Music Programs

NEW! Phil Crabtree, Ph.D. -Music Making with a Discussion of Varied Wind Instruments

Dr. Crabtree was a long-time faculty member at the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music where he earlier received his doctorate in music. Here he taught courses on music history and composers, as well as developing the Early Music Laboratory, where his students learned to play a wide variety of historical instruments. Dr. Crabtree will play a number of instruments in a varied program of musical favorites. The program will include a give and take discussion of the nature and development of these instruments. Instruments represented will include:  Native American flutes, recorders (vertical flutes), and various percussion instruments.

Anointed Sons of God of Cincinnati- Vocals

A wonderful group connected with the CincyBlues event is offering Gospel performances. Available evenings and weekends only.

April Aloisio- Vocals and Instrument (guitar or piano)

April Aloisio has been singing professionally for 35 years in the Cincinnati area and beyond. She sings with minimal accompaniment or with bands, interpreting jazz & Brazilian & Latin standards that are quite recognizable to all who listen. She has produced and recorded 6 CDs of her own as well as recordings with other artists. She is available to do performances featuring famous jazz artists such as Ella Fitzgerald & Frank Sinatra as well as Brazilian & Latin singers. She features specific jazz eras, big band singers and more, singing in Portuguese, Spanish & Italian with an international flair. April enjoys bringing theme programs to facilities. She welcomes the challenge of creating programs of special interest such as Cinco de Mayo, Brazilian Carnival, Valentine’s Day and Holiday Music.

Bill Groh- Vocalist with Background Music

Big Band, Sinatra, Burt Bacharach, Bobby Darin...He'll sing them all. Songs for seniors is what Bill Groh can provide. Accomplished vocalist for over 20 years, he knows the kind of music you like and what you want to hear. "I want people to feel like they're hearing the original artist. I want you to close your eyes and see Sinatra or Darin." Let Bill do a show for you and hear for yourself. You'll be glad you did! Electrical outlet needed for background music. This program is available to facilities within the 275 loop on Friday, Saturday and weekdays after 6 pm.

Blue Chip Duo- Piano and Bass

The Blue Chip duo plays a variety of Broadway show songs, big band swing arrangements , pop rock, and sing-a-long tunes (they will provide the song lyrics to sing along). In addition, the Blue Chip duo also involves their audience in a “guess the name of that song”…….”guess the name of the artist”….. or “guess the musical show the tune originated from” trivia to engage the audience. They play everything from Broadway to Swing to Pop!

Bones of Cincinnatus - Trombone Ensemble

Join Bob Coil and some fellow trombonists for a variety of musical arrangements. This group can provide a commentary with the music for an interactive and educational program or they can provide background music for parties or special occasions. Whether you want a variety of musical styles or a program with a theme, this group can bring the beautiful sound of trombones right to you. Hear a sample of their "Holiday Ornaments" concert by clicking on the link. Available evenings and weekends only. Will travel 30 miles from downtown Cincinnati.

Brian Deyo - Instrumentalist on Guitar

Plays and discusses classical music for the guitar, the history of guitar music, and influential composers and performers. Brian is a veteran of numerous Broadway national tour orchestras, and has backed up such major stars as Bob Hope, Glen Cambpell, the Drifters, Neil Sedaka and many others. Brian has performed with the Cincinnati Opera, Cincinnati Chamber Orchestra, Kentucky Symphony and many more. This artist will travel inside and 5 miles beyone the 275 loop.

The Catacoustic Consort- Instrumentalists on Viola de Gamba and Baroque Harp-- Currently on hold

The Catacoustic Consort offers the following two programs:

1. Music for Viola da Gamba and Baroque Harp:
The intimate sounds of the past come together with the angelic beauty of the Baroque Harp and viola da gamba. The lush, relaxing sounds of the harp and viola da gamba will paint a musical picture in your imagination as we go on this musical journey together!

