From independents to chart-toppers, Rosa Parks Circle is home to two evening concerts

With more than 1,700 artists from 21 countries and 44 states heading to Grand Rapids, Mich. to compete for the world’s largest prize for art, ArtPrize organizers today announced the addition of two evenings of music to the 19-day art competition. The ArtPrize Concert Series, which is free to the public, will take the stage at Rosa Parks Circle in downtown Grand Rapids. Performing are top acts Natasha Bedingfield, David Archuleta, indie-rock band Surfer Blood and other musical acts.

“ArtPrize continually looks for ways to enhance the ArtPrize experience,” said Bill Holsinger-Robinson, ArtPrize executive director. “Whether viewing art, learning through the speakers series or celebrating through live musical performances, all these experiences promote collisions among the public, artists and city spaces.”

The first night of music, the Center City Neighborhood Party, is presented by Stella Artois. Indie-rock band Surfer Blood from West Palm Beach, Florida will take the stage at 7 p.m., Saturday Sept. 25. Surfer Blood released its debut album early this year with favorable reviews from industry critics.

Rounding out the concert series, pop-singer Natasha Bedingfield headlines on Saturday, Oct. 2 at 7 p.m. Bedingfield whose hit singles include “Pocketful of Sunshine, and “Unwritten” will take the stage with special guests: David Archuleta and Hot Chelle Rae. Archuleta was the runner-up of season seven’s American Idol, and Hot Chelle Rae is a pop/rock band from Nashville, Tenn. This community concert is presented by Carol and David Van Andel Foundation in partnership with Citadel Broadcasting Corporation.