free things to do in New York City
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Free Events, Free Things to Do in New York City! Read More
Where else but in New York City can you listen to a world-class musician, discuss a book with a famous author, take a part in poetry reading, have a glass of wine at an art exhibition opening, and all that on the same day, and all that free of charge, and all of that on any day of the year, whether it's December or July, April or November!
The trick is to know about those free events, free things to do BEFORE they happen, not after the fact. That's where Club Free Time comes in handy! Become a Club Free Time member and start using these unique New York City (NYC) opportunities today, September 16, 2025!
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Club Free Time is your perfect guide to Free Entertainment and Free Culture in the City That Never Sleeps.
Join the Club!
In addition to providing information about free events, free things to do in New York, Club Free Time offers its members complimentary tickets to classical music concerts, dance performances and theater: when a producer wants that special buzz of the 'full house' - Club Free Time members are welcomed for their enthusiasm and sophistication!
Join the Club!
Get a taste of free culture and free entertainment in New York City (NYC)!
Join the Club!
Experience an entirely new perspective on New York. 'Open up a whole new cultural world... in one of the most vibrant capital cities in the world, sampling cultural delights beyond anyone's wildest dream.' Rupert Parker, journalist, photographer, cameraman, and TV producer
September 16, 2025. Free shows, concerts, movies, tours are New York (NYC) best kept secret! New York City never ceases to amaze you with quantity and quality of its free culture and free entertainment whether it's day or night, weekday or weekend, summer or winter, spring or fall, January or June, May or September. If you are looking for inexpensive things to do and where to go in Manhattan today, tonight, tomorrow, or any other time, or any other day of any week - you came to the right place: just click on any day on the calendar dispayed on the every page of our site and you will see how many events you can attend in Manhattan free of charge on that very day.
New York's cultural scene is at its busiest in October and March (and the same goes for free events, free things to do), but other months of the year still offer incredible amount of high quality, off the beaten path, unique free events, free things to do which will take your breath away! So if you looking for something to do in April or November, December or February, you will find tons of free things to do, free events to go to. (In June, July and August lots of those free events take place outdoors, of course).
So do not wot till tomorrow, start using these unique New York City opportunities today, September 16, 2025!
Where else but in New York City can you listen to a world-class musician, discuss a book with a famous author, take a part in poetry reading, have a glass of wine at an art exhibition opening, and all that on the same day, and all that free of charge, and all of that on any day of the year, whether it's December or July, April or November!
The trick is to know about those free events, free things to do BEFORE they happen, not after the fact. That's where Club Free Time comes in handy! Become a Club Free Time member and start using these unique New York City (NYC) opportunities today, September 16, 2025!
Join the Club!
Club Free Time is your perfect guide to Free Entertainment and Free Culture in the City That Never Sleeps.
Join the Club!
Free things to do, free events that take place in the City every day of the year are truly amazing. So if you're looking for something interesting to do today (September 16, 2025) or on any other day of the year don't miss those free-of-charge opportunities that only New York provides! You can find lots of high quality, off the beaten path, unique free events, free things to do which will take your breath away!
In addition to providing information about free events, free things to do in New York, Club Free Time offers its members complimentary tickets to classical music concerts, dance performances and theater: when a producer wants that special buzz of the 'full house' - Club Free Time members are welcomed for their enthusiasm and sophistication!
Join the Club!
Get a taste of free culture and free entertainment in New York City (NYC)!
Join the Club!
Experience an entirely new perspective on New York. 'Open up a whole new cultural world... in one of the most vibrant capital cities in the world, sampling cultural delights beyond anyone's wildest dream.' Rupert Parker, journalist, photographer, cameraman, and TV producer
Join the Club!
The quality and quantity of
free events,
free things to do
that happen in New York City
every day of the year
is truly amazing.
So don't miss the opportunities
that only New York provides:
stop wondering what to do;
start taking advantage of
free events to go to,
free things to do in NYC
today!
