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Author: Saratoga TODAY

Meet Lyla!

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Neighborhood Buzz.


Lyla was living in horrible conditions in a neighboring county when another rescue was able to save her. They contacted us to see if we had space for her and her three 6 week old kittens. We were told this is Lyla’s 4th litter and she is estimated to be 2 years old. She is just about the sweetest girl and such a good mother. It is now her time to find an amazing family who will spoil her with love and attention. Her former owners never even name her. She is currently in a foster home with her kittens and is receiving all the love that she was never given at her previous residence. Lyla loves attention and has such a nice personality according to her foster parents. She has been spayed, is up to date on vaccines and now available for adoption. Online foster and adoption applications can be found on the HOPE website at www.hopeanimalrescue.org. For any questions give us a call at 518-450-7013.

Leadership Saratoga Applications Open for the Class of 2026-27

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in News.

Applications are now being accepted for those interested in being a part of the award-winning Leadership Saratoga program.

Sponsored by the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce, this popular program is dedicated to the development of leaders who will serve their communities today and in the future.

The purpose of Leadership Saratoga is to inform and educate members of the community who want to ensure its success by giving of their time, talents, energy and expertise. This is often in a volunteer capacity such as serving on a board of a non-profit organization, a board of education, a land use board or becoming an elected official. Since the program’s inception in 1985, more than 700 graduates have completed the program.

The 2026-2027 Leadership Saratoga program will run from September 2026 to May 2027. Program participants are engaged in a nine-month cohort with other participants where they explore team dynamics, leadership, creative problem solving, strategic planning, communications, board governance, development and quality of life, education systems, government and more. Insider tours and experiences, case studies and group service projects are also part of this dynamic development program.

“Participating in Leadership Saratoga has helped me learn and grow exponentially—both personally and professionally. The experiential learning and collaborative environment challenged me to think differently, build essential leadership skills, and expand my knowledge of the non-profit community in the Capital District. I’ve gained confidence and a deeper understanding of how leaders can help organizations grow and thrive.  This experience has been a powerful stepping stone for future leadership opportunities, and I’m truly grateful for the impact it has had on my commitment to continual personal growth and my ability to serve others in our community,” says Joyce M. Rice, Chief Operating Officer at The Anderson Financial Group.

The application period, including interviews, is open from April 1 through May 30, 2026. Advisory Board members from leading area companies and organizations help to review applications and conduct interviews for the program.

Members of the Advisory Board are Theresa Agresta – Culture Talk; David Collins – D.A. Collins Companies; Libby Clark – Law Office of M. Elizabeth Clark, Esq. P.C.; Matt D’Abate – Amsure; Aimee Dake – AIM Services; Carmine DeCrescente – DeCrescente Distributing; Maggie Fronk – Wellspring; Rajat Ghoshal – Polyset Company; Jaclyn Hakes – MJ Engineering, Architecture, Landscape Architecture, and Land Surveying, P.C.; Chad Kiesow – Stewart’s Shops; Jason Lynch – Pallette Stone; Maire Masterson – Business for Good Foundation; and Amy Smith – Saratoga Arms Hotel.

Anyone interested in learning more about Leadership Saratoga or considering applying to be a member of the class of 2026-2027 can visit www.LeadershipSaratoga.org  for additional information.

About the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce: Since 1918, the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce has been opening doors and closing deals for businesses throughout the Saratoga County community. Guided by a strong and sustainable vision, the Chamber leads the way in maintaining and strengthening a healthy business climate, initiating constructive community action, and creating a community where all can thrive.

Week of March 27 – April 2, 2026 

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Blotter, Police Blotter.

March 18, 2026. 9:08 a.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Saratoga Springs resident on charges of misdemeanor 2nd degree aggravated harassment- communicate threat physical/ property harm. Arrest occurred on Lincoln Avenue.

