NORWICH – The Chenango Blues Association says it’s assembled a stellar lineup of national and internationally recognized stars to perform in Norwich this summer for its free, five-week concert series starting July 12 in the West Side Park.

The concerts will kick-off the Chenango Blues Festival August 17&18 at the Chenango County Fairgrounds.

Representing a wide array of styles – New Orleans funk, Brazilian roots music, Louisiana Zydeco, Texas Polka and down home rock and roll – the five bands comprising the series roster aren’t short on sound, originality or notoriety, the Blues Association says. Member Eric Larsen pointed out that tickets to see these acts elsewhere are $50 a piece on average.

“They really are high quality shows,” said Larsen. “I hope people take the opportunity to come see world class music for free.”

The first four shows will run from 7 to 9 p.m. on four consecutive Thursdays starting July 12. The fifth and final show will be Tuesday, August 7, in the entertainment tent at the Chenango County Fair as part of free fair admission night.

The Norwich Elk’s Lodge will be cooking for each of the free concerts.

Here’s how the schedule looks: