Dying to Know!! — A Moderated Discussion Group on Death and Dying (In-person)

Registration Required BelowJoin us in a judgment-free environment where participants, often strangers, can openly engage in discussion on the topic of death and dying.“Dying to Know” is a moderated discussion group created to explore and normalize conversations around d......More

Registration Required BelowJoin us in a judgment-free environment where participants, often strangers, can openly engage in discussion on the topic of death and dying.“Dying to Know” is a moderated discussion group created to explore and normalize conversations around death and dying. Mickey Nelson and Sue Broudy, certified End-of-Life Doulas, will guide open conversations around mortality. Participants are invited to attend, listen, and share in the conversation as they feel comfortable. All perspectives are welcomed and respected.“Dying to Know” is not a grief support group or counseling session, but a space for sharing conversations and questions about dying and deepening our awareness about death.Group meetings will be held on the second Monday of the month.About Our FacilitatorsSue Broudy was certified as an End of Life Doula in 2016 with INELDA (Int'l. End of Life Doula Association).  She is a Singer Songwriter, Reiki Master, LaHoChi Energy and Sound Practitioner. Sue has written five children’s books. Her first, entitled Rosie, Leafers & PawPaw, helps open the conversation with children about transitioning, being just another part of life. Sue leads sound workshops and meditations and impromptu musical gatherings for healing.  suebroudy.com for more info. Mickey Nelson has been a business owner and independent contractor since 1969! For the past 20+ years he has represented a company called Designs for Health, calling upon Health Care practitioners who focus on maximizing patient health through nutrition and lifestyle choices. He has been a hospice volunteer at Danbury Regional Hospice for the past 1 yr+ and has became a certified end-of-life doula thru Doulagivers (Doulagivers.com). He can be contacted at [email protected]

Adult Chess Club (In-Person)

Registration Recommended, See BelowWe invite all adult chess players and chess enthusiasts to participate in our newly launched, weekly Adult Chess Club. No prior chess knowledge is required; all levels of experience are welcome to participate! The library will provide ......More

Registration Recommended, See BelowWe invite all adult chess players and chess enthusiasts to participate in our newly launched, weekly Adult Chess Club. No prior chess knowledge is required; all levels of experience are welcome to participate! The library will provide chess boards and pieces for all to use.As space is limited, we recommend participants register for each program that they plan to attend.About our facilitator:Matthew Shirvell (aka Coach Matt) is an avid chess player who has been teaching chess in Connecticut for over 6 years. He has competed in USCF tournaments across the country, worked as a tournament director to run some of the largest events in the state, and has helped his students reach their goals.  Recently, in January 2023, one of his students earned sole 1st place in a USCF event with a perfect score!

MTL Writers' Workshop (Virtual)

Registration Required BelowThe Mark Twain Library's Writers' Group meets twice a month alternating gathering at the Library and via Zoom. Second Monday of the month – Meetings will be held virtually from 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM. Fourth Monday of the month – Meetings will now......More

Registration Required BelowThe Mark Twain Library's Writers' Group meets twice a month alternating gathering at the Library and via Zoom. Second Monday of the month – Meetings will be held virtually from 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM. Fourth Monday of the month – Meetings will now be held in person at the Library from 6:30 PM to 7:45 PM.In addition to reading books on writing craft, the group's mission is to provide a supportive environment for those looking to share their love of writing with others. The group also serves as a potential source of accountability and feedback for ongoing writing projects. Facilitation of the group will be shared by group members.Prior to attending, it is recommended that group members obtain their own copy of Write Your Novel From The Middle by James Scott BellClick Here to attend Zoom Meeting (For registered participants only)Password: Write

Creative Collective Discussion Group (Virtual)

Registration Required BelowHave fun and make friends while cultivating your creativity in our weekly group discussions about art, creativity and so much more! Our facilitated conversations invite participants to consider imaginative and alternative viewpoints about the ......More

Registration Required BelowHave fun and make friends while cultivating your creativity in our weekly group discussions about art, creativity and so much more! Our facilitated conversations invite participants to consider imaginative and alternative viewpoints about the creative process in a congenial, relaxed Zoom setting. Empower your creativity and feed your brain by joining us in the Creative Collective Discussion Group.This winter, our exploration into the power of creativity continues with the book This is the Story of a Happy Marriage by author Ann Patchett. Copies of the book will be available to checkout at the Library's front desk or can be download from Hoopla.The Creative Collective meets weekly on Tuesdays.Click Here to attend Zoom Meeting  (For registered participants only)