The quality and quantity of
free events,
free things to do
that happen in New York City
every day of the year
is truly amazing.
So don't miss the opportunities
that only New York provides:
stop wondering what to do;
start taking advantage of
free events to go to,
free things to do in NYC
today!
Let New York City surprise, stimulate, entertain and excite you! Read More
Don't miss the opportunities that only New York provides:
- free concerts in NYC
- free movies in NYC
- free jazz in NYC
- free poetry readings in NYC
- free tours/hikes in NYC
- free city walks in NYC
- free Yoga /Tai Chi in NYC
- fairs and parades in NYC
- free theater in NYC
- free tickets to concerts, theater and dance performances in NYC
'New York is abuzz with so much culture that they're giving it away.' (The New York Times article about Club Free Time).
Editor's Picks
39 free things to do in New York City (NYC) today:
Tuesday, September 16, 2025
All events are free unless otherwise noted.Birdwatching | Morning Birding in the Park with NYC Audubon
Discover the surprising diversity of birds that call New York home during migratory season with guided tours by NYC Audubon, led by environmental educator and urban naturalist Gabriel Willow. This park is a hotspot for avian visitors and birders alike. Past sightings include warblers, tanagers, vireos, thrushes, and even a Chuck-will’s-widow!
New York City, NY; NYC
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8:00 am
Free
Free
Workshop | Pick-Up Pickleball
An exciting fusion of badminton and tennis, pickleball has been proven to strengthen muscles, boost cardiovascular health, and enhance brain function. First come first serve basis.
New York City, NY; NYC
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9:00 am
Free
Free
Screening | Most Watched International Sporting Events on the Big (30-foot!) Screen Outdoors: Tennis & Soccer
Today's Schedule:
10:00am - 12:45pm Seoul and Guadalajara Tennis
12:45pm - 3:00pm UEFA Champion League PSV vs Union Saint
3:00pm - 5:00pm UEFA Champions League Qarabag vs Benifca
5:00pm - 10:00pm Seoul and Guadalajara Tennis
*Scheduled programming subject to change. Seating is open to the public on a first-come, first-serve basis. Wells Fargo customers receive priority seating.
New York City, NY; NYC
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10:00 am
Free
Free
Workshop | Yoga in the Park with Expert Instructor
This yoga class is suitable for all levels. It's taught by Zack Thompson. Zack started his yoga practice in his late teens and began yoga teacher training in 2012. Zack has completed 750 + hours of training and hundreds of hours teaching and facilitating. You'll find Zack's class a mind-body physical practice, with a dose of fun mixed in....designed for every body. Please register for each class and bring your own mat (the park does not provide yoga mats). It's also recommended to bring water and a towel.
New York City, NY; NYC
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10:00 am
Free
Free
Workshop | Zumba Class for All-Levels
Featuring easy-to-follow Latin dance choreography. Work on your balance, coordination and range of motion.
New York City, NY; NYC
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10:30 am
Free
Free
Classical Music | Serene Organ Meditations in Intimate Venue
Enjoy a program of hymns, anthems, and voluntaries for the organ.
New York City, NY; NYC
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12:20 pm
Free
Free
Jazz | Piano in the Park: Boogie-Woogie & Barrelhouse Elvis Costello Collaborator
Come on down and swing along to the best ragtime, stride, and jazz the Big Apple has to offer. "Peter Yarin's piano work is a rhythmic marvel...Yarin's solos are concert hall virtuosic." - Jersey Jazz Peter Yarin is a New York-based pianist and composer working across genres in jazz and classical music. He is the pianist for Vince Giordano and The Nighthawks, an 11-piece repertory Jazz Orchestra, leads a jazz trio of his own, and has written several works for musical theater. Peter's work has been featured on many soundtracks, including movies Killers of the Flower Moon and Joker, as well as television series such as The Queen's Gambit, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, and Boardwalk Empire. He has accompanied popular artists St. Vincent, Rufus Wainright, Elvis Costello, and Bette Midler, and many more.
