Concerts – Ford House

Feel the Funk: The Dave Hamilton Band Brings Soulful Energy to Ford House’s Final Summer Concert

Tommy Karr — Fri, 22 Aug 2025 21:54:41 +0000

Feel the Funk:

The Dave Hamilton Band Brings Soulful Energy to Ford House’s Final Summer Concert

As summer winds down, there’s no better way to send it off than with the irresistible rhythms of Motown, Funk, and Soul—live, under the stars, and on the stunning shores of Lake St. Clair.

Join us on Friday, September 12 at 7 p.m. as The Dave Hamilton Band brings high-energy performances and crowd-favorite grooves to Ford House’s final outdoor summer concert of the season. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Detroit’s iconic sound or simply love the feeling of live music on a warm September night, this concert promises to deliver an unforgettable evening.

A Sound Born in Detroit

The Dave Hamilton Band isn’t just playing music, they’re bringing a full-on experience.

Known for their electric stage presence, killer rhythm section, and crowd-pleasing mix of funk, soul, rock, and pop, this band has been turning heads across the U.S. and Canada since 2005. Based right here in Detroit, they’ve shared stages with music legends like Kool & the Gang, En Vogue, Parliament Funkadelic, The Gap Band, and even Howie Mandel — proving they can hold their own with the best of them.

Fronted by powerhouse vocalists and backed by musicians who know how to keep a crowd moving, The Dave Hamilton Band brings high-energy sets and infectious charisma that make every performance feel like a celebration. Whether they’re covering classics or serving up originals, their sound is pure joy — bold, vibrant, and 100% live.

The Perfect Summer Send-Off

Picture this: The sun begins to set over the lake. Guests settle into lawn chairs and blankets on Ford House’s manicured waterfront lawn, drinks in hand and anticipation in the air. As the first notes fill the sky, you feel the beat in your chest, the breeze in your hair, and the magic of a summer night well spent.

Enjoy:

Lakeside views of Lake St. Clair at golden hour
Live music that’ll have you swaying, singing, and smiling
Concessions and a cash bar available onsite
Casual or Motown-glam attire — your call
Bring your own lawn chair or blanket and relax in style

Whether you’re a Ford House regular or this is your first visit, this concert is your chance to soak in the beauty of the estate while celebrating Detroit’s soulful musical legacy.

Tickets & Details

Tickets are on sale now! Choose lawn or seated options:

Friends of Ford House – Lawn: $20 | Seated: $40
General Public – Lawn: $25 | Seated: $50

Want the best pricing? Become a Friend of Ford House and save on concert tickets (plus enjoy other perks throughout the year!).

Don’t Miss Out

This is your last chance to catch live outdoor music at Ford House this season, and it’s the perfect excuse to gather your favorite people for one more unforgettable summer night. The concert is expected to sell out—so don’t wait!

One Last Night of Summer. One Epic Soundtrack.

Join us lakeside for The Dave Hamilton Band — the final outdoor concert of the season at Ford House. Motown, funk, and soul under the stars.

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GOING FAST!

Broadway at Ford House – Michigan Philharmonic Performs Hamilton, Wicked, and More!

Tommy Karr — Tue, 12 Aug 2025 23:56:33 +0000

Broadway at Ford House
A magical lakeside evening on August 15

Get ready for a show-stopping summer night as the Michigan Philharmonic performs On Broadway! at Ford House on August 15. This unforgettable outdoor concert brings the magic of Broadway to Lake St. Clair, featuring hit songs from Hamilton, Wicked, and more beloved musicals. Under the stars and beside the lake, you’ll experience the soaring voices and full orchestral sound that make Broadway’s greatest hits truly shine.

A Night of Broadway Splendor

Under the direction of Music Director Nan Washburn, the Michigan Philharmonic will bring a lush repertoire of beloved Broadway classics to life. From the energy of There’s No Business Like Show Business to the emotion of I Dreamed a Dream, plus selections from Rent, Gypsy, and more—you’ll be swept away by the theatrical magic under the stars.