2. Music for Two Viola da Gambas:
Listen to beautiful music from Shakespeare's time with the Catacoustic Consort! This program will showcase the unusual Renaissance instrument, the viola da gamba. This instrument and its music have many colors and textures that will delight your imagination and bring the past to life with songs such as "Music and Mirth", "A Spanish Humor", "Tickell Tickell", and "Greensleeves." Join us for a new experience in sound with the Catacoustic Consort.

Cheryl Renee Sings the Blues- Piano or Keyboard and Vocals

Cincinnati's proclaimed "Goddess of the Blues" - Cheryl will provide history on the origin of the Blues and highly entertain you with her singing and piano playing - Blues style! Piano required. If facility does not have a piano, please let us know when you schedule and Cheryl can provide a keyboard.

Chris Cusentino and Jeff Roberts- Guitar and Banjo

Enjoy Blue Grass music and humor with this professional Bluegrass duo. Both musicians can also be found with The Northern Kentucky Bluegrass Band and The Katie Laur Band. This program is available to facilities within the 275 loop.

Chris Murphy and RefleKtion-Piano/Keyboard, Electronic or Acoustic Drums, Bass, Guitar & Vocals

Chris Murphy and RefleKtion is a muli-piece entertainment group that performs cover songs of swing and Broadway musical styles. The band is based out of Cincinnati , Ohio and has been together since Jan 2011. Their musical style is influenced by artistic vocal greats like Frank Sinatra, Barry Manilow, Bobby Darin and Michael Buble' and popular musicals like Jekyll and Hyde, Music Man, Les Miserables among many others. During the show the band focuses its energy with upbeat and toe-tapping songs interlaced with light-hearted humor by Chris Murphy through a presentation guaranteed to bring back reflective memories and a joy in your heart. Available evenings and weekends.

Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra-Meet the Musicians- currently on hold

Experience a 45 minute interactive program with members of the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra!!  Not only will you get an opportunity to meet these talented individuals, you will have the rare opportunity to hear them perform up close and personal!! Programs sent out could be solo, duo or small groups and will depend on the date and time that you choose to book. Call or email Grace to schedule your program today!

Dale Chambers- Background Music- Guitar and Vocals

Dale began his music career at Zino's Pizzaria. He specializes in guitar/vocal numbers from the 30s and 40s (Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennet, Rosemary Clooney) as well as classical guitar. His show is generally tailored to be background music and ambience for dinners and special events.

Dale Fetick- Vocalist

Dale sings the standards from the 30’s, 40’s, and 50’s including such artists as Frank Sinatra, Nat King Cole, Tony Bennett and many others.  He also sings the latest styles of Michael Buble’ and Josh Groban.  Specialty programs can be provided for Valentine’s Day, Christmas programs and Caribbean music of the Salsa style.  Add a little comedy - always in good style and grace.  Dale has the latest in musical equipment and just requires an electrical outlet.           

Dave Hawkins- Guitar and Vocals

Has been a songwriter, recording and touring artist for 30 years. In 2007 he celebrated the 30th anniversary of his first recording...a 45 rpm record (anyone remember those?!) with a bit of prodding he might even perform the "hit single" for you. Of his 14+ years recording, his two most recent full-length recordings were in the running for Grammy Nominations. Dave's stories, songs and anecdotes offer an insight into loves gained and lost, songs of family, sing-a-long songs, and a few well known folk standards, along with his original tunes.

Dave Hawkins with Peg Buchanan- Guitar, Violin and Vocals

In addition to their solo careers, Dave and Peg have toured together for more than 13 years. Together they weave American Folk with Celtic, Irish and Scottish music, tales of their adventures on the road and rip-roarin' fiddle tunes. Dave and Peg are favorites during the month of March (St. Patrick's Day - don'cha know?).

Dick Sininger - Opera Program

Offers two delightful and informative Opera Programs:

1. What Makes Opera Special?  What can an Opera do that a play can't? This talk will delight a crowd on how music - and particularly Opera - can enhance the theatrical experience with examples of some of the speaker's favorite moments in Opera.
2. What Do Various Voice Categories Mean? What's the difference between coloratura and a spinto soprano?...between a lyric and a dramatic tenor?...or even between a baritone and a bass? This detailed discussion will talk about the voices with taped and DVD examples to illustrate the differences.

