Hoff-Barthelson Music School Announces Spring Orchestra and Chamber Music Auditions on May 4, 2025
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Hoff-Barthelson Music School is thrilled to invite young musicians to audition for its highly regarded Orchestral and Chamber Music Programs on Sunday, May 4, 2025, from 9:00-1:00 pm. These programs offer students invaluable opportunities to develop their ensemble skills, refine their musicianship, and perform in a supportive yet challenging environment. Participation in these ensembles fosters discipline, collaboration, and a deeper appreciation for the art of making music together.
Orchestral Program: A Pathway to Musical Excellence
Hoff-Barthelson’s Orchestra Program provides an enriching experience for students at various skill levels, from beginner to advanced. Led by accomplished conductors and dedicated faculty, the program nurtures young musicians by exposing them to diverse orchestral literature, honing their technical abilities, and instilling a strong sense of musical artistry.
"Playing in an orchestra is a transformative experience," said Leandro Gazineo, Director of the Orchestra Program. "It challenges students to listen, lead, and grow as musicians while being part of something greater than themselves."
The program features multiple ensembles tailored to different skill levels, ensuring that each student is placed in an environment that supports their growth. Through intensive rehearsals and inspiring performances, students gain confidence, discipline, and a deeper understanding of orchestral music.
Chamber Music Program: Small Ensembles, Big Impact
The Chamber Music Program at Hoff-Barthelson offers students the unique opportunity to perform in small ensembles, where communication, teamwork, and individual responsibility are key. Under the expert guidance of experienced faculty members, students explore a rich repertoire that strengthens their interpretative skills and technical precision.
"Chamber music is one of the most rewarding ways to make music," said Laura Giannini, Program Director. "It teaches students how to listen deeply, respond intuitively, and truly collaborate with their peers in a way that builds musicianship and lifelong friendships."
Designed for string, woodwind, brass, and piano students, as well as vocalists, the Chamber Music Program allows participants to engage with like-minded musicians and experience the joy of making music in an intimate setting.
Who Should Audition?
Auditions are open to dedicated students interested in joining an orchestra or chamber ensemble for the 2025-26 academic year. Musicians of all levels are encouraged to apply, as placement is determined based on skill level and experience.
Audition Requirements and Registration
For complete audition guidelines and to register, visit www.hbms.org or contact the school at (914) 723-1169.
Don't miss the chance to be part of Hoff-Barthelson’s vibrant ensemble programs! This is an opportunity for young musicians to challenge themselves, connect with peers, and take their artistry to the next level. Register today and embark on an inspiring musical journey!
About Hoff-Barthelson Music School
Hoff-Barthelson Music School, based in Scarsdale, NY, has earned national recognition as a premier community music school, known for its outstanding leadership in education, performance, and community service. With a faculty drawn from the region’s most talented teachers and performers, the School has long been one of Westchester County’s most cherished cultural resources. At Hoff-Barthelson, students find a warm, friendly music school dedicated to the highest standards of education, performance, and community service. Students of all ages, aptitudes, and levels of interest enjoy a supportive, joyful learning environment; a focus on the whole person; exceptional teaching; and a multifaceted curriculum.
Photo credit: Hoff-Barthelson’s Festival Orchestra led by Maestro Leandro Gazineo. Photographed by Mickey Riad.
Historical Society Uncovers the History of Suffragist Josephine Valentine Winslow
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Josphine Valentine Winslow: Photo Source: The Newsom FamilyLeslie Chang, a Trustee of the Scarsdale Historical Society is in the midst of researching a series called Women Rising: The Scarsdale Suffragists. She agreed to share this fascinating story of Josephine Valentine Winslow.
According to Chang, Josephine, aka Mrs. Willard Winslow was the daughter of a New York City merchant and woolen manufacturer. She moved to Scarsdale in 1903 with her husband Willard, a lumber importer and wholesaler. In 1905, they had their daughter Julia Valentine Winslow (Newsom). Robert and his brother Jon are her sons.
In comparison to her dear friend and suffrage leader Florence Bethel who thrived in the spotlight, Josephine was the business backbone of many of Scarsdale’s early enterprises. For example, most of the actual handwritten notes in the Scarsdale Equal Suffrage Club minutes book are in Josephine’s meticulous script. She was also a charter member of the Scarsdale Woman’s Club, one of first female commissioners of the Westchester County Park Commission, the purchasing agent of supplies for Westchester County Government during WWI, office manager of the Scarsdale Community Farm during WWI, a trustee of the Scarsdale School District (1919-1922) and the Secretary of the Supreme Council of the Girl Scouts of Westchester County.