March 18, 2026. 1:27 p.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested an Albany resident on charges of misdemeanor 4th degree harassment: cause fear of threat to employment or business, misdemeanor 2nd degree criminal contempt: disobey court and misdemeanor 2nd degree aggravated harassment- communicate threat physical/ property harm. Arrest occurred on Union Ave. 

March 18, 2026. 7:21 p.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Saratoga Springs resident on charges of misdemeanor criminal mischief: intent to damage property, misdemeanor 2nd degree harassment: physical contact and misdemeanor 1st degree criminal contempt: violate order of protection- physical contact. Arrest occurred on Locust Grove Road.

March 18, 2026. 7:26 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Brooklyn resident in the Town of Milton on charges of misdemeanor operating a motor vehicle impaired by drugs- first offense. Appearance ticket issued. 

March 19, 2026. 2:55 p.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Saratoga Springs resident on charges of misdemeanor 3rd degree criminal trespass: property fenced in or enclosed. Arrest occurred on South Broadway. 

March 19, 2026. 9:33 p.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Rotterdam resident on charges of misdemeanor DWI- first offense and other traffic offenses. Arrest occurred on North Broadway.

March 20, 2026. 9:17 a.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested an Amsterdam resident on charges of felony 3rd degree rape- vaginal sexual contact with a person less than 17. Arrest occurred on Dyer Circle. 

March 20, 2026. 4:38 p.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Saratoga Springs resident on charges of misdemeanor petit larceny. Arrest occurred on Ballston Avenue.

March 20, 2026. 8:42 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Lake George resident in the Town of Wilton on charges of felony tampering with physical evidence: conceal/destroy, felony criminal possession of a controlled substance- cocaine 500 milligrams and misdemeanor 7th degree criminal possession of a controlled substance. Appearance ticket issued. 

March 20, 2026. 10:47 p.m.- New York State Police arrested two Amsterdam residents in the Town of Galway. The first was charged with misdemeanor DWI- first offense. The Second was charged with Felony DWI: previous conviction within the last 10 years, felony aggravated unlicensed operation: permanent revocation, misdemeanor criminal impersonation and misdemeanor falsifying business records: omit true entry. Arrest stemmed from a single vehicle accident on West Galway RD in which one person was injured.

March 20, 2026. 10:58 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Corpus Christi, TX resident in the City of Saratoga Springs on charges of misdemeanor DWI- first offense and misdemeanor operating a motor vehicle with a BAC of .08 or higher- first offense. Appearance ticket issued. 

March 21, 2026. 12:42 a.m.- New York State Police arrested a Middle Grove resident in the Town of Greenfield on charges of misdemeanor DWI- first offense and misdemeanor operating a motor vehicle with a BAC of .08 or higher- first offense. Appearance ticket issued. Arrest stemmed from a single vehicle accident on Goosehollow Road. 

March 21, 2026. 3:11 a.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Saratoga Springs resident on charges of misdemeanor DWI- first offence, misdemeanor operating  a motor vehicle with a BAC of .08 or higher and other traffic offenses. Arrest occurred at the intersection of Excelsior Spring Avenue and Victoria Lane. 

March 21, 2026. 11:37 a.m.- New York State Police arrested a Clifton Park resident in the Town of Clifton Park on charges of misdemeanor 3rd degree assault: with intent to cause physical injury and three counts of misdemeanor act in a manner to injure a child less than 17. Appearance ticket issued.

March 21, 2026. 4:26 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Saratoga Springs resident in the Town of Malta on charges of misdemeanor petit larceny. Appearance ticket issued.

March 21, 2026. 10:23 p.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Schuylerville resident on charges of misdemeanor DWI-first offense, misdemeanor operating a motor vehicle with a BAC of.08 or higher and felony aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle. Arrest occurred on South Broadway. 

March 21, 2026. 10:31 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Ballston Lake resident in the Town of Clifton Park on charges of felony DWI: previous conviction within last 10 years, felony aggravated DWI: BAC of .18 or higher- previous conviction within the last 10 years, felony aggravated unlicensed operation, felony operating a motor vehicle with BAC of .08 or higher- prior conviction in the last 10 years and misdemeanor circumvent interlock device. Appearance ticket issued. 

