If there is one thing that can bring people together in harmony, Michael Koep believes he knows what it is: Music. 

It has the power to unite adults and kids to share a space to sing, dance and be happy. That's what Koep loves about Music at McEuen that begins its second season of a free concert series tonight. 

"That's really the best part," he said. 

Koep was busy Tuesday morning setting up for his show that night at the Iron Horse on Sherman Avenue. Music, and writing, are two of his loves.

The man behind Koep Concerts silenced doubters who questioned last year whether free music at McEuen Park every week was financially doable when he took it on in a five-year contract with the city. He proved they were. Thousands turned out for the weekly shows that were supported by sponsors and donations. 

Combined with the free concerts Thursdays at McIntire Family Park in Hayden and Sundays at the Rotary Bandshell at Coeur d'Alene City Park, Koep is responsible for much of the summer music in Kootenai County that so many enjoy. 

He's not making a lot of money, but he's sure having fun.

"We do OK financially. Nobody is getting rich here," he said. "We're able to pull it off, which is great." 

Expectations are high this year, starting with The Rhythm Dawgs for tonight's show from 5:30 to 8:30. It continues weekly with country, classic, rock, blues and a tribute to Fleetwood Mac by Paper Flowers. STCU is the presenting sponsor. 

"We have so much incredible talent. Our roster this year is just smoking good," he said. "All of these bands are great." 

Koep said the setting at McEuen Park, with Tubbs Hill, Lake Coeur d'Alene and The Coeur d'Alene Resort acting as a background, can't be beat. And with a forecast of sunny skies, he expects a huge turnout tonight and pretty much for every concert.

"I think this year is going to go off the charts," he said. 

It's a lot of work and money to put on free concerts. A stage, sound, lighting, video and security are part of the process. Koep will start setting up early today.

But he's not complaining 

"We're really grateful to be able to do it," said Koep, himself an accomplished musician who is a drummer with The Rub. "I'm grateful to the community for all the support."

He is always looking to improve and grow the concerts. New at McEuen this year are private tents with seating and other amenities that can be rented by the show or the season.  

He said by decade's end, he is confident Koep Concerts will rival similar musical series in Missoula, Boise and Seattle. 

"I don't see any reason why we can't be doing that here, make this a kind of mecca," he said. 

Money, while nice, isn't what drives him. What does is seeing how music brings people together for a common good. There is no reason for division, nothing to argue about or debate.

All you have to do, is listen.

"We need that," he said. "I'm not a political person. I lean on common sense." 

There is a downside to the success of the free concerts that honor the legacy of the late "Music Man," Chris Guggemos. 

"I don't get as many naps," Koep said. 

Info: koepconcerts.com