Alex Prizgintas: A Fusion of History and Cello Harmonies

In Woodbury, Alex Prizgintas stands out as a prominent figure with a passion for both history and music. As an author, musician, and historian, he concluded the previous year with an impressive tally of 135 events where he showcased his talents in cello performances and historical presentations. Moving into 2024, there is no sign of him slowing down, with a significant portion of bookings already in place.

Dairy History Lecture in Monroe-Woodbury

One of Alex's first scheduled appearances is a lecture entitled "Orange County's Dairies and Their Milk Bottles." This engaging talk will occur at the Monroe Free Library on Wednesday, January 17, 2024, at 6:30 p.m. Here, attendees will be transported through a narrative that spans powerful ideas and stubborn disputes, tracing back to the emergence of Orange County as a critical site for the dairy farming industry and the commercial distribution of liquid milk.

The lecture delves into the influential lives of pioneers like Thaddeus Selleck of Chester, Jacob Vail of Goshen, and Alexander Campbell of Monroe, all of whom contributed significantly to the region's agricultural prosperity. Their innovative efforts led to the rise of over 4,000 farms by 1884 and sustained the dairy farming industry well into the mid-20th century.

A display of historical milk bottles from the Orange County Milk Bottle Museum will accompany stories of local dairy farming families, such as the Eisma Brothers, William Burgess, and Hunt Tilford Wagstaff's Woodland Farms, providing a tangible connection to the past.

"Bach-2-Rock" Cello Concert

The following week, music enthusiasts can experience Prizgintas's unique cello concert titled "Bach-2-Rock" at the Woodbury Public Library's Highland Mills Branch. This event, scheduled for Thursday, January 25, 2024, at 6:00 p.m., promises to be a harmonious blend of classic and contemporary sounds. Trained in classical music, Alex uses modern technology, such as distortion, delay, and 'wah-wah' pedals, alongside a looping station and a powerful amplifier, to layer sound and create an immersive musical experience.

Prizgintas intertwines narrations with his music to share fascinating backstories of various genres, including baroque, jazz, folk, and rock 'n' roll. His performances serve not only as entertainment but also as educational journeys, aiming to foster a more profound appreciation and connection with the audience.

With his innovative interpretations and engaging storytelling, Alex reflects on influences from musical legends such as Jimi Hendrix, Johann Sebastian Bach, and Dave Brubeck, making each concert a unique and memorable event.

musician, historian, lectures