Redding Reads Scripts (In-Person)

Registration Required BelowRelease your inner thespian and join the MTL's Script Reading Group! Participating in this group will allow you to experience stage shows in a whole new way. The aim of this group is to foster a collaborative environment and explore all types ......More

Registration Required BelowRelease your inner thespian and join the MTL's Script Reading Group! Participating in this group will allow you to experience stage shows in a whole new way. The aim of this group is to foster a collaborative environment and explore all types of theater in a casual setting. Everyone who loves the theater, wants to develop their skills, or is simply curious is welcome.No theater experience required—just a love for storytelling!Meetings will be held on the second Tuesday of each month.  Our Facilitators:Liz Correa is a local mom who has missed reading plays. Her theater background includes New York City, regional and local theater.  She was nominated for Best Actress (Escaleno, lead) at the PEPI; Seville, Spain. Escaleno (lead) also won Best Short Film.  Liz graduated with a Masters of Art’s from Cornell University and was a student of Stella Adler Conservatory (Tisch) and Michael Howard Studios.Eileen O’Brien is a retired award winning drama teacher and director who hails from New Haven. After living in Massachusetts and Florida, Eileen and her husband, Bob have come home to spend their retirement closer to their children and grandchildren in beautiful Connecticut.

Weekly Drop-In Knitting Circle (In-Person)

Meets Tuesdays, 1:30 pm – 2:30 pmOur popular weekly drop-in knitting circle continues to meets every Tuesday in the Library's Mark Twain Room.  Share your knitting, crochet, and needlepoint project or learn basic techniques like casting on, knit, and purl stitches. Each......More

Meets Tuesdays, 1:30 pm – 2:30 pmOur popular weekly drop-in knitting circle continues to meets every Tuesday in the Library's Mark Twain Room.  Share your knitting, crochet, and needlepoint project or learn basic techniques like casting on, knit, and purl stitches. Each week brings an opportunity to learn something new and there is always someone who can help with any problem.

K.R.A.B.S (Kids Raving About Books) for 4th, 5th and 6th Graders

4th, 5th, and 6th graders are invited to attend our monthly book discussion group for younger readers on February 10th, to browse through new books, snack on cookies and chips, and talk about the books we’ve read recently.REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED.

Early 9:30am Family Story Time (birth-5)

Registration RequiredIt's time for Early Family Story Time! We'll sing, dance, and read together.  This event is designed for children birth - 5 but interested older siblings are welcome to attend.The library technically doesn't open until 10am but the front door will b......More

Registration RequiredIt's time for Early Family Story Time! We'll sing, dance, and read together.  This event is designed for children birth - 5 but interested older siblings are welcome to attend.The library technically doesn't open until 10am but the front door will be propped open at 9:30 for story time only; please come directly upstairs. The front desk and browsing areas will be open for book browsing and checkout at 10am.You only need to signup once for all the Family Story Time sessions. It is okay to miss sessions. Questions, please email Lisa at [email protected] & videos from this event may be used on the Library's social media sites.

Family Story Time (birth-5)

Registration RequiredIt's time for Family Story Time! We'll sing, dance, and read together.  This event is designed for children birth - 5 but interested older siblings are welcome to attend.You only need to signup once for all the Family Story Time sessions. It is okay......More

Registration RequiredIt's time for Family Story Time! We'll sing, dance, and read together.  This event is designed for children birth - 5 but interested older siblings are welcome to attend.You only need to signup once for all the Family Story Time sessions. It is okay to miss sessions. Questions, please email Lisa at [email protected] & videos from this event may be used on the Library's social media sites.

