Author: Donna Ardizzoni

From FOB Charles Nazarian, president Gloucester Meetinghouse Foundation

MASTERWORKS BY HAYDN AND SCHUBERT ON SUNDAY, MARCH 18
The Gloucester Meetinghouse Foundation hosts a performance of Haydn’s Mass in Time of War, and Schubert’s Magnificat in C on Sunday, March 18 at 3:00 p.m. at the Gloucester Meetinghouse on Middle and Church Street. The performance features the outstanding Cambridge-based Spectrum Singers, distinguished soloists, and a large orchestral ensemble.
Spectrum Singers Music Director, John Ehrlich, describes the two monumental works. “Haydn’s Mass in Time of War bristles with abundant energy and amazing choral and orchestral effects,” he notes. “The trumpets and tympani are boldly featured, painting the sounds of war that were occurring nearby as Haydn composed the music in 1796. Schubert, whose work bridged the Classical and Romantic periods, is renowned for his treatment of melody and harmony. His Magnificat in C, written when the composer was just 18 years old, amply demonstrates this fine gift.”
Also on Sunday’s program are three intimate vocal quartets by Schubert, the 23rd Psalm, Gebet, and Des Tages Weihe.
“This is a rare opportunity to hear masterworks of this importance in the superb acoustics of the Gloucester Meetinghouse,” notes Charles Nazarian, President of the Gloucester Meetinghouse Foundation. “As a concert venue, the Meetinghouse delivers a warm and inviting space and an unforgettable musical experience.”
Tickets are available online at http://www.gloucestermeetinghouse.org or at the door. Prices are $65 for preferred seating, $45 for general seating, and $30 for students and seniors. Children under age 12 are admitted free. Sponsorships to support this annual Oratorio Series presented by the Gloucester Meetinghouse Foundation are available at three levels and include preferred seating and special recognition. Please contact c.nazarian@gloucestermeetinghouse.org for more information.
About the Gloucester Meetinghouse
Built in 1806, the Gloucester Meetinghouse is the oldest standing church in Gloucester. It is recognized by the National Register of Historic Places and the Massachusetts Register of Historic Places for both its historic and architectural significance. The founders of the Gloucester Unitarian Universalist Church, the first Universalist Religious Society in America, led the way in Massachusetts for the legal separation of church and state. Later, the concept of separation of church and state was fully embraced in the first amendment to the United States Constitution. The Meetinghouse is located at the corner of Middle and Church Street in downtown Gloucester and is handicapped-accessible through the entrance at 10 Church Street.
About the Gloucester Meetinghouse Foundation
Now in its third year, the Gloucester Meetinghouse Foundation’s mission is to preserve this landmark building for generations to come as a civic hub, entertainment venue, and community center. For more information on future concerts, events, and opportunities to support the Foundation’s work, visit the website at http://www.gloucestermeetinghouse.org.

MASTERWORKS OF HAYDN AND SCHUBERT ON SUNDAY