HARRISBURG, PA – The Harrisburg University Presents (HU Presents) Summer Concert Series has once again delivered an unforgettable lineup of performances and attracted music lovers from all over the region. Hosted by Harrisburg University of Science and Technology (HU), this annual event has become a not-to-miss cornerstone of Central Pennsylvania’s entertainment calendar.
Since the beginning – when Death Cab for Cutie performed in June 2019 – Harrisburg University’s Summer Concert Series has gathered thousands for one of the largest college concert series in America.
The Summer Concert Series venue is Riverfront Park, located on the Susquehanna River and just a stone’s throw from the Harrisburg Capitol Complex. Riverfront Park is a perfect backdrop for these visiting artists, and HU Presents’ dedication to high-quality production ensures attendees enjoy top-notch sound and visuals, making each concert an unforgettable experience.
This year’s series was marked by standout performances from a diverse lineup of artists:
Jenny Lewis
A staple in the indie music scene, Jenny Lewis kicked off the series as season opener. She charmed the crowd with her blend of indie rock and folk. Performing hits such as “Red Bull & Hennessy” and “Just One of the Guys,” her undeniable charisma and soulful voice resonated with new and existing fans alike.
Orville Peck
Known for his distinctive blend of country and alternative music, Orville Peck delivered a mesmerizing performance that captivated the audience. His rich baritone voice and enigmatic stage presence brought songs like “Dead of Night” and “Summertime” to life.
Black Pumas
This Grammy-nominated collective brought their psychedelic soul and funk sounds to the stage, delivering a high-energy performance that had the crowd grooving. With songs like “Colors” and “Fire,” the Pumas showcased their dynamic musicality and captivating live presence.
Fleet Foxes
Known for their lush harmonies and folk-infused sound, Fleet Foxes delivered a stunning performance. Their setlist included fan favorites like “White Winter Hymnal” and “Mykonos,” creating a magical atmosphere that left fans in awe. Fleet Foxes also cracked the Top Five Shows for HU Presents, based on ticket sales.
Brothers Osborne
These award-winning brothers are working-class icons, known for their musical adventurousness and energetic headlining shows. From funky swagger to barroom blues, the audience received a rollicking tour of the group’s celebrated discography.
Don’t just take our word for it, though. This year’s lineup received enthusiastic reviews with journalists and concertgoers alike:
- PennLive: Orville Peck Delivers a Captivating Performance in Harrisburg
- The Burg: Jenny Lewis Charms Audience at HU’s Summer Concert Series
- Central Penn Business Journal: Black Pumas Light Up the Stage with Soulful Performance
- Harrisburg Magazine: Fleet Foxes Mesmerize Crowd with Folk Harmonies
- WITF: Harrisburg University Concert Series Draws Record Crowds with Stellar Lineup
The overwhelmingly positive reception for our concert series proves we’ve captured lightning in a bottle and made strides to enrich the cultural scene in Harrisburg. In a recent PennLive article, HU President, Eric Darr, PhD, shared his own thoughts as a music lover:
“Why would a university of science and technology present a concert series? My answer: why wouldn’t we? Imagine a world devoid of melody, rhythm, and harmony. It would be dull and incomplete. Music enriches our lives, providing an endless array of emotional and cultural experiences. In a world often focused on division and strife, events like our Summer Concert Series remind us of reasons for optimism. Science and technology, driven by human curiosity and ingenuity, offer solutions to many challenges. Similarly, music engages our minds, enhances memory, and fosters neuroplasticity, forming new connections in our brains and, perhaps, soothing our restless spirits.”
Be sure to come out and join us for these final HU Presents shows of 2024! Tickets are available right now for:
- Pete Yorn – Saturday, September 21
- Matt Kearney – Wednesday, October 2
- The Struts – Tuesday, October 29
- Dawes – Wednesday, November 20
And to everyone who attended HU Presents shows in 2024: Thank you for joining us and sharing the gift of music. We’re already looking forward to 2025!
ABOUT HARRISBURG UNIVERSITY
Harrisburg University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education and is a private, nonprofit university offering bachelor’s and graduate degree programs in the fields of science, technology, and mathematics. For additional information about the University’s affordable, demand-driven undergraduate and graduate programs, please call 717.901.5146 or email Connect@HarrisburgU.edu. Stay updated by following Harrisburg University on X, LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook.
Photo credit: M.R. Gruber Photography
