If Martin Luther can be called the "Father of the Reformation," then surely Johann Sebastian Bach can be considered the movement's greatest musical emissary. Born in 1685, nearly 140 years after Luther's death, Bach often signed his compositions with the initials "S.D.G." representing the Latin phrase Soli Deo Gloria (Glory to God alone). This dedication was a clear expression of his faith and a perfect representation of a core Reformation principle. This Reformation Sunday, the transcendent music of J.S. Bach will be offered in our worship services.
At 9:00 a.m., cantor, cellist, and part time percussionist Lucas Jackson and I will offer Bach's "Bourree" from his "Suite in E Minor for Lute, BWV 996"...albeit in a contemporary form. Our version will be based on the jazz/blues stylings of the Jethro Tull cover on their 1970 album "Stand Up." We are sure Bach would approve... At 11:00 a.m., two settings from Bach's "Clavier-Übung III (also known as the "German Mass") will be offered based on the Martin Luther hymn "We All Believe in One True God," a paraphrase of the Nicene Creed. The monumental "Fantasia in G Minor" closes worship on a dramatic and not so subtle foreshadowing of All Hallows' Eve.
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We celebrate Plymouth's radical musical diversity, amazing volunteer musicians and friends this Consecration Sunday morning.
At 9:00 a.m., a reprise of last year's "Beatles Sunday" will be offered with a focus on the songwriting contributions of George Harrison, John Lennon, and Paul McCartney. Vocalist Lucas Jackson, guitarist Alan Skowron, bassist Peter Strening and percussionist Nick McCulloch join us to share a spiritual message from the Fab Four. At 11:00 a.m., Plymouth's volunteer musicians take over the service music with the Chancel Choir, Plymouth Ringers, cellist Aaron Dunigan-AtLee, flutist Aaron McGrew, and violinist Harmony Tucker comprising our merry band in the chancel. A diverse range of works by Mark Miller, Hans-André Stamm, Tammy Waldrop, and Antonio Vivaldi will be offered on this festive Sunday morning. We are Plymouth! Songs of gratitude and praise this Sunday morning.
At 9:00 a.m., resident Plymouth ukuleleist Stuart Yoshida joins myself, bassist Peter Strening, and vocalist Lucas Jackson for a musical survey of thankful expressions. At 11:00 a.m., we hear two venerable tunes of joyful gratitude in settings of "Now Thank We All Our God" by Baroque composer Georg Friedrich Kauffmann and the Latin hymn "Deo Gracias" by British/Canadian composer Healey Willan. The Chancel Choir reminds us of the bountiful Spirit of God in the 19th century American hymn "Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing" arranged by David Ashley White. Songs of sharing God's providence with the whole of creation.
At 9:00 a.m., an Americana and Celtic folk hybrid musical schema greets you. Cantor/banjoist Lucas Jackson and bassist Peter Strening join us for early morning worship. At 11:00 a.m., the organ welcomes congregants with variations on the American folk hymn "Simple Gifts" arranged by James Pethel. The Chancel Choir sings a hymn of stewardship and service in the Anglican-inspired anthem "God Has Called Us" by Robert Hobby. From the organ, the Henry Purcell tune "Westminster Abbey" (commonly paired with the hymn text "Christ Is Made the Sure Foundation") closes worship on a stately regal note. |
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