'Vivaldi Extravganza' with the South Shore Symphony

In Concert

South Shore Symphony
The popular orchestra, under the baton of Conductor and Music Director Scott Jackson Wiley, steps into spring with its “Vivaldi Extravaganza.” Vivaldi’s beloved works — full of rhythmic vitality, pleasantly familiar and at the same time always inventive and fresh to the ear — are all performed in the Baroque style, showcasing virtuoso soloists from the orchestra, along with guest soloists. Orchestra President/Principal Cellist Wayne Lipton, of Rockville Centre, who last performed as a soloist 10 years ago, is featured in the Cello Concerto in C Minor. Others who share the spotlight include bassoonist Florence Stadtlander and violin soloists Spencer Rudolph, also of Rockville Centre, Alexandra Calabro, Veronica Underhill and Chelsea Winter.
Saturday, April 2, 8 p.m. $25, $20 Guild members and seniors, $10 students. Madison Theatre, Molloy College, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre. (516) 323-4444 or www.madisontheatreny.org.

Cultural Traditions

The Klezmatics
The Grammy-winning ensemble brings their unique sound to the area this weekend, presented by the Freeport Community Concert Association. The entertaining group is dedicated to bring the traditions of Klezmer music, descended from the centuries-old Jewish cantillation, alive and vital for new generations. They erupted out of New York City’s East Village in 1986 and revitalized Klezmer for the new century with music that is steeped in Eastern European Jewish tradition and spirituality, while incorporating contemporary themes with eclectic musical influences that include Arab, African, Latin and Balkan rhythms, jazz and punk. Their music redefines and transcends traditional labels, which they perform to great acclaim.
Saturday, April 2, 8 p.m. $20. Bayview Avenue School, 325 West Merrick Rd., Freeport. (516) 223-7659 or www.freeportconcertassociation.com.

Literary Conversations

Long Island LitFest
Book lovers can share in delights of the written word at “Word Up: Long Island LitFest,” a fascinating literary festival, featuring readings by acclaimed authors and writers. Writers who will take turns at the microphone sharing their work, over two sessions throughout the day, include Alan Zweibel, Amy Ferris, Adam Resnick, Susan Shapiro, and Elinor Lipman, among others. A pre-LitFest panel discussion, “Writing Inspiration,” is offered from 11:30 a.m.-12:15 p.m., and is open to the first 50 ticketholders who register.
Sunday, April 3, 1.-6 p.m.  $30. Madison Theatre, Molloy College, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre. (516) 323-4444 or www.madisontheatreny.org.