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Photo courtesy of LIGMC

This December, the Long Island Gay Men’s Chorus (LIGMC) invites its audience to join with them as they “Make a Joyful Noise” to celebrate their love of singing and the spirit of the holiday season.

During concerts set for 6 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 8 at St. John’s Episcopal Church, 12 Prospect St., Huntington village; 8 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 13 at St. Francis Episcopal Church, 1692 Bellmore Ave., North Bellmore; and 8 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 14 at the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship at Stony Brook, 380 Nicolls Road, East Setauket, LIGMC will fire up the musical sleigh for a first half dedicated to the joy of singing and a rollicking second half filled with holiday favorites and surprises. Tickets are $25 and are available for purchase at the door or online at https://www.ligmc.org/concerts.

“The joy of singing is what brings these men together season after season, and the camaraderie and musicianship that grows from this bond is certainly something to celebrate!” said LIGMC Artistic Director and Accompanist Jeanette Cooper. “As showtime draws closer, I just know that the hard work of every single one of our choristers is going to give you something to remember and cherish.”

Earlier this season, LIGMC’s 19 singers hosted its “Heroes and Villains” cabaret brunch at VFW Post 433 in Sayville. Earlier in the fall, members sang the National Anthem at the Village of Manorhaven Sept. 11 memorial ceremony for the second consecutive year. Looking ahead, LIGMC members are set to make the trek to Manhattan on Wednesday, Dec. 18 to perform in the lobby of the InterContinental Barclay New York, continuing a longstanding holiday tradition of spreading holiday cheer in the Big Apple.

“This season, we have had the pleasure of welcoming five new singers to LIGMC’s ranks – each of whom has quickly made their own mark on our brotherhood of song,” said Bill McCarthy, President of LIGMC’s Board of Directors. “We have found each other through the universal language of song – and this holiday season, we are looking forward to celebrating the season and sharing our unifying love of music with all of you.” 

About the Long Island Gay Men’s Chorus (LIGMC) 

The Long Island Gay Men’s Chorus is a volunteer, not-for-profit, community-based organization that provides diverse audiences with high-quality choral performances and musical experiences. LIGMC uses music to unite the LGBTQ+ community, fight prejudice and discrimination, foster a welcoming and inclusive space for LGBTQ+ individuals to be their authentic selves and explore their diversified interests, and affirm the contributions of the LGBTQ+ community to the region’s cultural life.

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A Concert in Gratitude. Photo courtesy of St. Vincent de Paul

On Nov. 25, the John W. Engeman Theater in Northport hosted A Concert In Gratitude, a heartwarming musical event honoring Northport music educators Dana Warren and Marie Michalopoulos while celebrating the town’s rich musical legacy.

A Concert in Gratitude. Photo courtesy of St. Vincent de Paul

Organized by the Messina Memorial Foundation, the evening brought together a vibrant mix of local bands, vocalists, and performers, spanning genres from rock to opera. Featured acts included The Warren Five & Guests, The Blast, The Little Wilson Band, The Jack Daniels Band, Tricycle, Steve & Sandy Edwards, and Natalie Seus & Steve Messina.

Proceeds from the event will benefit the Society of St. Vincent de Paul Long Island (SVDPLI) in their mission to provide vital assistance to individuals and families in need. “The Messina Foundation wanted to honor Northport’s musical heritage while supporting SVDPLI, which makes a significant impact in our community,” said organizer Steve Messina.

“Our Vincentian volunteers dedicate countless hours to delivering hope and help to Long Islanders in need. This event will enhance our ability to provide essential resources like housing, food, clothing, and spiritual support,” shared Thomas Abbate, CEO of SVDPLI.

SVDPLI continues to serve Long Island families with compassion, offering home visits and personalized assistance. From rent aid to utility relief and medical support, their work fosters stability and dignity across the region.

Learn more about their mission at svdpli.org.

About The Society of St. Vincent de Paul

The Society of St. Vincent de Paul is a Catholic lay organization that encourages people to join in spiritual growth by offering person-to-person services to the needy and suffering in the tradition to its founder, Frederic Ozanam and St. Vincent de Paul.  Help is available in any of their 68 conferences in 63 parishes and does not discriminate because of race, religion or gender.  They provide clothing, furniture and financial assistance for qualifying applicants.  They also have donation bins across Long Island and stores in Huntington Station and Garden City.  For more information about them, to become a Vincentian or to apply for aid, call 516-822-3132.

About The Messina Family Foundation

In loving memory of our parents, Philip and Phyllis Messina, we have established The Messina Memorial Foundation to carry on a legacy of generosity and community spirit. The foundation organizes one charitable event each year to honor our commitment to giving back and helping those in need. We are proud to continue our parents’ tradition of paying it forward. With your help, we are making a positive impact on the lives of others.

