The Moondogs Are Ready For A Beatles Weekend At Bay Street

Joe Lauro of the band, The Moondogs, says Beatles Weekend at Bay Street Theater “will not be a tribute band show, but a tight group of skilled musicians playing the Beatles songs of 1969 (Let it Be and Abbey Road Albums) almost note for note!”

He explained to Hamptons.com that The Moondogs usually don’t play just Beatles music and in fact Lauro said, “The boys are in many bands, but The Moondogs, some of us have been playing together since we were 15, and we are poised and ready to shine for the March 15-16 weekend shows.” Lauro, who plays bass, explains that “the boys are rediscovering the magic of these songs” as they practice for the show. He mentioned the pure joy of practicing Dig A Pony, I’ve Got a Feeling and Let It Be. Then he added, “What’s exciting is these were the last two Beatles albums released and recorded before they broke up.”

Lauro relayed, “This will be The Moondogs’ 5th Annual Show at Bay Street,” but each year with a special twist. He explained, “For example last year was a tribute to George Harrison.” He was really enthusiastic in praising Michael Schiano (Musical Director-guitar-vocals) who he said, “Is sounding so much like John Lennon it’s amazing.” Besides Michael Schiano, The Moondogs consists of Dan Koontz on keyboards and vocals, with Fred Gilde also on keyboards/effects along with Mick Hargreaves on acoustic guitar/vocals. Playing the drums is David Giacone with a special mention and shout out for lead guitar player Jeff Levitt. Lauro plays a Paul McCartney styled Hofner Bass and also sings vocals.

Now behind the music for Joe Lauro is his wife, Karen Edwards, who he says, “Has always been so supportive, wonderful and special through all the years.” Although Lauro was born in Brooklyn, he considers Massapequa Park his hometown because he moved there at ten and formed his first band there at 15-years-old. He calls Sag Harbor his home now and was on the Shelter Island Ferry for part of the interview. The original Moondogs band was formed in 1980 and has been on again and off again. Lauro actually played bass for five years with East End legend Gene Casey fifteen years ago. He has been playing music for over 40 years but his daytime job is that of being the owner of a documentary film company. “However,” he says, “Music is my passion.”

Beatles Weekend! The Beatles ’69: Let It Be & Abbey Road will take place on Friday, March 15 and Saturday, March 16. Concerts will begin at 8 p.m. and tickets are 30.

Bay Street is located at 1 Bay Street in Sag Harbor. For more information, call 631-725-9500 or visit www.baystreet.org.