BOOKSTERS

Are you a third grader who loves to read?Then we invite you to join the BOOKSTERS!This is the Mark Twain Library's book discussion group for children in the third grade.We will meet once a month on a Wednesday to talk about books we've read recently that we liked (or ma......More

Are you a third grader who loves to read?Then we invite you to join the BOOKSTERS!This is the Mark Twain Library's book discussion group for children in the third grade.We will meet once a month on a Wednesday to talk about books we've read recently that we liked (or maybe we didn't...), browse new books in the library's chapter book collection, and snack on chips and cookies.Our next meeting will be on Wednesday, February 11 at 3:00 PM - 3:45 PMIf you would like to join Booksters, please register below.  (REGISTRATION IS LIMITED)

Read & Reflect — Conversations (Virtual)

Registration Required BelowAn Exercise in Perception — That Was Then, This Is NowJoin us for our next engaging and thoughtful Read & Reflect virtual session, where we’ll discuss an address delivered by Toni Morrison at Howard University, her alma mater.Click here to acc......More

Registration Required BelowAn Exercise in Perception — That Was Then, This Is NowJoin us for our next engaging and thoughtful Read & Reflect virtual session, where we’ll discuss an address delivered by Toni Morrison at Howard University, her alma mater.Click here to access a video of Morrison's Howard University address. (Please note: The video quality is somewhat dated, with a lower resolution.)Morrison, who was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1993, spoke about the historical significance of Howard University, founded in 1867, and then offered a few words regarding contemporary civic concerns. Morrison's speech was delivered over 30 years ago, but what is its relevance today?An excerpt of Morrison’s key points of the speech can also be found on YouTube by the entering the following search keywords: Toni Morrison The First Solution.Our virtual discussion will be moderated by Tom Kilbourn, ordained Episcopal priest and retired JBHS English Teacher.This is a virtual program that will held over Zoom. Register below and a link will be emailed the day of the program. Include a cell for a text reminder. This discussion is part of the award-winning Conversations series, created in partnership by the Redding League of Women Voters and The Mark Twain Library

Birth- 24 Months Story Time (6-Week Session)

Our youngest patrons and their caregivers will play and get to know other caregivers with same-age children. Together we will enjoy music and stories through singing, movement games, finger plays, nursery rhymes, and books. Older siblings are welcome to join us but the ......More

Our youngest patrons and their caregivers will play and get to know other caregivers with same-age children. Together we will enjoy music and stories through singing, movement games, finger plays, nursery rhymes, and books. Older siblings are welcome to join us but the program will be geared toward babies and toddlers.Meets on Thursday, January 15, 22, 29, Feb 5, 12, 26. There is NO session on Feb 19.REGISTRATION REQUIRED. Space is extremely limited; please register only if you intend to attend most or all of the 6 sessions. You only need to register ONCE for all 6 sessions. Email Lisa with questions [email protected] 

2-Year-Old Story Time (6-Week Session)

During our 2s Story Time, children 24-36 months and their caregivers will learn and play together. Each week we will explore music and stories through songs, movement games, rhythm instruments, flannel boards, and books. Older and younger siblings are welcome to join us......More

During our 2s Story Time, children 24-36 months and their caregivers will learn and play together. Each week we will explore music and stories through songs, movement games, rhythm instruments, flannel boards, and books. Older and younger siblings are welcome to join us but the program will be aimed at 2-year-olds.Meets on Thursday, Jan 15, 22, 29, Feb 5, 12, 26. There is NO session on Feb 19.REGISTRATION REQUIRED. Space is extremely limited; please register only if you intend to attend most or all of the 6 sessions. You only need to register ONCE for all 6 sessions. Email Lisa with questions [email protected]

Special Guest Speaker — Fine Wine or Sour Grapes? Let's Talk About Aging

Registration Required BelowThis Month — Smarter Than the Scam: How They Work & How to Avoid Them Get informed with MTL'S Director of Technology George Avidon as he gives us a broad view of what is really happening in the world of online scams. Learn how thieves are usin......More

Registration Required BelowThis Month — Smarter Than the Scam: How They Work & How to Avoid Them Get informed with MTL'S Director of Technology George Avidon as he gives us a broad view of what is really happening in the world of online scams. Learn how thieves are using new technologies like data tracking, algorithms, and targeted messaging to appear legitimate and persuasive. Participants will gain a better understanding of how these scams work, why they are effective, and—most importantly—practical strategies to recognize red flags, protect personal information, and navigate the digital world with greater confidence.Fine Wine & Sour Grapes is an informal discussion group that meets monthly on topics related to aging. We talk, listen, learn — and figure out how to turn sour grapes into fine wine.Past topics have included maintaining relevancy, resiliency, dealing with ageism, acceptance and compassion. The conversation is facilitated members of Fine Wine and Sour Grapes.New attendees always welcome!Meetings are held at the Library on the second Thursday of the month. Upcoming Meeting Dates: February 12, March 12 & April 9