Dick Watson- Vocals and Background Music

Dick is a singer with a little something extra.  His showmanship and chemistry with the audience makes him a popular choice. Dick plays a variety of music and prefers to tailor his shows on the type of venue played. Be it 50’s &60’s, Gospel, Country. He has played in a wide verity of places from the Grand Ole Opry ,  Renfro Valley, Local Events, Churches far and wide,  to his Prison Ministry  and many TV appearances. Dick  has the latest in Bose Sound System and just requires an electrical outlet. Available Fridays.

Foley Road- Celtic Acoustic Group with Vocals

Foley Road offers exceptional renditions of Celtic and folk music in the acoustic tradition using instruments like the hammered dulcimer, gothic harp, various guitars, flutes and whistles, and percussion instruments like the bodhran. The band takes its inspiration from Celtic musicians, both traditional and contemporary. Foley Road also performs songs by many talented singer/songwriters. Foley Road also performs original compositions by band members. Foley Road will inspire and entertain you and leave you with memorable melodies that will have you wanting more. Please join them on their journey. Available weekdays after 5pm and weekends. Can travel beyone 275 loop on weekends only.

Fresh Spirit- Piano and Vocals

"Fresh Spirit" is a local family singing trio who have traveled and sung from Canada to Mexico. Each individual brings to "Fresh Spirit" a solo voice, a harmony blend and the ability to sing a variety of songs. Their program consists of Secular, Patriotic, Religious and Seasonal music. They provide the sound system. Facility must have a piano. Available after 4pm on weekdays and all day on weekends.

Greater Cincinnati Southern Gospel Music Association- Vocals

GCSGMA presents local artists who provide a lively, uplifting concert in the traditional Southern Gospel Music style. Check them out to see how much fun spiritual encouragement can be! Available evenings and weekends only.

It Takes Two- Carol Gangwer and Marcia Lucas- One Piano, Four Hands- AVAILABLE BEGINNING IN APRIL

A one piano, four hands duet program taking you on a keyboard excursion of musical periods and styles-classical, popular, jazz, Latin, hymns and spirituals. Duet programs can also be performed on two pianos or piano/organ if instruments are available. Carol has earned music degrees from CCM and Miami University. Marcia graduated from Balwin Wallace Conservatory of Music with a degree in piano performance. Adopting the motto of the Lenti Piano Duo "life is short, play the encores first", their programs are entertaining and artistically challenging. A tuned piano is required for this program. Carol and Marcia are available mornings and evenings M-Th, all day on Friday and weekends.

Ivan and Connie Gunn- Guitar and Vocals

It is 'up close and personal' as Ivan and Connie Gunn sing Gospel songs from the heart and Ivan plays finger style guitar music. Connie's sweet voice will encourage your heart and Ivan's guitar instrumentals will keep your 'toes a tapping and your body swaying'. Residents will enjoy the variety of Gospel music and secular songs that the Gunn's perform so well!!

The Jeannine Groh Trio- Vocals, Piano (provided by group), Bass, Drums

Jeannine has entertained audiences with her singing and playing piano at some of the finest restaurants, hotels and clubs. She presents several different themed shows which include swing, jazz, Latin styles and Broadway numbers written by the best composers of the 1920's through the 1960's. Her luscious vocals are perfect for a beautiful ballad, but when it's a time to turn up the heat, her group can really swing! The trio-piano, bass and drums, is available evenings, weekends and some day times. Duo is available anytime. Facility needs an electrical outlet- the group will bring the rest.

