The barn doors open at 1:30 p.m. and the music begins at 2 p.m. Rain or shine—no refunds. Tickets Born in the final hours of 1977 in the suburbs of Cork, Ireland, Niall Connolly was raised on a soundtrack that shaped his storytelling soul—Nirvana on the Walkman, Leonard Cohen on his sister’s stereo, and the vibrant voices of Cork’s 1990s music scene. Later came snippets of New York street conversations, tales of woe on the radio, and the hum of highways across Europe. Every experience finds its way into Connolly’s music, woven into melodies that unfold like stories—layer by layer, listen by listen. In the studio, he builds rich harmonies. On stage, he delivers a mix of electricity, sincerity, and humor that captivates audiences worldwide. Niall played to an appreciative - and packed - music room inside the Ross Farm house last winter, so we are thrilled to be able to welcome a larger audience inside the barn on Sunday, May 4 for an unforgettable afternoon of music and storytelling. Seating inside the barn is limited and provided. Early May afternoons can be chilly, so extra layers are recommended.

The barn doors slide open at 6:30 p.m. and the music begins at 7 p.m. Rain or shine—no refunds. Tickets From the University of Chicago to the heart of the blues scene, Justin Howl’s musical journey began in the city’s clubs and deep in the archives of its vast library collections. While rooted in Chicago blues, he’s drawn to the hypnotic rhythms of North Mississippi blues, calling it his way of “going back home through the music.” An acclaimed, well-traveled performer, Justin has been praised by Blues Blast Magazine as a “strong singer” whose songs “will strike a chord with you.” We’re thrilled to welcome Justin Howl to the Barn at Ross Farm for the first time in our 11th season of live music at the historic estate! Seating inside the barn is limited and will be provided. Early May evenings can be chilly, so extra layers or jackets are strongly recommended.

Saturday, May 17 - 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. Raindate: Sunday, May 18, 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tickets Experience the next generation of jazz alongside seasoned pros in a stunning historic setting! Elite student ensembles—including the Rutgers Jazz Guitar Combo, Montclair State Stryker Jazz Combo, William Paterson All Stars, Ridge Big Band, and Ridge Jazz Quintet—will set the stage with dynamic performances throughout the afternoon. As evening approaches, The Dave Stryker Band and Frankie Midnight Quartet will bring the night to life with world-class jazz. Don't miss this incredible celebration of talent and tradition! Bring your lawn chairs or blankets to spread out and enjoy the bands, and feel free to bring picnics - we just ask you to carry out what you carry in. Individual set times will be shared in the coming weeks!

Gates open at 6:30 p.m. Concert begins at 7 p.m. Tickets Join us for an unforgettable evening with singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Vanessa Collier! A powerhouse performer blending blues, soul, and rock, Collier has earned 12 Blues Music Award nominations and four wins, including 2024’s Contemporary Blues Female Artist of the Year and B.B. King Entertainer of the Year nominee. Her latest album, Do It My Own Way, channels the spirit of classic Memphis soul with groove-driven horns, poignant lyrics, and her signature fiery saxophone. Featuring legendary Hi Records organist Rev. Charles Hodges, the album delivers raw energy and timeless storytelling, from the anthemic title track to the gospel-tinged tribute “Rosetta.” A Berklee College of Music graduate and former bandmate of blues legend Joe Louis Walker, Collier has performed at the Chicago Blues Festival and opened for Blues Traveler. With influences like Mavis Staples, Sharon Jones, and Aretha Franklin, she brings authenticity and passion to every performance. Don’t miss this electrifying artist whose “rise to the top is nothing short of meteoric” (Making a Scene). Bring your lawn chairs or blankets to spread out and enjoy! Concert will be held rain or shine, no refunds. Picnics or snacks are welcome, too, […]