New York City, NY; NYC
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12:30 pm
Free
Free
Book Club | Discuss Lessons in Chemistry with Others
Join fellow readers for lively discussion and thoughtful socializing! Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus
New York City, NY; NYC
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1:00 pm
Free
Free
Lesson | Celebrity Photographer Shares Tips of His Workflow
Editorial photographer Mark Mann reveals why tethered capture is more than just a technical choice—it’s the foundation of his artistry and collaboration on set. In this workshop, Mann shares how his workflow helps him stay connected to his vision, elevate the creative experience, and foster seamless communication with clients and teams of any size. Whether you’re working solo or leading a large production, discover how improvements to your workflow can transform the way you create, inspire confidence, and unlock your own best work.
New York City, NY; NYC
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2:00 pm
Free
Free
Book Discussion | Talking Poetry: Poetry in Translation
Participate with fellow poetry enthusiasts in unpacking the layered meanings of poetry through an informal group discussion. Journey across cultures and languages through discussing works of poetry in translation. Please note that contemporary poetry deals frankly with contemporary issues and all works discussed are artistic expressions selected for an adult audience.
New York City, NY; NYC
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2:30 pm
Free
Free
Museums | Conversations with Curators: Modern Art
Join Stephanie D'Alessandro, curator and senior research coordinator, for an insider look at select modern artworks, with insights and untold stories. Note: Space is limited; first-come, first-served.
New York City, NY; NYC
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3:00 pm
Free
Free
Workshop | Chess in the Park
Play the popular strategy game while getting pointers and advice from an expert. Chess improves concentration, problem solving, and strategic planning -- plus it's fun! For all ages 5 and up.
New York City, NY; NYC
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3:30 pm
Free
Free
Lecture | Expert Explores the Terrain of African-Soviet Relations & Decolonization (In Person AND Online!)
In this unique review of African-Soviet relations, Harold Weaver (Associate at Harvard University’s Hutchins Center for African and African American Research) serves as both researcher and personal witness, guiding the reader through the nuanced terrain of students seeking models of effective, radical change. At the height of Africa's decolonization, as new nations and their young leaders emerged with a passion for models of independence and self-determination, the Soviet Union became a key destination for study. Offering valuable insights to the history and current processes of development and peace, Race, Decolonization, and the Cold War reveals a piece of the past that spotlights significant lessons for the future.
New York City, NY; NYC
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4:00 pm
Free
Free
Book Club | Group Discussion: The Stranger in the Lifeboat by Mitch Albom
Talk about and analyze The Stranger in the Lifeboat with others! Synopsis: Adrift in a raft after a deadly ship explosion, nine people struggle for survival at sea. Three days pass. Short on water, food and hope, they spot a man floating in the waves. They pull him in. Thank the Lord we found you, a passenger says. I am the Lord, the man whispers. Is this strange and quiet man really who he claims to be? What actually happened to cause the explosion? Are the survivors already in heaven, or are they in hell? The story is narrated by Benji, one of the passengers, who recounts the events in a notebook that is later discovered, a year later, when the empty life raft washes up on the island of Montserrat. It falls to the island's chief inspector, Jarty LeFleur, a man battling his own demons, to solve the mystery of what really happened.
New York City, NY; NYC
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4:00 pm
Free
Free
Film | Badlands (1973): Neo-Noir Period Crime Drama with Martin Sheen & Sissy Spacek
An impressionable teenage girl leaves home to follow her older greaser boyfriend on a crime spree. Director: Terrence Malick Cast: Martin Sheen, Sissy Spacek, Ramon Bieri, Warren Oates Martin Sheen is an American actor. In a career spanning six decades he has received numerous accolades including three Emmy Awards, a Golden Globe Award, and four Screen Actors Guild Awards. Sissy Spacek is an American actress, set dresser and singer. She is the recipient of numerous accolades, including an Academy Award, three Golden Globe Awards, a Screen Actors Guild Award, and nominations for four British Academy Film Awards, three Primetime Emmy Awards, and a Grammy Award. Spacek was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2011.