March 22, 2026. 4:45 a.m.- Saratoga Springs arrested a Queensbury resident on charges of misdemeanor disorderly conduct: create hazardous or physically offensive condition. Arrest occurred on Henry Street. 

March 22, 2026. 3:50 a.m.- New York State Police arrested a Saratoga Springs resident in the City of Saratoga Springs on charges of misdemeanor DWI- first offense and misdemeanor operating a motor vehicle with a BAC of .08 or higher- first offense. Appearance ticket issued.

March 22, 2026. 7:23 p.m.- Saratoga Springs Police arrested a Clifton Park resident on charges of criminal contempt- prior conviction within the last five years and aggravated family offense-more than one offense within the last five years. Arrest occurred on Congress Street.

March 23, 2026. 1:05 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Mechanicville resident in the Town of Malta on charges of misdemeanor DWI- first offense and misdemeanor operating a motor vehicle with a BAC of .08 or higher- first offense. Appearance ticket issued. Arrest stemmed from a single vehicle accident at the intersection of Routes 9 & 67. 

March 23, 2026. 1:34 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Glens Falls resident in the Town of Moreau on charges of misdemeanor operating a motor vehicle impaired by drugs- 1st offense and two counts of misdemeanor 7th degree criminal possession of a controlled substance. Appearance ticket issued, investigation pending.

March 23, 2026. 7: 32 p.m.- New York State Police arrested an individual in the Town of Wilton on charges of misdemeanor petit larceny and misdemeanor 7th degree criminal possession of a controlled substance. Appearance ticket issued.

March 24, 2026. 2:27 p.m.- New York State Police arrested a Ballston Spa resident in the Town of Malta on charges of misdemeanor 2nd degree obstruction of governmental administration: prevent official function, misdemeanor resisting arrest, and misdemeanor 3rd degree assault with intent to cause physical injury. Appearance ticket issued. 

Michael John “Mikey” Barron

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Obituaries.

SCHUYLERVILLE – Michael John “Mikey” Barron answered his final alarm on Sunday, March 22, 2026, at his home surrounded by his wife and dog. He was born April 19, 1958, in Saratoga Springs, New York to the late Peter and Catherine (Falsone) Barron.  

He was a cherished member of the community, known for his skill as a craftsman and his dedication to firefighting. Michael’s career was spent in the maintenance department of the Hollingsworth and Vose Papermill, located in Clarks Mills, NY, from where he retired after many dedicated years of service. 

Known affectionately as Mikey, he was a master craftsman, owning Mike’s Custom Woodworking since 1978, creating unique wood masterpieces. His attention to detail and precision craftsmanship are showcased in every project he completed, from kitchen remodels and trim work to doors and custom furniture. 

Mikey was also a respected member of the Schuyler Hose Co., where he served as Assistant Chief, Captain and Safety Officer, proudly wearing #7 on his helmet, for over 50 years.  Throughout his time of selfless service in the Fire Department, he touched countless lives. 

Mikey was a lover of speed, rock and roll, NASCAR and the Los Angeles Rams; he was well known, for being seen around town on his Harley or in his Black Mercury Hot Rod. An avid outdoorsman, he enjoyed fishing and deer hunting and was a dedicated member of the White Creek Fish and Game Club, for over 45 years. 

Michael met the love of his life, Julia (Macica) Barron, at her sister’s wedding.  They spent 40 wonderful years together, frequently traveling in search of great food.  Wherever they went, Mike’s favorite was always sausage and mushroom pizza. 

No matter where life took him, his beloved Golden Retriever, Alley, was always by his side; she was his faithful co-pilot on their daily Cumberland Farms coffee runs. 

For those Mikey impacted and helped throughout the years, he wanted to reassure you that everything is going to be ok, and that he loves you all. 