Jeff Powell- THE ELVIS EXPERIENCE-Vocals and Background Music-- currently on hold

Jeff is a 4 time finalist in the world Elvis tribute artist contest held each August in Memphis during Elvis week. His tribute is "fit for the king".  Whether it be singing one of Elvis' many hits, movie, Gospel or Concert songs, or telling a story about or an event in Elvis' life, Jeff will bring back the fond memories of the original American Idol.  Jeff has performed his Elvis tribute everywhere from Memphis to Vegas to Japan. Get out your "Blue Suede Shoes" and experience THE ELVIS EXPERIENCE. Jeff's program is available weekday evenings and all day on Saturday.

Jenny Fardo- Vocals with Background Music

 Jenny offers two programs to choose from:

1. Big Band, Big Memories – Sit back and listen to songs through the years that will have you closing your eyes and remembering when.  A mixture of big band, songs of the 50s, 60s and a little country too.  A fun hour with songs like, “It Don’t Mean A Thing If It Ain’t Got That Swing,” “Boy From Ipanema,” “Over The Rainbow,” “Johnny Angel,” Help Me Make It Through The Night.”  Jenny’s smooth style delivers the song straight to your heart. 

 2. Tribute to Rosemary Clooney and the Great American Songbook - Jenny was a finalist in the Rosemary Clooney festival a few years back and performed live at the Washington Opera House in Maysville, KY.  Audience can enjoy the stage featuring a vignette of pictures of Rosemary and hear favorites such as “Come On-a My House,” “Hey There,” “The Way You Look Tonight,”  “In the Cool, Cool, Cool of the Evening.”   

Let Grace know which program you prefer when booking
Jenny is available evenings Monday through Thursday and all day Friday and Saturday.

Jerry Conrad- Trumpet and Vocals

Jerry has been a professional musician for over 50 years, playing with many road bands. In the 70s, he was the band leader on the Nick Clooney show. With his singing and trumpet playing, he brings back many old standards that your seniors will love.

Jim McBride- Sax, Flute, Celtic Tin Whistle, Keyboard and Vocals

Jim may be best described as a "One Man Band" playing jazz instrumentals on sax, flute, Celtic tin whistle and keyboard. He also performs traditional Celtic Tin-Whistle tunes and sings standards from the Great American Songbook. With over 80 tunes in his repertoire, Jim can provide hours of great entertainment for your next event. Electrical outlet needed.

Jody Anderson- Nostalgic Singer and Entertainer- Vocals with Background Music

Delight and involve your audience with Jody and her husband, soundman and emcee, Leonard Johnson. Jody performs an amazing variety of songs and styles of music with professional backing tracks keyed to her voice! Leonard introduces many of the songs, giving a little information about them or the original artists. Performing songs throughout the 20th century and knowing over 500 songs, Jody sings many genres of music- Big Band, Jazz, Blues, Broadway, Country, Rock N' Roll, Patriotic and more. Jody is one of the few vocalists who can truly sound like Judy Garland and perform Judy's songs- so much so that she even has an entire show built around Judy Garland. With Programs for almost every occasion, some sing-a-long shows, as well as all the many others. Here's a duo that literally gets out in the audience and gets them involved in every show! They also dance! Seniors love them! Every show is a fabulous trip full of memories!

Karl Dappen- Instrumentalist on Saxaphone

Karl has been working as a soloist for the last 12 years. He has performed all through the Midwest, south, northeast and Canada. Supported by custom backing tracks, Karl's music can sound like everything from a jazz quartet to a full orchestra covering a wide range of musical styles from adult contemporary, light jazz, Latin and, of course, the great standards from the 1920's through the 1960's. Karl is available for day or evening performances any day of the week.

KJ Summerville- Acoustic Guitar and Vocals

KJ is a highly experienced professional vocalist and award winning guitar player. With the renowned Cincinnati favorite, Stagger Lee Band for 18 years, KJ knows how to entertain! His smooth acoustic style and versatility will be sure to please many musical tastes. Be prepared to sing along with many favorites from James Taylor to the Beatles and Johnny Cash to Zac Brown. KJ is available almost any afternoon- and all day on Wednesdays and Sundays.

