A VIOLINIST IN YOUR BACKYARD
MY STORY
My name is Ellen Cockerham Riccio. I have served as Principal Second Violin of the Richmond Symphony Orchestra since 2009. In April of 2020, I began offering solo backyard concerts as a way of bringing live music to people during a time of isolation, uncertainty, and digital overload. Over that summer, I gave more than 150 concerts throughout the Richmond area, reaching approximately 2,000 audience members. Since then, I have expanded my offerings to include other special programs and collaborations.
HOW IT WORKS
Backyard concert season officially begins in April and ends in October. In the event of rain, you have the option of moving the concert indoors or postponing (no additional charge). There is a travel fee added if your house is more than 30 minutes away from my house in Church Hill, but there’s no real limit to how far I’ll travel!
Have a gift card you’d like to redeem? Send me an email at backyardviolinist@gmail.com.
CONCERT OPTIONS
Personalized Concert
By far my most popular offering, this option allows you to customize your concert experience. You’ll tell me about your musical tastes, the general mood you’d like to set, and any special requests you’d like to hear. I’ll create a unique program just for you.
This concert costs $250 and lasts 45 minutes.
Orquesta Atípica
Orquesta Atípica is an unusual yet irresistible duo comprised of myself and my husband, Latin percussionist extraordinaire Giustino Riccio. This program will include romantic melodies and danceable beats from another time and place, including 14th century Italian music, Cuban Danzón, and more!
This concert costs $350 and lasts 45 minutes.
WEDDINGS/PARTIES/SPECIAL EVENTS
You can now hire me or one of my groups to provide live music at your next event! Once you fill out the form below, I will provide a quote based on your needs and requests. I have played for weddings, funerals, going away parties, marriage proposals, birthdays, and more.
OTHER REQUESTS
For all matters other than booking requests, please e-mail backyardviolinist@gmail.com.