'Make Music Day' coming to Corning Saturday. Where to find live music, events.

Downtown Corning will be alive with the sound of music Saturday.

Marich Music is once again joining the global Make Music Day celebration, a free, one-day event featuring live musical performances and opportunities to try out instruments, taking place throughout downtown Corning Saturday.

The festivities are part of a global celebration that occurs around the world on or around the summer solstice in over 1,000 cities, inspired by France’s Fête de la Musique.

Ben Borkowski, owner of Marich Music, invites individuals of all ages and skill levels, from professional musicians to those who have never picked up an instrument, to participate in the global Make Music Day celebration this Saturday.

“Corning already boasts a vibrant community of musicians, but we’re always looking to welcome more,” Borkowski said. “This day is about sharing our love of music with the community, encouraging people to make music of their own.”

Events tailored for first-time musicians include a brass and woodwind “petting zoo” at 11 a.m., where students can try out various school band instruments, a Learn-to-Play-Guitar session will be held at 1:30 p.m. and a community drum circle at 3 p.m., Borkowski said. Instruments will be provided, or participants can bring their own.

The Kids Rockwell ArtLab, at 36 E. Market St. will feature "Make Music Day Weird: An Interactive Noise Forest," allowing visitors to experiment with various electronic instruments and synthesizers. Admission is free.

The festivities will culminate with a community music recital/open mic from 4:30-6 p.m., followed by a concert by A Gloomy Business, a local all-original rock band., Borkowski said. These events are open to all ages and abilities.

Local musicians will perform along Market Street from 12-8 p.m., officials said. All ages are welcome as performers or attendees. For locations and times, visit www.makemusicdaycorning.com.

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Borkowski said Saturday’s event is the perfect day to come together and play – whether it’s for the first time or the thousandth.

Music has been shown to strengthen social connectivity, reduce stress, lower blood pressure, stimulate memory, and is integral to a well-rounded, enjoyable life.

This article originally appeared on The Leader: 'Make Music Day' jazzing up downtown Corning Saturday. See where.