About Dana Warren & Marie Michalopoulos

Honorees Dana and Marie are newly retired choral teachers from Northport School District. Both can be found performing or musical directing locally from time to time and have active private studios. They would like to thank The Messina Memorial Foundation for this wonderful honor and opportunity to perform.

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Participants from last year's concert. Photo from Daniel Kerr/All Souls Church

Historic All Souls Church at 61 Main Street, Stony Brook invites the community to celebrate the true meaning of Christmas as it joins with thirteen other faith communities to present its annual Lessons & Carols concert on Saturday, December 7.  

The concert will feature Stony Brook University soprano Heidi Schneider and tell the story of the Nativity in scripture and song. Schneider’s solos will include “Ave Maria,” “Silent Night,” and “Away in the Manger.” 

Setauket guitarist Bill Clark and his Brave Trio will also perform “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel,” “Halleluiah,” and “What Child Is This?” Miriam and Lexi Salerno from St. James RC Church will sing “Breath of Heaven,” “In the Bleak Midwinter” and “Noel”. 

All attending will be invited to sing “Come All Ye Faithful” and “Hark the Herald Angels Sing” as All Souls organist Dan Kinney plays the church’s 1855 Tracker Organ. The readings will be done by clergy and lay people from The Stony Brook School, Caroline Church, Bethel AME Church, Messiah Evangelical Lutheran Church, Stony Brook Community Church, Three Village Church, Religious Society of Friends-Quakers in St. James, Little Church of Smithtown Landing, St. James RC Church, Unitarian Universalist Fellowship at Stony Brook, Mt. Sanai Congregational Church, Setauket Methodist Church, and St. James Episcopal Church. 

There will be a 15-minute intermission and refreshments will be served. The program will begin promptly at 6 p.m. 

All Souls Church collects food each week to feed the hungry at the St Gerard Majella’s food pantry. Please bring a can of food to donate (“Lend a hand, bring a can”). Call 631-655-7798 for more information.

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A scene from Asian Heritage Night in Kings Park on Nov. 15. Photo by Jennifer Donatelli
A scene from Asian Heritage Night in Kings Park on Nov. 15. Photo by Jennifer Donatelli
A scene from Asian Heritage Night in Kings Park on Nov. 15. Photo by Jennifer Donatelli
Sisters Prisha Dhakal, Yuna Ghimire and Samriddhi Baruwal, members of a Three Village Neplai dance group. Photo by Jennifer Donatelli
A scene from Asian Heritage Night in Kings Park on Nov. 15. Photo by Jennifer Donatelli
A scene from Asian Heritage Night in Kings Park on Nov. 15. Photo by Jennifer Donatelli
A scene from Asian Heritage Night in Kings Park on Nov. 15. Photo by Jennifer Donatelli
Long Island Chinese Dance Group, made up of non-professional dancers, who have performed at over 70 community events. Photo by Jennifer Donatelli
A scene from Asian Heritage Night in Kings Park on Nov. 15. Photo by Jennifer Donatelli
A scene from Asian Heritage Night in Kings Park on Nov. 15. Photo by Jennifer Donatelli
Vocalist Ariana Yang, 13, with her mother, a dancer with the Long Island Chinese Dance Group. Photo by Jennifer Donatelli
A scene from Asian Heritage Night in Kings Park on Nov. 15. Photo by Jennifer Donatelli

By Jennifer Donatelli

The Leo B. Ostebo Kings Park Heritage Museum, located inside Ralph J. Osgood Intermediate School (RJO) in Kings Park, came alive on Nov. 15 for the museum’s second annual Asian Heritage Night. The event transformed the space into a celebration of culture, showcasing the talents of Asian dancers, musicians and singers in a night dedicated to community and connection.

This free event featured 14 performances by local artists and community groups, highlighting the beauty and diversity of Asian cultures. Through music and dance, the evening brought together tradition, creativity and a spirit of cultural exchange.

“The melodies tell stories, the rhythm sparks joy and the movements convey the depth of character,” said Joseph Piacentino Jr., media director for the Kings Park Heritage Museum. Museum Director Sal Iraci echoed this sentiment, calling the performances “a connection of beauty and tradition to the power of creativity.”

Among the highlights was a vibrant Bollywood performance by three young dancers from Rhythm Dance Academy in Stony Brook. Bollywood, a colorful and energetic style popularized by Indian cinema, blends classical Indian, rustic and folk dances with lively music.

