Timeless Classics
Our signature set of standards everyone knows.
- Till There Was You
- Almost Like Being in Love
- Love Is Here to Stay
- The Very Thought of You
American songs from 1920 to 1950
Joseph S. Fordham on vocals and Nicolas Pratt on piano, performing for senior living communities around Richmond, Virginia.
Musical Delights: A Journey from 1920 to 1950
Dive into the beauty of American music with our curated collection of more than 400 songs. Experience the essence of timeless classics by icons like the Gershwin Brothers, Rodgers and Hammerstein, Cole Porter, and many more. These songs span decades and genres, from jazz to musical theater and pop.
We believe music is essential to the human soul.
Our goal is to bridge these classics with both the generation who first loved them and new fans alike. Whether a longtime lover or a new admirer of American music, discover its magic with us, and join in celebrating the rich legacy of these unforgettable tunes.
Each program is a one-hour set. Between songs we share a little of the story behind each one: who wrote it, who made it famous, and where it first appeared.
The Raucous & Roaring 1920s
Jazz Age favorites, from Tin Pan Alley to the speakeasy.
- Avalon
- California, Here I Come
- Makin’ Whoopee
- Ain’t She Sweet
Love & Romance
Gershwin, Porter and the great love songs.
- Embraceable You
- Someone to Watch Over Me
- Night and Day
- Cheek to Cheek
Legacy of Love
Moonlit ballads and songs from the movies.
- Stardust
- Blue Moon
- Smoke Gets in Your Eyes
- Moon River
Go With Me
A trip around the world in song.
- Route 66
- Fly Me to the Moon
- Beyond the Sea
- Sentimental Journey
Christmas
Carols and holiday favorites for December.
- Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas
- I’ll Be Home for Christmas
- Sleigh Ride
- Winter Wonderland
For your activity calendar. Each program has a printable flyer, and there is a general “The Starlight Ballroom is coming” flyer too. Each PDF has a color page and a black and white page. Type the date, time and place into the PDF before printing, or write them in by hand.
We perform for residents of senior living communities in Richmond, Henrico, Hanover and Glen Allen, usually on weeknights. Since November 2024 we have played 20 shows at these communities:
- Covenant WoodsMechanicsville
- Harmony at HanoverMechanicsville
- Heritage GreenMechanicsville
- Hermitage Deep RunHenrico
- Hermitage RichmondRichmond
- Sancerre Atlee StationMechanicsville
- The Barrington at HioaksRichmond
- Verena at the GlenGlen Allen
Coming Up
This is everything we play. Tap a song to add it to your booking request. If something you want isn’t here, ask anyway.
The Starlight Ballroom, Vol. 1
Eight songs we recorded together.
- It Had to Be You
- If I Didn’t Care
- Stars Fell on Alabama
- Almost Like Being in Love
- Embraceable You
- Ev’ry Time We Say Goodbye
- She
- A Nightingale Sang in Berkeley Square
With over 80 years of combined musical experience, we have been playing together for more than 11 years, learning and enjoying the endless wonderful songs written from 1920 to 1950. We both have a passion for music, and are excited to share it with a wider audience.
Vocalist
Joseph, from Charlottesville, Virginia, has a deep love for history and a curiosity that drives him to explore the U.S.’s diverse landscapes and cultures. He’s particularly captivated by the music from 1920 to 1940, with artists like Bing Crosby and Frank Sinatra taking him to a bygone era of elegance. Now living in Richmond, Joseph believes life’s richness comes from moments spent with loved ones, whether over a meal or deep conversations. These connections and memories create the soundtrack of his life’s journey.
Pianist
Nicolas, from DeLand, Illinois, has loved music since childhood. Starting piano at five, his talent quickly grew, especially toward classical compositions and the unique blend of classical and jazz in George Gershwin’s works. Alongside his musical journey, Nicolas is fascinated by technology and has built a career in it. While enjoying modern tech, he remains passionate about music in his free time. Now in Richmond with his family, he’s eager to share his love for music with all generations.
Who do you perform for?
Senior living communities: retirement, independent living and assisted living communities around Richmond.
Is there a cost?
No. Our programs are free. Donations are welcome and go toward better equipment and bringing the music to more communities.
How long is a program?
Each program is a one-hour set.
When do you perform?
We prefer weeknights, usually in the late afternoon or early evening.
Do you need a piano?
We prefer to play your community’s piano. If you don’t have one, let us know when you get in touch.
Where do you travel?
Richmond, Henrico, Hanover, Glen Allen and nearby. Ask us about communities farther away.
Can residents request songs?
Yes. Tap any song in our Musical Selection to add it to your inquiry, or ask for something that isn’t on the list.
How far ahead should we book?
A few weeks ahead is best, and earlier for December.
Activity directors and life enrichment staff: tell us about your community and a few dates that work, and we’ll get back to you. There is no cost to book us.
Or email us at info@thestarlightballroom.com