Iron Matt Fundraiser 3

This event is over, but read how it turned out.

Come listen to the classic, romantic voice of Riccardo Foresi lakeside at the Indian Trail Club on Sept 12. This is a benefit concert for the Matthew Larson Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation. This organization was created by the family and friends of 7 year old Matthew James Larson, who lost a 5 year battle with brain and spinal tumors in April 2007. The Foundation hopes to ease the burdens on the children and families who are battling this horrible disease, while also funding medical and scientific research to find a cure.

Riccardo Foresi is a young singer from Italy whose star is rising in America. An opportunity to hear a voice like this in an intimate, scenic setting is one that lovers of music and song should take advantage of because it will not happen often in the future. Riccardo’s voice exhibits the skill and control of the classically trained, but the powerful emotion he brings to each song have made him popular with both old and young. His classic skill provide that same quality of voice that has made Italian singers favorites in America for more than a hundred years.

Tickets for the September 12th concert are $35, and hot dogs, hamburgers and drinks will be available
in the Picnic Grove. It is scheduled for 5:30pm. Mail checks to: T. Casaleggio, 781 Ramapo Valley Rd, Oakland, N.J. 07436 –Make checks out to; LARSON FOUNDATION

If you have additional questions, you can contact Terri Casaleggio at 201-337-4658. Below, Terri offers some background on both Matt Larson and Roberto Foresi.

When Two Paths Cross

In 2002, two and a half year old Matthew Larson of Franklin Lakes was diagnosed with a pediatric brain tumor. In 2004, twenty-one year old Riccardo Foresi of Monte San Martino, Italy decided to come to America to fulfill his dream in the world of music. These two lovely young people couldn’t possibly know that some day their lives would be connected.

Matthew embarked on a path too often traveled by children; rounds of chemotherapy, major surgery, stem cell transplant. His path was long and harsh and painful. He was brave as he was good. Ultimately, Matthew lost his battle in April of 2007.

Riccardo arrived in America in 2005 with only his dream to propel him. With no English and very little money he made his way in the music circles of New York City, gradually building his artistry, his repertoire, and earning the affection of people who wanted to help him. His beautiful tenor voice was being heard and appreciated. He was growing as a performer. Appearances across the country added to his confidence and his respect for the generosity of the people in America.

In 2007, Riccardo came to N.J. and became acquainted with the foundation established in Matthew’s memory. He immediately volunteered to help raise funds for the families of the children afflicted with pediatric brain tumors and for research. He has met Matthew’s parents and friends and feels their passion for this cause.

On September 12, 2008 at the Indian Trail Club in Franklin Lakes, Riccardo will honor Matthew’s memory by appearing at a “Central Park West On The Lake” concert. Under the summer evening sky, beside the beautiful lake, Riccardo will sing Italy’s most beautiful, soulful and romantic ballads, including Roberto’s “No One Has to Hurt” whose words offer consolation to those who loved Matthew so very much. The event is open to members of the club and to the public, as well.

From the Medieval streets of Monte San Martino, Italy, a mountain-top village of 700, to the shores of a picturesque lake in Franklin Lakes, N.J., two paths have crossed, joined by the large, love-filled heart of Matthew’s community, which has been adopted by a grateful young immigrant.

You can contact Terri Casaleggio for additional information at 201-337-4658 or genterri@aol.com.