Arts Council keeps Waltham’s summer music humming

Summer evenings in Waltham are just around the corner, bringing with them the sound of live music on the common and the sight of a community coming together. 

At the heart of it all is the Waltham Arts Council, a volunteer-driven organization dedicated to keeping the arts accessible to everyone in the city. 

Each summer, the council brings local talent to the stage with its free Concerts on the Common series, drawing crowds of up to 500 people per show. Performances take place Tuesday evenings from 6:30 to 8 p.m., running from July 7 through August 25. 

“The concerts are muti-generational and family-oriented gatherings,” Arts Council President Jessica Lucci said. “They’re also the only opportunity some people in Waltham have to experience live music. It’s very important to us that this art is available to everyone, regardless of socio-economic factors.”

Alongside the music, Artist Row showcases the work of local artists, including paintings, photography, and handmade jewelry, turning the common into an open-air marketplace. 

The Council’s work doesn’t end when the music stops. Its volunteers can be found at other community events across the city including hosting hands-on art activities at the annual Easter celebration and leading the Holiday Carol Sing.

The organization also invests in the next generation of Waltham artists by  donating art supplies to local elementary schools and administering the annual Bill Walsh Scholarship, which is awarded to a Waltham High School student pursuing the arts.

Self-funding operation

The Waltham Arts Council relies solely on community donations and sponsorships, which ensures that these events and activities remain free and open to all. 

“We’re especially in need of funding this year due to grants and programs that are no longer available,” Lucci said. “We’re self-supporting, with no financial support from the city, so any donation will make a difference.”

A $2,000 sponsorship helps cover the cost of a single concert and includes a reserved table space, social media promotion and public recognition from the bandstand during the event.

Sponsorships of $250 or more include the opportunity to host a table with information about a business or organization.

Smaller contributions also play a meaningful role in sustaining the organization’s efforts.

To contribute and help support the Waltham Arts Council, email JessicaLucci@JessicaLucci.org or leave a voicemail at 252-864-6478.