BLACKSBURG – Luther Memorial Lutheran Church announces a free community concert celebrating the music of the Protestant Reformation on Sunday, Oct. 29, 4 p.m. in the church sanctuary, 600 Prices Fork RD., Blacksburg.
The concert will present the music of Reformation-era composers including J.S. Bach, Johann Pachelbel and others.
Luther Memorial Lutheran Church has a strong history of musician and choral excellence and a deep appreciation for exceptional music. Professional musicians featured in this concert include Mezzo Soprano Raquel Winnica Young (http://www.raquelwinnicayoung.com/biography.html); Kelley Mikkelson, Principal Cellist of the Roanoke Symphony Orchestra; Bill Parrish, Principal Oboist of the Roanoke Symphony Orchestra; Jay Crone, Organist at Luther Memorial, and members of the Virginia Tech music faculty. Several arias from cantatas by J.S. Bach will be performed, as well as one of Bach’s suites for unaccompanied cello; organ solos; and arrangements of familiar Lutheran hymns for organ and brass quartet.
Luther Memorial Organist Dr. Jay Crone points out the connection between Reformer Martin Luther and composer J.S. Bach: “Martin Luther wrote his Ninety-Five Theses in 1517, kicking off a series of events that would change the Western world forever. Along the way, Luther created a new way of thinking about music and worship. Two hundred years later, J.S. Bach took Luther’s ideas and created some of the most sublime sacred and secular music ever composed. In this Reformation Sunday concert, we celebrate past traditions as well as current trends in sacred Protestant music.”
Reverend Monica Weber, pastor at Luther Memorial Lutheran Church, is excited to present this free concert to the Blacksburg and NRV communities.
“We are thrilled to host these talented music professionals. Our pipe organ and sanctuary provide the ideal setting for community concerts, and it is a privilege to welcome our members, friends and neighbors to join us as we listen and learn about Reformation-era music. Dr. Jay Crone has planned a vibrant, moving program that all ages can enjoy, including the opportunity for concert-goers to sing along with some popular Reformation-era hymns.”