New York City, NY; NYC
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5:00 pm
Free
Free
Park Walk | Discover the History & Design of One of New York's Most Unique Park
Hear the story behind New York City's park in the sky: an insider's perspective on the park's history, design, and landscape.
New York City, NY; NYC
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5:00 pm
Free
Free
Party | Make New Friends Playing Board Games Outdoors
Organizers bring a wider selection of board games to the Games Cart at this event, with games like Ticket to Ride, Carcassonne, Catan, King of Tokyo and more. Not sure what to play? The Games Hosts can help you find the perfect game and match up players!
New York City, NY; NYC
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5:00 pm
Free
Free
Opening Reception | Provactive Then, Quaint Today: The Evolution of New York City Drag Queens
Creative polymath Julian Fleischer and curator Aldo Hernández present a spanning original archive of handwritten notes, taped audio interviews, and never-before-seen photographs. Expect recorded talks by household names, including Sandra Bernhard and iiconic New Yorker Fran Lebowitz. The exhibition showcases the chronicling of the NY drag scene and the artists who shaped it.
New York City, NY; NYC
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5:00 pm
Free
Free
Classical Music | BBC-Featured Pianist Performs Works by Beethoven, Haydn & More
Juilliard faculty-member Shai Wosner, piano, performs pieces by significant composers of the Classical and Romantic musical eras. Program: Robert Schumann (1810-1856) Night Piece, Op. 23, No. 3 Leos Janacek (1854-1928) In the Mists (selections) Robert Schumann (1810-1856) Night Piece, Op. 23, No. 4 Joseph Haydn (1732-1809) Un piccolo divertimento, Hob. XVII:6 Ludwig Van Beethoven (1770-1827) Piano Sonata No. 23 in F Minor, Op. 57 ("Appassionata")
New York City, NY; NYC
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5:30 pm
Free
Free
Dancing | Dance Salsa in the Park with Live Music
Whether you're a seasoned dancer or just starting out, enjoy the vibrant sounds of Quateto Guataca. The evening starts with a dance lesson from Lilka Mimbella followed by a live musical performance. 5:30PM: SALSA LESSON 6:30PM: LIVE MUSIC
New York City, NY; NYC
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5:30 pm
Free
Free
Workshop | Learn to Juggle, All Skill Levels Welcome
This juggling class is ideal for a quick lesson, an extended practice session, or just enjoy watching jugglers put their skills to the test. They’re a friendly group and open to drop-ins, even if you catch them outside of the regular juggling lessons.
All skill levels welcome. Equipment is provided.
New York City, NY; NYC
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5:30 pm
Free
Free
Book Discussion | Architecture, Labor, and Industry in the Auto Age (In Person AND Online!)
Discover how industrial capitalism shaped modern architecture in this talk with Claire Zimmerman, author of Albert Kahn Inc.: Architecture, Labor, and Industry, 1905–1961. Drawing on a decade of research and 140 archival illustrations, Zimmerman examines the architecture firm behind Detroit’s auto industry, tracing how the design, construction, and occupation of buildings fueled both industrial growth and militarization. Note: limited in-person seating.
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free
Free
Author Reading | Award-Winning Author Discusses His New Book, Drought
Enjoy a reading with Scott Alexander Hess as he sits down with Luis Jamarillo to discuss his latest work, Drought.
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free
Free
Talk | Award-Winning Writer Discusses David Hockney & Marcel Proust
Bestelling author Catherine Cusset in conversation with French & Comparative Literature professor Elisabeth Ladenson. One has a reputation for being a difficult writer; the other is an easy painter, accessible to all. Catherine Cusset has devoted a novel to the British David Hockney and a personal essay to Marcel Proust. In their work she finds a life lesson, inspiration, comfort, irony, and a certainty: that art is a life saver, and that you should only write, or paint, what matters to you.
