Dave Wolever Pens Winning Harborfest Song For 2008

June 20, 2008 Contributor

Submitted Article

OSWEGO, NY – Well-known local musician, Dave Wolever has been named winner of the 2008 Harborfest song contest.

A veteran of the Oswego County music scene, Wolever is no stranger to the Harborfest song competition having won the challenge in ’94, ’95, ’97, and ’99.

Dave Wolever and musicians from his band “Off The Reservation” take a break during the recording of the official 2008 Harborfest Song, ‘It’s Time For Harborfest,’ Written by Wolever, the song will be performed during the opening ceremonies of Harborfest and incorporated into the sound track for the Entergy Nuclear Fireworks Spectacular. From left are: Kimo Cortini, Tim Stone, Dominick Sccichitano (seated), Dave Wolever and Tiger Vickery.He will receive a $500 award for his original composition, “It’s Time For Harborfest” and will perform the song on the Labatt Lakeview Stage in Breitbeck Park during the festival’s opening ceremonies on July 24.

A recording of the song will also be incorporated into the music track of the Entergy Nuclear Fireworks Spectacular on Saturday night, July 26.

Stan Gosek, a member of the Harborfest entertainment committee said that Wolever’s song was an immediate hit with the committee and easily met the group’s criteria.

“Over the years we have developed an approach to selecting the Harborfest song that works very well. We critically examine the lyrics to make sure that they address the identity of the festival, which is family, friends, music, the fireworks and the beauty of our area. We also listen for a catchy, memorable melody with a hook that will grab the listener and leave them with a positive, upbeat impression of Harborfest,” explained Gosek.

He also said that song selection is done using a ‘blind judging’ process, where the committee reviews the lyrics and listens to the song without knowing who the performer is.

Wolever said that while the musical portion of the song came together quickly, coming up with just the right lyrics takes some time.

“It’s always a challenge to convey all that is Harborfest in a song that is only a few minutes long.  I wanted to create a catchy yet informative tune,” he said.

“Dave is a solid songwriter,” added Gosek. “The song has a very polished quality. It has wonderful lyrics that truly capture the appeal of Harborfest in a positive and emotional way and the memorable chorus jumped out at us at the very first listening.”

Wolever added that the opportunity to perform the song in front of a large audience and share the stage with nationally known acts has served as the motivating factor for his entry.

“I am happy that my song was selected and am honored to have this great opportunity to showcase my current band, “Off The Reservation.”  I’m really looking forward to performing at this years opening ceremonies because one of my personal favorites “Webb Wilder” will be playing that night as well,” said Wolever.

According to Wolever (vocals and lead guitar) the musicians performing “It’s Time For Harborfest” with him during the opening ceremonies include: Tiger Vickery on guitar and backing vocals and Dominick Scicchitano on drums, both from the band “Off The Reservation” and guest musicians, Kimo Cortini on keyboards and Tim Stone on bass.

Oswego’s 21st annual Harborfest celebration will be held July 24th – 27. missing or outdated ad config

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