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.
Upcoming Concerts
Concerts in the Park
First Creatures is presenting four free concerts in Libby Hill Park in Richmond’s Church Hill neighborhood during the month of August 2024. The concerts will take place near the park house (E Franklin & N 28th. St.) every Sunday in August from 7 to 8pm. Bring a chair or a blanket and watch the sun set over the city. We are thrilled that Daverro Gelato will be at each concert serving up their delicious dairy-free gelato and sorbet!
Schedule:
Sunday, August 4 at 7pm
Ellen Cockerham Riccio, solo violin
Known by many as the Backyard Violinist, Ellen will perform a selection of classical music for this first concert in the series.
Sunday, August 11 at 7pm
Orquesta Atípica
Latin percussionist Giustino Riccio and orchestral violinist Ellen Cockerham Riccio come together to form an unusual yet irresistible duo. Their program will feature music from Cuba, Puerto Rico, Brazil, Egypt, Turkey, and more!
Sunday, August 18 at 7pm
Ellen Cockerham Riccio, solo violin
An evening of Appalachian fiddle music! This program traces the journey of the Scots-Irish people and explores the multi-cultural chemistry that happened in the Appalachian Mountains centuries ago.
Sunday, August 25 at 7pm
LA + Rosette
Vocalist Laura Ann Singh is joined by Rosette, a string quartet, for an evening of music written by women from all over the world.