The unique blend of mandolin and classical guitar will lend a distinctive touch to your special event. Sycamore Muse performs for weddings, receptions, dinners, and concerts throughout the greater Philadelphia region (including South Jersey, the Jersey shore, and Delaware). Drawing upon a vast repertoire of classical, popular, jazz, folk, and world music, the duo customizes their musical program to suit your individual needs and preferences.
Joe Todaro and Mark Linkins are both classically trained multi-instrumentalists with diverse backgrounds as professional musicians. Joe earned a degree in classical guitar performance, and he has studied with world renowned guitarist Jorge Morel. He has also studied traditional Andean music with indigenous musicians in Bolivia. In addition to performing with Sycamore Muse, Joe performs with the Andean band Kitari and various Philadelphia-based classical and folk music ensembles. Mark studied double bass and guitar at the Philadelphia College of Performing Arts. He has backed up a wide range of performers, including Bernadette Peters and Billy Eckstine. Mark performed for more than 25 years with the wedding band "A Touch of Class" (based in Lancaster/York/Harrisburg). In addition to performing with Sycamore Muse, Mark serves as the current musical director and conductor of Philadelphia's Munier Mandolin and Guitar Orchestra.
If you would like to hear Sycamore Muse live, the duo performs regularly at two restaurants in South Jersey: Caffe Aldo Lamberti in Cherry Hill, and Zeppoli in Collingswood. All performances are listed on the Sycamore Muse events calendar (here on GigMasters). Please note that Zeppoli - which has been recognized as one of the 20 best Italian restaurants in the United States (Time Out, 2015) - requires reservations.
Following are testimonials from customers who have hired Sycamore Muse:
Thank you SO very much for being a part of our big day yesterday. You guys made the occasion feel so special!
- Rachel and Stephen C. (venue: private home in Bridgeport, NJ)
Our guests enjoyed your performance! Thank you so much for the great music. I will be sure to keep Sycamore Muse in mind for another event.
– Jennifer P. (venue: Philadelphia Country Club in Philadelphia, PA)
My wife and I were married in a garden ceremony at the William Penn Inn. We used Sycamore Muse for all of our ceremony music – processional, offertory, communion, and recessional. They were able to play the music that we selected with no trouble (their repertoire is amazingly extensive). We used classical pieces, but they are at home in a variety of styles. The sound was bright and pleasant. They are excellent musicians. And they are easy to work with and eager to please.
– Mike F. (venue: William Penn Inn in Gwynedd, PA)
Thank you so much! Sycamore Muse made our wedding day extra special. The music was wonderful and our guests loved it. We didn't have any specific requests in mind, but they were able to pull from their repertoire and created a beautiful mixture of styles and genres. Professional and courteous, these guys are A++! Definitely recommended! Thanks again!
- Noah and Amelia W. (venue: Smithville Mansion in Mount Holly, NJ)
I have heard Sycamore Muse on numerous occasions and in a variety of settings. I continue to be impressed with them. Sycamore Muse provides something different from the usual duo. Their combination of mandolin and guitar creates a unique atmosphere whether they are playing classical music, theater tunes or pop. If your event has an old-world Italian theme, they can really come through. Their musical talent and technique are first-rate. Your guests are unlikely to have experienced mandolin music of this type previously and will remember your event for a long time. They are also nice guys and really easy to deal with. They earn my highest recommendation.
- Bob C. (venue: Historic Hopkins House in Haddon Township, NJ)
Joe Todaro and Markin Linkins, helped make my art show, with their glorious Italian music. They are both extremely talented, and look forward to getting them to work with my next exhibit.
- Martin V. (venue: Ethical Society in Philadelphia, PA)
One Wednesday every month, Joe Todaro and Mark Linkins play guitar and mandolin at my restaurant. This special day has become a favorite for both me and my customers. Joe and Mark's music sets the tone of the restaurant. The staff and the patrons all seem to be in a better mood when they are listening to the beautiful sounds. The acoustic mix of classic and Italian favorites add to the ambiance and enhances the night. Joe and Mark are truly two of the most talented guys I know…A true class act!! Top-notch musicians who are very professional, passionate, and easy to work with! I recommend Joe and Mark for any occasion in need of beautiful music.
– Joseph B. (venue: Zeppoli in Collingswood, NJ)
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