Mikey is survived by his close-knit family, wife Julia (Macica) Barron; son, Jake Davis-Barron; grandson JJ (Tabitha) Barron; brother, Philip (Kristine) Barron; brothers-in-law, Tom (June) Macica, Kenny Macica and Jerry (Kimberly) Macica; sisters-in-law, Margie Hatin and Carolyn (Matt) Wierderct; his special friends, Marshall Truax, Tom and Collin Stewart, Steven and Matt Diehl, Pierre Delvaux and several nieces and nephews. 

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his sister-in-law, Constance L. Jacobson.

Family and friends may call from 3 to 7 pm on Friday, March 27, 2026, at Flynn Bros, Inc. Funeral Home, 13 Gates Ave, Schuylerville, NY, 12871.  His Mass of Christian Burial will be held the following morning at 10 am at the Notre Dame Visitation Church, Pearl St, Schuylerville, NY, 12871. 

Family and friends are invited to a reception at the Old Saratoga American Legion, Post #278, 6 Clancy Street, Schuylerville, NY, 12871, immediately following his funeral mass. 

Mike’s family will join everyone at the legion following his private burial in St. Mary’s Cemetery. 

Donations in his honor may be made to the Schuyler Hose Co. 35 Spring St, Schuylerville, NY, 12871. 

His memory will be cherished by all who knew him. We invite you to leave memories and upload photos to his memorial page www.flynnbrosinc.com, to remember and celebrate the life of our beloved Michael “Mikey” Barron.

Jacqueline R. (Perry) Nagel

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Obituaries.

SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY – Jacqueline R. (Perry) Nagel, 94, passed away peacefully on March 21, 2026.

Jackie was born on July 21, 1931, in Saratoga Springs, New York, the daughter of Samuel and Isabelle Rothe. Jackie and her sisters Jayne and Joan were the first triplets born at Saratoga Hospital.

Jackie graduated as Salutatorian from Saratoga Springs High School and then attended Skidmore College.

Jackie was married to John (Jack) Perry in 1953, and they raised three daughters together. The family enjoyed vacations to Cape Cod and camping in the Adirondacks. In later years, Jackie and Jack enjoyed spending time at their summer camp in Lake Lauderdale.

Following the passing of her husband Jack in 1995, Jackie was married to William Nagel in 2003. They enjoyed the majority of their time together in Florida until his passing in 2006.

Jackie spent many happy years working at a Saratoga Springs pediatrician’s office where she made lifelong friendships and enjoyed many special celebrations.

Faith was an integral part of Jackie’s life, and she was a member of the Presbyterian Church for most of her life. She took a trip to Uganda in 2007 with the AIDS Orphans Education Trust (AOET) where she met Timothy, a child she had been sponsoring, and spent a week with the AOET group helping his local community. Timothy, his family, and the trip were very meaningful to her and one that she spoke about often.

She found the good in everyone and made friends wherever she went. Jackie always had a big smile and compassionate heart. She was dearly loved by her family and friends.

Jackie was predeceased by her parents; her husband Jack Perry; her husband Bill Nagel; her siblings, Jayne Bobinis, Joan Wilson, Cameron Sovich, Ollie Wilcox, and Foster Comstock. She is survived by her loving daughters, Susan (Pete) Salmon, Katherine Rankin, and Nancy (Gregg) Decker; her loving grandchildren, Philip Rankin, Samantha Decker, and Nina Garay; and several nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held on March 27, 2026 from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes, 628 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY. A funeral service will be held at 12:00 PM at the funeral home with Rev. Amaury Tañón-Santos officiating. Interment will be in Greenfield Cemetery, Greenfield, New York at a later date. 

Memorial donations in Jackie’s memory may be directed to the Presbyterian-United Church of Christ, 24 Circular Street, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.

Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com.

Schuylerville Woman Bites Sheriff’s Office Sergeant 

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in News, Uncategorized.

A Schuylerville resident has been arrested after they allegedly bit a Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office Sergeant. 

