275 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach, FL 33141

General Bandshell Marketing Quarterly Calendar rack card 4”x9” Flyers are distributed throughout North Beach via a dedicated community outreach staff member Quarter Calendar posters for marquee windows 22” x 26” Quarterly ad in Miami Beach Mag Monthly ad in Miami Beach Life Magazine Atlantic Broadband 250 calendar spots per month to 80K homes and businesses Monthly email blast to 20,000 subscribers with all events listed on the 1st of the month All events uploaded to online and media calendars Social Media: Calendar of events maintained and shared via Facebook page (7100+ followers) and Instagram account (3400+ followers)

Rhye - December 5 Inclusion in all general Bandshell promotions Social Media on RF and Bandshell channels Dedicated video spot on Atlantic Broadband Dedicated eblast to 25k subscribers Targeted social media advertising

MBSH Rock Ensemble Rockin Since 1972 - December 14 Inclusion in all general Bandshell promotions Social Media on RF and Bandshell channels Dedicated video spot on Atlantic Broadband Dedicated eblast to 25k subscribers Targeted social media advertising

The Heavy Pets - December 21 Inclusion in all general Bandshell promotions Social Media on RF and Bandshell channels Dedicated video spot on Atlantic Broadband Dedicated eblast to 25k subscribers Targeted social media advertising Prism ad buy Jam Base ad buy Flyer distribution Shakespeare on the Beach - Jan 2-5 Inclusion in all general Bandshell promotions Social Media Bandshell channels Dedicated video spot on Atlantic Broadband Included in January video spot on Atlantic Broadband Dedicated eblast to 25k subscribers Targeted social media advertising

Fortunate Youth - January 25 Inclusion in all general Bandshell promotions Social Media Bandshell channels Included in January video spot on Atlantic Broadband Dedicated eblast to 25k subscribers Targeted social media advertising

Gronk Beach - February 1 Inclusion in all general Bandshell promotions Social Media Bandshell channels Included in February video spot on Atlantic Broadband

Florida Grand Opera - February 8 Inclusion in all general Bandshell promotions Social Media Bandshell channels Included in February video spot on Atlantic Broadband Dedicated eblast to 25k subscribers Targeted social media advertising 24x36 poster up at Bandshell

GroundUP Music Festival - February 14-16 Inclusion in all general Bandshell promotions Social Media RF & Bandshell channels Included in February video spot on Atlantic Broadband Dedicated video spot on Atlantic Broadband Dedicated eblast to 25k subscribers Targeted social media advertising 24x36 poster up at Bandshell Outreach to many community partners https://www.miaminewtimes.com/music/things-to-do-in-miami-groundup-music-festival-at- north-beach-bandshell-february-14-16-2020-11455682 https://culturecrusaders.com/2020/02/17/groundup-fest-celebrates-another-year-of- legendary- music/?fbclid=IwAR31JeIvpB6VN_fdhaKdl9O9hNGqNa89ZIg8Jo8djwl9idtYf3z8_whjoLE North Beach Social with Black Dove & City of Miami Beach Parks & Rec - February 20 Inclusion in all general Bandshell promotions Social Media RF & Bandshell channels Included in February video spot on Atlantic Broadband Dedicated eblast to 25k subscribers Targeted social media advertising iLe - February 21 Inclusion in all general Bandshell promotions Social Media RF & Bandshell channels Included in February video spot on Atlantic Broadband Dedicated eblast to 25k subscribers Targeted social media advertising Prism ad buy Engaged promotional partners Sweat Records, Jolt Radio, Technique Records, Miami Motel Stories https://www.wlrn.org/post/puerto-rican-singer-ile-brings-almadura-s-seductive-revolutionary- rhythms-north-beach?fbclid=IwAR0LcIuUR_J- cz_a5zpPP7iOW7iq1KzqQDuXy09ylgSH2TREL_tCusg9vEQ#stream/0

SOBEWFF with Nu Deco Ensemble & Rev Run - February 22 Inclusion in all general Bandshell promotions Social Media Bandshell channels Included in February video spot on Atlantic Broadband Dedicated eblast to 25k subscribers Targeted social media advertising

Youth Music Festival - February 29 Inclusion in all general Bandshell promotions Social Media RF & Bandshell channels Included in February video spot on Atlantic Broadband Dedicated video spot on Atlantic Broadband Dedicated video spot on City of Miami Beach TV channel & trolley 5 dedicated eblast to 25k subscribers Targeted social media advertising Bus Shelter signs Flyering and posters around Miami Beach Activations - hired Frankie Trullenque to host pop up performances at participating schools and dedicated outreach to other youth music groups and educators to help spread the word and find potential programming partners. Had Youth design posters for activations and stages with the goal of getting more youth participation and engagement. RADIO (Revolution Radio 93.5FM) Global Cuba Fest - March 7 Inclusion in all general Bandshell promotions Social Media Bandshell channels Included in March video spot on Atlantic Broadband Dedicated eblast to 25k subscribers Targeted social media advertising Radio WDNA buy Radio WLRN buy Asho Productions / Habana en Miami for promo https://www.elnuevoherald.com/entretenimiento/musica/article240659421.html?fbclid=IwAR2 jmavcoTvniStLMFCcuJg5TvkcMPTvE8n1zwdQt5J5zENH-owdqh5RHxk

Afrobeta Live Stream (Culture Crawl) - March 19 Inclusion in all general Bandshell promotions Social Media Bandshell channels Included in March video spot on Atlantic Broadband Dedicated eblast to 25k subscribers Targeted social media advertising https://www.miaminewtimes.com/music/interview-afrobeta-and-and-the-rhythm- foundation-partner-up-for-a-live-streamed-show-11600528

Jay Thomas Concert Live Stream (Culture Crawl) - April 16 Inclusion in all general Bandshell promotions Social Media Bandshell channels Included in April video spot on Atlantic Broadband Dedicated eblast to 25k subscribers Targeted social media advertising Artist interviews and editorial coverage https://www.miamiherald.com/entertainment/music-news- reviews/article241871746.html

Matthew Sabatella Concert Live Stream (Culture Crawl) - April 16 Inclusion in all general Bandshell promotions Social Media Bandshell channels Included in April video spot on Atlantic Broadband Dedicated eblast to 25k subscribers Targeted social media advertising Artist interviews and editorial coverage https://www.miamiherald.com/entertainment/music-news- reviews/article242846971.html Nic & N’Taya Salsa Concert Live Stream (Culture Crawl) - May 30 Inclusion in all general Bandshell promotions Social Media Bandshell channels Included in April video spot on Atlantic Broadband Dedicated eblast to 25k subscribers Targeted social media advertising Advertising to latin groups like Habana en Miami and salsa schools

