2023-2024 Vesper Concert Series
organ recital | Stephen Tharp
A world-traveling chamber musician, Stephen Tharp is among the greatest contemporary concert organists. He is well-respected and celebrated around the world for his technical brilliance and mastery of the organ and for continued promotion of modern composition for organists of today.
Sunday, September 17, 2023
5 p.m.
all saints concert | John Rutter’s requiem
This moving work of English composer John Rutter (b. 1945) blends traditional Latin Requiem settings with biblical passages to create an intimate, melodic, and lyrical composition. FUMC Chancel Choir accompanied by a small orchestra will bring this Requiem to life.
November 5, 2023
5 p.m.
SPanish Brass
The Valencian quintet Spanish Brass brings a versatile approach to chamber music and a “commitment to contemporary Spanish culture.” With over 30 years in chamber music and backed by the Institut Valencià de Cultura and the Ministerio de Cultura-INAEM, this is a must see performance.
February 4, 2024
5 p.m.
Lincoln Trio
Hailing from the American heartland, Lincoln Trio is world-renowned for their sensational performances of classic chamber pieces and contemporary compositions. Comprised of violinist Desirée Ruhstrat, cellist David Cunliffe, and pianist Marta Aznavoorian, this trio is guaranteed to captivate any lover of music.
March 17, 2024
5 p.m.
Mahler’s Resurrection Symphony
Symphony No. 2, or Resurrection Symphony, is the masterpiece of Romantic composer Gustav Mahler (1860-1911). This dynamic piece exploring the splendid duality of life and death will be presented by FUMC Chancel Choir in partnership with Lubbock Symphony Orchestra.
April 18 & 19, 2024
7:30 p.m.
God Shed His Grace On Thee: A Patriotic Festival
This well-loved annual concert honors America and salutes our military and its veterans. Featuring talented musicians from our community, FUMC Chancel Choir is joined by Lubbock Concert Band in a showcase of patriotic proportions. Wave the flag, wear your stars and stripes, and stay for hot dogs and ice cream as a special treat.
July 2, 2024
6:30 p.m.
Other Concerts
Handel’s Messiah
The Buddy Holly Hall | Saturday, December 16, 2023 | 5:00 p.m.
Hallelujah! This December, celebrate Christmas with Handel’s beloved oratorio Messiah, featuring the Lubbock Chamber Orchestra, led by Dr. Eric Allen, and FUMC Chancel Choir.
Purchase tickets at www.lubbocksymphony.org/messiah.
ABOUT THE VESPER CONCERT SERIES
For over 45 years, the Vesper Concert Series has presented the finest musicians from around the world and our community as a ministry to Lubbock and the South Plains. Past performers include Chanticleer, the Choir of Clare College–Cambridge, Gerre Hancock, the Kiev Symphony Orchestra and Chorus, The Kings Singers, John Rutter, John Scott, the Choir of St. Thomas Church–New York City, Frederick Swann, the Vienna Boys Choir, Sir David Willcocks, and the Tallis Scholars.
All Vesper Concerts are open to the public free of admission with open registration for provided childcare. Post-concert receptions hosted by the Vesper Concert Committee are wonderful opportunities for fellowship among guest artists and our community.
The Vesper Concert Series is made possible by the generous contributions of the FUMC Friends of Music. We invite you to join the Friends of Music in our continuing ministry of annual performances that nurture the community and soul. Any and all gifts are greatly cherished as investments in the future of our program.
To become a Friend of Music, contact FUMC Music Office: (806) 763-4607
or rhall@fumc.com.
