We are excited to host an exhibit of Paul Nuckolls’ artwork. Paul, a member of First Presbyterian Church, is a wonderfully talented artist who specializes in acrylic paintings. His works depicting outdoor scenes and animals are incredibly life-like. This event begins with a concert inspired by his paintings in the sanctuary, featuring compositions for violin, harp, bells, and voice. The afternoon concludes with an exhibit of Paul’s work in the Gathering Space.
The Christmas Concert, presented by our Chancel Choir and Orchestra, is a beloved tradition in the life of our congregation! This year we will highlight music, both old and new, from the Oxford Book of Carols. Along with some of our favorites of past years and carols with the audience, this concert will fill you with the joy of the season!
Hailing from the St. Louis region, The Slickers have played festivals, house concerts and more than a few contra and square dances throughout Missouri and Illinois. Steeped in tradition, their concerts are a unique mix of hard-driving dance tunes, country harmonies, Midwest fiddle tunes, rags, and other surprises that have made them favorites of the old-time string band scene. Their high-energy playing and ear for a good tune make for good listening, good dancing, and good times. The band is Sean Belt (ukuleles), Lindell Blackford (fiddle & mandolin), Rich Hibbs (banjo), Rich Egan (piano), and Keith Dudding (guitar).
The St. Olaf Choir, conducted by Anton Armstrong, has set the gold standard for choral singing, performing for millions around the world for more than a century. Composed of 75 mixed voices, the St. Olaf Choir is hailed as the nation’s premier a cappella ensemble, renowned for its artistry and beauty of sound.
The Jupiter String Quartet is a particularly intimate group, consisting of violinists Nelson Lee and Meg Freivogel, violist Liz Freivogel (Meg’s older sister), and cellist Daniel McDonough (Meg’s husband, Liz’s brother-in-law). Now enjoying their 21st year together, this tight-knit ensemble is firmly established as an important voice in the world of chamber music. The New Yorker claims, “The Jupiter String Quartet, an ensemble of eloquent intensity, has matured into one of the mainstays of the American chamber-music scene.”
On May 4, 2014, our brand new Casavant Fréres pipe organ was dedicated. We find ourselves at the ten-year mark of that event, and this calls for a celebration! French concert organist Johann Vexo will bring us to dazzling heights as he plays our magnificent French-inspired pipe organ. All are welcome to attend a candlelight champagne reception following this gala performance.
As they travel to visit the National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis, the Nebraska Wesleyan University Choir and Jazz Choir bring a message of hope to audiences in Nebraska, Kansas, Missouri, and Tennessee. Inspired by a phrase from Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s favorite hymn ("...lead me on to the light"), this eclectic and engaging program features music by Rosephanye Powell, Moses Hogan, Maurice Duruflé, Heinrich Schütz, and Dolly Parton. Tom Trenney's arrangement of "We Shall Overcome" and U2's haunting "MLK" are sure to be highlights of this powerful program as well.