Richie Hell Concert Live Stream (Culture Crawl) - April 16 Inclusion in all general Bandshell promotions Social Media Bandshell channels Included in April video spot on Atlantic Broadband Dedicated eblast to 25k subscribers Targeted social media advertising Artist interviews and editorial coverage https://jitneybooks.com/richie-hell-livestreams-his-psychedelic-electronic-music/

Make Music Miami / Fete de la Musique Concert Live Stream (Culture Crawl) - April 16 Inclusion in all general Bandshell promotions Social Media Bandshell channels Included in April video spot on Atlantic Broadband Dedicated eblast to 25k subscribers Targeted social media advertising https://www.miaminewtimes.com/music/things-to-do-in-miami-make-music-miami- june-21-2020-11655837

Cravo y Canela Concert Live Stream (Culture Crawl) - July 18 Inclusion in all general Bandshell promotions Social Media Bandshell channels Included in July video spot on Atlantic Broadband Dedicated eblast to 25k subscribers Targeted social media advertising Brazilianaire Music Marketing engaged to reach Brazilian audience Gazeta Brazilian News engaged to reach Brazilian audience Acontece.com engaged to reach Brazilian audience QUARTERLY REPORT 04/01/20

SAT 3-11pm

FEB PROCEEDS $ SUPPORT 5 YOUTH MUSIC 29 PROGRAMS IN MIAMI BEACH SCHOOLS

MIAMI BEACH HIGH FOOM! ROCK ENSEMBLE ‘BEST OF THE BEST’ YOUTH MUSICIANS ACOUSTIC GARDEN STAGE

NORTH BEACH BANDSHELL 7275 COLLINS AVE, MIAMI BEACH MIAMIBEACH.ROCKS QUARTERLY REPORT 04/01/20 Betsayda Machado & Parranda El Clavo March 14, 2020

Afrobeta March 19, 2020

Jay Thomas April 16, 2020

Jay Thomas Sponsored Post

Matthew Sabatella May 21, 2020

Matthew Sabatella Sponsored Post

Nic & N’Taya Salsa Band May 30, 2020

Nic & N’Taya Sponsored Post

Richie Hell June 18, 2020

Richie Hell Sponsored Post

Make Music Miami / Fëte de la Musique June 21, 2020

Make Music Miami / Fëte de la Musique Sponsored Post Q North Beach Bandshell was live. � Published by Switchboard Live 8 · September 12 • 0 Afro Roots Fest livestream Afro Roots Music Fest live from the North Beach Bandshell in Miami Beach! Presented by Community Ar ... See More

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North Beach Bandshell • 15:15 Earlier today, all band members and crew got a rapid covid-19 test, for extra peace of mind. We have been social distancing and wearing masks, but also very grateful for testing. 0:) 6 Like• Unpin · Commented on by Laura Quinlan O · 6w

INSIGHTS See More .•..., • 14.6K 481 People Reached Responses +1 last 7 days +O last 7 days

♦ Audience 0 Women 45-54 Ticket Clicks 20% of total responses +O last 7 days sEP Afro Roots Virtual Fest 12 Public• Hosted by Rhythm Foundation and 4 others

North Beach Bandshell Marketing Report Additional Press Clips 7275 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach, FL 33141 MIAMI NEW TIMES - 2019 BEST OF BEST VENUE FOR LOCAL ACTS

ARTBURST - OCT 2019 ‘HANSEL AND GRETEL’ SATISFIES FAMILIES AND SERIOUS OPERA FANS ALIKE

JAZZ WITH AN ACCENT - OCT 2019 DANCING WITH THE SPIRITS

ARTBURST - NOV 2019 CARMEN CONSOLI TO HEADLINE ‘ITALIAN HIT WEEK’ AT NORTH BEACH BANDSHELL

CBS MIAMI - NOV 2019 NORTH BEACH BANDSHELL EXPERIENCING A RENAISSANCE THANKS TO [TRF]

MIAMI NEW TIMES - DEC 2019 RHYE RETURNS TO SHARE SPIRIT WITH IAMI DURING ART BASEL ARTBURST THE HEAVY PETS TO ROCK THE NORTH BEACH BANDSHELL FOR THE HOLIDAYS

GRATEFUL WEB THE HEAVY PETS HOLIDAY BALL BENEFITING MIAMI BEACH YOUTH MUSIC FESTIVAL

MIAMI NEW TIMES GROUNDUP MUSIC FESTIVAL CHOOSES SPONTANEITY OVER EXPANSION FOR FOURTH EDITION

MIAMI NEW TIMES LEE SCHRAGER’S EVENT PICKS FOR SOBEWFF 2020

NEWSBREAK THE SUNSET 4 AT THE MIAMI BEACH YOUTH MUSIC FESTIVAL

VISTAR MAGAZINE ANUNCIAN GLOBAL CUBA FEST 2020 EN MIAMI, CON BRENDA NAVARRETE Y OTROS ARTISTAS

ARTBURST GLOBAL CUBA FEST: UN PUENCE MUSICAL PARA SET TRANSITADO EN CUALQUIER DIRECCION

MIAMI HERALD FALL 2020 GUIDE TO MIAMI’S SEASON OF THE ARTS

Under Strict Covid-19 Rules, Music Acts Livestream from North Beach Bandshell By CHRISTINE DIMATTEI • OCT 8, 2020 https://www.wlrn.org/2020-10-08/under-strict-covid-19-rules-music-acts-livestream-from-north- beach-bandshell

For many theater lovers and concertgoers, one of life’s pleasures is being able to watch performances in the open air. Perhaps that’s why bandshells have such a long and rich history.

Like so many other performing arts venues throughout the country, the North Beach Bandshell in Miami Beach had to close down to live audiences once the coronavirus pandemic struck.

Almost immediately, the venue started live-streaming concerts and events — but there’s still the challenge of keeping the performers and the backstage crew safe.

The popular bandshell's COVID-19 mitigation strategy could serve as a case study for how Florida's venues transition from empty theaters to packed houses again.

"At all times, masks are worn backstage," says Benton Galgay, deputy director of The Rhythm Foundation — which has been running the North Beach Bandshell for the city of Miami Beach for the last five years.

There are single points of entry and exit to and from the venue. The bandshell has also introduced rapid COVID-19 testing for the performers and crew, which is done hours before showtime.

Recent easing of COVID-19 restrictions — first by Miami-Dade County and then by the state of Florida — won't have an immediate effect on the bandshell's programming. And The Rhythm Foundation is making plans for when the venue can welcome back audiences at full capacity.