Scenic Splendor Meets Musical Magic

There’s something undeniably special about live music performed in such a breathtaking setting. The gently sloping lawn, shaded by trees and warmed by the twilight glow, turns into a natural amphitheater. Each note floats across the water, blending with the sounds of nature, to create a sensory experience that’s atmospheric and unforgettable.

Plan Your Evening

Time & Place

Friday, August 15, 2025, from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM, on the Terrace at the Main Residence.

TICKET TYPes

Seated Ticket – $50 (includes folding chair in prime front-lawn location)
Lawn Ticket – $25 (bring your own blankets or portable seating)

Getting There

Parking opens at 5 PM in the Lake Shore lot across from Ford House. Uniformed police officers will be on hand to assist guests crossing Lake Shore Road from the grass parking lot to the Main Gate. Shuttles assist guests with accessible placards or Seated Tickets. If dining at The Continental beforehand, please use the North Gate entrance.

Comfort Tips

Bring a picnic blanket or chair, dress for changing evening temps (rain or shine!), and consider a wagon for gear if needed. Concessions start at 5 PM, offering snacks and drinks—but alcohol is not permitted to be brought in.

Family Note

The event welcomes all ages, with the hope that children remain seated and safely away from the water’s edge. To ensure a pleasant experience for everyone, dogs are not permitted.

For Guests with Accessibility or Mobility Needs

We want you to enjoy every moment of your evening with comfort and ease. The concert area is located on a gently sloping lawn with nearby paved walkways.

For guests with accessible parking placards, complimentary shuttles run continuously before and after the concert, dropping you just steps from your seating area.

Accessible restrooms are located close to the concert lawn, and Ford House staff will be on hand to assist with any needs. This event is entirely outdoors, so please dress for the weather. We recommend a light sweater or jacket for cool evenings.

For Couples Planning a Perfect Date Night

Set the stage for a summer evening to remember. Begin with an optional dinner or cocktails at The Continental on the Ford House grounds—just minutes from the concert lawn—before taking a sunset stroll to your seats. During the performance, enjoy wine, beer, soft drinks, and light snacks available from our concessions starting at 5 PM. The terrace and lake views provide the perfect backdrop for romantic photos, and as twilight falls, the music and stage lighting create a warm, glowing atmosphere.

Helpful Tips

Climate & Comfort: Even in August, lakefront evenings can feel a few degrees cooler once the sun sets. A light sweater or jacket is recommended. You may also want to bring mosquito repellent to stay comfortable throughout the performance.
Ground Conditions: The concert lawn has a gentle slope, which provides good sightlines from all areas. The surface is grass, so guests using mobility devices or low chairs may want to arrive a few minutes early to choose a spot that feels most comfortable.
Concessions: Beginning at 5 PM, enjoy hot food items such as hot dogs, hamburgers, and BBQ chicken sandwiches, along with chips, snacks, soda, bottled water, beer, and wine. Menu items may vary by concert. Our concessions tent has been expanded to accommodate the growing number of concert attendees—something we’re thrilled to enhance to support our increasing audience.
Shuttles & Walking Distance: Complimentary shuttles are available for guests with an ADA placard or those who have purchased a Seated Ticket. All other guests are asked to walk from the grass parking lot across Lake Shore Road at the Main Gate to the concert area—a distance of approximately 2,400 feet, which takes an average of 10–15 minutes and includes varied terrain, including gravel. The shuttle trip takes about 5 minutes from pick-up at the Visitor Center to the Main Residence and runs continuously before the concert and immediately after the performance until all eligible guests have returned to the parking lot.
Police Crossing & Lighting: Uniformed police officers will assist guests crossing Lake Shore Road both before and after the concert, remaining on site until all guests have safely returned to the parking lot. After the performance, lights will illuminate the walking path back to the grass lot to ensure a safe and comfortable exit.
Weather Contingency: This concert is a rain-or-shine event. In the event of severe weather such as lightning, high winds, or dangerous storms, the performance may be delayed, paused, or canceled for safety. Any cancellation decisions will be communicated on-site and via Ford House’s website and social media channels, with information on rescheduling or refunds provided if applicable.
Pre-Show Atmosphere: Concessions open at 5 PM, giving you plenty of time to enjoy dinner or a snack before the music begins. Guests are welcome to relax on the lawn, take in lake views, and capture scenic photos as the sun sets.
Crowd Size & Vibe: This concert is expected to draw 1,500 or more guests, creating an exciting, energetic atmosphere while still offering plenty of space to enjoy the music. Arriving early gives those with Lawn Tickets the best chance to choose a location closer to the terrace where the performance takes place.
Outdoor Conditions: Ford House is home to wildlife, including geese. While our incredible landscape team works hard to clear the lawn and Moss, our beloved goose dog, patrols daily to chase geese away, you may still encounter some goose droppings. This is part of the outdoor environment, and we appreciate your understanding.

