“Music is the great uniter. An incredible force. Something that people who differ on everything and anything else can have in common.” ― Sarah Dessen

Saranac Lake is a small Adirondack village known for its namesake lakes and surrounding mountains. But it should also be known for its vibrant music scene. Saranac Lake has live music at multiple venues, a music instrument shop, and even its very own record store. This kind of diversity in a town of just over 5,000 people is what makes Saranac Lake a true musical hub in the Adirondacks. Here are five people in Saranac Lake who are bringing big sound to this small village.

Waterhole

Owner: Kiki Sarko and Eric Munley

The Waterhole first opened its doors in the 1970s and has changed hands multiple times over the decades. Big-name acts such as Béla Fleck and the Flecktones, New Riders, and Gov't Mule have graced the stage in the past, but the Waterhole is more known for bringing mid-level touring acts, such as Massachusetts-based circus-punks Bella's Bartok and the Connecticut soul powerhouse ensemble West End Blend. In the warmer months, the Waterhole hosts Party on the Patio, a free weekly outdoor music series every Thursday from 6-10 pm (May-October). With 2 bars, 3 stories, and an extensive patio, this means you can dance in front of the band or lounge on the railing above the band on the 2nd floor. The upstairs music lounge also hosts regional and national touring bands year-round. The Waterhole is a classic Adirondack music venue, one that has been consistent in Saranac Lake for 50 years. 

Ampersound

Owner: Mark Coleman

Why did you decide to open Ampersound?

Loving music and wanting to be a part of it is the most significant reason I wanted to have a music store. I had the luck of working in a similar store previous to opening mine, so I was inspired to continue with the trade. I opened Ampersound in 1989 and have been serving the local area ever since. 

What makes your store unique?

My store is based on 3 main sections; recorded music, electronics, and guitars/accessories. I believe in the power of three and feel these three entities complement one another. 

How does your store add to the music scene in Saranac Lake?

My shop is the only hands-on avenue for musicians within an hour's drive. Being a conduit for musicians to interact with one another is an important characteristic of this store. Just yesterday a budding musician bought a guitar and amp and asked about a guitar teacher. Fortuitously, a well-known teacher walked in 2 minutes later and they were introduced. 

How has the music scene changed in the Tri-Lakes area?

The music scene in Saranac Lake continues to grow. Covid-19 put a damper on things, naturally, but the spirit of the people and their desire to play and listen to music is strong. For a few years in the Tri-lakes area, we've had 2 regular summer concert series, and the Waterhole next to my store has a stalwart commitment to providing quality music weekly. Additionally, the number of open mic nights has increased and through the generosity of two people, a building has been established here in town to serve as a hub for practicing musicians, people giving and taking lessons, and groups to play together. The building, Trestle Street, also has a cadre of instruments, which gives people opportunities to play anything. We also have three choirs and a Northern Adirondack orchestra in the area. The Lake Placid Center for the Arts hosts a sinfonietta every summer and our local school music programs in the Tri-lakes area are strong with great dedicated leadership.

BluSeed Studios

Executive Director: Marissa Hernandez

Can you tell me about BluSeed Studios?

BluSeed Studios is a non-profit artist workspace dedicated to the creation, promotion, and presentation of the arts. We opened our doors 20 years ago in 2002 and have brought music to the BluStage ever since. 

What kind of music does BluSeed Studios bring to Saranac Lake?

We host music from all genres, including Americana, folk, country, rock, blues, and more!

How do you think music builds a sense of community?

It brings people together in one place and joins us all in one common interest. Our community loves music to its core, so it's great to be able to use our space to help promote that.   

Music on the Green

Community Development Administrative Assistant: Cassandra Hopkins

When and how did Music on the Green Start?  

Free live music has always been a part of the fabric of Saranac Lake. The accessible downtown allows for many great venues for concerts, including the Berkeley Green and Riverside Park - both of which have been used as Music on the Green venues. This iteration of Music on the Green started in 2013 with the Village’s volunteer group, the Downtown Advisory Board. Downtown Advisory Board members and Village staff work cohesively to put on concerts each summer. In total, 56 different musical ensembles have graced the Music on the Green stage.

Who are the people responsible for making Music on the Green happen?

Longstanding, former Village residents, Joe and Mary Lynne, were both project coordinators from 2014 through 2021. This summer, the music series is in new hands, with Downtown Advisory Board member, Laura Cunningham, stepping up to take the reins. Laura’s keen sense of what makes a good performance and her strengths in organization and communication have been put to use in the months that go into preparing a successful concert series. Also on board are Village of Saranac Lake Trustee, Kelly Brunette, Community Development Director, Jamie Konkoski, and myself. Each concert also has sound production made available to the performing musicians thanks to local sound professional, Russ Feher.

How does Music on the Green build a sense of community?

The concerts build a sense of community by allowing families and individuals a free opportunity to share an experience together, mingle with neighbors, and learn about different genres of music. While there is no specific target audience for this event, the composition of the crowd includes locals, seasonal residents, and tourists of all ages.

How is Music on the Green different from other venues?

The uniqueness of this event is hard to put into words, as it truly is an in-person experience. With the 2021 series change to the Riverside Park location (corner of Main St. and River St.), the series took on a more open feel, with an inviting atmosphere for those passing through Saranac Lake by car, bicycle, boat, or on foot. Given that this is a live music event, the bandshell, situated at one end of an open green overlooking the Saranac River as it flows out of Lake Flower, really lends itself to the projection of sound, perhaps just enough to reach the ears of another future concert-goer that happened to be wandering by.

Black Dog Records

Owner: Tim Branfalt ("Timmy B")

When did you open Black Dog Records?

August 1, 2021.

How did you come up with the name?

My dog, Griffey, is a black boxador. It also just so happens that my favorite Led Zeppelin song is "Black Dog," hence the name Black Dog Records.  

How many records do you have?

In my shop, I have around 3,000-4,000. Currently, my personal collection stands at 960 records. I started my first collection when I was around 16. It was small, but I had some rad stuff like The Clash until it was stolen when I lived in Albany (when I was 26 or 27). A few years later a friend of mine needed cash so I started buying his records and everything snowballed from there. 

What is the appeal of records vs digital music?

I'm an analog guy in general. I like being able to hold things, I like the art. Music is just vibrations, right? So, records are the closest you can get to capturing those vibrations. I think records sound better than digital files. Records also demand more of your attention, unlike iPods and phones, so it's more than just passive listening. 

How does Black Dog Records add to the local music scene?

The only other place with a selection like mine is in Plattsburgh or Burlington. It gives locals a dedicated spot for vinyl (even if it's not purely dedicated to that). I also sell collector's toys and ephemera; think nostalgic video games, Star Wars Pez dispensers, and My Little Pony stickers.