Neighborhood Concerts
It started in the backyard.
In April of 2020, violinist Ellen Cockerham Riccio began offering concerts in backyards during a time of isolation, uncertainty, and digital overload. Although she became known as “the backyard violinist”, many of the concerts took place in front yards and cul-de-sacs, with friends, family, and neighbors in attendance (well-distanced, of course!). For many, these concerts brought a much-needed sense of connection with others, as well as hope and even joy during a difficult time.
Fast-forward to today, and times are still difficult (though not quite so weird), and people still need this sense of connection, hope, and joy in their lives. Through neighborhood concerts, we can carry with us an important lesson we learned in those early months: that our time together is precious.
How it works
Sponsor a concert in your neighborhood! You can split the cost with other neighbors, pass the hat to offset costs, or simply gift your neighbors with a beautiful evening together. Choose between solo violin, string quartet, or Orquesta Atipica, Ellen’s duo with her husband, Latin percussionist Giustino Riccio. Although an outdoor concert is ideal for a neighborhood concert, you may choose to move the performance indoors in the event of rain. All neighborhood concerts are 45 minutes in length, but feel free to keep the party going with a potluck or pizza! Click the button below to learn more.
