Luther Memorial Concert Series

Luther Memorial Concert Series presents first-rate art experiences to the Erie community through the visual and performing arts and educational outreach programs. Kevin Sadowski, Luther Memorial's cantor from 1974 through 2003, teamed with dedicated Erie arts supporter Charlotte Chaffee to create this non-profit organization as a way to deliver outstanding performances, distinct from other Erie offerings while being authentic to the genre being presented.

Virgil Fox, The Concordia College Choir, Thiel College Choir, Paul Manz, Mainstreet Brass, James Jordanare some nationally recognized performers featured since the Series’ founding. Somar Dance Works, Jim Madden, and Erie Suzuki Strings are examples of regional performers. Under the leadership of Cantor Erik Meyer (2005-2011) the music of J.S. Bach became an annual showcase event with area performers including the Erie Renaissance Singers.

 “We believe art feeds the Spirit” is the organization’s credo. The Luther Memorial Concert Series gives members and visitors to Luther Memorial Church the opportunity to witness to art and music’s power in our lives, join in fellowship and celebrate the gifts given to us by our Creator and Redeemer. The credo is an expression of Martin Luther’s theology of music. Luther extolled the virtues of music as seen in the foreword he prepared for Georg Rhau's Collection, "Symphoniae iucundae. “When man's natural musical ability is whetted and polished to the extent that it becomes an art, then do we note with great surprise the great and perfect wisdom of God in music…”

The logo of the concert series is taken from the window above the high altar at Luther Memorial Church as its design reflects the mystery and majesty of the Holy Trinity.

The series is self-funded. Support for the series is provided through annual subscriptions, free-will offerings and regional arts grants.

The Luther Memorial Concert Series management team includes Luther Memorial members and persons from the community interested in the arts under the leadership of an Artistic Director. Current members include: Pat Boyd, Chair, Molly Dugan, Walt Gaber, Greg Kern, Denise King, Mark Lechner and David Ruler. The committee welcomes new members.

To learn more about the Luther Memorial Concert Series, review 2011-2012 upcoming events, become a financial supporter, or recommend a future event visit: www.lm-concerts.com. Videos from prior events and exclusive interviews with performers are available at the link below.

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