Sixth Sunday after Pentecost (July 1, 201)

At 10 a.m., we celebrate 20th century American organ composers this July 4th “pre-weekend.” Paul Manz was Cantor Emeritus at Mount Olive Lutheran Church in Minneapolis, Minnesota, where his legendary hymn festivals were first performed. Many of his organ improvisations have been published and elaborated upon including this week’s prelude, “Aria.” Calvin Hampton was organist/choirmaster at Calvary Episcopal Church in New York City. From 1974 - 1983, a year before his death, he performed in the country’s most famous organ recital series at Calvary, “Fridays at Midnight.” A composer known for his inventive settings of hymn tunes, an excerpt from Hampton’s Prelude and Variations on “Old Hundredth” (the tune of our familiar Doxology) will serve as the offertory. Organist David Johnson composed well over 300 pieces in his life, most for use in church. His trumpet voluntaries in particular have been widely used. “Voluntary in D Flat Major” will close this Sunday morning’s service in a suitably festive spirit.

At 6 p.m., Bobby will provide further explorations in music by American composers, both older and new.