The American Classical Orchestra will help demystify the world of classical music for families during a performance of "Vivaldi's Ring of Mystery" on Sunday, Nov. 20, at 2 p.m. at Fairfield University's Regina A. Quick Center for the Arts. The program, featuring 24 excerpts from the Italian master's works, will be preceded by an instrument "petting zoo" at 12:30 and 1 p.m.

The American Classical Orchestra (ACO) is a Fairfield County-based period instrument orchestra that uses original or reproduction instruments to authenticate the sound that the master composers intended. Conducted by Artistic Director and Founder Thomas Crawford, the ACO presents its programs throughout Connecticut, New York and New Jersey.

The orchestra started its Classical Music for Kids program of youth concerts and educational events five years ago and it has taught and inspired more than 100,000 children in that time. The ACO's presentation of "Vivaldi's Ring of Mystery" features the ACO musicians and the Paul Pement Players in a program created by Susan Hammond of Classical Kids Productions. The instrument petting zoo, which gives children a chance to see, touch and hear classical instruments, will be presented by Zera Music Land and Merit Music.

Critics have praised the Classical Kids programs for inspiring children to learn more about the varied world of classical music. Billboard magazine called the programs "one of the most completely wondrous examples of children's entertainment ever," while Entertainment Weekly dubbed them "the best way to unlock the mind and heart of a child to the wonders of musical masterpieces."

Set in the 17 ^th century, the award-winning "Vivaldi's Ring of Mystery" tells the tale of a gifted young orphan named Katarina who is sent to study music at the Pieta orphanage in Venice. There, she comes under the tutelage of the famous music director and composer Antonio Vivaldi. The story finds her searching through the thrilling but mysterious atmosphere of Carnival and the Island of the Dead for clues to her past and a vanishing Stradivarius violin. Hammond said she set the story in 17th century Venice because she believes children will be enchanted by its ambiance.  The performance includes 24 excerpts from Vivaldi's most important works, including "The Four Seasons," "Violin Concerto in A minor," and the "Guitar Concerto."

"This fabulous city was the Disneyland or Hollywood of its age, where people came from all over the world to see its bizarre sights," she said. "Few children can resist the idea of a city where streets are made of water and boats are part of everyday life."

Tickets to the performance are $15 for adults, $12 for children. Tickets to the petting zoo are $5. A special fundraising ticket purchase option is also available to benefit the Mary Lyons Fairfield University Scholarship Award. The scholarship is awarded annually to a sophomore or junior who has completed a minimum of one year of active participation in the operation of the Quick Center and has demonstrated a dedication to the broadening of arts awareness within the campus community and beyond.

For tickets, call the Quick Center box office at (203) 254-4010 or toll free at 1-877-ARTS-396. For more information, visit www.quickcenter.com.

Posted On: 10-20-2005 10:10 AM

Volume: 38 Number: 78