The first days of spring have arrived along the Midcoast, and while summer is still months away, the schedule at the historic Boothbay Harbor Opera House heats up in early April. The U.S. Army’s Jazz Ambassadors, the annual Hometown Hootenanny, and the Latin dance sound of Primo Cubano will each take to the stage in the coming days, offering everything from country to jazz standards, Broadway favorites to south of the border rhythms.

Known as America's Big Band, the Jazz Ambassadors are the premier touring jazz orchestra of the United States Army. Celebrating their 50th anniversary this season, this 19-piece ensemble has received critical acclaim throughout the United States and abroad performing America's original art form, jazz. Concerts include classic big band standards, instrumental and vocal solo features, patriotic favorites, contemporary jazz works, and original arrangements and compositions by past and present members of the Jazz Ambassadors. The band has performed in all 50 states, Canada, Mexico, Japan, India, and Europe, and in joint concerts with the Boston Pops, National Symphony, Pittsburgh Symphony, Seattle Symphony, and at Carnegie Hall.

The Jazz Ambassadors come to the Opera House on Friday, April 5 for a free 7:30 p.m. concert. While there is no admission fee for the concert, the Army requests that audience members interested in attending request a ticket from the Opera House box office in advance. This concert is intended for all ages.

As the Army moves out of the Opera House, the many musicians of the annual Hometown Hootenanny will move in. The Hootenanny is scheduled for Saturday, April 6 at 7 p.m. and will once again be led by Garry Blackman and the Murky Water Band, including the talents of Tim Sprague, Dick Spofford and Bill Hallinan among others. For more than a decade, as a cabin fever reliever, and as a fundraiser for the non-profit Opera House, local musicians take to the stage for a night of country music and surprises. In addition to the music and laughter, the night includes a pie raffle. Advance discounted tickets to the Hometown Hootenanny are $10 and regular tickets are $15 for all ages.

As the sound of American country music drifts away from the Opera House, the Latin beat of Primo Cubano will fill the void. On Friday, April 12 the five members of the Cuban Son inspired band bring their infectious dance music to the stage. While there will be plenty of seats available for audience members who want to sit, on this night a large area of the main floor is cleared for dancing. Experienced Samba dancers appear amidst the crowd moving to the music and all ages are welcome. Advance discounted tickets are $10 from the box office, tickets purchased on the day of the concert are $15. The music begins at 7:30 p.m.

The Opera House box office at 86 Townsend Avenue, Boothbay Harbor,  is open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday-Friday, or can be reached at 633-5159. Doors for seating open 30 minutes prior to the performance, and the box office opens one hour prior to the concert for ticket pick-up and sales. Online tickets and additional information are available at boothbayoperahouse.com.