Levitt FAQ

What is the Levitt AMP series and how did we get it in Cumberland?

In April 2022, the Allegany Arts Council partnered with Allegany County, the Mountain Side of Maryland and Frostburg State University to develop a grant for a $90,000 Levitt Foundation matching award. The Levitt AMP program provides funding to small and mid-sized communities looking to activate underutilized public spaces, to develop community pride and to foster economic growth through the arts. In August 2022, we were named as one of 36 nationwide finalists, and in September, members of our community came out in force to vote for Cumberland as a next AMP site, elevating us to 8th in the rankings. In November, we were named as one of 15 U.S. cities to receive this prestigious funding, which will include 10 weekly concerts in 2023, 2024 and 2025, joining more than 650 Levitt AMP concerts across the nation.

What can I expect at the Levitt AMP  Cumberland series in 2024?

The Levitt AMP funding guidelines require a diverse and broad range of artistic performances which stretch communities and pay all participating performers, both with artist fees and music royalties. In this year’s lineup, attendees will experience everything from our first foreign language act to bluegrass legends, soulful and retro moments, to a rock guitar virtuoso. Our performers will be representative of communities across the U.S. and Canada and feature a diverse array of performers and performances.

All concerts are free to the public and all are invited to attend. Levitt AMP performances are family-friendly and attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, picnic blankets, food and beverages. There is absolutely no cost to you to participate, although donations will be accepted.

In 2024, the Levitt AMP Cumberland Series will also offer beer and wine sales. Proceeds from these sales will be utilized to support the sustainability of the series. Attendees will be required to show ID and obtain a wristband in order to purchase and drink beverages.

Also in 2024, we will be offering a Kid Zone, complete with fun and creative opportunities for kids!

What time are the concerts taking place?

All concerts in the series begin at 7:00PM with doors opening at 6:30PM. We ask that people do not arrive earlier than 6:30 as our sound and production teams will be making final adjustments.

Why don’t I see a local band or name I recognize in the lineup?

The Levitt Foundation has specific guidelines for talent in its Levitt AMP program, which require all participating performers to be professional artists, play, perform and sell original music, and have an established internet and social media presence. You can check out our performers on streaming services like Spotify and others to learn more and to hear sneak peeks of their performance styles.

A goal of the Levitt Foundation funding is to introduce communities to a wide range of genres and experiences. It is a fun way to get to know new styles of music and artists we don't traditionally see in our community.

Can I bring my family to the Levitt AMP performances?

Yes! Children and families are encouraged, and so is dancing, toe-tapping and singing along. We promise many of the performers will have you on your feet!

Will there be food and beverage at the concerts?

In 2024, we have opened the Levitt AMP series to food vendors, and applications are currently being accepted.

How do I access the concert site?

Nine of the ten 2024 concerts will take place on the Festival Grounds of Canal Place, which is a wide open lawn with no affixed seating. Parking is available in the Canal Place parking lot, located in front of the train depot building, or street parking may be found in and around downtown Cumberland. Paid garage spaces are available at the City Center Parking Garage.

You can also access the concert location on foot from Washington Street, from the C & O Towpath, or from Industrial Boulevard, or on bike from the Great Allegheny Passage.

The Levitt Foundation allowed AMP communities in 2024 to produce a program at an alternate location, and for 2024, we have selected the beautiful Hoffman Park in Frostburg! Join us on Wednesday, July 3, for that show.

How do I stay informed about the Levitt AMP series?

Send us a quick note to be added to the e-mail list - art@alleganyarts.org. Subject: Levitt.

I’d like to support the development of free live music in our community. How do I do that?

Donations may be made below or by stopping by the Allegany Arts Council anytime during business hours. If your business is interested in becoming a sponsor of our 2024  series, please view sponsorship opportunities in the information below.