Meanwhile, Galgay says the fall season's virtual events will serve as a "backbone" to make sure all of the North Beach Bandshell's COVID-19 safety measures work without a hitch. "We're not going to go from zero to 60," says Galgay.

North Beach Bandshell to host concert series without audiences By Kylea Henseler • SEP 8, 2020 https://www.miamitodaynews.com/2020/09/08/north-beach-bandshell-to-host- concert-series-without-audiences/

While live audiences have gone out of style due to the pandemic, a series of events will take the stage at Miami Beach’s North Beach Bandshell this fall in front of empty seats and virtual visitors. At last week’s meeting of the Miami Beach Cultural Arts Council, representatives of the Rhythm Foundation, which manages the Bandshell, introduced upcoming acts that were quickly granted unanimous approval for rent fee waivers from the council

“We have a terrific season of virtual-only programs that are primed and ready for the public,” said James Quinlan of the Rhythm Foundation. “(Even) if we get to a place where we can allow the public in, we will continue with the livestream aspect.” Should this be possible later in the season, he said, mitigation plans will be put in place to ensure the safety of all guests.

In total, five events were presented to and granted rent waivers by the arts council: Miami Beach Salsa Festival, the Miami One Carnival, an extension of Free Gospel Sundays put on by the Adrianne Arsht Center, Dance Now, and Seraphic Fire.

Melina Almodovar, a representative from Miami Beach Salsa Festival, told the arts council that the Saturday, Oct. 3 event will feature music and salsa performers from all over the world. Last year, she said, the sold-out festival had to turn away roughly 3,000 guests after hitting capacity.

“What we try to do,” she said, “is bring the Hispanic community together in the culture and open it up to everybody so that everybody can enjoy salsa music and salsa culture.”

This year’s event, she continued, will include live performances from local groups as well as virtual performances from artists in other countries including Venezuela and Colombia.

The next event, Miami One Carnival, will take place Oct. 8-11 and host a number of virtual events celebrating Caribbean culture. According to representative Asa Sealy, the four-day event will kick off with a “Welcome to Miami” event celebrating all things Miami before launching into a series of shows featuring local and international DJ’s, youth performers and steel bands. As with the salsa festival, he said, Miami One Carnival will also take advantage of satellite performance to showcase some international performers.

Artists from about nine Islands will be performing, Mr. Sealy said, including Trinidad, Tobago, Haiti and the Bahamas.“I think this is a very great opportunity,” he said, “for (the) communities involved here to come together and really showcase something rich in culture and heritage that weekend.”

Free Gospel Sundays, a series in its 13th season produced by the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts, is also looking to hold its opening concerts at the Bandshell. According to a representative from the Arsht Center, local Pastor Marc Cooper, director of Miami Mass Choir, will be putting together a lineup for the series featuring local artists and special guests. Next Dance Now!, which company director Hannah Baumgarten told the committee has performed on the Bandshell stage for 20 years, is hoping to return Dec. 13 with a new work inspired by real-life experiences brought about by Covid-19.

“We’re working intimately with our dancers to make a safe working environment,” she said. This experience will be reflected by the new work, which she said will be “an iteration of the moment that we’re living right now.”

Finally, South Florida-based vocal ensemble Seraphic Fire sought the council’s approval to hold its Seraphic Fire Christmas show at the Bandshell in late December.

“Seraphic Fire Christmas,” a representative said, “is a long-standing South Florida tradition. We’ve presented this production to communities all over South Florida for over a decade, including on Miami Beach.”

The Rhythm Foundation, Mr. Quinlan told the council, will be sure to work with all performers to implement safe production protocols. Best practices from around the country, he said, are being evaluated and put in place for all aspects of performance from setting up “green rooms” to how crew and performers interact.

“That’s something we’ve studied and we really are continuously evolving and polishing,” he said. The Five Be

st Moments at Gronk Beach 2020, a Super Bowl LIV Miami Bacc It's pretty great being a Gronk. Former Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowsi was joined by family and friends on Saturday (Feb. 1) for the first annual Gronk Beach bash. The rowdy bunch, which included Patriots GM Bill Bellichick and WWE 24/7 Champion Mojo Rawling, took control of the North Beach Bandshell in Miami to help crowds celebrate Super Bowl LIV. The high-end event fostered an intimate vibe, thanks in part to its tropical location and fabulous hosts. With an open-bar and performances by 3LAU, Carnage, Kaskade, Flo Rida, Rick Ross and Diplo, there was ample opportunity for turnin' up. It didn't matter a bit that the weather was bad. Almost no one got sunburned, and the rain brought everyone closer together.

By the time organizers pulled the plug on the speakers 15 minutes after the scheduled 7 p.m. end zone, it truly felt like we were all part of the Gronk family.

Sand Between Your Toes

It's hard not to be happy when you're dancing bare foot, swaying in the breeze like a boozy palm. The Collins Avenue location was pure perfection and well planned. Though there was no surf access or watery view, the stage was erected on a strip of golden sand, giving partiers permission to kick off the flip-flops and let their wild side reign. A Bose-sponsored sandcastle depicted a smiling Gronk behind giant sunglasses, and there were plenty of shady tents to beat Florida's winter heat. A grassy field to the side was converted into a vendor playground, along with some fun photo opps and promotional games. Gronk Beach is brought to you by the same people that put together Shaq's carnival-themed Fun House which has become an absolute behemoth. Gronk's gathering has room to grow, but they kept promising to come back to Tampa in 2021, and we're quite certain the sunny silliness will swell.

Q&A: The Sound of Miami Beach, featuring Rhythm Foundation Director James Quinlan https://worldredeye.com/2020/09/qa-the-sounds-of-miami-featuring-james-quinlan-director-of- the-rhythm-foundation/

THIS COVERAGE ALSO APPEARED IN WORLD RED EYE SOCIAL COVERAGE IN MIAMI NEW TIMES, AND IN THE STEPH SEZ SOCIAL COLUMN IN MIAMI HERALD

Miami Beach, FL – September 28, 2020 – Its no secret that Miami is a melting pot; a paradise people flock to from all over the world for culture and entertainment. The music scene, of course, is no exception. Over the past three decades, the Rhythm Foundation has been a major influence in the development and preservation of our city’s remarkable entertainment industry, contributing to its growth on a local, national, and even international scale. Their focus is on creating shared cultural experiences that build and strengthen the diverse communities of South Florida through the presentation of live music.

