Friends of Trinity Music
All musical events at Trinity are offered to the public free of charge and are made possible by the generosity of the Friends of Trinity Music, a vibrant community of people who love and appreciate music and wish to support Trinity's music ministry. To become a Friend of Music use the form listed below. All donations of any size make a difference and are greatly appreciated.
Please make checks payable to TRINITY EPISCOPAL CHURCH (Memo - Friends of Music)
"FEEDING SOULS THROUGH MUSIC"
An appreciation of Choral Evensong
Did you know that sixty or more people regularly come out on Sunday afternoons for Trinity’s Choral Evensongs? Even during the exciting football season, they prefer to sit in a quiet church on a Sunday afternoon, listening to beautiful music from the choir and organ. What is it that draws these dedicated supporters? After the November service, a few people were willing to share their thoughts.
Longtime Trinity member Bob is attracted to the quiet worship that fosters a sense of reverence and meditation. His wife Pearl remarked that the music "fills her soul." Choir member Linda added that the choir members are also inspired by the music, so it feeds their souls as well, even while they are singing. Grace laughed, commenting that an Evensong is then a "soulfest," with everyone’s souls being fed.
Grace also enjoys the receptions following the services, when everyone relaxes and socializes over cookies and drinks. Nancy Ann says that these musical offerings are as professional as high-priced affairs in Philadelphia, so "You can’t beat the value!" (All musical concerts at Trinity are free, although there is a free-will offering.)
Several people commented on the importance of Evensongs’ maintaining the beauty and tradition of our Anglican heritage. In fact, Ina , a visitor who grew up in England, said she felt right at home during the service. Her friends Dave and Pat, who are Episcopalians from a local parish, have always enjoyed Evensongs and are thrilled to find them here rather than having to travel to Princeton, Philadelphia, or New York to experience the service they love so much. Trinity choir member Nancy likes the fact that Anglican churches all over the world present these services in exactly the same way——with the beautiful prayer of Mary, the Magnificat; the Song of Simeon, the Nunc Dimitis; sung Psalms; and anthems. It gives her a feeling of comfort that people are all worshiping in similar ways, continuing this centuries-old ritual.
Mark agrees. He adds that Bach wrote his music, first and foremost, to the glory of God. Mark seeks out good performances of church concerts that for him provide the most inspirational form of worship. He is very grateful that Trinity presents these kinds of uplifting musical and spiritual gifts.
Doesn’t everyone hunger for inspiration and spiritual focus? Be sure to attend our next Choral Evensong. You, too, may experience a "soulfest."
~Maris Williams