3 & 4-Year-Old Story Time (6-Week Session)

This is an energetic and interactive 40-minute program for independent 3-and-4 year-olds since they will attend story time without their caregiver.  We will share books, music, movement, stories, and crafts.Meets on Thursday, Jan 15, 22, 29, Feb 5, 12, 26. There is NO s......More

This is an energetic and interactive 40-minute program for independent 3-and-4 year-olds since they will attend story time without their caregiver.  We will share books, music, movement, stories, and crafts.Meets on Thursday, Jan 15, 22, 29, Feb 5, 12, 26. There is NO session on February 19.REGISTRATION REQUIRED. Space is extremely limited; please register only if you intend to attend most or all of the 6 sessions. You only need to register ONCE for all 6 sessions. Email Miss Lisa with questions [email protected]

Mojos, Mermaids, Medicine, and 400 Years of Black Women’s Magic (Virtual)

Feminist philosopher Dr. Lindsey Stewart’s book, The Conjuring of America: Mojos, Mermaids, Medicine, and 400 Years of Black Women’s Magic, tells the stories of Mammies during slavery; the Voodoo Queens and Blues Women of Reconstruction; and the Granny Midwives and text......More

Feminist philosopher Dr. Lindsey Stewart’s book, The Conjuring of America: Mojos, Mermaids, Medicine, and 400 Years of Black Women’s Magic, tells the stories of Mammies during slavery; the Voodoo Queens and Blues Women of Reconstruction; and the Granny Midwives and textile weavers of the Jim Crow era. These women, in secrecy and subterfuge, courageously and devotedly continued their practices and worship for centuries.For information or to register, click here.

Love Letters — A Meditation & Mindfulness Session (In-Person)

Registration Required BelowThis winter, we're offering an in-person mindfulness program to kick off our virtual meditation series to help us begin the New Year grounded, refreshed, and connected.Love Letters — A Meditation & Mindfulness Session with Jackie DeLiseFor thi......More

Registration Required BelowThis winter, we're offering an in-person mindfulness program to kick off our virtual meditation series to help us begin the New Year grounded, refreshed, and connected.Love Letters — A Meditation & Mindfulness Session with Jackie DeLiseFor this in-person session, Jackie DeLise, CMMI & CMWI, will guide participants in breath awareness, body relaxation, and gratitude. After this balancing and calming time, participants will be prompted to write a personal letter to their future selves from the spaciousness of the present moment, and will be guided to experience inner tranquility and clarity. Materials will be provided for the letters.Register below for the In-Person Session.Mark Your Calendar for upcoming Virtual Meditation Sessions:Thursdays at 12:30 pmFebruary 26, March 12 & 26, April 9 & 23

Adult Chess Club (In-Person)

Registration Recommended, See BelowWe invite all adult chess players and chess enthusiasts to participate in our newly launched, weekly Adult Chess Club. No prior chess knowledge is required; all levels of experience are welcome to participate! The library will provide ......More

Registration Recommended, See BelowWe invite all adult chess players and chess enthusiasts to participate in our newly launched, weekly Adult Chess Club. No prior chess knowledge is required; all levels of experience are welcome to participate! The library will provide chess boards and pieces for all to use.As space is limited, we recommend participants register for each program that they plan to attend.About our facilitator:Matthew Shirvell (aka Coach Matt) is an avid chess player who has been teaching chess in Connecticut for over 6 years. He has competed in USCF tournaments across the country, worked as a tournament director to run some of the largest events in the state, and has helped his students reach their goals.  Recently, in January 2023, one of his students earned sole 1st place in a USCF event with a perfect score!