Local student performers also shone. Eighth grader Arianna Yang from Stony Brook captivated the audience with her solo performance of “Beautiful,” sung entirely in Chinese. Yang shared that the song, with its harmonious melodies and inspiring lyrics, represents “the simple joys of life.” She added, “Sharing my singing with others brings me great joy.”

The Infant Jesus Prayer Group of Nassau Dance Troupe performed the Filipino folk dance “Polka sa Nayon,” a lively polka that reflects a mix of cultural influences. Member Jane Rupa described their rehearsals as moments of camaraderie, filled with “food, fun and laughter.”

Community appreciation for the event was palpable. Kings Park resident Kalbana Bhanbari, originally from Nepal, called the performances “inspiring, amazing and moving.”

The Long Island Chinese Dance Group, based in Stony Brook, also contributed to the program. Their Tibetan-inspired performance conveyed themes of endurance, harmony and resilience, capturing the essence of life in the snowy Tibetan mountains. “It is a cultural expression that honors the spirit of the people who live in these areas,” explained dancer Ming Lu.

Dr. Yan Yu, a professor of applied mathematics at Stony Brook University and organizer of the evening, said many of the performers were from the local community. “As immigrants, we like to showcase our culture and bring our heritage to the United States,” she said.

The Nepali Team Dance Group, featuring three sisters aged 4 to 9, delivered a heartfelt rendition of “Maitighar,” a classic folk song from the 1966 Nepali film of the same name.The song’s title, which translates to “maternal home,” captures the event’s celebration of cultural pride and tradition while honoring the performers appreciation for the American way of life. Meanwhile, the Philippine Line Dance troupe wowed the crowd with a cha-cha performance, reflecting the shared cultural ties between the Philippines and the United States.

The evening also honored community leaders. Agnes and Duanfeng He, attendees from Stony Brook, called the event “a celebration of Asian-American cultures.” Mr. He said, “We are so proud to be American.”

The night concluded with a performance of “You Raise Me Up,” led by Dr. Yu and the Stony Brook Chorus, a group of professors, scientists and researchers united by their love of vocal music. “We benefit so much from being American, and this is our way of giving back,” Yu said.

The Leo B. Ostebo Kings Park Heritage Museum, the only school community-managed museum in the United States, continues to fulfill its mission of preserving the town’s historic past and educating the community through events like Heritage Night. Independently run by volunteers and donations, the museum is open for tours during school days after 4 p.m. or by appointment.

For more information on upcoming events, from the Kings Park Heritage Museum, visit kpheritagemuseum.net.

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A scene from the visual immersion concert at the Vanderbilt Planetarium. Photo by Jennifer Donatelli

By Jennifer Donatelli

On November 10, as strings played, music and the cosmos united in a concert that took its audience on a journey through time and space at the Suffolk County Vanderbilt Planetarium’s annual Strings Under the Stars event. 

Performing to a sold out crowd, professional musicians from Long Island Chamber Music played a program of introspective classical music, as visuals of space were projected onto a 60 foot dome.

Dave Bush, Program Director of the Planetarium, explained the dome video sequences displayed “things related to outer space.”

“[Some things shown] are stellar nurseries and explosions, paired with scenes that are slow moving, all set to music, so it’s comforting and transportive at the same time,” Bush explained.

““The music,” he went on, “is amplified by the sound system, and the visuals have been specifically picked to match the mood of all of the pieces.”

Long Island Chamber Music is a non-profit organization, founded by husband and wife team, Eric Huckins and Gergana Haralampieva. Their mission is to make professional classical music of the highest caliber accessible to Long Island audiences. 

Huckins said the artists they work with are world-class musicians from Long Island and New York City and are chosen from institutions such as Carnegie Hall’s Ensemble Connect, the New York Philharmonic, the Boston Symphony Orchestra, Concert Artist Guild, among others.

“In addition to being leaders in their art form, our musicians are teaching artists, entrepreneurs, and socially-minded advocates for classical music,” Huckins explained.

Haralampieva elaborated, explaining that the immersive quality of concerts like these makes it easier for a wide range of audiences to “connect with classical music.”

Bush added that this type of show has grown in popularity through the years, and that Long Island Chamber Music consistently added new music and visuals to their performances.

Marc and Daniela Wong of Huntington, enjoyed their night out under the stars.

“We go to concerts a lot, but I have never seen or heard anything quite as spectacular as this. The music is amazing and the immersive idea is brilliant,” said Wong.

For more information on upcoming concerts and educational programs held by Long Island Chamber Music, visit their website at, www.longislandchambermusic.com. And to see upcoming events held at the Vanderbilt Museum, Mansion & Planetarium, visit www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.