Kyle Meadows- Instrumentalist on Hammered Dulcimer

A frequent performer with the Cincinnati Fine Arts Fund and Kentucky Arts Council, Kyle is a distinguished instrumentalist playing traditional Appalachian, Celtic, Old-time and Holiday music. His hammered dulcimer has a beautiful uplifting and soothing sound. Two programs are available.

1. Hammered Dulcimer music. Can be concert or background music depending on desired atmosphere.
2. Traditional stringed instruments. A multi-instrument program combining the hammered dulcimer, lap dulcimer, mandolin and banjo. Each instrument is discussed and demonstrated.

**Kyle's programs can be performed as a solo or duo with musician Tisa McGraw. Please inform Grace when scheduling which you prefer.

Laura Hazelbaker- Violin/Fiddle and Vocals

Since 2004, Laura has been touring the world with a very famous senior citizen, country and pop music legend Ray Price, but her talents don't stop there. Laura has toured in symphony settings with a Christian celtic band and locally she's the bandleader and vocalist for her jazz trio and her personal favorite, a cowboy western swing band in which she sings, fiddles and plays rhythm guitar. If it involves a classical violin or fiddle, chances are she's been there and done played that! From The Kennedy Center to Radio City Music Hall and The Grand Ole Opry, she's played to audiences of thousands. A delightful and engaging entertainer who easily wins over the crowd. Several programs are available from this performer. Q:Is it a violin or a fiddle? A:Yes!

The Lisak Group

The Rick  Lisak Group is a quartet composed of  pianist, Jeffery Long, bassist, Matt Holt, drummer, Usman Salahuddin, and singer, Rick Lisak. They play energetic and innovative renditions of American standards. Matt and Jeff are graduates from the Cincinnati Conservatory of Music, and Usman is currently pursuing a graduate program at Northern Kentucky University. Rick has been singing in an acoustic duo with Matt, performing for people in assisted living facilities in the Cincinnati area for the last seven years. The Rick Lisak Group is an outgrowth of those experiences, and look forward to bringing their collective talents to audiences that appreciate the deep and lasting tradition of American popular music.

Lisak and Holt - Guitar, Bass and Vocals

Singer/Bass player Matt Holt and singer/guitarist Rick Lisak offer a variety of musical programs to their audiences. From standards, to favorites from the sixties and seventies, to traditional Appalachian music, this entertaining, communicative duo sings and plays themselves into the hearts of their listeners. They look forward to working with you and planning a performance that will be a bright moment in the lives of people under your care. Click on their title for a sample.

Maribeth Samoya- Piano or Keyboard and Vocals

Take a trip down memory lane with Maribeth as she performs songs from the 1920s to the present. Programs can be tailored to be mostly Broadway, or classic standards such as George Gershwin and Cole Porter songs, or a combination of everything! Enjoy Christmas selections during the holiday season or in July. Your audience will have the opportunity to sing along, clap along and request songs. Maribeth is a soloist with the Cincinnati Metropolitan Orchestra and the Pat Emmett Big Band. She sings and plays keyboards for several other area groups including the "Tommy and Hub Band". Maribeth can provide her own keyboard and sound system if needed. Background music can also be provided for events. Maribeth is the music teacher for Seton High School, so please check with Grace for availability-school days she is available after 4pm. Please let us know when scheduling if your facility does not have a piano so that Maribeth can bring a keyboard.

Meredith Oesting- Hammered Dulcimer, Piano and Vocals

The heavenly tones of the hammered dulcimer will capture your heart from note one. Meredith shares the diversity of this instrument, exploring Celtic, folk, gospel, bluegrass and classical genres, while singing and playing. Or enjoy some Beethoven on the piano, followed by a hymn sing along as she leads you in all of your old favorites. With a bachelor's degree in music, Meredith leads worship at her church and is a piano/voice instructor, wife and mom of three.