Great Decisions: Foreign Policy Discussion Group (In-Person)

Registration for this series is full. Add your name to our waitlist below—you'll be contacted if a seat opens.[gravityform id="148"]Join our popular Great Decisions series, an international relations discussion group that meets in person at the Library. This 8-session c......More

Registration for this series is full. Add your name to our waitlist below—you'll be contacted if a seat opens.[gravityform id="148"]Join our popular Great Decisions series, an international relations discussion group that meets in person at the Library. This 8-session course, designed by the Foreign Policy Association, focuses on the most pressing issues of our time. The discussions will be moderated by members of the Library’s World Affairs Forum.  Read the Foreign Policy Association briefing book before each session and engage in lively discussions.The World Affairs Forum meets on the first and third Monday of the month at the Library. Participants are encouraged to attend in person to fully participate in the discussion; however, an option for individuals to join virtually via Zoom is available. All registered participants will receive a Zoom link on the day of the meeting.Dates and Topics February 2 – DEBATING AMERICA'S GLOBAL ROLE February 16 – CURRENT TARIFF'S IN HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVE March 2 –  U.S.-CHINA RELATIONS March 16 – THE THIRD NUCLEAR AGE April 6 – UKRAINE AND THE FUTURE OF EUROPEAN SECURITY April 20 – MULTILATERIAL INSTITUTIONS IN A CHANGING WORLD ORDER May 4 – U.S. ENGAGEMENT WITH AFRICA May 18 – THE FUTURE OF HUMAN RIGHTS AND INTERNATIONAL LAWRegistering on this page will register you for the full 8-week course.  Registered participants may pick up a briefing book at the Library's front desk beginning January 19.  There is a suggested donation of $25 to help defray the cost of the briefing book and materials for this program. Donations are welcome when you pick up your book or click here to donate.About Great Decisions:Great Decisions is America’s largest discussion program on world affairs. The name is shared by a national civic-education program, briefing book, and PBS television series produced by the Foreign Policy Association. The Great Decisions program highlights eight critical foreign policy challenges facing Americans each year. In libraries across the country, Great Decisions discussion group participants discuss and debate each issue. Supported by the Foreign Policy Association for over 50 years, Great Decisions involves citizens in the foreign policy-making process.

Creative Collective Discussion Group (Virtual)

Registration Required BelowHave fun and make friends while cultivating your creativity in our weekly group discussions about art, creativity and so much more! Our facilitated conversations invite participants to consider imaginative and alternative viewpoints about the ......More

Registration Required BelowHave fun and make friends while cultivating your creativity in our weekly group discussions about art, creativity and so much more! Our facilitated conversations invite participants to consider imaginative and alternative viewpoints about the creative process in a congenial, relaxed Zoom setting. Empower your creativity and feed your brain by joining us in the Creative Collective Discussion Group.This winter, our exploration into the power of creativity continues with the book This is the Story of a Happy Marriage by author Ann Patchett. Copies of the book will be available to checkout at the Library's front desk or can be download from Hoopla.The Creative Collective meets weekly on Tuesdays.Click Here to attend Zoom Meeting  (For registered participants only)

Weekly Drop-In Knitting Circle (In-Person)

Meets Tuesdays, 1:30 pm – 2:30 pmOur popular weekly drop-in knitting circle continues to meets every Tuesday in the Library's Mark Twain Room.  Share your knitting, crochet, and needlepoint project or learn basic techniques like casting on, knit, and purl stitches. Each......More

Meets Tuesdays, 1:30 pm – 2:30 pmOur popular weekly drop-in knitting circle continues to meets every Tuesday in the Library's Mark Twain Room.  Share your knitting, crochet, and needlepoint project or learn basic techniques like casting on, knit, and purl stitches. Each week brings an opportunity to learn something new and there is always someone who can help with any problem.

The Quiet Chapter Book Club – Read, Relax, Connect!

Registration Required BelowTake time to escape into the pages of a great book while enjoying the peaceful surroundings of the Mark Twain Library! Join us for the Quiet Chapter Book Club, where book lovers gather to read in quiet companionship. Come for an hour, settle i......More

Registration Required BelowTake time to escape into the pages of a great book while enjoying the peaceful surroundings of the Mark Twain Library! Join us for the Quiet Chapter Book Club, where book lovers gather to read in quiet companionship. Come for an hour, settle into a cozy spot with a book of your choice, soak in the tranquility, and let the world fade away.During the final 10 minutes, you're welcome to mingle, share thoughts on your latest reads, and enjoy light refreshments. No assigned books, no pressure—just a relaxing hour of literary escape and community.Come for the quiet, stay for the stories. We can’t wait to see you there!Note: The Quiet Chapter Book Club will meet regularly on the third Wednesday of the month.