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Renee Fondacaro of Old Field Apothecary and Tom Manuel, founder of the Jazz Loft in Stony Brook, showcase the new jazz-inspired candles. Photo from the Jazz Loft

There is a scent of excitement in the air at The Jazz Loft, which has partnered with local small business owner of Old Field Apothecary, Renee Fondacaro, to offer three original jazz-inspired scented candles available for purchase at The Jazz Loft, 275 Christian Ave., Stony Brook for the holidays.

Renee worked alongside Founder Tom Manuel and The Jazz Loft team to create scents that spark the same thrill as Jazz music. The “Lady Day” candle has notes of rose, green leaf, powder, musk, and white gardenia inspired by Billie Holiday’s signature flower that she wore in her hair. “Mood Indigo,” inspired by Duke Ellington, has notes of leather, smoke, tobacco, sandalwood, musk, and amber to bring the feeling of an elegant jazz club to your home. There is also a holiday-inspired Jingle Jazz candle that spikes up the traditional Christmas tree scent with notes of gin, red currant, oak, juniper, and cypress, which is a delight any time of year!

Old Field Apothecary candles are both gluten- and paraben-free and made with clean burning vegan coconut apricot creme wax. Each candle is hand-poured and contains a crackling wooden wick to create a cozy, by-the-fireside experience.

“It’s always wonderful when we can work with local businesses,” says Manuel. “I’m quite excited that we created these unique signature candles that bring together the atmosphere of The Jazz Loft and a wonderful local business such as Old Field Apothecary. Renee’s creativity in designing the scents is inspirational.”

“I’m so excited to collaborate with the Jazz Loft,” said Fondacaro. “The scents we have created reflect the jazz artists and the beautiful Stony Brook Village community. Old Field Apothecary is proud to be able to offer our natural products that are toxin-free, phthalate-free and made from vegan waxes for this local and special venue. These scents make great gifts for your favorite music lover.”

These exclusive candles can only be purchased in person at the Jazz Loft for $28 each, two for $50, or all three for $75.

For more information, call 631-751-1895.

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Louis Jordan

By John Broven 

The Jazz Loft at Stony Brook will be presenting an illuminating doubleheader on Friday, Nov. 15.

The main event will be the “Louis Jordan Tribute” starting at 7 p.m. Danny Bacher, also a soprano saxophonist, will be singing many of Jordan’s hits of the 1940s including “Caledonia,” “Choo Choo Ch’Boogie,” “G.I. Jive” and “Let The Good Times Roll,” accompanied by an all-star group of musicians.

In effect, Jordan introduced the small swing combos which took over from the big bands, popularized the saxophone as a lead instrument and made music fun.

Initially, at 6 p.m., music author John Broven of East Setauket will give a presentation entitled “Who Is Louis Jordan?” Included will be a video outlining Jordan’s impactful history, featuring film clips and excerpts from the artist’s key recordings, prepared by Debbi Scott of Stony Brook.

The evening will bring into focus the influential music of Louis Jordan, an all-time American great and Rock and Roll Hall of Famer.

Tickets to the 6 p.m. event are $10 per person. Tickets to the 7 p.m. event are $30 adults, $25 seniors, $20 students, and $15 children ages 6 and up at www.thejazzloft.org.

The Jazz Loft, which features a Louis Jordan exhibit in its museum, is located at 275 Christian Ave., Stony Brook. For more information, call 631-751-1895.

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Michael Ho will be the featured soloist. Photo from Susan Deaver

Stony Brook University’s University Orchestra will present a concert at the Staller Center for the Arts, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook on Tuesday, November 12 on the Main Stage at 7:30 p.m. Conducted by Susan Deaver, the University Orchestra will perform Gershwin’s Cuban Overture, Bartok’s Romanian Folk Dances and Dvorak’s “New World” Symphony.

The University Orchestra is a 70-member ensemble of undergraduate students from Stony Brook University. The University Orchestra presents a series of concerts each year at Staller Center including the annual Messiah Sing-Along and the annual Family Concert. Susan Deaver, conductor of the University Orchestra, has conducted orchestras in the United States, Europe and Asia and is a member of the music faculty at Stony Brook University. In 2016 she completed her 25th year as Music Director & Conductor of the North Shore Symphony Orchestra and has conducted Composers Reading Sessions with the Stony Brook Symphony Orchestra and numerous festivals in New York and New Jersey.

The featured soloist is pianist and Long Island native Michael Ho who tied as 1st Place Winner of the 2024 Undergraduate Concerto Competition. Mr. Ho will perform the first movement of Grieg’s Piano Concerto in A minor.