Naydine Sargent, 19, of Schuylerville, was arrested on the night of March 19 after Saratoga County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to a domestic incident on Lafayette in the Village of Schuylerville. Sargent was charged with felony 2nd degree assault and misdemeanor resisting arrest. 

According to the Sheriff’s Office, Sarent had been taken into taken into custody when she got free from handcuffs and bit a Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office sergeant on his finger, injuring him. The sergeant was treated on scene by Community EMS and later went to Saratoga Hospital for treatment and evaluation. 

Sargent was arraigned in the Saratoga Town Court and released on her own recognizance. 

Inaugural Field of Honor Display Coming to Galway

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in News.

GALWAY — Alliance180—a nonprofit dedicated to supporting veterans, first responders, and frontline health care workers—will host its inaugural Field of Honor, a patriotic display honoring the men and women who have shaped the nation, beginning Sunday, June 14 through Sunday, June 21, at the Galway Town Hall at 5910 Sacandaga Road.

The Field of Honor will feature 250 United States flags, each dedicated in honor or memory of a hero. The display opens with a Flag Day Opening Ceremony on Sunday, June 14 at 1 p.m.

Each flag in the display includes a personal dedication tag, sharing the story of a veteran, first responder, loved one, or hero being honored. The flags will remain in the field until June 21, when the flag and dedication tag will be returned to the individual or organization who sponsored it.

Each flag will be sponsored by supporters of Alliance180, or individuals honoring their loved ones. Proceeds from the event will benefit Alliance180, supporting its mission to prevent suicide and heal trauma among veterans, first responders, and frontline health care workers through a peer-to-peer, action-based program centered on transformative equine experiences.

In recognition of America 250, Alliance180 will also present a special educational exhibit adjacent to the Field of Honor. The exhibit will feature a life-sized Declaration of Independence banner, accompanied by historic American flags representing the 26 flags flown over the United States during the past 250 years, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore the nation’s history.

Curtis Lumber is the presenting sponsor for this year’s event. Those looking to donate, sponsor a flag, or learn more information can visit www.healingfield.org/event/galway-ny/.

Alliance180 was founded by Bob Nevins, a decorated Army helicopter pilot who served during the Vietnam War. The program was developed and written by co-founder Melody Squier, who is an equine specialist and first responder.

For more information about Alliance180, visit www.alliance180.org.

Horse Racing News: Jockey Club in Town, Museum Seeks Curator, Handicapping Series Announced

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Sports.

Image via The Jockey Club.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Jockey Club’s 2026 Round Table Conference on Matters Pertaining to Racing will be held on Thursday, Aug. 6 at the Saratoga Springs City Center. Last year’s iteration of the annual event featured NBC News Correspondent Steve Kornacki as its keynote speaker. The 2025 conference was livestreamed on The Jockey Club’s website at jockeyclub.com.

The National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame is seeking a full-time museum curator. The position is immediately available. The museum curator is responsible for exhibition development, installation, and maintenance of temporary and semi-permanent exhibitions; working in collaboration with the collections manager with collection, acquisitions, and conservation; responding to media and public inquiries about the exhibitions and permanent collections; maintaining communication between the curatorial department and the Collections and Exhibits Committee and Board of Trustees. 

The position requires a B.A. in Museum Studies, History, or Art History with three to five years of experience in curatorial work. An M.A. in Museum Studies or related field and museum work experience is preferred. The position also requires knowledge of collections management and exhibition development procedures, in addition to the ability to prioritize, delegate, and work collaboratively on major projects. A strong attention to detail and superior organizational skills are essential. Knowledge of the thoroughbred racing industry and history preferred. Interested candidates should send resume, cover letter, and references to Jennifer Rickman at jrickman@racingmuseum.net.

The Racing Museum also recently unveiled its schedule for a series of three handicapping seminars leading up to the 152nd running of the Kentucky Derby on May 2. Hosted by handicapper Tom Amello, the series will take place at the museum on the following dates:

• Saturday, March 28, 11 a.m. — featuring analysis of the Arkansas Derby at Oaklawn Park and the Florida Derby at Gulfstream Park.

