The Ugly Duckling
featuring Palisades Virtuosi with Oboist Mark Snyder,
and narrated by Sandra Billingslea

In a perfect marriage of folk tale to classical music, Master Storyteller Sandra Billingslea will be re-telling Hans Christian Andersen’s story of The Ugly Duckling, magically woven into a delightful performance of Saint-Saëns' lyrical “Caprice on Danish and Russian Airs for Piano and Winds.” The “Caprice” will be performed by the renowned ensemble, Palisades Virtuosi, featuring pianist Ron Levy, clarinetist Don Mokrynski and flutist Margaret Swinchoski, joined by oboist Mark Snyder.

Skater's Waltz
performed by Lisa Giannone, Early Childhood Dance specialist
with special guest Caroline Grossman

A bit of light-hearted ballet to enchant our young audience between songs and stories!

“The Devil Went Down to Georgia”
narrated and performed by Sandra Billingslea, accompanied by Ron Levy

Children of all ages will be spell-bound as Master Storyteller and Violinist Sandra Billingslea tells the thrilling story of a boy named Johnny who is challenged by the devil to a battle of fiddle-playing. Join the excitement as Ms. Billingslea uses her violin to win the electrifying battle and claim the golden fiddle for Johnny. This famous hit song was originally written and performed by the Charlie Daniels Band.

Sing Along with Miss Joni
presenting Joan Swider, Early Childhood Music specialist

A rollicking good time will be had by little folk in a special First Night sing-along with Miss Joni and her guitar. Fun-filled musical activities abound as Joni entices both young and old to join her in singing the delightful folksongs that have been entertaining American families for generations. Imaginations will soar as children participate in this gentle, joyful expression of music!

Lou Caimano and Eric Olsen: Alto Sax / Piano Duo
with guest vocalist Mark Wilson

Lou Caimano, extraordinary saxophonist and Director of The Ridgewood Conservatory, performs with multi-faceted pianist Eric Olsen to create engaging renditions of favorite ballads, jazz standards and original compositions. Bringing artistic arrangements and exciting improvisations to their music, Caimano and Olsen’s virtuosity bridge the gap between classical and jazz traditions. Add to this mix the velvety sounds of the amazing voice of Mark Wilson, A Little ‘First Night’ Music will be a concert performance that is sure to enliven the spirit and soothe the soul.

For more info or to order tickets by telephone, contact
The Ridgewood Conservatory at 201-612-6686
615 Franklin Tpke, 2nd Floor, Ridgewood NJ 07450
or e-mail info@TheRidgewoodConservatory.com