n the afternoon of Sunday, November 13, 2o16 the Saint George's Choristers and I  presented a concert at Goodwin House (Bailey's Crossroads).   The concert was a part of the Organ Recital Series at Goodwin House's, The Chapel of All Saints.

The Choristers sang extremely well and represented the parish well.  It was a most wonderful opportunity for us to offer this concert which in return bestowed upon us many blessings. The Choristers received many accolades for their work, and throughly enjoyed the post-concert reception and ice cream. But more importantly, they experienced much growth in the preparation of the this concert, both spiritually and musically, and as both an ensemble and individuals.  For this, I am most grateful.

It was also an honor for the kids to sing for and meet Ray Glover, editor of our Hymnal 1982, and one of the organizers of the concert series.   As Ray pointed out in his concert introduction, our Choristers are our future leaders of the church, and the experience they have as a chorister is one that is invaluable.  One that not only provides life-long skills, but richly nurtures their faith.

It was much fun for me to hear the stories and memories from several in attendance of their early and formative years as choristers themselves, and how hearing our Choristers sing brought back many wonderful memories.

The Chorister's portion of the concert consisted of five of their favorite pieces from the past few years:

King of Glory - Gerald Near
Canticle to the Spirit = Eleanor Daley
Meditation for Lent - Michael Bedford
Ave Maria - Bach/Gounod
I will lift up mine eyes - Caleb Burhans

Rounding out the program were three organ pieces: Guillaume-Gabriel Nivers Suite on the 1st Tone was performed in alternatim with verses of the magnificat sung by chorister Maddie Boerckel; Chorister and flautist Owen Curtis introduced the chorale tune for Bach's ornamented setting of Schmücke dich, o liebe Seele; and Bach's grand Piece d'orgue concluded the program.

I am so grateful to the people of Goodwin House for the invitation to come and sing, and for the opportunity to share our ministry of music with its members, and to the parents, staff, and parishioners at St. George's who support our ministry of music on a daily basis. 

Soli Deo Gloria!
Ben Keseley