Singer-songwriter Leslie Mendelson hit the stage at the Oswego Music Hall on Oct. 21. Her work in the music world is extremely credible with many collaborations including Jackson Browne and The Grateful Dead’s own Bob Weir. She is a Grammy-nominated performer with outstanding albums like “Swan Feather” (2009), “Love and Murder” (2017) and “If You Can’t Say Anything Nice…” (2020). Mendelson’s classic rock vibe blended with her exceptional storytelling abilities gives the audience a captivating experience. Relix Magazine states that Leslie is  “a loyal, cross-generational audience that hugs the hippie, hipster, coffee shop and society crowd.” Mendelson’s performances touch the crowd with emotion and depth. 

The concert was very intimate; Mendelson rocked solo with her guitar and a harmonica on the stage. Mendelson mostly performed originals which allowed the audience to see her talents as a songwriter. The few covers she did were all from the 70s and early ‘80s, and Mendelson created her own spin on these classics. 

The Oswego Music Hall, also known as the Ontario Center for Performing Arts, is volunteer-run by 17 board members. The goals of the center, according to their official website, are to dedicate “the production of high quality local performances for the enjoyment and enrichment of our membership and community at large, to provide support for songwriters, composers, musicians and performing artists, and to recognize, encourage and support the diversity of our musical heritage”.

Oswego Music Hall has a Fall 2023 season which showcases several national stage events, as well as a Guest Curator Series. All national events begin at 7:30 p.m. with doors opening at 7. 

Season passes are available for $100 for the fall season and $260 for the full season, including fall and spring. Tickets range from $16-19, depending on the event. VIP passes are typically $3 above general admission, allowing for a better, typically closer viewing of the stage. Tickets can be purchased on the Oswego Music Hall’s website in the upcoming events section. 

Oswego Music Hall “is a ‘listening’ venue sought after by songwriters and musicians,” as per the official website. It is a quaint place that feels like a close knit community as soon as you enter the room. The staff are extremely friendly, which makes anyone feel immediately welcomed and comfortable. 

At the venue, there are many snacks and baked goods at affordable prices. There is a kitchen located in the hall that allows for many volunteers to bake pies, cakes and more. Green Planet, a family-owned health food store located in Oswego and Syracuse, also donates a vast quantity of popcorn. A 50/50 raffle is available at the event as well. 

To get in on the fun over at the Ontario Center for Performing Arts, check their website and make sure to email OCPAoswego@gmail.com for any further information or questions. The Oswego Music Hall is located at The McCrobie Civic Center, 41 Lake St.

https://www.loc8nearme.com/new-york/oswego/mc-crobie-civic-center/8242534/