Yellow Monkey music series sets the Summer standard in Cross River

CROSS RIVER, N.Y. - On Thursday, Aug. 6, the Summer Music Series at Yellow Monkey Village continued, with standards on the playlist. But since local live music has largely become out of the ordinary in the area, organizer Joe Bachana is endeavoring to bring it back.

“This town has been missing a community gathering like this,” said Bachana, “and the Yellow Monkey Village is just a gorgeous space for a summer series.”

Maybe Making Him Feel So Young, Bachana belted out the first standard, and in sync, Lisa Kilion followed. Getting to Know You, from The King and I, had Elana Dunn of the Lewisboro Library Board tapping her toes.

“I love show tunes, sing along and smile,” she said, contentedly sitting back in the moment.

So did Mike Mulder, and the setting piled on.

“The old buildings, the shady trees and the green grass — it’s lovely,” said the North Salem resident.

He didn’t mind seeing a few young people among the crowd, either.

“The music expands their horizons,” said Mulder.

Colette Hourigan agreed, and with a few young performers on the bill, she saw the night filling a void.

“Sports are such a big focus. But kids who are successful as artist, they need venues and accolades too,” she said.

On the musical docket, she was also confident her number could deliver.

“All That Jazz, it’s spicy and gets the audience going,” said the classically trained Katonah singer.

A real necessity now.

“With everything going on,” she said. “We need music. It brings us together.”

Lisa Rotondi was happy to be the vehicle.

“I love having events here to involve the community in our space,” said the owner.

Admittedly, it was a little hot on this evening, but she’s really looking forward to continuing the music in the fall.

“It will be perfect,” she said, “darker, the mood will really be set.”

It was still pretty good for Ron Isaacson.

“Even though we’re right off the road,” said the Katonah resident, “under the trees, it feels so calm and the surrounding buildings create a nice breeze.”

Ambiance wasn’t the only thing he was grateful for.

“We have so many talented people looking for opportunities, and now we have at least one home for it,” he said.

Eli Mundis had the same backyard feeling.

“It reminds me of old images of gatherings they had in the 19th century,” said the Somers High School student.

He wasn’t put off by the old-school sound, either.

“I like how the songs put you in swing motion,” said Mundis.

There’s no reason to stop, and Bachana is also thinking beyond Yellow Monkey.

“I would hope to see more venues emerge in the area,” he concluded. “It’s really missing.”

The next show on Thursday, Aug. 20, will feature modern pop, guitar, and piano.

Visit the Yellow Moneky Village Instagram page for updates and events.