Park Cities Presbyterian Church (PCA)

Performing Arts at PCPC offers unique spring series

By J. Marty Cope

Published May 1, 2009 in Witness

In January, PCPC members Chris Adkins, cello, and Stephen Nielson, piano, played a magnificent chamber recital in Cambridge Hall. The event was a highly celebrated occasion, being the first solo performance by Chris since his recent return to playing. The two performances allowed for a large group to enjoy the diverse musical pieces offered by these talented artists. Composer/arranger Kurt Kaiser attended the event, as his arrangement of “Simple Gifts” was premiered.

Michael Card came to PCPC in February for a concert featuring a journey through the scriptures in song. Michael sang while playing various guitars and piano. On Michael’s cue, the enthusiastic crowd joined in on known Card favorites and familiar hymns. Many came from significant distances to hear the concert, including a man from Mexico who flew in for the occasion. After his conversion, this man had been ministered to greatly by Michael’s music.

A fun night featuring the occasionally serious Philadelphia Organ Quartet took place in March—four organists on four organs, including our own Colin Howland. The diverse program featured many surprises, including music from musicals, films, hymns, opera, and beyond. Three electronic organs, independently operated with all of their systems, speakers, and consoles were played alongside our pipe organ. The Quartet hails from Philly; the foursome served as assistant organists in the late 1980s for the world’s largest organ at the Wanamaker department store (now Macy’s). Group member Peter Conte is the current principal organist of the Wanamaker organ.