Meredith offers three programs

1. Dulcimer and Vocals
2. Piano and Vocals- Please specify if you do not have a piano and she will bring a keyboard
3. Dulcimer, Piano and Vocals- facility must provide piano for this program

Merri Moores- Banjo, Keyboard, Bass and Vocals

Phoebe and Gabrielle are a musical duo with over 30 years of experience. Performing with a wide variety of music such at Folk, Jazz, Dixieland, Country, Big Band, Swing, 50s, 60s and 70s. This unique group combines vocal harmonies with humor and instruments including 4-string Dixieland banjo, Keyboard, Upright Bass and various sound effects. They have performed at receptions, private parties, restaurants, clubs, riverboats and fairs. Each program is tailored to fit each occasion. This program is available after 2pm.

Mike Pendell (Songs for Seniors)-Piano or Keyboard and Vocals

Mike has been entertaining senior adults since 1995 and has performed over 15,000 programs in the Tri-State area. Specializing in popular music performed on the piano or keyboard, Mike involves the audience with non-stop singing, humor and memories that seniors enjoy. Every member of the audience receives a personal visit from Mike during the show and he will play requests if asked. If facility does not have a piano, please let Grace know when booking and Mike will bring a keyboard.

Mike's newest program- Viva Las Vegas- Mike will take you up and down the "Strip" to visit every casino and hotel to enjoy entertainers such as Dino, Frankie, Satchimo, Liza, Kenny Rodgers, and, of course, ELVIS! It's a lively program for activity directors to get crazy and get the residents involved.

Nancy Bick Clark-Celtic Harp, Dulcimer, Recorder, and Vocals

Nancy, who has performed with the Chieftains, brings traditional folk music and original tunes on Celtic harp, dulcimer, recorder, and vocals, explaining the background behind each song and engaging active participation. She is available as a solo or duo. While Nancy and her friends specialize in Celtic music, they do programs of American, holiday, and international music.

Nancy offers two programs:

1. Solo - live concert or as background enhancing a tea or reception

2. Duo - with husband Frank Clark on bodhran (Irish drum) and vocals or Jude Jones, a registered music therapist, on violin, guitar, and vocals

"Nancy Clark's harp music is just lovely. Her performances resonate with the timeless music of the past. The Clark -Jones Trio performs wonderful and entertaining music for all ages. They bring a sense of joy and fun to the audience with their performances." - Gary Pilkington, Adult Programs, Mary Ann Mongan Branch, Kenton County Lilbrary [sic]

Programs offered to facilities inside the 275 loop.

PB&J- Songs for Seniors that are “M’m, M’m Good”!Harmonies, Singing, Stories and String Instruments

Since 2002, PB&J aka Penny Bogard (McDaniel) and James Rosenberger haved performed concerts unified by memorable themes and recognizable songs.  The duo provides guitar and piano accompaniement, anchored by sweet harmonies.  Their popular song selection is orchestrated with WW II audiences in mind. One activities director calls them “the Carole King and James Taylor of Cincinnati!” for their style and warmth.  PB&J is available for day, evening and weekend programs. Their programs have them traveling and available throughout the Tri-State region. Check them out on YouTube by clicking on the title above.

Peg Buchanan- Instrumentalist on Fiddle

Ohio Scottish Fiddle Champion, Peg Buchanan, delights audiences with a feel-great performance of music with lots of opportunity for audience participation. From Amazing Grace to Bluegrass the emphasis is on the musical heritage of Scotland, Ireland, Wales and North America. BBC1 called her playing "brilliant". Available Monday and Thursday afternoons, evenings and weekends - other than the week prior to St. Patricks Day.

Pete Papania- Guitar and Vocals

A guitarist who plays popular songs from the 1920s through the 1960s from songwriters like George Gershwin, Cole Porter, and Harold Arlen in the styles of Frank Sinatra, Nat King Cole, and Andy Williams. Vocal, instrumental, or combinations are available. Program available to facilities inside the 275 loop.

Phil DeGreg- Instrumentalist on Piano

Phil DeGreg is a jazz pianist and Professor of Jazz Studies at the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music. He toured with the Woody Herman Orchestra in the 1980s. Phil performs swinging, virtuosic jazz arrangements of popular songs from the Great American Songbook written by composers like George Gershwin, Cole Porter, Hoagy Carmichael, Jerome Kern, Harold Arlen, and many others.