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free
Free
Concert | Rock Out in the Park: Soccer Mommy, Hurray for the Riff Raff, & More
Over the past 10 years, Soccer Mommy's Sophie Allison has established herself as one of the most distinctive voices in indie rock. She writes tender songs with gorgeous guitar tones that ruminate on love, self-doubt, and vulnerability. Her 2020 LP Color Theory became a lodestar during the pandemic, with songs like "Circle the Drain" and "Crawling in My Skin" reflecting the turmoil of isolation through '90s grunge riffs and soaring hooks. Hurray for the Riff Raff's Alynda Segarra ran away from home as a teen to ride the rails and see the country before settling in New Orleans, where they became a promising folk musician. Their latest LP, The Past Is Still Alive, digs into their years riding the rails and sleeping under the stars. Avant-pop band Dummy will round out the evening with their heavy, transfixing sound. Their last full-length album, 2024's Free Energy, was named a Stereogum Album of the Week.
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free
Free
Book Discussion | The Spy Trials That Divided a Nation (Online!)
Journalist and historian Jeff Kisseloff discusses his new book, which uncovers evidence supporting the innocence of Alger Hiss, the alleged Communist spy. Revisiting the explosive 1948 trials that gripped the nation, Kisseloff brings fresh perspective and revelations to one of the most sensational and politically divisive accusations in 20th-century America.
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free
Free
Other | Antiques and Inventions in the Park
Witness this traveling interactive exhibition of antiques and inventions. Come meet Denny, the Museum's curator, who inspires kids and adults to explore their curiosities. Offerings and objects will change throughout the season, so swing by each week to see what's on display!
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:30 pm
Free
Free
Author Reading | Jeannie Vanasco Discusses Her New Memoir, A Silent Treatment
Author Jeannie Vanasco (Things We Didn't Talk About When I Was a Girl) celebrates and discusses his new book, A Silent Treatment: a memoir exploring the loneliness and isolation of silence as punishment, both in her own life and beyond it, and confronting her greatest fear: that her mother will never speak to her again. Jeannie will be joined in conversation by artist and writer Hyeseung Song, bestselling author of Docile. Along with a discussion and audience Q&A, Jeannie will also sign copies of A Silent Treatment purchased from this bookstore. Cost of a $5 general admission ticket can be applied towards the purchase of the featured event book or any product in the bookstore cafe the night of an event.
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:30 pm
$5, tickets required
$5, tickets required
Talk | Naming and Birth Customs in Eastern European Jewish Tenements (In Person AND Online!)
Historian Nathaniel Deutsch explores childbirth and naming traditions among Eastern European Jewish families in the late 19th century. Using the story of Jennie Levine and midwife Scheindel Knopfer, he examines how families navigated naming choices, welcomed new babies, and adapted customs in crowded tenements. Join for a livestreamed conversation, with an in-person watch party, author meet-and-greet, and book signing.
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:30 pm
Free
Free
Workshop | Outdoor Workout with Chelsea Piers Fitness
Get moving this summer with a free 60-minute workout led by top trainers from Chelsea Piers Fitness, known for world-class sports facilities and dynamic programming. This energizing class offers a taste of what Chelsea Piers offers, tailored to all fitness levels. Whether you're a seasoned athlete or new to fitness, join a welcoming community and break a sweat by the water. No experience necessary--just bring your energy and enjoy the fresh air! A water bottle is recommended.
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:30 pm
Free
Free
Workshop | SharQui Bellydance Workout
Enjoy a workout where you'll learn traditional bellydance moves and dance to high energy music for fitness benefits. In each 60 minute SharQui class, everyone's a dancer from the beginning - you'll be moving gracefully and learning choreography through repetition in no time! Bring comfortable shoes to dance on the grass.
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:30 pm
Free
Free
Screening | A Trial in Prague – Screening & Discussion
This documentary by Zuzana Justman chronicles the 1952 political show trial of fourteen leading Czechoslovak Communists, most of them Jewish, who were falsely accused of treason and espionage. The screening is followed by a discussion with Justman and film programmer Irena Kovarova, exploring the trial’s historical context and its impact on Czech-Jewish history.
