Kate Nichols was born in Brooklyn in 1853 to well to do parents, George Nichols and Christine Cole Nichols. She married a successful business man, Spencer Trask and again was set up for a life of privilege. Kate became Katrina, and while she lived a life of comfort, she was aware of the lives of others. She shares a rich history of philanthropy that continues today, especially in the expression of the Artists and Writers Institute at the Yaddo in Saratoga, Congress Park, and Wiawaka, to mention a few. She also enjoyed a rich inner life that led her to author books, poems, lyrics, and music. Eileen Egan Mack will share some of the compositions Katrina has bequeathed us and, to create a context, contemporary music of her time will complement Katrina’s work with offerings by Victor Herbert and Amy Beach.

Eileen Egan is a vocalist who enjoys many genres of music and is thrilled to bring to life the music of Katrina Trask. Eileen has appeared previously at Wiawaka, Union College, Charlton Historical Society, Tannery Pond Community Center among many other venues to present music performances and storytelling programs including “Voice of the Mountains: Jeanne Robert Foster, an Adirondack Legacy” and “Elizabeth Schuyler: Albany Girl/American Woman.” Michael is a renowned pianist soloist and is also known for his brilliant work as an accompanist, working with many singers in a variety of settings. He is the accompanist for the Mendelssohn Club and is known for his keyboard technique and thoughtful, inspired musical interpretation. He is a joy to listen to and his joy of music is fully expressed through his playing.