In 2015, the City of Miami Beach awarded the Rhythm Foundation the management of the North Beach Bandshell, a 1400-capacity oceanfront amphitheater. As the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic forced venues everywhere to close, the foundation pivoted their business model and explored new and engaging ways to provide their audiences with a well-rounded calendar of events. The Rhythm Foundation and Bandshell did not let the absence of a live audience slow them down, curating an impressive, and entirely virtual “season of the arts” with full concert performances live streamed from the amphitheater. In addition to a

We have been a cultural presence for more than three decades, which means that we’re a part of the story of Miami itself… We are so proud to think our work has played a meaningful part in our city’s growth. digital transformation, the North Beach Bandshell has also undertaken a physical transformation with some much-needed capital improvements to ensure that once guests return, they will experience their favorite acts in a historic yet high-grade venue.

World Red Eye met up with the Rhythm Foundation director, James Quinlan, to discuss the upcoming fall season, relaunch of the Bandshell, and the foundation’s past highlights. Read the full Q&A below.

WRE: Tell us a little bit about the Rhythm Foundation. What are the foundation’s efforts centered around?

James Quinlan: Rhythm Foundation launched in Miami Beach in 1988. The focus originally was on international artists and modern world music – with the goal of sharing international culture and building community. Over the last 30 years we have presented some of the most beloved and innovative artists from the US, as well as from Latin America, Brazil, Europe, Africa and beyond. In 2015, we began our management of the North Beach Bandshell for the City of Miami Beach, which has been truly a game- changer for the organization. We believe international cultural exchange injects empathy and positivity into the global conversation, cultural activity develops community and builds neighborhoods, and sustainable practices are possible in event productions.

Miami is a young city. We have been a cultural presence for more than three decades, which means that we’re a part of the story of the city itself. In 1988, Miami was a very different place than the international crossroads we now love. We are so proud to think our work has played a meaningful part in our city’s growth! We hope to keep building the world we want to live in.

WRE: Miami is known as an epicenter of international culture and entertainment. How has this helped inform the foundation’s community programming for local events?

JQ: We began working more intensely with locally based artists and developing community-centric program a few years ago, with the launch of some signature series. These include Big Night in Little Haiti (monthly 2011 – 2016) which was transformative for the Little Haiti neighborhood, and helped us tap into the amazing Caribbean artists who live in South Florida; TransAtlantic Festival (annually 2003-2017) where we had a chance to feature ’the new sound of Miami’ right along with favorite international touring bands; and now some of our amazing annual programs at the North Beach Bandshell highlighted by the Ground Up Music Festival, Afro Roots Festival, Youth Music Festival, Global Cuba Fest and the Nu Deco Ensemble, who are in residence for their entire season this year.

WRE: In 2015 you officially made The North Beach Bandshell venue your new home. Tell us about your partnership with them. What has it been like hosting events there?

JQ: We find there is no substitute for consistency when it comes to building community-based partnerships and audiences. We are actively working with the City of Miami Beach to build the Bandshell as a first-choice platform for a wide diversity of the region’s best artists and performing arts organizations. Our years of production in a variety of venues provided insight into how to prioritize venue support for our cultural community. We are very proud of the growing range of high quality presenting partners who have chosen to work at the Bandshell including The Arsht Center, Fundarte, Florida Grand Opera, PopLife, Orchestra Miami, Dance Now!, Guitars Over Guns, Miami Broward One Carnival Host Committee, FilmGate Miami, Miami Light Project, Inffinito Brazilian Film Festival, FIU, Seraphic Fire, South Beach Jazz Festival, Florida Shakespeare Theater and Oolite Arts. We are grateful to the City of Miami Beach for entrusting us with the management of the Bandshell, one of the city’s cultural treasures. We have built a great team at the venue. We love the Bandshell; live music next to the ocean…. there is nowhere else like it.

WRE: The North Beach Bandshell is currently undergoing renovations. What are some improvements audiences can expect? JQ: The installation of the Canopy and new seating system earlier this year are the biggest upgrades for the audience. We worked closely with the City for more than 5 years to find the right balance of design and functionality for the Canopy to protect the audience from rain and sun, while maintaining the feeling of an open air oceanfront ballroom as originally built in 1961.These major improvements along with tech investments in lighting, projection, and video systems will bring an exceptional patron experience. We are also prioritizing a complete revamping of concessions services to allow for higher levels of service and health safety.

WRE: With the COVID-19 pandemic greatly affecting the live-music and entertainment industry, many businesses have had to pivot to an online platform. How has the Rhythm Foundation handled this transition? What can audiences expect this upcoming season?

JQ: We began live-streaming performances the same weekend that we closed because of COVID-19, back in March. We are still presenting live music and finding ways to support our cultural ecosystem and keep our artists and crew working, we just have no live audience. One silver lining is we now have a platform to share the great artists from Miami with the entire world! Each month we are learning new techniques to be an active part of the birth of this new form of media. We have added Zoom inserts into the livestreams, experimented with live digital graphics and added real-life food & beverage partnerships. Some of the multimedia platforms that we are developing during the COVID-19 closure will continue to grow as part of our future, even after we welcome the public back in for live music. We have been very fortunate to see an overwhelming show of support for area cultural institutions by the City of Miami Beach and the Cultural Arts Council, from the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs and County Commissioners, and from the Knight Foundation and Miami Foundation.

WRE: Live concerts, venue management, outdoor festivals, and countless community events later; you guys have done it all. Are there plans to expand into other mediums in the future?

JQ: Our work in multimedia platforms continues to expand. We are developing a variety TV show under the banner “North Beach Social”, to be presented initially on local cable television and the internet. We aim to extend Miami Beach’s tradition of hosting variety shows such as Ed Sullivan, Jackie Gleason and Mike Douglas and bring this format into the 21st century.

WRE: What are some of the most memorable moments and highlights over the past two decades?

JQ: This is the hard question – so many amazing shows! One of the most memorable nights for us was when Arcade Fire played at Big Night in Little Haiti, during the 2013 Reflektors tour. People still talk about it. We have worked with Seu Jorge many times over the years, including his first visit to the US in 2005 when only Wes Anderson fans knew him, through the samba nights, and then right up until his last visit when he performed The Life Aquatic solo as a tribute to Bowie. Caetano Veloso’s shows have also been highlights. The US debut of Spanish singer Buika was unforgettable, as was Cuban funk sensation Cimafunk’s last year. We’ve had amazing artists from Africa, too – Seun Kuti, Femi Kuti, Tinariwen, Bombino to name a few. Manu Chao at Bayfront Amphitheater was a dream come true. At the Bandshell, the GroundUP Music Festival with Snarky Puppy and their label mates each year is the most epic musical immersion. We are going through the archives during this downtime, and it’s been a fun to revisit so many great nights of music.

