Make Music Day 2025 Highlights and Looking Ahead
In 2025, we celebrated our 11th Make Music Day in Ossining and Briarcliff— while also expanding into new locations and communities, including Croton-on-Hudson.
Sound and Community Took Over Every Corner during June’s Event
This year’s event featured live music and interactive activities in both expected and unexpected places—from farmers markets and community spaces to bakeries, breweries, libraries, and even a real estate agency. One of the most unique moments took place in the Weir Chamber, a historic underground stone structure located along the Old Croton Aqueduct Trail. Managed by New York State Parks and the Friends of the Old Croton Aqueduct, the Weir Chamber offered a one-of-a-kind acoustic setting.
Mike and Miriam Risko performed an intimate acoustic set there, followed by a community rhythm jam to Bruce Springsteen’s Glory Days using percussion instruments provided by the Make Music Alliance. Audience members were invited to play along and even take instruments home, making it a truly interactive and memorable experience.
At Mike Risko Music, we hosted a full day of activities, including a drum workshop, a Careers in Music presentation, free acoustic string changes, and an instrument donation drive.
Empowering Future Musicians
At Mike Risko Music, we hosted a full day of activities, including a drum workshop, a Careers in Music presentation, free acoustic string changes, and an instrument donation drive.
We welcomed performers of all ages and styles, including students from Mike Risko Music and many returning community favorites. Pop-up performances took place throughout the day in public and private spaces across Ossining, Briarcliff, and Croton, transforming everyday locations into stages for creativity and connection.
Looking ahead, our goal is to continue expanding Make Music Day across these communities, while placing even more focus on music in unexpected places—inviting people to discover and take part in live music where they least expect it. We believe that bringing music into the everyday helps create a stronger, more inspired community of future music-makers.
We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who participated and supported this year’s event—from performers and volunteers to the spaces that hosted music—and we can’t wait to see how it continues to grow.
“We love helping bring music into the community in ways that are joyful, creative, and unexpected,” say organizers Mike and Miriam Risko. “We’re grateful to all the performers, venues, and music lovers who make this day so special year after year.”
Become a Make Music Day Host Venue or Performer
Interested in participating in an upcoming Make Music Day celebration?
To sign up as a host or to perform at Make Music Day, fill out our form or call or email Mike Risko Music at:
914-762-8757
mail@riskomusic.com