• Saturday, April 4, 11 a.m. — featuring analysis of the Blue Grass Stakes at Keeneland Race Course, Santa Anita Derby at Santa Anita Park, and Wood Memorial Stakes at Aqueduct Racetrack.

• Saturday, April 25, 11 a.m. — Kentucky Derby handicapping seminar with Tom Amello and Michael Veitch. Analysis of key Kentucky Derby preps and predictions for the upcoming 152nd running of the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs.

Seminars are included with paid museum admission and are free for museum members. There will also be racing trivia during each seminar for a chance to win prizes.

Halfmoon Skier Crowned Overall Individual National Champion

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Featured, Sports.

Photo of Philip Matthews via Paul Smith’s College Athletics.

LAKE PLACID — Halfmoon native Philip Matthews, currently a junior at Paul Smith’s College in the Adirondacks, was crowned Overall Individual National Champion at the 2026 U.S. Collegiate Ski & Snowboard National Championships in Lake Placid last week.

Matthews’ title is awarded to the athlete with the best combined results across all championship races. He became the third Bobcat in program history to win the overall individual title, joining two-time champion Aidan Ripp and 2024 champion Dolcie Tanguay.

“This past week was a huge challenge for us as a team, but I think we handled it amazingly,” Matthews said. “For the first race, I told the boys we needed to come out of the gate swinging and we carried that energy throughout the week… Winning the overall individual championship was something that I wanted to do since I was a freshman and [I] really focused on that all year.”

Matthews is a graduate of Shenendehowa High School.

SPAC Announces 2026 Philadelphia Orchestra Season

Written by Saratoga TODAY on . Posted in Entertainment, Featured.

Photo of Josh Groban and still from “Star Wars” provided by the Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC).

SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC) will host the Philadelphia Orchestra for a three-week summer residency from Aug. 5 to 22. 

Led by Music and Artistic Director Yannick Nezet-Seguin, the season pairs classical masterworks with SPAC premieres and performances by world-renowned artists, including Tony, Emmy, and five-time Grammy Award–nominated singer Josh Groban; Grammy–nominated indie-folk singer Gregory Alan Isakov; and two-time Tony Award–winning Broadway star Brian Stokes Mitchell.

Additional performances include screenings of “Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows — Part 1” and “Star Wars: A New Hope,” which will be projected onto screens in HD while the orchestra performs the accompanying film scores live; Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony; “The Four Seasons” by Vivaldi and “The Four Seasons of Buenos Aires” by Astor Piazzolla; the Tchaikovsky Spectacular; Mozart & Mahler; “Pictures from an Exhibition” with Daniele Rustioni; Emanuel Ax Plays Beethoven; and Gershwin’s “An American in Paris.”   

“Our 2026 Philadelphia Orchestra season marks a milestone celebration—60 years of extraordinary music at SPAC with the Orchestra,” said Elizabeth Sobol, CEO of SPAC. “Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony, which opened the Orchestra’s first season here in 1966, returns as the centerpiece of this summer’s season, led by Yannick Nézet-Séguin. This monumental work, with its transcendent choral finale, offers our community a stirring experience that celebrates six decades of artistry and the enduring partnership between SPAC and the Orchestra.”

Highlighting the season is the Philadelphia Orchestra debut of Josh Groban on Aug. 14. Groban will perform a special Stage, Screen & Symphony program that blends musical theater hits, cinema classics, and symphonic arrangements. Groban has sold more than 35 million albums worldwide, headlined legendary venues on multiple continents, and entertained audiences with acclaimed film and television appearances.

