SYRACUSE, N.Y. (NCC News) — As shoppers browsed fresh produce and office workers grabbed lunch in Clinton Square on Tuesday, live music drifted across the Downtown Syracuse Farmers Market.
For many visitors, the performance was part of the market’s atmosphere. But for the musician on stage, it was an opportunity.
“They’ve actually had me here for the last 10 to 12 years,” said Thomas Gilbo, Tuesday’s featured performer from the Elvis Presley Band during the market’s Lunchtime Live Music Series. “It’s wonderful, I enjoy it, and I hope the vendors all make money too. I think it’s great that people can come out here for some fresh lunch, and listen to live music.”
The Downtown Syracuse Farmers Market returned Tuesday for its seasonal run, bringing dozens of vendors to Clinton Square. Alongside the produce, baked goods and local products, the market also welcomed back its Lunchtime Live Music Series, which features local musicians performing for market goers throughout the season.
TRANSCRIPT: More than a lunch break: How Downtown Syracuse’s live music series helps local artists grow their audience
Hunter Caparelli, NCC News Reporter: These lunchtime concerts might seem like background music for the Downtown Farmers Market. But for local musicians, they could be much more than that. The Downtown Syracuse Farmers Market kicked off its season Tuesday, bringing local vendors, fresh produce, and the return of the Lunchtime Live Music Series.
Thomas Gilbo, Evlis Presley Band: There’s so many people trying to play live music. It’s their passion, it’s their love,
you know? And anytime the city is involved to, and any county, it’s wonderful that they support the musicians.
Caparelli: Why bring live music to a farmer’s market? Downtown Market manager Chuck McFadden says the answer is pretty simple.
Chuck McFadden, Downtown Syracuse Market Manager : The musicians, you know, want to play, and people want to hear them. And we know that. And we want you to enjoy your experience when you’re here.
Caparelli: For artist Thomas Gilbo, aka Elvis Presley, the concerts aren’t just another gig. They’re a way to keep live music visible in the community.
Gilbo: Music is wonderful for any city, any town. It’s very important. And you never want music to go away. It makes people happy. It makes them feel good. And it’s wonderful for the musicians.
Caparelli: The Downtown Farmers Market runs every Tuesday through October. With live music performances throughout the season.
For artists, public performances like these can provide access to audiences they might not otherwise reach.
“Any time the city invests in local arts, it’s great,” said Gilbo. “There are so many people trying to play live music. It’s their passion, it’s their love. And any time the city or county is involved, it’s wonderful that they support local musicians.”
Building a career in music often requires more than talent alone. Musicians must find ways to connect with listeners, expand their networks and maintain a visible presence in their communities. Local events can serve as an important piece of that puzzle, offering artists a chance to perform before hundreds of people in a setting where attendance is built in.
“These are the types of things that gathers folks,” said Chuck McFadden, manager of the Downtown Syracuse Farmers Market. “The entertainment part of it is very important. People love music, and the live music series is helping activate public spaces.”
The Lunchtime Live Music Series is designed to bring energy to Downtown Syracuse while supporting local performers. As shoppers moved between vendor booths Tuesday, many paused to listen, dance or strike up conversations with Gilbo after his sets.
Industry experts often point to audience-building and networking as critical challenges for emerging artists. While digital platforms have made it easier to share music, many musicians say face-to-face engagement remains one of the most effective ways to develop a loyal following.
Events like the Downtown Syracuse Farmers Market provide one avenue for that connection.
“It’s wonderful for any city, any town,” said Gilbo. “It’s very important, because you never want music to go away. It makes people happy, it makes them feel good. And it’s wonderful for musicians. Never give up. If you’re just starting, keep hustling and get out there. It may take a couple years to get going. But you’ll create a following if you connect with the audience, and try real hard.”
For a performer like Gilbo on stage, the opportunity wasn’t measured solely by attendees or rounds of applause. It was measured in conversations, new listeners and the possibility that someone passing through the market might become a fan.
The Downtown Syracuse Farmers Market takes place every Tuesday in Clinton Square through the summer and fall, with live music performances scheduled throughout the season.