The New Haven Symphony Orchestra is thrilled to announce its 2025 Free Family Series, featuring two exciting, animal-themed programs designed to delight children ages 3-8 and their families. These free, interactive concerts will take place at kid-friendly venues across southern Connecticut, creating a magical introduction to live music, storytelling, and education for young audiences.
The first program, called Three Little Pigs, will have performances between February 22 – March 1. Led by NHSO musicians Stephanie Hug (violin), Becky Patterson (cello), William Braun (piano), and a narrator, “Three Little Pigs” will invite children to explore the animal kingdom through music. During the concert, kids will enjoy guessing which animals the music represents while watching fun visuals. This engaging program will include Flight of the Bumblebee, Walking the Dog, Butterfly Etude, Wild Rider, and the Three Little Pigs.
Performances will be held at the following locations:
- Saturday, February 22, 10:30 AM — Russell Library, Middletown
- Sunday, February 23, 3:00 PM — Reggie Mayo School, New Haven (Sensory-friendly)
- Saturday, March 1, 10:30 AM — Ansonia Library
- Saturday, March 1, 2:00 PM — Plumb Memorial Library, Shelton
For the second program of the series, audiences will discover the beloved African folktale of Anansi the Spider through an interactive jazz fusion experience. Featuring original music by New Haven composer Tyler Goldchain and dynamic storytelling by artist and educator Isaac Bloodworth, this program will bring together an incredible ensemble of composer Tyler Goldchain (keys/guitar), Jazz Haven artists Kenny Georges (saxophone) and Jesse Hameen, II (drums), and NHSO musician Chris Johnson (bass). Children will be captivated by the vibrant story of Anansi, brought to life through live music, narration, visual art, and playful audience participation.
Performances of Anansi the Spider will be held at the following locations include:
- Saturday, March 15, 10:30 AM — Ansonia Public Library
- Saturday, March 15, 3:00 PM — Plumb Memorial Library, Shelton
- Sunday, March 16, 3:00 PM — Reggie Mayo School, New Haven (Sensory-Friendly)
- Tuesday, March 18 — Reggie Mayo School, New Haven (In-school performances, not open to the public)
- Saturday, April 12, 10:30 AM — Russell Public Library, Middletown
- Saturday, April 12, 3:00 PM — Stetson Branch Library, New Haven
The NHSO’s 2025 Family Series performances are all presented free-of-charge to the public. Please note that libraries may require advanced registration. Check the library’s website or here on our website for more information about a particular performance’s registration.
Sensory-Friendly Performances:
The February 23 and March 16 performances at Reggie Mayo School in New Haven will be adapted for audience members with sensory processing disorders and Autism. Audience members will be able to take advantage of the specially designed space within the school, use gross motor equipment to self-regulate, make use of complimentary ear protectors and fidgets, and take breaks as needed. The lighting will be dimmed, and the musicians will play at a reduced volume. For questions about accommodations offered at the sensory-friendly performances, please email Engagement@NewHavenSymphony.org.
“Our 2025 Family Series brings music and storytelling together in a way that sparks curiosity and creativity for young children,” said Caitlin Daly-Gonzales, Education Director of the New Haven Symphony Orchestra. “With themes inspired by animals and the magic of live performance, these free concerts offer Connecticut families a fun and interactive way to experience the joy of music while creating lasting memories.”
The Family Concerts are sponsored by International Association of New Haven; the Katharine Matthies Foundation; Pitney Bowes; Middletown Commission on the Arts; the Derby-Shelton Rotary Club; and the American Savings Foundation.
