Inside Bellson Fest: Jazz, Blues, Latin & Rock Along the Riverfront

Nathan Stahr sits down with Melinda Jones and Josh Duffee to preview the 5th Annual Bellson Music Fest in Rock Falls.

The conversation highlights this year’s expanded music lineup, the free drum clinic at the McCormick Event Center, and the continued celebration of legendary Rock Falls drummer Louis Bellson. Josh also discusses the history behind early jazz drumming, the vintage drum equipment that will be featured during the clinic, and the Bellson memorabilia giveaway happening during the event.

Bellson Music Fest takes place Saturday, June 6, with live music throughout the day at RB&W Park featuring jazz, Latin, blues, rock, R&B, and more.

Festival Schedule:
🥁 Drum Clinic – 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the McCormick

Event Center
🎶 Live Music Begins at 1 p.m. at RB&W Park

Band Lineup:
• Josh Duffee and the Blackhawk Broadcasters
• Crooked Cactus
• John Rush and the Dog and Out Band
• Rare Element

The event is free to attend thanks to local sponsors.

For more information:
VisitRockFalls.com

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🎤 Highlights:

0:45 What’s New at Bellson Fest This Year?

1:15 Different Music Styles Featured at the Festival

1:50 Why Bellson Fest Is Completely Free

2:06 Drum Clinic Details at McCormick Event Center

2:25 Past Drum Clinic Guests & Festival History

2:59 Jazz Drumming History & Louis Bellson’s Influence

3:31 Live Drum Demonstrations & Vintage Drum Kits

4:03 Louis Bellson Techniques & Music Education

4:21 Bellson Memorabilia & Giveaway Details

5:31 Viewer Questions & Suggestions Info

5:50 Free Raffles & Festival Giveaways

6:11 Festival Band Lineup & Schedule

6:36 Rain Plans & Festival Backup Location

6:48 Louis Bellson Drum Set Display

7:20 Behind the Scenes Work & Community Sponsors

8:19 Expanding Bellson Fest Beyond Rock Falls

8:55 Dancing, Food & Riverfront Atmosphere

9:15 Weather Concerns & Alternate Venue Plans

9:42 Final Festival Details & Schedule Recap

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