Miami Beach Relief Fund Helps Arts Groups Look To The Future MICHELLE SOLOMON FOR ARTBURST MIAMI | SEPTEMBER 25, 2020 https://www.miaminewtimes.com/arts/1-million-miami-beach-relief-fund-helps-arts-groups-11698392

Miami Beach Mayor Dan Gelber sees cultural institutions as vital to the heart and soul of his city. "We believe that the best version of the city is as an art-and-culture destination,” he says. “And if we don't have a vibrant arts community, that version becomes less attainable."

In an effort to help keep one of the city’s most valuable assets viable, the mayor and City Commission — in partnership with the Miami Beach Cultural Arts Council — approved the distribution of $1 million in funds to 13 arts groups. What came out of that funding has exceeded the original intent: The COVID-19 Emergency Relief Fund that was intended to help Miami Beach arts organizations stay afloat during the pandemic has ended up giving them a nudge into the future, forcing them to look ahead to a post- pandemic world and consider what can keep them relevant and a significant part of the community.

…Recipients include the Wolfsonian-Florida International University; the Bass Museum of Art; the Rhythm Foundation; Holocaust Memorial Miami Beach; Jewish Museum of Florida-FIU; O, Miami; Miami Beach Botanical Garden; Miami Beach Urban Studios-FIU; Miami City Ballet; Miami New Drama at the Colony Theatre; New World Symphony; and O Cinema South Beach.

….For the Rhythm Foundation, which was tapped by the city to manage the North Beach Bandshell in 2015, the challenge was: How do you keep an arts organization going when your existence is built around live performers and an audience sitting close together in an almost 1,400-seat oceanfront amphitheater?

Director James Quinlan says they did the “pandemic pivot,” streaming performances that are presented live at the bandshell but without an audience. "The grant allowed us to continue doing what we do by having virtual programming on a live stage," Quinlan says. The grant also helped the foundation invest in multiple cameras and high-tech sound equipment, which has in turn expanded business for the city's bandshell and its offerings.

"Groups are now coming to us because of our capabilities. We have more organizations performing in this venue than ever before," Quinlan explains. "We have an entire fall season of virtual programs that are our own, but we’re also working with other cultural organizations to have a diverse range of deep cultural offerings.”

Deputy director Benton Galgay said the relief funds have helped with practical expenses, too. For example, when the green light is given for the live venue to open to the public again, the foundation will be able to get ready at a moment's notice, with additional signage needed to safely usher in audiences and other security measures. "We now have the ability to change gears to go from a virtual space to a live space and welcome in members of the public safely," says Galgay, though he added that producers plan to also keep livestreaming events even post-pandemic. (Est.) Monthly visit: 995K (Est.) Coverage views: 2.92K

How the North Beach Bandshell Has Managed to Remain Active During the Pandemic

FALYN FREYMAN​ | ​SEPTEMBER 28, 2020​ | ​8:00AM https://www.miaminewtimes.com/music/north-beach-bandshell-in-miami-beach-has-a-packed-virtual-performance-schedule-11696713

Not all Miami music venues are created equal. There's the historic Fillmore Miami Beach, which despite its gilded legacy as a subtropical escape for Frank Sinatra and other legends, finds its fate in a perpetual state of uncertainty. There's the luxurious, cash-injected American Airlines Arena, home of the Miami Heat, with its expansive bayfront views and a rotating roster of A-list talent drawing thousands to its stands.

Then there's the North Beach Bandshell, a sand-wisped open-air amphitheater mere steps from the ocean. In ​ ​ the five years since taking over operations at the 58-year-old venue, Rhythm Foundation — the world ​ ​ music-focused promoter that's been putting on events around town since 1988 — has gifted the city with an eclectic schedule of more than 75 events annually. From free community and civic events, cultural programs, and concerts to larger-scale festivals, the Rhythm Foundation has created a space at the bandshell that welcomes loyal locals and curious visitors alike.

While Miami's venues, along with so many around the world, have found themselves eerily silent over the past six months, the North Beach Bandshell has managed to keep the music alive through the shutdown with a steady output of virtual productions.

When Miami-Dade County declared an emergency in mid-March, the bandshell was just two days away from hosting a touring group from Venezuela. In the face of adversity, the bandshell streamed the band's performance live in its entirety on its Facebook page.

"The challenges brought on by the public-health crisis forced us to get creative," says Rhythm Foundation deputy director Benton Galgay.

The bandshell has remained closed to the public, but Galgay and his team continue to program virtual concerts and have modified the venue so that other presenters can host live-streamed performances too. In all, the Rhythm Foundation has had to cancel 30 performances at the bandshell and other South Florida venues. On the other hand, more than 50,000 viewers have tuned in to eight performances streamed in high definition.

"We're excited by the creation of new forms of media, focused on supporting our arts ecosystem, and honored to be connecting Miami artists to global audiences," Galgay says. "People are grateful to have a chance to hear the music they love, and the performers embrace the outpouring of support from their audiences."

To re-create the magic of its IRL cultural programming, the Rhythm Foundation held a Zoom salsa dance class enhanced by a live musical performance from Nic & N'taya. The North Beach Social show hosted Richie Hell, who performed against a backdrop of custom motion graphics. And to introduce its samba concert, the foundation organized a quick class in how to make a caiprinha.

With more extensive programs like Make Music Miami and, more recently, Afro Roots Fest, the Rhythm Foundation wove in international video performances to create a full-length concert from the bandshell. "What we learned will carry on into the in-person experience at the venue," Galgay says, noting that many may still opt to view online rather than attend in person.

As restrictions have begun to ease, Galgay says, the team has begun planning events with a limited-capacity audience. In the meantime, though, the bandshell has a stacked virtual fall season ahead.

Upcoming programming includes theNorth Beach Social, which returns in November as a variety-show format. With five programs scheduled, the eclectic orchestra Nu Deco Ensemble will perform the bulk of its season at the bandshell this year. The colorful celebration of the Miami Broward Carnival will take place as a virtual event from the stage. Also on deck are the Arsht Center's Free Gospel Sundays, a new work focused on life during COVID-19 by Dance Now!, and a socially distanced performance by Orchestra Miami.

"All of the events have been reformatted to better engage with online audiences, and we will continue to innovate ways to connect," Galgay assures.

