Musicians Picnic

Sept. 27, 2025

Gary, John & Cheryl’s 24th Annual Musicians Picnic, Colchester, CT

24 Years Later

For the past 24 years, we’ve gathered our friends and family to honor our soul family. The Musicians picnic since 2001 has celebrated those who’ve moved on by playing, singing and oh yeah, eating some incredible food as they have shared with us over the course of our shared past years. This annual tradition is a testament to the enduring bonds we share, transcending time and distance.

Interested In Playing?

We have a full Tented stage equipped with sound system, including monitors (that we can never get loud enough) Drums, Keyboards, Guitars, both acoustic and electric if you don’t bring your own. Various Percussion items, and of course oriental carpeting to stand on as is old hippie tradition. We can accomodate extra gear if needed to run through our system.

Singer/Songwriters

Hey CT Songwriter Members or any Singer/Songwriters, Poets, Comedians or extrovert folks that always wanted to play in or with a band or step up to the stage and perform. This is your venue! We have many folks with a large catalog of songs who can accompany you on or you can perform solo or with your own band. This is a very a supportive group! This is not a CSA event but an invitation for CSA players to come join us. It’s a family affair.

Taos Drum

Handmade Taos Drum

This is a new item I picked up this past Spring. It’s one of our many drums we have ready to play. The Taos, multiple djembe, maybe a conga if Kenny Conga’s comes, a cajon and small handdrums for little hands…or feet. We don’t judge. 

Past Picnics - 2004

John and Joe

Two long time players who have been coming on/off for quite some time. John, hosted a Metal Show on UHAs radio station for years and of course, played in many bands. Joe’s an incredible drummer who has played quite a bit in the industry and along with John a great person to call a friend.

There has always been quite a bit of talent that have graced our picnic. It’s always a good time and great listen.

Past Picnics - 2022

Dan M. & Taylor's knee

Not often you get such a great knee shot! Here’s Dan M. playing away with a group of players. Dan being as handsome as he is, I had to highlight. Dan’s been involved in the Music biz for a while. Bands, managing, marketing. One daughter dated a TV star for awhile and the other her own reality show. Dan and his wife Linda, are our concert buddies. We’ve probably done 20 or 30 together over the years. Not once have we rushed the stage but we’re still young so….

We had two drum setups that year, which really made for a crazy jam session especially with Tom D and Keith W. joining together.

Upcoming Event

The 24th Musicians picnic. A.K.A. Musical BBQ is coming Sept. 27th this year of 2025. Bring an instrument, your voice, desire to help and appetite. As we haven’t had a bad one yet. Other than technical issues.

Full Stage Setup

Vin, on my Yamaha S80 full size keyboard which still sounds great after 20+ years and 3 rebuilds. The Mackie 15″ Powered Speaker which weighs a freakin’ ton. (There’s two at 80lbs a piece, but they can vibrate the pool water when cranked)  Note the percussion and that my lawn needs to be cut. Sarah and Jay and someone I can’t make out on the right.

Event Schedule

WE SETUP AROUND 10 A.M. Party around 1 p.m. – Help us setup please, please, please! We’re getting way too old to be lifting things. I transport equipment using my Lawn Tractor and trailer while smoking a cheap cigar. Well cheap in price. It’s really not a bad smoke. 

WHAT WE PROVIDE FOR FOOD: Hot Dogs / Hamburgers / Pulled Pork Parfait ( mac n cheese, beans, pork over corn bread ) / Japanese BBQ Chicken / Vegan Burgers (Impossible) / Some Side Dishes / ( There will be Vegan Sides, look for the “V” next to the dish) / Soda / Water / Tea / Coffee oh, and my smoked cream cheese w/ crackers as always.

SIDE DISH, SALAD OR DESSERT.  Definitely your own folding chair or favorite couch. No we won’t help you lift it out of your car. Some chairs are provided. You can fill out our contact form or contact John or Cheryl if you want to make sure you’re not duplicating effort. We’ll have space in the Fridge, or oven if needed.

27

September

10:00AM - 6:00PM

Musicians Picnic

John & Cheryl's, Colchester

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