While world class academics are what Kent State at Geauga focuses on year-round, if you live in Geauga County and pay attention to the happenings on campus, you would know there has always been a mix of arts and culture embedded in its history.

The campus celebrated its golden anniversary with the community in a special way on July 19 with the Knowledge Rising Music Festival. If you were lucky enough to venture out to the campus and ignore the early rain and overcast sky, you would have been part of a crowd of nearly 500 that experienced five different music styles that culminated with a grand performance by The Cleveland POPS Orchestra with guest conductor Jason Seber. They performed a full two hours of music, entertaining the audience with tunes from Les Miserables, Mary Poppins, and Man of La Mancha. Guest vocalist Connor O’Brien, a native of Ashtabula, Ohio who attended Notre Dame Cathedral Latin, wowed the audience with brilliant vocals. Connor had an extensive background as both a performer and composer and has performed as an opening act on over 20 national tours including Hall & Oats and Mariah Carey.

Other bands that contributed to the diverse styles of music include Northeast Ohio’s top country band, Country Redford, along with Geauga favorites the Oak Island Skunk Jumpers, Sophisticated Swing, and Jim and Denise Acoustic Duo.

If you were unable to attend this year’s event, it’s possible you may have another opportunity next summer. You can visit our website to get updates of all our events. Like us on Facebook for future announcements.