The Show Must Go On: South Florida Musicians Livestream During Pandemic By CHRIS REMINGTON • APR 13, 2020 https://www.wlrn.org/post/show-must-go-south-florida-musicians-livestream-during- pandemic#stream/0

Cuci Amador and Tony Smurphio with Afrobeta performing on the livestream at the North Beach Bandshell, Thursday March 19th

The music industry is adapting to the new reality of the COVID-19 pandemic. Musicians who would normally be on tour, playing music festivals around the country or at their local bars, are forced to stay home. Artists increasingly have depended on money generated from live performances, as revenues from album sales and online streaming have dwindled.

“Most of the money comes from playing live shows,” says Tony "Smurphio" Laurencio. He and his partner Cristina “Cuci Amador” Garcia make up the Miami-based electrofunk duo Afrobeta. Cuci joked that live shows probably make up about 99.9 percent of the band’s income.

The group was scheduled to play a concert at the North Beach Bandshell Thursday, March 19. When the concert was canceled by the county’s emergency orders shutting down all “non-essential” businesses, the band started brainstorming.

They spoke with Karla Arguello at the non-profit Rhythm Foundation, their partner for the North Beach show, about promoting the livestream from home. Arguello had the idea to stream the concert from the North Beach Bandshell using a skeleton crew. The venue space allowed for a fog machine and a sound team on-site to monitor the audio streaming quality.

One of the big appeals of livestreaming for Afrobeta is the ability to interact with their audience in real time. “What I heard from a lot of people that did get to watch it was that they felt like they had been isolated, without a lot of interaction with a lot of other people,” says Cuci. “All of a sudden they were watching this thing together as if they were at a show. Writing in the chat together was a lot of fun for them.” Craig Southern first saw Afrobeta play more than a decade ago at the North Beach Bandshell. And that concert had a lasting impact on him. “They’ve been a part of my personal soundtrack ever since. I associate a lot of [their] songs with memories I have in Miami.”

Afrobeta didn’t charge for their livestream, but commenters asked for their Venmo handle during the performance. Over the course of the show fans donated $175 to the band directly.

Afrobeta and Rhythm Foundation Partner for a Livestreamed Show at the North Beach Bandshell DAVID ROLLAND | MARCH 19, 2020 | 8:00AM https://www.miaminewtimes.com/music/interview-afrobeta-and-and-the-rhythm-foundation- partner-up-for-a-live-streamed-show-11600528

The second edition of Social — the Rhythm Foundation's new monthly event series — was scheduled to happen tonight at the North Beach Bandshell…

But certain developments in public health have made holding gatherings of that nature more than a little tricky at the moment.

Owing to the recommendations of medical officials as well as ordinances put in place by federal, state, and local officials, a conventional concert by the beloved Miami duo has been made all but impossible by the social distancing needed to slow the spread of the novel coronavirus.

Luckily, as the past few days have shown, creative minds have found ways for the show to go on: Tonight at 8, Afrobeta will perform to an empty North Beach Bandshell and stream the whole thing on Facebook Live so would- be concertgoers can enjoy it at home. The Rhythm Foundation and Afrobeta mobilized independently to experiment with livestreaming shortly after the COVID-19 pandemic reached the United States.

"Live shooting was something the Rhythm Foundation has long wanted to explore," says Arguello, adding the group has "slowly accumulated" a number of in-house professional cameras. "Last week, when our Betsayda Machado y Parranda El Clavo show in Doral got canceled after the band had already flown in... we moved it to the Bandshell. We livestreamed it, and over 6,000 people watched it.”

Cristina "Cuci" Amador and Tony Smurphio — the electro-pop enthusiasts who make up Afrobeta — organized a livestream test run of their own last weekend as well. They had even intended to stage an online show independently before the Rhythm Foundation reached out. "We were going to do a second test run with a sound card so we could have proper audio when Rhythm Foundation offered us their stage," Amador says. "The reach you can have digitally is so much more. Hopefully, this is something we can keep doing.”

Afrobeta, like many Miami musicians, has been hit hard by the closures of the city's bars and live music venues. "Everyone has lost all their weekly gigs; it's hard not to have a pessimistic outlook. A lot of musicians have saved for the next couple weeks, but after that —," Smurphio says, pausing deeply before resuming his thoughts. "We'd been saving ourselves for this show and for Ultra, so we're so glad to do this. It's the only way musicians and audiences can share music for a while.”

Arguello says navigating the logistics of the live video stream hasn't been all that complicated. "We wanted the city's seal of approval since it was originally a Miami Beach event as Culture Crawl. The Bandshell is open-air, and we shouldn't have more than ten people," she says, noting it'll take two members of the band, a small tech crew, and three people to coordinate the video stream.

Smurphio says Afrobeta has been diligently prepping for tonight's performance. "You have to plan more than for a normal show, where once you play live, that's it. This will be less forgiving since it will be replayed.” Amador adds, "Not being able to interact with the audience will be different: You won't see anybody dancing, but you also won't see anyone leaving to go to the bathroom. I've been thinking about what I can do differently for this. Maybe I'll leave the stage for a while so [Smurphio] can go solo.”

With few answers as to how long this period of social distancing will last, is it possible livestreamed shows will be a way for musicians to make do during quarantine?

"You could have a digital tip jar where people could donate while you're streaming," Smurphio opines. "You've got to look at it from a positive viewpoint. This could be a time where musicians write and record.”

Afrobeta. 8 p.m. Thursday, March 19, at the North Beach Bandshell. Stream via facebook.com/ TheRhythmFoundation.

Dúo de Miami busca entretener a los que están en cuarentena con concierto en línea POR ARTURO ARIAS-POLO 18 DE MARZO DE 2020 https://www.elnuevoherald.com/entretenimiento/article241305981.html

The Rhythm Foundation se suma a las iniciativas de entretenimiento en el sur de la Florida por el avance del COVID-19. Y en esta ocasión transmitirá en vivo un concierto en línea del dúo miamense de música electrónica Afrobeta, desde el North Beach Bandshell.

La presentación, que será sin público, saldrá al aire el jueves 19 de marzo a las 8 p.m. por Facebook Live a través del sitio http://facebook.com/therhythmfoundation.

El concierto fue planeado como parte del North Beach Social y el Culture Crawl de la Ciudad de Miami Beach, pero ambos eventos fueron pospuestos debido a las preocupaciones de los organizadores ante el avance del coronavirus.

“Desde hacía tiempo esperábamos esta actuación, así que estamos agradecidos de haber encontrado una posibilidad de conectarnos con tantas personas en línea”, expresó Cuci Amador, la voz femenina del dúo, tras comentar que en un inicio la pareja había decidido transmitir en vivo desde su casa, pero cuando recibieron la noticia de que Rhythm Foundation se encargaría del aspecto técnico del espectáculo, se les quitó un gran peso de encima.

