music from poplar hill-
the Jo Ricks music series
2024-25 SEASOn
follow the dragonfly •
Tickets on sale now •
follow the dragonfly • Tickets on sale now •
CONCERTS ON
FRIDAY EVENINGS AT 7:30
at historic St. George’s Episcopal Church in Valley Lee, Maryland -
just 15 minutes from Leonardtown.
9•27•24
THE JAMES FERNANDO TRIO
By popular demand, the brilliant young American jazz pianist JAMES FERNANDO will make a return visit to Music from Poplar Hill in September. James’ concert in 2022 was a hit with our audience and with the young music students he worked with. This time James will be joined by Kyon Williams on drums and Sam Harris on bass.
James Fernando has been hailed by World Music Report as a “prodigiously gifted composer and virtuoso pianist,” by Jazz Sensibilities as “limitless in his ability to articulate his ideas,” and by Contemporary Fusion Reviews as “creating one of the most amazing musical experiences you’ve ever had.”
Learn more about James Fernando
11•8•24
JAMES MARTIN’S TYRE ISLE BAND: Traditional Music of Ireland, Scotland, England and the Hebrides
Concertgoers and students find a wide array of musical styles at Music from Poplar Hill concerts and educational programs, including music of cultures from around the world. On November 8, James Martin arrives with his Tyre Isle Band. These master musicians live and breathe the folk music of the British Isles, delving deeply into the original melodies and rhythms and adding to the living repertoire with music they have composed in that beloved tradition.
Learn more about James Martin
2•28•25
KATHRYN KRASOVEC,
mezzo soprano
The dazzling American mezzo soprano Kathryn Krasovec will bring a program of classical operatic repertoire as well as more recent works by living composers to our series next February. We can’t wait to hear the sanctuary at historic St. George’s reverberating with her luminous, glorious sound.
A graduate of The Juilliard School and San Francisco Opera's Merola Young Artist Program, Ms. Krasovec has performed at The Metropolitan Opera, Spoleto Festival USA, Weill Hall/Carnegie Hall, National Theater of Prague and Theater Bremen, Germany, among many others. Her career spans engagements throughout Europe, North America, and the Middle East.
Learn more about Kathryn Krasovec
YOUTH PROGRAMMING
• An intimate space, beautiful acoustics, and a Steinway piano…
• Acclaimed artists from a wide range of musical idioms and styles, sharing their music in stellar live performances, and their knowledge in inspiring programs for children and youth…
• A place for community and creativity where all are welcome.
“The Jo Ricks Music Series is a premier example of how the arts contribute to our local culture in St. Mary's County. Intended as a tribute to the late Jo Ricks, these performances bring artists to St. George's Episcopal Church in Valley Lee not just to share their talents for our enjoyment, but also to share their knowledge with our youth through workshops on classical pieces, jazz, and the blues. I commend Jeff, Jo’s husband, for spearheading this effort in her honor.”
- Brian Michael Crosby, Maryland State Delegate, St. Mary’s County“Attending a concert sponsored by Music from Popular Hill: the Jo Ricks Music Series is a real treat. Very enjoyable high quality music performed by virtuosos. A ‘must see’ for anyone who appreciates the fine arts.” - Michael Hewitt, St. Mary’s County Commissioner, and Elaine Hewitt
Scenes from the current and previous seasons:
“These concerts have provided a unique and wonderful experience in St. Mary’s County for people of all ages and tastes. The concerts are performed in a secluded, historic church setting, bringing out the magic and power of music.” - Pete and Nancy Brown