The 2009 summer concert series is underway at Constellation Brands-Marvin Sands Performing Arts Center (CMAC) in Canandaigua. Organizers are touting the concerts as a "mini vacation" as people are cutting back on summer travel.

Buffalo native Ani DiFranco got things started off Tuesday evening. A legend in the world of music, David Byrne, also wowed the crowd with his energetic show.

Tuesday’s show is the first of 12 slated for this summer.

Some dedicated fans showed up hours ahead of time.

"We have a really funny story: In Buffalo, a week apart, Ani DiFranco was playing, and then a week later David Byrne was going to play, except we were so caught up with bills, because of the economy and everything, we forgot to get tickets for both," said Scott Cole of Buffalo.

CMAC offered a chance at concert redemption.

"We got a twofer – we get to see both of them at the same time so we're pretty happy about that,” Cole said.

"I think the best news is the sun came out and it's a gorgeous night in Canandaigua and a great way to open up the season at CMAC," said Jeff Calkins, CMAC general manager.

Calkins says it is a good mix of music for the summer and also a good deal in a down economy.

“People are tending to stay closer to Rochester, spending their money a little more judiciously and looking for special things. And these special events that we have down here sort of give that opportunity for a staycation for our Rochester and Canandaigua area," Calkins said.

"I'm a teacher in the city of Buffalo. Yeah, so the economy is not great. Teachers really aren't making what they're supposed to be anyway, so yeah, it's a nice affordable getaway," said Jennifer Berg of Buffalo.

A CMAC concert offers a night out for $35 to $55 and a chance to see a music legend or two.

There is a mix of different music coming to CMAC this summer: Tim McGraw, John Legend, Jason Mraz, Crosby, Stills & Nash, just to name a few.

Visit the CMAC web site for a complete schedule of acts performing this summer at the Canandaigua venue.