From New Milford to Carnegie Hall: A Glimpse Into a Dream-Filled Evening

On April 28, for the fourth consecutive year, a bus filled with excitement and dreams departed New Milford, carrying 50 local kids to the legendary Carnegie Hall. There, they witnessed a breathtaking performance by the New York Pops Orchestra, America’s largest independent orchestra. This remarkable experience is not just a trip; it’s a connection woven deep into our community’s history, for Hunt Hill Farm stands proud as the official birthplace of the New York Pops.

This unforgettable evening was made possible by a partnership embedded with love, dedication, and vision. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Anne Swanson, Executive Director of the New York Pops, for her unwavering commitment to the arts and to Hunt Hill Farm. A special thank you to the Pops’ esteemed Conductor Steven Reineke and Program Director Annalisa Bell for their continuous support of the Henderson’s enduring legacy. Their belief in the power of music and community bridges past and future, ensuring extraordinary opportunities like this continue to inspire.

We are also deeply grateful to Mayor Pete Bass and the New Milford Commission on the Arts. Their generosity in sponsoring the transportation for the fourth year in a row has been a pivotal force in making this program possible. Without their commitment, this magical evening simply would not have happened.

During the show, a moment of pride and joy rippled through the crowd when Conductor Steven Reineke honored the kids, announcing them as guests from the Skitch Henderson Center of Excellence at Hunt Hill Farm in New Milford. A video from the evening captures the kids’ excitement, their cheers a testament to the significance of the event.

Cynthia Danial, whose 16-year-old daughter Allison attended the performance, encapsulated the emotions of the night beautifully. “This is such an amazing opportunity for our children to experience something so grand,” she shared. “To see kids their age performing on that stage with the orchestra was nothing short of inspirational. We are so grateful for the chance to be part of this transcendent experience.”

Mayor Pete Bass reflected on the community’s rich connection to the New York Pops, stating, “We are very proud to be the birthplace of the New York Pops, America’s largest independent orchestra. Through Hunt Hill Farm and The Silo, New Milford is now intrinsically tied to the Pops and the enduring legacy of Ruth and Skitch Henderson.”

Anne Swanson shared her perspective on this memorable collaboration, saying, “It was a great pleasure for me when Alessandro reached out in 2020, asking if we could reconnect Hunt Hill Farm with the New York Pops to bring New Milford kids into the Kids in the Balcony program just as Ruth Henderson envisioned when she created it in 1993. I am extremely happy to see how Alessandro and Daniele cherish Hunt Hill Farm as if they’ve been part of its soul forever. I’m certain Ruth and Skitch are smiling down from heaven, thrilled with the care and passion being poured into their beloved farm.”

"It is truly magical to witness the kids walking into Carnegie Hall, their eyes lighting up as the New York Pops Orchestra takes the stage. The moment they realize that this incredible project was born right here at Hunt Hill Farm, their connection to its history becomes tangible. For decades, this initiative has gifted tens of thousands of children from our community and beyond with unforgettable, free experiences. It warms my heart and fills me with pride to have the honor of preserving, protecting, and promoting the remarkable legacy of Ruth and Skitch Henderson. This work is a privilege, and I am dedicated to ensuring their vision continues to inspire generations to come." - Daniele Piovezahn, Director of Legacy Preservation, Hunt Hill Farm.

As we look toward the horizon, we are already preparing for the 2026 New York Pops Gala, with plans to bring another group of 50 New Milford kids to Carnegie Hall. The dream continues, fueled by community, artistry, and the indelible joy of music that binds us all.