Chang then sought to find some photos of Josephine and figured out the names of her living relatives, one who was a professor with a published email address. Within three hours of emailing Robert W. Newsom at University of California, Irvine, Chang received an album of jaw-dropping photos.
Chang says, “After reading about her tireless civic work in early Scarsdale, it was a thrill to see Josphine’s face for the first time. The younger photos pre-date her time in Scarsdale, but they are a stunning visual record of her life.”
Josephine with Daughter Julia Winslow and Mother-Law Elizabeth Ryers Winslow, Date 1910. Like taken in Scarsdale. Photo Source: The Newsom Family.
Sadly, Josephine passed away suddenly of pneumonia at 55. Florence Bethell was quoted in the newspaper as saying, “Much of all the glory that is ours in Scarsdale is due to her quiet, modest, self-effacing work.” Thirty-one crabapple trees at the Scarsdale Woman’s Club were planted in memory of her untimely death. We hear that some are still thriving on the club grounds by Drake Road and will watch for them to blossom this spring.
Here are just a few of the photos Chang located. See more on the Scarsdale Historical Society website here:
(Republished with permission from the Scarsdale Historical Society)
Winslow House on School Lane: Photo Source: The Winslow Family
Shop Scarsdale For Valentine's Day Gifts That Say I Love You
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Warm their hearts with gifts of love for Valentine’s Day, on Friday February 14, 2025. Jewelry, fashion, scent, flowers, drinks and sweets are all within reach from home. See what’s in store and shop now to plan for the big day.
Looking for a gift but not sure what you’re looking for? Rocks Jewelry, Gift Home is now open in the Golden Horseshoe Shopping Center and they have it all. Whether it’s jewelry, tabletop, home goods or Judaica, you’ll find a great selection in store.
Here are three suggested gifts for your Valentine from store owner Tanya Tochner:
The heart bowl from Orrefors.
The Heart Bowl from Orrefors is shaped like a heart, with rounded edges giving it a delicate look. It represents affection and love, the perfect gift for someone you care about. $150.
Gold and Diamond Fluted heart Necklace (above) - $1850
LOVE Travel Blanket with Eye Mask and Storage Bag $48
Rocks Jewelry, Gift Home, 1096 Wilmot Road, Scarsdale
This Valentine’s Day, find the perfect gifts for the special women in your life (yourself included!) at I Am More Scarsdale. From stylish getaways to cozy nights in, our curated selection of fashion and accessories makes gifting effortless and chic.
Gift with love and shop with purpose—because she deserves something special. At I Am More, every purchase is more than just a gift. Operating as a philanthropic business, we proudly give back to local and women’s organizations, making every purchase even more meaningful.
I Am More, Scarsdale, 6 Spencer Place, Scarsdale.
Love is in the air with scented Valentine's gift perfection from ScentFluence on Harwood Court in Scarsdale Village. Luxury notable hotel and spa candles, gorgeous home diffusers, scent oils, and gift certificates for anyone you love, any style, or mood. Shop online at scentfluence.com with discount code Valentine10583 for 10% off diffusers and scent oils, or mention our Scarsdale10583 ad when instore.* til 2-17-25. Free gift wrapping.
This Valentine’s Day send a stunning bouquet from Scarsdale Flower Boutique.
Choose from roses in red, pink, lavender, white and peach or send a custom Valentine’s Day arrangement with premium flowers like orchids, ranunculus, hydrangeas and anemones.
Click here to see our signature Valentine’s Day arrangements including, “Roses are Red, Violets are Blue,” “Pretty Orchids,” “Pretty Petals, “You Are My Everything” and “I Love You Forever.”
Bouquets start at $50.00 with same day delivery. Order soon for Valentine’s Day.
Call them at 914-723-0852, order online here or stop by the shop at 7 Harwood Court in the heart of Scarsdale Village. Open Daily 9 – 6 pm.
This Valentine’s Day, Holsten Jewelers invites you to celebrate love with over 100 years of family tradition and craftsmanship. Whether you're searching for the perfect engagement ring, a custom-designed piece, or a sparkling gift, we’re here to help you find something unforgettable. From jewelry repair to watch restoration and creating timeless keepsakes, we specialize in pieces that tell your story. Let us make this Valentine’s Day extraordinary with jewelry that captures your heart and theirs. From our family to yours, we can’t wait to help you celebrate love this season!
EF Collection rings are the perfect blend of elegance and versatility. Designed for everyday wear, they seamlessly transition from casual outings to formal occasions. With their timeless, classy appeal, they make an incredible Valentine’s Day gift for someone you love—or yourself!
