Programs

Shows

For the nation's 250th Anniversary,

The Power Of Song In Democracy

This is a new show that features music from the entire length breadth of our nations history and demonstrates the power of song to mold and empower political, social and moral

issues of the day. From the days of the revolution, right on up to these modern times, music has been used to spread the ideas of democracy and shape the movements and issues of the day. I'll perform a selection of the best songs and share the details and stories of their place in history.

A multi-media love letter to rural America featuring original songs and instruments along with the images of award winning rural photographer Tim Schroll to tell of the changes in rural America over the past 40s years.

NEW FOR 2024!

Sensory Friendly Programming

Experience Folk Music!

A new show designed for neurodivergent audiences and their families just debuted at the University of Illinois at Springfield.

NEW FOR 2025!

Songs Of the Illinois Freedom Road

New for 25/26, Songs of the Illinois Freedom Road
This is the show I created for the Abraham Lincoln National Heritage Area's traveling exhibit, Journey To Freedom. It is currently touring with the exhibit, but will be accepting bookings directly in the 25/26 season.

The Farmer Is The Man

Traditional and Contemporary Folk Songs of the Farm

Oh Freedom!

Songs of the Civil Rights Movement

Abraham Lincoln in Song

The life and times of Abraham Lincoln told through the music he loved

Parallel Paths

The Poetry of Carl Sandburg, the Music of Chris Vallillo

Stephen Foster and the Rise of Popular Music

A selection of Foster’s best loved songs and a discussion about Foster's impact on American Music

The Roots of Rural Music

Chris draws on his experiences as a music collector and performer of the songs of rural America.

Folk Music for Little Folks

Chris Vallillo presents a folk musical performance geared towards younger audiences.

House Concerts

Chris will come to your home and perform your favorites from his repertoire.