Although on a smaller scale than years past, the 2011 Music at McClellan’s Longleaf Concert Series has begun. Taking place at McClellan’s Monteith Amphitheater, which is still under construction, the series features a collection of local musicians.

“We’re calling it a transition series, or backward series, since the audience is facing backward to the hillside,” said Pete Conroy, vice chairman for the series. “They are free concerts, but we’re looking for donations from the public.”

Saturday’s performance will feature local acoustic musician Abby Parks. Steel drum group JAXPAN will perform May 21, jazz group TAD of Jazz will play May 28, and the Etowah Youth Orchestra will close out the series on June 11. The show on June 4 has not yet been announced. The door opens at 5 p.m. for all of the concerts, and the music runs from 6-8 p.m. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and food.

Space at the amphitheater is limited to about 150, Conroy said, but the venue will be open to full capacity — 2,000 seats — for next year. For more information, call 256-782-8010.