Niles musician David Rees, 25, has attended the Niles Bluegrass Festival before, but this year was his first time performing solo on the musical lineup. 

On Friday, he stood on the Riverfront Amphitheater Stage, playing guitar and belting out the lyrics to the Allman Brothers “Midnight Rider.”

Rees was one of seven artists to perform Friday as part of the festival. Dozens of people listened to the music on the hillside nearest the stage.

Festival organizer TJ Martin said Thursday and Friday were well attended. Approximately 2,000 people in attendance each night.

“[There] is a little something for everybody,” Martin said. “[People] get together and enjoy, instead of getting together and worrying.”

In addition to music, those who attended the free festival could ride a number of carnival rides and choose to eat from a variety of food vendors.

After his set, Rees joined the crowd listening to the music. He said he was originally drawn to the festival because of the musical variety it offered.

“There is a lot of variety,” Rees said. “It is not just a thumping base line all day and that is the kind of thing that keeps people on their toes.”

There is also a variety in performers, with more well-known bands and novice performers both having a chance in the spotlight.

“I like how [the festival] mixes the visible with lesser known [artists] and brings them together under the sun,” Rees said. “It is nice.”

Rees grew up in Mishawaka and picked up the guitar about eight years ago. As a younger musician, Rees said he learned a lot from the musical abilities of artists like Otis Redding and Yonder Mountain String Band. Rees hoped his performance would challenge other people in his generation to have an interest in these musicians, too.

“The original artists are so inspiring,” Rees said. “Redding for example, had a lot of soul.”

Rees also drew inspiration from these artists to create his own songs. He played a few of his original numbers for the crowd during his set Friday.

Others also felt inspired listening to the music. Three-year-old Harvey Shangle danced joyfully as the music played. Nearby, his dad, Kevin Shangle, listened to the performances.

Kevin has attended the festival for the past three years. In addition to dancing, he said his son always enjoys watching the drummers perform.

The festival also offers a chance for the family to enjoy a summer evening together.

“It is a great time to just get outside and listen to the music,” Shangle said.

For Rees, the festival is one of his favorite local events. 

“I thought it was the best festival that Niles has,” Rees said. “I will the be the first to admit that I am picky with music and I think this festival has great music. All ages can enjoy what goes on here.”