SummerFest Concert: Rhythm Society Orchestra

We’ll kick off our 2026 season on July 15th with 15-piece dance band, the Rhythm Society Orchestra.

Kick-Off Our SummerFest Concert Series!  

We’ll kick off our 2026 season on July 15th with 15-piece dance band, the Rhythm Society Orchestra, performing a WWII/1940’s-esque set list in Army Air Force uniforms worn by the Glenn Miller band. Take a step back in time and enjoy this 1940’s-esque vintage swing set on the War Memorial Terrace.. We’ll be sure to leave lawn space open for a dance floor

Your Evening

6:00pm: Grounds Open for seating, Food Stand & Bar Opens for Service
7:30pm: Concert Begins
9:00pm: Concert Concludes

No summer festival would be complete without awesome eats, and SummerFest features a mouth-watering menu from The War Memorial’s own hospitality team, led by Chef Joe Paxton, delivering our own spin on classic Americana.

VIP Tickets Available

While SummerFest concerts are completely free to the public, you can support The War Memorial’s commitment to providing low-cost family friendly programming by purchasing a VIP ticket! VIP tickets are only $45 each and include reserved seating on the Alger Center balcony, padded chairs, a private bar, and a complimentary beverage. We appreciate your support!

General Admission is free and open to all — registration is required.

This event is free and open to all. In the spirit of accessibility and community support, we’ve introduced a “Pay What You Wish” option. While there is no cost to attend, your contribution—of any amount—helps offset the expenses of this program and supports future community offerings at The War Memorial. Thank you for helping us continue to provide enriching experiences for everyone.

Please note, while picnics, picnic blankets and chairs are welcome, no outside beverages are permitted.

About Rhythm Society Orchestra

The Rhythm Society Orchestrais a 15-piece dance band specializing in true vintage swing music. Their sound is heavily influenced by Count Basie and Harry James. Although based in Detroit, this band covers top venues throughout the Midwest and has been featured on numerous television and radio programs.

Crooner Paul King describes his style as "a mixture of Mel Torme, Joe Williams, and Frank Sinatra - with a dash of Cab Calloway thrown in". Detroit's Metro Times jokes "His voice has been banned in some nightclubs for inducing public displays of affection on the dance floor."

The Rhythm Society Orchestra has been featured at many of the Midwest's largest swing dance events including dance workshops with some of the world's top instructors.

In the event of inclement weather, this event will be held in the Alger Center Ballroom. Watch this space or follow us on Facebook or Instagram for up-to-the-minute updates.

• Posted In: Arts & Culture, SummerFest, Music & Concerts
• Tagged: SummerFest Concert