“Nunca antes habíamos hecho algo así, por eso estamos realmente entusiasmados por explorar las posibilidades del mundo interactivo”, agregó.

Afrobeta se fundó en el 2006 por Cuci Amador y Tony Laurencio, más conocido por Smurphio, dos músicos cubanoamericanos cuyo amor por las composiciones clásicas, la repostería cubana y el baile los impulsaron a marcar la diferencia entre el resto de las agrupaciones miamenses.

Desde entonces son presencia obligada en los centros nocturnos y en los festivales de música electrónica, tanto dentro como fuera de Miami, donde ponen a gozar a los bailadores con sus fusiones de pop, salsa y funky.

Entre los temas que interpretarán en el concierto figuran Chancletazo, La canción del mango y Río Miami, una versión de la guaracha Pinar del Río, el éxito de Celia Cruz. “Queremos compartir nuestra música como siempre, pero como no podemos dar un concierto con público lo haremos virtualmente. Esperamos que la gente baile en la sala de tu casa”, concluyó.

Afrobeta. 8 p.m. Thursday, March 19, at the North Beach Bandshell. Stream via facebook.com/ TheRhythmFoundation.

Miami music scene refuses to be silent BY MIKE HAMERSLY ARTBURSTMIAMI.COM || APRIL 08, 2020 https://www.miamiherald.com/entertainment/music-news-reviews/article241871746.html

Singer-songwriter-guitarist Jay Thomas and cellist-keyboardist Oscar Quesada will be performing April 16 as part of The Rhythm Foundation concerts at the North Beach Bandshell.

“Please don’t stop the music,” implores the chart-topping, Grammy-nominated, 2007 dance-pop hit by Rihanna.

Don’t worry, South Florida, our local musicians have no intention of doing so.

Even as the coronavirus crisis has forced an indefinite, global shutdown of clubs, arenas and concert halls, performers from every genre – pop, rock, jazz, Latin, R&B, electronica and even classical and opera – are finding ways to bring intricate melodies, inspired harmonies and funky beats to their fans.

Virtual entertainment has become our new reality, indefinitely, and for the most part, it’s free of charge.

Some examples: ... The Rhythm Foundation is continuing to present live concerts from the North Beach Bandshell on its Facebook page, only with no fans in attendance.

Singer-songwriter and guitarist Jay Thomas will be performing as part of The Rhythm Foundation concerts at the Bandshell. Along with partner Oscar Quesada on cello and keyboards, he will take the stage at 8 p.m. April 16.

“We are going to do a mixture, songs that I think are speaking to the moment, but also hopefully having a little bit of fun,” says Thomas. “It’s been a heavy kind of quest – I mean, I make it heavy on myself. We could just go up there and play like normal-normal, but I want to address the situation and sing to it, and be activated. It seems to be a call to a lot of artists, and it’s kind of needed right now. I feel even as a listener that I want to hear artists speak about what they’re going through, and see what they’re creating in these circumstances, you know?”

The duo’s body of work is melodically rich, cutting-edge and emotional, ranging from indie-pop, folk, rock and electronic, all of which will be represented at the show.

Thomas and Quesada are grateful to still be getting paid by The Rhythm Foundation for their show, but similar gigs are obviously far from a regular thing, and the near future for artists is cloudy at best.

“I feel relatively safe right now, but as this quarantine elongates, I’m going to be looking at what other musicians do, in terms of streaming shows, or trying to increase streaming music plays,” says Thomas. “This has only just begun, it seems, so as a community, we’ll be figuring out how to best keep afloat as artists together.”

Another way to get by is to keep creating. Thomas and Quesada are self-quarantining with Thomas’ sister, Zjolie, a singer who in February released the freestyle-esque single “Miami Girlz.” The three are working on a three-song EP inspired by the coronavirus crisis.

“We’re working on music, so luckily we’ve got something on our hands to do,” Thomas says. “The challenge is to release this music fast, so that the lyrics are right here, right now, but also to make sure we put enough work into the music itself, so that it sounds good.”

Artists performing shows with no visible fans wasn’t uncommon before the pandemic, but having safety be the reason is something entirely new.

“We’ve done closed-studio performances before, so it’s not gonna be completely alien,” Thomas says. “But the circumstances are gonna be what makes it feel different – nobody is allowed to come. So in a way it’ll be similar to playing on the radio, that kind of stuff, where you know people are out there listening, but I think it’s more intense than that. People are listening, and that’s the only thing they’re able to do – it’s a little bit like ‘War of the Worlds’ on the radio, you know?”

While we wait for a return to normalcy, Berg has a message for art-lovers everywhere.

“I hope people become much more attuned to how much they need music during this pandemic, because it’s going to be one of the things that they really turn to, and they’re going to be more hungry to experience music live again when it’s over,” he says. “I know the first time I’m back out in public playing will be a great joy for me.”

ArtburstMiami.com is a nonprofit source of theater, dance, visual arts, music and performing arts news.

Rhythm Foundation to present the folk sounds of Matthew Sabatella BY MIKE HAMERSLY ARTBURSTMIAMI.COM || MAY 19, 2020 https://www.miamiherald.com/entertainment/music-news-reviews/article242846971.html

Two decades ago, Matthew Sabatella was forging a nice career in South Florida as a pop-rock singer- songwriter and bass player. Then, he had an epiphany.

“The big change was discovering this whole body of American folk music, music that came before Elvis, basically, that I was only marginally aware of,” says Sabatella, who earned a BA in music at the University of Miami in 1990. “But I really became fascinated with traditional folk music when I stumbled on the ‘Anthology of American Folk Music,’ which was a six-album set that came out in the 1950s ...

“It really just showed the roots of contemporary music, but it also kind of tied the whole story of America together for me, and that’s where the real interest is for me – the intersection between music and the history of our country, and the people who came here and settled here.”

Suddenly, Sabatella wasn’t especially interested in making his own music, so he dove right in to this fascinating new world. He formed the Rambling String Band, which features traditional folk and bluegrass instruments such as banjo, fiddle, mandolin, bass fiddle and mountain dulcimer.

And he began studying the history of American folk music with a fervor he had never felt before. “The lyrics to a lot of the songs really just humanized people from past generations and their experiences here,” he says.

