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The Gettysburg Choral Society, Inc. presents a pair of patriotic concerts entitled “This is My Country!” The first concert will take place on Friday, May 24th at 7:00 P.M. at the First Church of Hanover, located at 200 Frederick St., Hanover, PA 17331. The second concert will take place on Sunday, May 26th at 3:00 P.M. in the chapel of The United Lutheran Seminary, located at 61 Seminary Ridge, Gettysburg, PA 17325.
Showcasing the music that celebrates America—from the Civil War to the present—these programs will feature a unique musical rendition of “The Gettysburg Address.” Some of the program’s favorites will include “The Battle Hymn of the Republic,” “God Bless America,” “God Bless the U.S.A.,” and the very moving “A Prayer for Our Time.” There will also be a special recognition of America’s veterans.
The chorus will be joined by legendary bugler Jari Villanueva, considered to be the country’s foremost expert on military bugle calls, particularly the call of “Taps.” Mr. Villanueva will give a brief presentation during the program, demonstrating the bugle and explaining the significance of “Taps.” Having served 23 years in the United States Air Force Band in Washington D.C., Villanueva compiled an impressive record of leadership positions. He served as the NCOIC of The USAF Band’s State Funeral plans and was the NCOIC of the command post at Andrews AFB, just two of his impressive assignments. As a ceremonial trumpeter, he participated in over 5,000 ceremonies at Arington National Cemetery. He received his Bachelor of Music Education degree from the Peabody Conservatory and the M.M. from Kent State University.
Formed in 2017, the choral society is an auditioned regional chorus of approximately 35 members, under the direction of John McKay. McKay received the B.A. in voice from the University of Richmond and the M.M. in choral conducting from Eastern Kentucky University. He has been a guest director, lecturer and clinician at a number of choir conferences, and for a number of years served as cantor and music director at Saints Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Cathedral of Virginia, in Richmond, VA. For a decade he was a special correspondent (music critic) for the Richmond Times-Dispatch. As a tenor soloist, he sang with the Richmond Sinfonia, and the United States Continental Army Band, among other groups. McKay is also co-founder of the chorus and begins his eighth year as director. He currently serves as Senior Choir Director of Trinity UCC in Gettysburg.
As always, the concerts are free and open to the public. Tax-deductible contributions (cash and checks) will be received to help defray expenses.
For more information, visit gettysburgchoralsociety.org
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Event Venue & Nearby Stays
United Lutheran Seminary (Gettysburg, PA), 61 Seminary Rdg,Gettysburg,PA,United States