Indie-folk singer Gregory Alan Isakov will make his SPAC and Philadelphia Orchestra debut to close the season on Aug. 22. The Johannesburg-born songwriter brings songs such as “Miles to Go,” “Liars,” “Big Black Car,” and “Amsterdam” to the stage in sweeping orchestral arrangements. Isakov has collaborated with many symphonies, including the Colorado Symphony, as well as the Los Angeles Philharmonic—the latter of which was hailed by the Los Angeles Times as “a singular experience.”

Philadelphia Orchestra Music and Artistic Director Yannick Nézet-Séguin will return to the podium on Aug. 15 to anchor SPAC’s 60th anniversary season with Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony, featuring a cast that includes soprano Leah Hawkins, mezzo-soprano J’Nai Bridges, tenor Issachah Savage, and bass-baritone Ryan Speedo Green, alongside Albany Pro Musica. The program will open with the SPAC premiere of William Grant Still’s rarely performed “Wood Notes,” a pastoral orchestral suite inspired by the natural beauty of the American South and the poetry of Joseph Mitchell Pilche. Continuing the 60th anniversary theme of “Seasons,” the residency will also feature paired performances of “The Four Seasons” by Vivaldi and “The Four Seasons of Buenos Aires” by Astor Piazzolla, with concertmaster David Kim serving as leader and soloist on Aug. 19.

Kicking off the season with three performances is Philadelphia Orchestra Principal Guest Conductor Marin Alsop (Aug. 5-7), including the popular “Tchaikovsky Spectacular” program, followed by an evening featuring the SPAC premiere of Mozart’s “Piano Concerto No. 23,” with pianist Jeneba Kanneh-Mason in her SPAC and Orchestra debuts, and Mahler’s “Symphony No. 1.”

Returning for the first time since 2014, two-time Tony–winning Broadway star Brian Stokes Mitchell will lead, on Aug. 7, an “American Dreams” program highlighted by his narration of Aaron Copland’s “Lincoln Portrait,” a reflection on unity, equality, and democratic responsibility. In honor of America’s 250th anniversary in 2026, the program also draws inspiration from Marian Anderson’s landmark performance of the work at SPAC 50 years ago. The evening features Broadway favorites, including “Wheels of a Dream” from Ragtime, in which Mitchell originated the leading role, and concludes with Dvořák’s “Symphony No. 9,” written during the composer’s time in the United States and inspired by American musical traditions.

Continuing this exploration of American music, New Zealand conductor Gemma New will make her SPAC debut on Aug. 20, leading Gershwin’s “An American in Paris” paired with Ravel’s “Piano Concerto in G” and Florence Price’s “Piano Concerto in One Movement,” performed by pianist Michelle Cann, who will also appear on the SPAC stage for the first time.

Also highlighting the season is the return of pianist Emanuel Ax on Aug. 13, performing Beethoven’s “Piano Concerto No. 5,” one of the composer’s most iconic works, under the baton of newly appointed Principal Guest Conductor of The Metropolitan Opera Danielle Rustioni, making his SPAC debut. On Aug. 12, Rustioni will lead Musorgsky’s “Pictures from an Exhibition” and Korngold’s “Violin Concerto,” featuring the SPAC and Orchestra debuts of celebrated violinist Bomsori Kim.

Finally, the popular film nights will return with “Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows — Part 1” on Aug. 8 and “Star Wars: A New Hope” on Aug. 21.

“August at SPAC will bring three remarkable vocalists across genres—Josh Groban, Gregory Alan Isakov, and Brian Stokes Mitchell—alongside classical music’s most in-demand artists, from Saratoga favorites and icons like Marin Alsop and Emanuel Ax to rising stars making their SPAC debuts, including Jeneba Kanneh-Mason, following the recent debuts of her siblings Isata Kanneh-Mason and Sheku Kanneh-Mason,” said Christopher Shiley, president of SPAC. “From masterworks and SPAC premieres to programs inspired by the themes of ‘Seasons’ and America’s 250th anniversary, this summer promises to inspire, uplift, and connect our community through music.”

Tickets are already available for members (tiered by level) and will be available to the general public on March 25 at 10 a.m. Visit spac.org for details.