NEW DATE: Steeped in Purpose: Tea, Connection & Conversation with Grace Farms (In-Person)

Registration Required BelowSip and savor Grace Farms' new signature premium teas while learning about the organization's mission and latest initiatives to end forced and child labor worldwide.We will hear from Melissa Lemieux, the Leader of Strategic Partnerships and Ex......More

Registration Required BelowSip and savor Grace Farms' new signature premium teas while learning about the organization's mission and latest initiatives to end forced and child labor worldwide.We will hear from Melissa Lemieux, the Leader of Strategic Partnerships and Experiential Growth at Grace Farms Tea & Coffee, a premium coffee and tea company that gives back 100% of profits to this global cause.During the warming ritual of sharing tea, we will also discuss the importance of balance in caring for both the world and ourselves.  We'll learn how to sustain our energy and thoughtfully recharge while engaging in volunteer efforts that support our communities.About Our SpeakerMelissa Lemieux is a Redding resident and serves as the Leader of Strategic Partnerships and Experiential Growth at Grace Farms Tea & Coffee. Grounded in wellness-led leadership, Melissa spent 12 years with lululemon athletica across U.S. and international markets. Since joining Grace Farms in 2023, she has focused on building meaningful partnerships and shaping experiences through tea and coffee that invite connection, presence, and thoughtful conversation.

History Book Club — `Freedom at Midnight' (In-Person)

Registration Required BelowInterested in history? This book club is for you! Led by members of the Library's Programming Committee, this book club selects engaging history reads and meets regularly for lively and engaging discussions.Copies of the latest book will be av......More

Registration Required BelowInterested in history? This book club is for you! Led by members of the Library's Programming Committee, this book club selects engaging history reads and meets regularly for lively and engaging discussions.Copies of the latest book will be available to borrow at the Library.This month's selection: Freedom at Midnight by Larry Collins and Dominique Lapierre Click Here To View Recent History Book Club Selections.

2-Year-Old Story Time (6-Week Session)

During our 2s Story Time, children 24-36 months and their caregivers will learn and play together. Each week we will explore music and stories through songs, movement games, rhythm instruments, flannel boards, and books. Older and younger siblings are welcome to join us......More

During our 2s Story Time, children 24-36 months and their caregivers will learn and play together. Each week we will explore music and stories through songs, movement games, rhythm instruments, flannel boards, and books. Older and younger siblings are welcome to join us but the program will be aimed at 2-year-olds.Meets on Thursday, Jan 15, 22, 29, Feb 5, 12, 26. There is NO session on Feb 19.REGISTRATION REQUIRED. Space is extremely limited; please register only if you intend to attend most or all of the 6 sessions. You only need to register ONCE for all 6 sessions. Email Lisa with questions [email protected]

Easy Flow Yoga with Viki (Virtual)

Please note the new start time of 11 a.m. Registration Required BelowWant to free yourself from tension and stress? Lose weight? Build strength and flexibility? Then it’s time to get moving! Move in and around the chair in this yoga fusion class. The best of both worlds......More

Please note the new start time of 11 a.m. Registration Required BelowWant to free yourself from tension and stress? Lose weight? Build strength and flexibility? Then it’s time to get moving! Move in and around the chair in this yoga fusion class. The best of both worlds, Viki combines breathing and mindfulness with functional fitness moves that will energize you for the day.Take a midday break and join us for this 8-week series designed for all levels, including beginners.  You might think of Chair Yoga as slow and tedious, but this class is fun, challenging, lively, stimulating and empowering!  If you have a strap, belt or towel have it handy.Sessions held on Thursdays at 11 amFebruary 5 & 19, March 5 & 19, April 2 & 16Register once and receive reminders before each ession, or drop-in using the direct zoom link below.  Registered participants will receive an reminder and link the day of the program.  Include your cell phone number on the registration form and you will also receive one text reminder, with link, 15-30 minutes before the program begins.CLICK HERE FOR ZOOM LINKPassword: YogaAbout our instructor:Viki Boyko teaches yoga and functional movement online and in theTristate area. Classes welcome all levels, including beginner. She is 500-hour yoga certified, a Franklin Method educator, Hanna Somatics educator, Movement for seniors specialist and Pelvic Floor Health Coach.  To learn more about Viki visit her website www.vikiboyko.com. 

