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LUDINGTON — Hundreds of people filled Waterfront Park Saturday evening as West Shore Bank’s 2026 Rhythm & Dunes concert series opened with a performance by Mark Blomsteel & The Motor City Drive, kicking off another summer of free live music while raising money for Mason County high school band programs.
Families spread blankets and lawn chairs across the park while the Mason County Central High School Jazz Band, directed by Brian Parent, opened the evening before the headlining act took the stage. Food vendors lined the park throughout the event, which is organized, planned and underwritten by West Shore Bank and its employees.
The annual concert series serves as a fundraiser for local school music programs through donations, food vendor proceeds and other contributions. Since its inception, Rhythm & Dunes has raised nearly $160,000 in support of Mason County high school band programs.
The series concludes this Saturday, Aug. 1, when Michigan rock band Jedi Mind Trip takes the stage at Waterfront Park. The Ludington High School Jazz Band, under the direction of Keith Kuszynski, will open the evening with a performance beginning at 6 p.m. Food vendors will begin serving at 5 p.m.
Admission is free, although donations are encouraged to support the fundraising effort. Those wishing to contribute or learn more about the concert series may visit RhythmAndDunes.com.
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