&bsp;Fayssoux McLean at Roger’s Park Friday nightAs we turned the corner into the summer season the musicians are finally release from their dark corners of bars and restaurants to play in the open air. The chefs are stepping out as well it seems to make your picnic experience even more joyful. The beautiful parks in our county are a great place to gather the family and visit with old and new friends while listening to wonderful music in the air.

This afternoon starting at 4:30 p.m. wake up your senses as the Farmer&squo;s Market located in the parking lot next to the Shops of Tryon. Not only will you find farm fresh produce from local growers, but the smell of wood fired rustic pizzas fills the air and gets your mouth watering. Take a moment to stroll through and peruse the arts and crafts and discover what beautiful things have been created by local artisans. Then, consider strolling up to Melrose Avenue after the market winds down at 6:30 p.m. to listen to the Porch Pickin&squo; at the Melrose Inn. They serve up a lovely buffet and welcome artists of all sorts to come join in the fun. Ukuleles, guitars, harmonicas, and fire jugglers are just some of the things you might catch this week. If you are a bluegrass fan you just might want to head up to Saluda where you&squo;ll find the patio at the Purple Onion a refreshing place to sit down to dinner and while award winning Jason Ring serves up some of the freshest new music in the world of bluegrass.

Friday night the town of Tryon will truly come alive with music as Fayssoux McLean and Gas House Mouse kick off the Summer Tracks series at Roger&squo;s Park. From 7-10 p.m. you&squo;ll hear everything from country vocals sweeter than dewdrops to grand funk and blues. Peter Eisenbrown has created a sizzling summer line up catering to a wide variety of ages and tastes, and this first show will start the series in style. This is a great time to get out and share an evening of music in a beautiful setting. The professional sound in the park allows you to either dive into the music and sit up close, or wander around the park with children and pets while still enjoying the sweet sounds in the air. Bring your own picnic and cooler or enjoy Don&squo;s hot dogs, Giardini&squo;s wraps, and Simple Simon&squo;s ice cream.

Saturday afternoon dip into the Hare & the Hound to cool your heels with the sweet jazz sounds of the Fred Whiskin Trio from 3-5 p.m. But when night falls, Saluda is the place to be for great music. Plan to arrive early for seating to catch the Shane Pruitt Band at Purple Onion. This talented Spartanburg group is working hard at a variety of venues in the region to revitalize the southern blues jam sound with original music. Or, if you prefer a band that brings your favorite hits to life from the country blues and rock charts, grab your dancing shoes and head over to boogie with Southern Pointe at Saluda Mountain Jamboree from 8-11 p.m.

Have a blessed and restful Sunday to prepare for the 35th annual Columbus Fire Department BBQ and gospel sing. Monday through Thursday evening June 30 – July 3 Veteran&squo;s Park gears up for the Fabulous Fourth with free music starting nightly at 7 p.m. Proceeds from the sale of BBQ, hot dogs, and hamburgers will benefit the Columbus Fire Department. Bring a lawn chair or blanket. In case of rain, events will be held at Columbus Baptist Church. Call 828-894-5858 for more information.

Don&squo;t forget to check the local listings for more great music from local artists!