Halloween is just around the corner, and there's no better way to get into the spirit than with an evening of music that's equal parts elegant and eerie. Join us for A Spooktacular Soiree, a festive musical experience featuring violinist Holly Nelson and pianist Luke Ratcliffe.
Holly and Luke will take you on a journey from the classical concert hall to the silver screen. The program includes Camille Saint-Saëns, whose Danse Macabre imagines Death himself fiddling as skeletons rise from their graves to dance until dawn, and Modest Mussorgsky, whose Night on Bald Mountain conjures a wild midnight gathering of witches and spirits. They'll also play favorites from film, including the magical, mysterious world of Harry Potter and the delightfully dark The Nightmare Before Christmas.
Meet the Performers
Violinist Dr. Holly Nelson has performed as a soloist, chamber musician, and orchestral player across the United States, including solo appearances at the Kennedy Center and Wolf Trap as former concertmaster of the DC-based Pan-American Symphony Orchestra. In 2024 she gave the Maryland premiere of John Williams' violin concerto Treesong, with the composer himself in the audience, so she's in good company playing his Harry Potter music! Learn more at hollynelsonmusic.com.
Pianist Dr. Luke Ratcliffe is an acclaimed performer, teacher, and composer who has played at Carnegie Hall, the Kennedy Center, and Strathmore. Equally at home as a soloist and collaborator, he's known for his wide-ranging programs and his love of discovering lesser-known music.
Together, Holly and Luke have put together a program that's sure to delight longtime classical fans and first-time concertgoers alike.
Bring Your Friends!
This event is free and open to everyone, so spread the word! Invite your neighbors, bring a friend, and make an evening of it. Costumes are welcome but not required. Whether you come dressed as a ghost, a witch, or just yourself, we'd love to see you there.
To register, visit the Village Calendar, contact programs@silverspringvillage.org or 240-307-4132. If you're bringing guests, please include them in your registration so we can plan for everyone.