Why You’ll Want to Be There

Enchanting Setting: The Ford House grounds are elevated by shimmering lake views and graceful architecture—an exquisite backdrop that transforms every performance into a theatrical journey.
Broadway’s Best, Orchestrated: Expect the kind of musical storytelling that evokes Broadway’s drama, charm, and heart—only enhanced by live orchestral nuance.
Create a Summer Memory: Whether you’re indulging in a solo sojourn, planning a date night, or gathering family and friends, it’s an evening of culture, community, and charm under the Michigan sky.

Mark your calendar and secure your spot for this summer night under the stars. It’s more than just a concert—it’s a musical embrace that lingers long after the final encore.

Broadway at Ford House

On August 15, the Michigan Philharmonic takes the stage on the shores of Lake St. Clair for a magical evening of Broadway’s biggest hits. Enjoy show-stopping favorites from Hamilton, Wicked, and more in a stunning lakeside setting at the historic Ford House.

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Experience the Magic of a Ford House Outdoor Summer Concert

dev-ops@intellectualninjas.com — Sat, 07 Jun 2025 05:50:29 +0000

Imagine a warm summer evening, the golden glow of the setting sun casting long shadows over the manicured gardens of the historic Ford House. The air is filled with the gentle hum of conversation, the refreshing scent of fresh blooms, and then—like a dream—the first notes float through the air.

Welcome to a Ford House Outdoor Summer Concert, where the thrill of live music and the tranquility of nature meet in perfect harmony. This concert experience is unlike any other, offering an unforgettable combination of beauty, history, and melody.

The Thrill of Live Music in a Historic Setting

The outdoor concerts at Ford House bring together the excitement of a live performance with the grandeur of the estate’s stunning landscape. As musicians take the stage, the backdrop of the estate, with its towering trees and sweeping views of Lake St. Clair, transforms the space into a majestic, open-air theater. The energy is electric as the music fills the air, carrying you through an evening of joy, connection, and pure entertainment.

Whether it’s the rich sound of a classical quartet or the upbeat rhythm of a modern band, Ford House concerts offer something for everyone. The open sky above, the cool breeze off the lake, and the subtle lighting of the grounds make each performance a full-sensory experience. It’s not just a concert—it’s a moment suspended in time.

Serenity in Every Note

But amid the excitement lies a deep sense of calm. Ford House, with its expansive lawns and peaceful waterfront, creates a tranquil atmosphere perfect for an evening of relaxation. As you find your spot under a shady tree or on a blanket by the water’s edge, the day’s stresses melt away. The gentle melodies, the rustling leaves, and the soft lapping of the lake create a symphony of serenity.

No bustling crowds or traffic noise to contend with—just the quiet company of nature and the gentle hum of music in the background. It’s an oasis where you can reconnect with yourself, loved ones, and the world around you.

A Place for Everyone

Ford House Outdoor Summer Concerts are designed to be enjoyed by all. Whether you’re a music lover, a history enthusiast, or just looking for a peaceful evening with friends or family, there’s a place for you here. Pack a picnic, bring your favorite blanket, and bask in the beauty of this remarkable space. You’re sure to leave feeling inspired and refreshed.

