New Haven Symphony Orchestra’s Free Family Concert Series Returns With "Clap, Clap, Stomp!"

NEW HAVEN, CT — The New Haven Symphony Orchestra’s free Family Concert Series returns in November with a statewide tour of performances.

"Clap, Clap, Stomp!" explores Bluegrass music, the instruments played, and the history behind it.

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.

“Clap, Clap, Stomp!” will feature lively concerts by fiddler Austin Scelzo and vocalist Charlie Widmer from the Bluegrass band On The Trail. They will also include a banjo soloist as well as NHSO musician Sam Bobinski on bass. Entering the world of Bluegrass, kids will dance along to upbeat songs and explore the music and scenery of Appalachia with eye-catching visuals.

"We are so thankful to once again be collaborating with all these great libraries and schools around the state to bring these free concerts to families," NHSO’s Education Director Caitlin Daly-Gonzales said. "It’s a great opportunity for kids to learn outside the classroom—they can listen to music, dance around, and learn all at the same time."

The NHSO will present “Clap, Clap, Stomp!” at various locations throughout the state.

All Performances are free and open to the public:

• Saturday, November 1 at 10:00 a.m. at Plumb Memorial Library (Shelton, CT)
• Saturday, November 1 at 2:00 p.m. at Ansonia Public Library (Ansonia, CT)
• Saturday, November 22 at 10:30 a.m. at Russell Library (Middletown, CT)
• Sunday, November 23 at 10:30 a.m. at Dr. Reginald Mayo Early Learning School (New Haven, CT)

The NHSO’s 2025 Family Series Performances are all presented as free-of-charge to the public. Please note that libraries may require advanced registration. (Dr. Reginald Mayo Early Learning School does not require registration). Check each library’s website and NewHavenSymphony.org for more information about a particular performance’s registration.