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I am pleased to see Prescott Park Arts Festival, Pro-Portsmouth, the Wire and others like Chris Greiner and Denise Wheeler working so hard to get music out of doors this summer.

Last year it started with the Summer in the Streets series, sponsored by Pro-Portsmouth. Although a certain Portsmouth City Councilor was concerned the event would hurt the little ears of dogs happening by, thankfully, the event was allowed to continue this year.

On Saturday July 8, Jonathan Blakeslee (brother of prolific song writer Dan) and his trio will kick off the weekly event. Dan Blakeslee is also on the bill and is expected to play a song or two with his brother. Future acts throughout July and August include Roundhouse, The Molenes and Banjo, Bones and Ballads: an Eagles Tribute Band. (I bet you $10 there will be at least three dudes at that show with pony tails ... that aren’t in the band.) Shows start at 5:30 p.m.

I caught Jonathan Blakeslee and his trio a few weeks ago while they were playing at another outdoor music series. Artspace Concerts happen every Thursday from 7 to 9 p.m. in the Vaughn Mall (by Subways and the Water Monkey). The low key stage and quiet, shaddy walk way is a pleasant place to catch a few minutes of music to and from where every you go on Thursdays. Tonight, the Artspace Concert features Michelle Moon, Dave Hunter and The Molenes. On July 6, Amos Clapp and Kristen Miller will attempt to play if the rain holds off and future artists include Nate Doyle, Cara Connolly and Phil Bell.

This weekend marks the mother load of all concert series in downtown Portsmouth, Freedom Rocks! which touts itself as “the biggest, most patriotic concert of the year.” On July 3, starting at 2 p.m., acts like the Texas Governor, Jason Anderson, Melvin Taylor and his fabulous Meltones, The Minus Scale, Laurel Brauns, Dan Blakeslee, Dave Talmage and Mini Jacket will perform on the Prescott Park stage. There will be a break for the fireworks and a second act that runs until 11 p.m. Bring your blanket, but remember, the park does not allow booze so you may want to pre-game elsewhere.

The final out door event I wanted to mention is the recently announced Busk ‘till Dusk, presented by the newly formed Street smART and the Wire. Up to 70 musicians and performers will be at 10 locations throughout downtown on Saturday Sept. 22. There are satill spaces left for performers. Go to the link above to sign up.

When I went to the features editor to ask about other outdoor festivals, I was bombarded with a long list of out of town outdoor shows. Here are two upcoming events.

Tonight, Percy Hill will play at the Seacoast Science Center at 6 p.m. $8 for general public $4 for members, free for kids. Call 436-8043 for info.
On Sunday, Elroy will be playing from 4 p.m. at the Hamilton House in South Berwick. Cover is $4 to $8. For info, call 207-384-2454.