As the sun sets and the stars begin to twinkle above, the music seems to echo from the past and into the future, carrying with it the legacy of the Ford family and their love of the arts. It’s an experience that lingers long after the final note fades.

Join us each summer at Ford House for an outdoor concert that is as thrilling as it is tranquil. It’s an evening of pure magic, and we can’t wait to share it with you.

Learn more about our concert and music performances.

Four Spectacular Outdoor Concerts Headline Ford House’s Summer Lineup

dev-ops@intellectualninjas.com — Tue, 02 Apr 2024 16:00:43 +0000

Ford House is thrilled to announce an exciting lineup of outdoor concerts set to grace the historic estate’s picturesque grounds this summer. With a diverse range of musical styles and talents, the series promises something for everyone to enjoy under the summer sky.

“Eleanor and Edsel Ford were well-known for their hospitality and support of the arts. We embody that spirit in welcoming such phenomenally talented artists with diverse musical styles and from varying cultural backgrounds,” said Ford House President & CEO Mark J. Heppner. “Whether you’re a fan of brass, prefer a throwback to the neon-infused 1980s, want to dance the night away to your favorite Motown hits, or relish in the symphonic delight of the acclaimed Michigan Philharmonic, each performance promises to be an extraordinary and unforgettable experience. We invite music lovers of all ages to join us for these special evenings under the stars at Ford House.”

Kicking off the series on Friday, June 28, at 7 p.m., the renowned, Detroit-based Gabriel Brass Band will take center stage. Known for their infectious New Orleans energy and vibrant performances, this ensemble promises to get toes tapping and audiences grooving with their up-tempo traditional jazz with funk and hip-hop.

Next, on Friday, July 19, at 7 p.m., prepare for a high-energy performance from The Killer Flamingos, Detroit’s biggest and best party band. The Killer Flamingos present unforgettable performances that have kept Detroit on the cutting edge of current music. An explosive live show packed with outstanding musicianship and high energy has made Killer Flamingos a household name.

On Friday, August 9, at 7 p.m., get ready to groove to the sounds of Motown as the Dave Hamilton Band pays tribute to the legendary genre. With soulful rhythms and timeless classics, this performance promises to capture the essence of Detroit’s rich musical heritage.

Wrapping up the summer concert series on Friday, August 23, at 6:30 p.m., the Michigan Philharmonic will take the stage for a grand finale: “Car-Tunes!” Led by acclaimed conductor Nan Washburn, the orchestra will enchant audiences with a captivating repertoire, highlighting favorite car-inspired music from your favorite movies, television series, and other pop culture icons like “Grease,” “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang,” “Disney’s Cars,” “Back to the Future,” and more!

Package tickets to all four outdoor summer concerts at Ford House will be available to Friends of Ford House only, starting Tuesday, April 16, and are only available through Monday, May 13. Package tickets are $145 per individual for Reserved seating and $75 per individual for General seating.

Tickets for individual concerts go on sale to Friends of Ford House on Tuesday, May 14, and will be available for purchase by the public on Tuesday, May 28. Friends of Ford House receive a discounted ticket rate of $40 per individual for VIP seating and $20 per individual for General seating. Public tickets are $50 per individual for Reserved seating and $25 per individual for General seating. Once on sale, tickets may be purchased at fordhouse.org/concerts.

Guests may sign up for the Ford House email newsletter at www.fordhouse.org/email to request an email reminder for on-sale dates. For more information and to stay updated on all upcoming events, visit www.fordhouse.org.

Don’t miss your chance to experience the magic of live music in one of Michigan’s most stunning outdoor venues. Mark your calendars and get ready for an unforgettable summer at Ford House!

Friends of Ford House enjoy pre-sale access, discounted tickets to all public events, discounts on dining and shopping, and more. To learn how to become a Friend of Ford House, visit www.fordhouse.org/friends.