Polished Brass- Brass Quintet

The brass quintet is one of the most flexible and exciting chamber ensembles. The combination of trumpets, French horn, trombone and tuba lend itself to beautiful harmonies, poignant melodies, driving rhythms and thrilling dynamics. We strive to make every program fit the audience and the occasion. Whether you are looking for music for a ceremony, party, concert or dance, we can make your occasion one that is memorable. With hundreds of special arrangements in our repertoire, we can bring you programs featuring the classics, Dixieland, Broadway, Americana, or contemporary music such as "By George!, Music of George Gershwin" and "America the Musical". You can see more samples of their previous programs and hear more excerpts from live performances by clicking on their name above. Available evenings and weekends. Will travel 30 miles from downtown Cincinnati.

Raison D’Etre- Guitar, Keyboard, Percussion and Vocals

1. Swing Canaries-A program from the swing era featuring several Andrews Sisters selections and big band songs. A wonderful hour of knee bobbing, toe tapping, smile until it hurts music.
2. Sister Acts-Featuring the Boswell Sisters from the 30s, the Andrews Sisters from the 40s, the Clooney Sisters and McGuire Sisters from the 50s, the Lennon Sisters from the 60s and the Roches and Raison D'Etre from the 80s and 90s. This is a delightful nostalgic journey through the powerful eras of music.
3. Songs from the Old West-Before Western Swing and movie cowboys, what were the real cowboys singing on the lone prairie? Join folk trio, Raison D'Etre (as the Golden Girls of the West) for an hour of cowboy tunes. Saddle up for some singin'.

Richard Goering- Instrumentalist on Guitar

A lively mix of classical melodies and such favorites like Sunny Side of the Street, Georgia, The Entertainer, and the Tennessee Waltz. Holiday programs also available - all your favorite seasonal music.

Ricky Nye- Piano or Keyboard and Vocals

Demonstrating a mix of traditional styles, Ricky serves up early piano blues, boogie woogie, New Orleans jazz, and songs from composers such as Hoagy Carmichael & Fats Waller in an enthusiastic manner. If your facility does not have a piano, you must let us know when scheduling and Ricky will bring a keyboard.

Roberta Schultz (member of Raison D'Etre) - Guitar and Vocals

1. The Story Behind the Song- Many songs from the American song book have interesting stories behind them. Join Roberta for a program on songs with a story. Who really wrote "You are My Sunshine"? What song caused Civil War Soldiers to desert in record numbers? Which number one Andrew Sister's hit had a big copyright dispute and was banned from the radio? Find out these answers and more as you listen, sing and explore.
2. The Unifying Power of Chant- All cultures have some kind of ceremonial singing for unifying their members. Join Roberta to explore the chants of different cultures including examples from Asian and North American traditions. Sing a familiar carol that comes from Gregorian chant in three distinct chant singing styles and learn how to create a chant using your own "words to live by".
3. Songs from the Old West- Before Western Swing and movie cowboys, what were real cowboys singing on the lone prairie? Join Roberta for an hour of cowboy tunes.

Sally Lukasik- Instrumentalist on Accordion

Sally Lukasik is a graduate of the Cincinnati Conservatory of Music and the University of Denver. She loves to bring her unique talents to the Creative Aging stage! Her solo accordion shows consist of familiar American sing-alongs, light classics, jazz hits, holiday music, patriotic tunes and even ethnic folk songs from eastern European countries, including Germany and Russia. A multi-instrumentalist, Sally also plays trumpet with Cincinnati's own Buffalo Ridge Jazz Band http://www.jazztrek.com Sally's brand of entertainment is sure to provide all listeners with a thoroughly enjoyable experience. Artist available to facilities within the 275 loop.