Sabatella was also drawn to “the way the music interacted to create new genres that could only have been invented by the combination of cultures coming together in the United States: the Scots, Irish fiddle tunes, and ballads with the African singing and instrumental traditions that really kind of set this whole path toward blues and ragtime and country and gospel and bluegrass music. And rock ‘n’ roll.” On Thursday night, The Rhythm Foundation will present Sabatella performing a closed-set solo show at the North Beach Bandshell, to be live-streamed on Rhythmfoundation.com. The concert was supposed to feature the full band until the coronavirus pandemic struck.

“It was booked as a show for the Rambling String Band. When all this came down, they contacted me and asked if I could do a solo version to minimize social contact,” he says. “I’ve done a couple of individual songs for a couple of events online over the last month or so, but I haven’t done a full concert, so I’m happy to have this opportunity.”

Sabatella says he’ll bring his acoustic guitar, a couple of banjos, and possibly a mountain dulcimer, which he plays on his lap, and he’ll perform songs he’s learned over the past 20 years of studying folk music.

It’s difficult to know exactly what to expect, as Sabatella has never played to an empty venue before. “It’ll definitely be a different experience for me – performing but without having any audience feedback,” he says. “And also, the videos I’ve streamed so far have been from home, so this is gonna be better production values with lighting and camera people, but no audience in front of me.”

Sabatella and the Rambling String Band have released three albums full of songs with familiar titles – “Home on the Range,” “I’ve Been Working on the Railroad,” “Skip to My Lou,” “Oh Susanna!” – and obscure ones such as “Sweet Betsy From Pike,” “Once More a-Lumb-ring Go” and “Crawdad Song.”

Some of the songs are hundreds of years old. “A lot of them, from the 1700s and 1800s, were passed down orally,” Sabatella says. “Many of them were published in sheet music at some point in the 1800s, and many of them were recorded for the first time in the 1920s. So sometimes I learned them from recordings, sometimes I learned them from old folk song books … I’ve been doing a lot of traveling and studying with musicians in the Appalachians, so I’ve had a chance to learn a lot of songs from older- generation musicians who learned them just through their culture and through their family and community history.”

Sabatella’s interest in this subject grew to the point that he went back to school, earning a Master of Arts in History at Florida International University in 2015. Today, he’s doing much more than merely talking about the history of American folk music.

“I’ve recently started a nonprofit organization, Ballad of America, that’s really about helping not just the teachers and classrooms, but to spread that story of America’s music and the United States through music,” he says. “We just put out a document, ‘The Story of the United States in 12 Songs,’ that’s a free PDF, and we’re just trying to get it out there for anybody, including teachers and home-school families, as a way to make history more real and relevant to people.”

One of the stated purposes of Ballad of America is to “preserve” the music. Sabatella further clarifies: “I don’t think they’ll ever be ‘lost,’ per se. [The songs] are all there on record in various archives and books and recordings. It’s just preserving their presence in society and American life, and kind of keeping them relevant, so that they’re not just collecting dust.”

What: The Rhythm Foundation presents Matthew Sabatella via livestream When: 8-9 p.m. May 21 Where: Online at Rhythmfoundation.com Cost: Free, but viewers will be encouraged to donate More information: Balladofamerica.org

ArtburstMiami.com is a nonprofit source of theater, dance, visual arts, music and performing arts news.

JITNEY BOOKS

Richie Hell Livestreams His Psychedelic Electronic Music BY DAVID ROLLAND || JUNE 17, 2020 https://jitneybooks.com/richie-hell-livestreams-his-psychedelic-electronic-music/

Since arriving in Miami in 2015 from his native Argentina Richie Hell has spun heavenly infectious tunes all over our fair city. If you haven’t yet heard his sound, you have the chance this Thursday night from the comfort of anywhere with WiFi.

On June 18 at 8:30 pm check out the Rhythm Foundation’s Facebook Live where they’ll livestream a closed-set performance by Richie Hell from the North Beach Bandshell. Before the show Richie Hell stepped on The Jitney to introduce himself.

When did you first fall in love with music? Richie Hell: My first real interest in music began while attending parties as a kid. I realized that understanding and knowing more about music would make me different from the rest and would create this VR world where I could explore my wild side. I started taping the songs I liked from the radio and getting my hands on any rock magazine I could find. Later on, I wanted to know more so I started hanging every day at the local record store and that really opened all doors in my life.

How did the Argentine music scene shape you as a musician? In Argentina fans are very passionate about music and soccer. It’s like a religion. We can shout a goal and the lyrics of our favorite band with the same powerful inner voice. Since I was 13, concerts have been my main getaway and way of life. I learned everything I needed to know about performing in those shows in Buenos Aires and I still do every time I see a live band or DJ anywhere. What have you been up to during the quarantine? Resting and working hard at the same time. I live with my wife Francisca, who’s a visual artist, and we both have our studios at home which is amazing because we could both spend many hours a day creating, learning and constantly brainstorming about art projects or random ideas that we now had more time to develop in depth.

What can we expect from your livestream performance on Thursday? This one is very special for me and the band as we are going to be playing many new unreleased songs and it’s also our first show of 2020. My sister Martes is flying from Atlanta to join us as vocalist and Francisca Oyhanarte is adding her live trippy visuals, a 12’ high inflatable cobra and many more surprises.

How do you have to prepare differently for a show where there won’t be an audience in front of you? During the livestreams I made these past months, I always felt the energy of the audience. I tried to focus on that so I could connect with them and feed from that live vibe even if they weren’t physically there. As a performer it’s even more challenging to reach out, so you have to really open yourself and nude your soul.

What can you tell us about your new LP out this summer? The Gumbo Limbo Experiment was recorded in MIA. It’s a journey from darkness to light while searching for my own identity in a new country. It’s a call and response with nature and my latest skin shed.

With continued funding from its supporters, along with emergency support offered by the county, the City of Miami Beach (which owns the bandshell), the federal Paycheck Protection Program, and funds from the Knight Foundation, the North Beach Bandshell has managed to carry on, but others have not been as lucky. It remains to be seen whether smaller independent venues, largely left out of the conversation, will weather the storm.

"Gathering places like the bandshell are critical to a healthy community as a forum for free thought and expression," Galgay says. "We feel it's necessary that arts and culture remain a voice in the public dialogue, now more than ever."

To support Miami's live music scene, Galgay recommends becoming a member of the Rhythm Foundation or other local groups that are striving to create platforms for artists.

Buy music, make art, take in a performance.

As Galgay puts it, "Besides living in paradise, we can't forget that we have the most incredible cultural scene right in our own backyard."

North Beach Bandshell. 7275 Collins Ave., Miami Beach; 305-672-5202; northbeachbandshell.com. ​ ​ COVID OPERATIONS PLAN UPDATED 06/12/2020