Drape them in diamonds with Facet Barcelona tennis necklaces and bracelets. With shimmering diamonds that captivate from every angle, these pieces bring undeniable luxury to any look.
Holsten Jewelers 5 Harwood, Cour, Scarsdale (914) 472-4554
Eye Gallery of Scarsdale invites you to say I Love You with a gift of the latest sunglasses and eyewear. 
Celine Sunglasses $520With new styles from Chanel, Celine, Chrome Hearts, Thierry Lasry, Jacques Marie Mage, Barton Perriera and AHLEM eyewear you will never run out of options for gifts this year! And while you’re in town make sure to make an appointment for your annual eye check-up.
Visit their new, elegant location on Boniface Circle in Scarsdale. Renowned for its impeccable service and 
Jacques Marie Mage Sunglasses - $890exclusive collection of premium eyewear, the gallery is dedicated to redefining your optical experience.
Eye Gallery of Scarsdale, 15 Boniface Circle, Scarsdale, (914) 472-2020.
Scarsdale Wine Merchants is a brand-new wine and spirits store by Sommelier, Kristie Campbell. Kristie has plenty of experience guiding her clients toward the right bottle. She now offers her expertise to her customers at her beautiful new shop, Scarsdale Wine Merchants. Located at the Scarsdale train station (next to Dunkin' Donuts), buying wine has never been so fun or easy. And finding the perfect bottle is even more important on Valentine's Day. 
Three wines that are sure to satisfy anyone:
Billecart-Salmon Brut Rosé NV $89: The Brut Rosé is a blend of Chardonnay and two red grapes - Pinot Meunier and Pinot Noir. The skin maceration of Pinot Munier and Pinot Noir contributes to the Champagne's rich body as well as the pale pink hue that it is known for.
Lucien Crochet La Croix du Roy Sancerre $37
This family has a long history of making wine in Sancerre. In fact, they were one of the first producers to bottle the wines in the '50s so they could be sold in Paris. It is a full-bodied with notes of white stone-fruits and a chalky minerality on the palate. Absolutely stunning!!
Alvaro Palacios Camins del Priorat $29: Alvaro Palacios was one of the original producers to rekindle the Priorat region in the '90s. The blend is dominated by Garnacha and has rich, dark fruit with hints of cocoa. It is a decadent wine that will pair well with a steak for two.
Scarsdale Wine Merchants, 2 Depot Place, Scarsdale.
Baked in Color’s Valentine’s Day offerings are perfect for the dessert lovers in your life. Show the lovewith these delicious and beautiful treats, baked to order and shipped same day. Scarsdale pick up available. Place orders at bakedincolor.com.
M&W March Madness Fundraiser: You're Invited
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Maroon and White invites you to come out and support Scarsdale athletes at Maroon & White’s FIRST EVER Spring Fundraiser.
Kickoff March Madness with Scarsdale's Maroon and White Booster Club and cheer on your favorites with 16 NCAA games on March 20th!
We keep it local at Scarsdale Golf Club on Thursday, March 20th @ 6:30p. Come mingle, watch the games and enjoy drinks at the open bar accompanied by lite bites.
Elementary, Middle and High School parents, this will be a great opportunity to meet other parents, learn more about Scarsdale High School sports and the Maroon & White Booster Club.
Less than a week left for Early Bird Ticket Pricing - $150 until Monday, March 10th, $175 after that date.
Announcing the WRT FLEA
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Designer clothing, handbags, jewelry, housewares, art, books and more will be on sale at the WRT Flea market on Sunday February 9, 2025 from 1-4 pm. This special event is planned by Remy and Marin Weinberg as a benefit for Natal, an apolitical organization providing multidisciplinary treatment and support to direct and indirect victims of trauma due to terror and war in Israel. Natal is providing critical mental health services to the victims of October 7th.
100% of the proceeds from the sale will be donated to Natal.
A wonderful selection of clothing, bags, vintage wear, kitchenware, and coffee table books will be sold. Take a look at some of the great donations on Instagram here.
The event came about in the days following October 7th, when Remy Marin had an idea to partner with Westchester Reform Temple (WRT) to host a sale to raise money for Israel. Remy and her mom Marin worked closely with WRT over the last year to plan this special event and her big idea is now becoming a reality.
The goals are to:
-Raise meaningful funds to support the victims of the terrorist events from October 7th.
-Raise awareness about the incredible work being done by Natal
-Educate and inspire our community on the importance of environmental sustainability and the benefits of shopping secondhand.
Donations are welcome and can be dropped off at the bin at Westchester Reform Temple through Friday January 31, 2025.
Mark your calendar to attend the WRT FLEA on Sunday February 9 from 1- 4 pm.