New York City, NY; NYC
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7:00 pm
pay-what-you-wish, reservation required
pay-what-you-wish, reservation required
Concert | Boundary-Pushing Electronic & Piano Musician
Serene is a concert pianist and computer scientist. Whether performing Rachmaninoff’s Concertos at the Vienna Konzerthaus, composing avant-garde cyberpunk VR music for the Academy Museum, or programming and performing alongside industrial robots at a fusion energy facility, Serene's artistic vision extends far beyond traditional boundaries. She enjoys collaborations across genres, whether composing opera or performing with Grimes wearing brainwave devices. In a remarkably short time, she has gathered an international following whilst bridging the gap between the traditional and the cutting-edge. RSVP does not guarantee entry. Coat check is limited. Please do not bring any large bags or backpacks.
New York City, NY; NYC
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7:00 pm
Free
Free
Classical Music | Hindustani Classical Works for Guitar & Piano (In Person AND Online!)
This performance presents a unique conversation between two groundbreaking artists -- Alec Goldfarb (Hindustani classical guitar) and Utsav Lal (piano) -- in a powerful reimagining of Hindustani classical music. Trained in the rigor of the tradition, Goldfarb and Lal push the boundaries of form and texture, expanding the idiom with shifting rhythmic architectures, new harmonic terrains, and uncanny textures. Indian pianist/composer Utsav lal, often known as the 'Raga Pianist' is recognised as the rarest of pianists. Stunning the world with his innovative handling of Indian Classical Music on a Western instrument, The Irish Times describes Utsav Lal as "a fleet-fingered performer whose best moments can be both highly evocative and dazzling." Lal's ground-breaking work has garnered an impressive career spanning two decades, with solo performances at world famous venues like Carnegie Hall (New York), Southbank Centre (London), Kennedy Center (Washington DC), Steinway Hall (New York), Asia Society (Hong Kong), Arts Center (Melbourne). Alec Goldfarb is a Brooklyn-based guitarist, composer, and Hindustani classical musician known for blending jazz, new music, and Indian classical traditions. A DownBeat Magazine award-winning composer, his music is described as "full of ingenious juxtapositions" (The Wire), and unravels hidden meeting points between disparate sound cultures, revealing the intricate movement of traditions across time. You must register separately for each concert, and there is a strict deadline: 11am the day before each concert. You will not be allowed on campus without registering.
New York City, NY; NYC
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7:00 pm
Free
Free
7:00 pm
Regular: $55
Member: $0
Regular: $55
Member: $0
Join the Club!
Classical Music | The Evolution of Keyboard Compositions (In Person AND Online!)
This event is an evening that spans the evolution of keyboard compositions, from virginal keyboard and fortepiano to Spirio. World premiere micro-commissions for Spirio will be presented as part of the evening. A preconcert talk at 6:30pm is free and open to all ticket holders. Watch the performance on the linked page at the scheduled date and time. This performance won't be available to stream afterward on demand.
New York City, NY; NYC
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7:30 pm
Free
Free
8:00 pm
Regular: $37
Member: $0
Regular: $37
Member: $0
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Workshop | Stargazing in the Park
Immerse yourself in the wonders of the night sky. The friendly team from the Amateur Astronomers Association will be there with high-powered telescopes, ready to reveal the secrets of the cosmos.
From sunset to 30 minutes before park closure. Every Tuesday night from April to October!
New York City, NY; NYC
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8:15 pm
Free
Free
9:30 pm
Regular: $35
Member: $0
Regular: $35
Member: $0
Join the Club!
Complimentary Tickets
to shows, concerts ... (CFT Deals!)
Jazz | Multi Grammy-Nominated Jazz Singer who Performed with Ray Charles at Iconic Venue
Regular Price: $40CFT Member Price: $0.00
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