The Allen & Helen Hermes Art Series presents: Jazz In the Afternoon (In-Person)

Registration Required BelowStep into a world of timeless sophistication as the Jazz Society of Fairfield County presents two Allen & Helen Hermes Art Series concerts dedicated to the musical giants who sculpted America’s original art form.Experience the living legacy of......More

Registration Required BelowStep into a world of timeless sophistication as the Jazz Society of Fairfield County presents two Allen & Helen Hermes Art Series concerts dedicated to the musical giants who sculpted America’s original art form.Experience the living legacy of Duke Ellington, Charles Mingus, and Thelonious Monk as four world-class artists demonstrate the enduring legacy of jazz.Mark Your Calendars for the Next Concert:Thursday, March 19 at 3 pmAbout Our PerformersMatt DeChamplain, pianoMatt has roots in a variety of styles within the genre, including stride piano, swing, bebop, and post-bop. His playing is characterized by lyrical soloing, technical proficiency and a hard-swinging sound. He has collaborated with numerous notable musicians: Dave Brubeck, Jimmy Cobb, Steve Davis, Javon Jackson, Shawnn Monteiro, Nat Reeves, and Avery Sharpe among others. In addition to his performance career, Matt is an educator and currently shares his knowledge and passion for jazz at the Hartt School of Music Jackie McLean Institute of Jazz where he holds a full-time position as Assistant Professor of Jazz.Matt Dwonszyk, bassSince 2020, Matt has taught jazz bass at Manchester Community College and Central Connecticut State College. At CCSU, Matat also teaches jazz history. In 2024, he taught jazz bass at the University of Hartford and in 2025 at UMass Amherst. He also teaches privately.  After graduating with a Bachelor’s of Music in Jazz Studies from the University of Hartford,  Matt obtained a Master’s of Music at SUNY Purchase College in New York. He soon was performing at legendary jazz venues like Smalls, Smoke, Minton’s, Zinc Bar, Birdland, and the Jazz Standard. Matt has also released several albums, with his most recent Live at the Side Door was released last year.Joe Corsello, drumsA Stamford native who has made a lifetime commitment to playing drums, some of Joe's latest works can be heard on Big Fish Music’s production of cinematic percussion sounds. He studied at Berklee College of Music in Boston and later joined the US Army band.  Later, became a house drummer for Michael’s Pub in New York, backing such jazz artists as Red Norvo, Joe Venuti and Dave McKenna.  Joe also was a member of the jazz/rock band New York Mary, which recorded two successful records and toured with the B52′s, Patti Smith, Stevie Wonder and Tony Williams Lifetime band.Greg Wall, tenor and soprano saxophonesAlso known affectionately as Jazz Rabbi, Greg has performed and recorded with Hasidic New Wave, Greg Wall's Later Prophets and Zion80. Greg Wall's Unity Orchestra has made many session appearances for record dates and film scores. Between 2008 and 2012 he produced over 70 recordings for Pioneers For A Cure, an innovative artist-driven project supporting a wide variety of cancer charities. Greg received rabbinic ordination in 2006, and was rabbi at the Sixth Street Community Synagogue in Manhattan’s East Village, where he founded the influential Center for Jewish Arts and Literacy. Greg moved to Westport in 2013 to become the rabbi of Beit Chaverim Synagogue. Since then he has been a founding board member of the Jazz Society of Fairfield County (JazzFC) where he serves as president and artistic director. Greg has curated a weekly Westport-based Jazz series since 2015, performing weekly with a rotating lineup of internationally acclaimed NYC based and touring Jazz artists. The Allen and Helen Hermes Arts Series was founded in 2003, and is funded by a generous gift the couple donated to the Mark Twain Library. The mission of the series is to enrich the quality of life in the community of Redding by producing and supporting events in the visual, literary, theater and musical arts.