Tickets are $15 adults, $10 seniors  (62+) and $5 students and are available online at www.stallercenter.com or by purchasing tickets at the Staller Box Office (631)632-2787). The Box Office is open one hour prior to the performance or you may purchase online at this link: Music Department Events

For further information about the University Orchestra, contact the Stony Brook Department of Music at 631.632-7330 or visit their website at https://www.stonybrook.edu/music.

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Ray Lambiase

Grounds and Sounds Cafe at Unitarian Universalist Fellowship at Stony Brook, 380 Nicolls Rd, East Setauket welcomes veteran singer-songwriter Ray Lambiase to the stage on Friday, Nov. 8. Doors open at 7 p.m. Open mic starts at 7:30pm followed by the featured artist at 8:15 p.m.

Tickets are $20 at www.groundsandsounds.org or call 631-751-0297.  Tickets are are also available at the door on the evening of the event.  Snacks and soft drinks available for purchase; please bring your own wine for uncorking at the snack bar.

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Pete Caldera

With Special Appearances by Nicole Zuraitis & Rahsaan Cruse, Jr. on Nov. 23!

The Jazz Loft, 275 Christian Ave., Stony Brook will pay tribute to the Rat Pack with a series of eight special concerts from Nov. 7 to Nov. 23.

Frank Sinatra once said, “I think my real ambition is to pass on to others what I know. It took me a long, long time to learn what I now know, and I don’t want to die with me.” 

Danny Bacher

Enter vocalists Pete Caldera and Danny Bacher to grab the “Sinatra baton” with their perfectly nuanced interpretations of Frank’s catalog. Caldera and Bacher will be joined by the Jazz Loft’s 17-piece big band directed by Jazz Loft founder Tom Manuel for eight shows filled with Sinatra classics, called “The Rat Pack Review,” Thursday, November 7 at 7 p.m.; Friday, November 8 at 2 p.m. & 7 p.m. and Thursday, Nov. 21 at 7 p.m., Friday, November 22 at 7 p.m. and Saturday, November 23 at 2 p.m., 7 p.m. and a special late night show at 10 p.m. which will also feature Grammy winner Nicole Zuraitis and Rahsaan Cruse. 

Sinatra was one of the most important entertainers of the 20th Century,” said Manuel.  “Just as Frank never did anything in a small way, we will be devoting three nights to Ol’ Blue Eyes, with a stellar list of vocalists.” 

Danny Bacher is an award-winning singer, saxophonist, songwriter and entertainer in the fullest sense of the term. He’s not only a master of the demanding soprano sax but combines his virtuosity on the instrument with a talent for comedy and narrative storytelling. He’s a smooth and cool individual who makes hot jazz and pop, cut from the cloth of the great Louis Prima and Mel Torme. Bacher swings with pizzazz, scats and sings with a smoky voice, all adding to his compelling stage presence. 

Nicole Zuraitis

This is Pete Caldera’s third year performing at The Jazz Loft’s tributes to Frank Sinatra.  Away from performing, Caldera is a reporter for the Bergen Record and the USA Today network, covering the Yankees. He is a past chairman of the New York Chapter of the Baseball Writers’ Association of America for the Bergen Record and the USA Today network, covering the Yankees. Caldera has a residency at NYC’s Carnegie Club, he has appeared on the Stephen Colbert Show.

Nicole Zuraitis is a frequent performer at TJL She is a GRAMMY winning and 2X GRAMMY-nominated jazz singer-songwriter, pianist and arranger, New York-based bandleader and winner of the prestigious 2021 American Traditions Vocal Competition Gold Medal. With a “heart as big as her remarkable voice,” (Jazz Police), Nicole is a trailblazing artist who is redefining vocal jazz, earning her a place as one of the top artists and “prolific songwriters” (Broadway World) to watch in jazz and beyond.

Rahsaan Cruse, Jr.

Rahsaan Cruse, Jr is a rising star in the jazz scene who stands and delivers jazz repertoire in an evolutionary line straight from jazz greats who came before him. Rahsaan Cruse, Jr. demonstrates his mastery of the jazz idiom, nuanced and expressive, harkening listeners to another time and place.

All vocalists will be backed by The Jazz Loft’s 17-piece Big Band, under the direction of Manuel. The Big Band is New York’s top call for jazz musicians and performs regularly throughout New York and England. The band, and has backed notable artists such as: Marilyn Maye, The Four Freshman, Ken Peplowski, Warren Vache, Houston Person, Bob Anderson, and many others.

Tickets are available on website www.thejazzloft.org for $40 Adult, $35 Senior, $30 Student, $25 Children or available to purchase at the door. 

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