Sandra Butcher- Vocalist and Entertainer with Background Music

Sandra has been entertaining audiences since she was 16. One of her highlights is a Salute to Rosemary Clooney's career and song. She can also tailor your program to accommodate many themes. Please specify if you would like the Rosemary Clooney program or another program. Sandra provides her own equipment and background music. Facility just needs to provide a table with an electrical outlet close by.

Stacey Woolley- Instrumentalist on Violin

A violinist with the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra can play a variety of music to fit the occasion. This program is available for facilities where a strolling musician is desired. Artist available to facilities within the 275 loop.

Steve and Irina-Guitar and Mandolin

Steve and Irina have been playing at retirement communities, nursing homes, civic organizations, and private parties in the greater Cincinnati area for the past 16 years, and have developed a variety of musical programs that have won the acclaim of audiences wherever they perform. This duo offers the following programs in addition to the themed programs listed under theme day programs. Available evenings and weekends only.

1. Around the World International Program
2. Irish Popular Songs
3. History of American Patriotic Music
4. Christmas Around the World
5. Jewish music- including music for any Jewish holiday
6. The Life and Music of Irving Berlin

The Phoenix Woodwind Trio- Instrumentals on Clarinet, Flute and Bassoon

This trio performs standards, Broadway and movie music, ragtime, waltzes, marches, sing-a-longs and light classical music with humorous patter. Special holiday programs available.

Todd Hepburn- Piano or Melodica and Vocals

Todd plays ragtime, boogie-woogie, blues and jazz standards on the melodica or piano - just name the program you'd like. Please specify if you do not have a piano and Todd will perform with the melodica.

Wayne and Emily- This Land Is Your Land- Fiddle, Dobro, Guitar, Mandolin and Vocals

Join Emily and Wayne in singing many of our country’s favorite folk and Bluegrass songs.  We’ll board “The Wabash Cannonball” as we sing songs from the great Atlantic Ocean to the wide Pacific shore.  “We’ll Be Comin’ ‘Round the Mountain” with fun fiddle and dobro tunes.  We’ll end at “Rocky Top” and all join in on a rousing “This Land is Your Land”. 

Emily has been blind from birth.  She began her life quite prematurely, but has persevered and blossomed into a beautiful (and talented) 19 year old fiddler, dobro (slide guitar) player and singer.  Emily has the gift of perfect pitch, but is gifted even more by her energetic and positive personality.

Wayne and Judi- Keyboard and Vocals

Wayne and Judi offer two programs:

1. Great American Love Songs-Judi Franchescina and Wayne Luessen perform Great American Songbook Hits from the 20's to the 50's.  Judi sings the best of Doris Day, Rosemary Clooney and many more accompanied by Wayne on the keyboard.  Come, sing-a-long and take a "Sentimental Journey" with Judi and Wayne.

2. God Bless America- Judi and Wayne would love to bring this patriotic program to your facility.  They begin with “The Star Spangled Banner” and share songs from America’s past accompanied by the guitar.  The Great American Songbook is featured next.  Judi sings many of the great songs broadcast on Armed Forces Radio during World War Two including “Sentimental Journey”, “Don’t Sit Under the Apple Tree”, and “Don’t Get Around Much Anymore” accompanied by Wayne on the piano.  Finally, Judi sits down at the piano and Wayne picks up the guitar for The Armed Forces Medley, and selected songs of George M. Cohan, The Gershwin Brothers, and Irving Berlin followed by “God Bless America”.

Wayne and Judi are available Monday and Friday afternoons starting at 1:00 and Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays all day

Please specify which program you prefer when booking.

Wild Carrot- Multiple Instruments and Vocals

Familiar Tunes with a Twist

Take a musical trip down memory lane. We’ll get your hands a-clappin’, your toes a-tappin’ and even the most reluctant of singers hummin’ along. With multiple instruments and music "from the Hills of Appalachia to the Hills of Hollywood" we span the last century from traditional tunes to jazz and gospel with an interactive style that keeps all ages interested. There is something for everyone; visitors, residents and staff alike. Please note-for this performer, if your facility is large enough where you need a sound system, you must provide the system. This program is available to facilities inside the 275 loop.