It was a combined effort and also intentionally a local production. A fantastic Spirit of praise intensified inside Copper Hill Church during the afternoon Celebration Concert on September 25, 2016. JoAnne Jones chaired the event, inviting musicians she knew to participate, organizing some musical groups for the occasion and arranging some of the music herself. The easy response and the comments afterward have let us know that the near-capacity audience really enjoyed the experience.
The broad focus was on American sacred music over the past 200 years, since we were celebrating the 200th anniversary of the organization of Copper Hill UMC. Yet the concert featured a very broad and pleasing mix; from the early Shaker tune, “Simple Gifts,” rendered on harp and flute by JoAnne Jones and Celeste Canon to traditional hymns for piano and voice by Betty Guest and Barb Machietto; and on to the stirring melodies of the Civil War anthem “Battle Hymn of the Republic” performed by the brass quartet. (organized for the occasion by JoAnne Jones and Steve Okon). The patriotic theme also sounded as the brass played the prayer hymn “God of our Fathers.” Native son of Copper Hill, Thom Griffin returned to sing as well.
There was energy in the air even before the WNA Male Chorus from 3rd Baptist in Suffield got most everyone clapping and swaying to some good Gospel. The newest piece, which also added to the energy level, was the exciting and contemporary praise chorus “Faithful” written and performed by JoAnne Firla of Life Church especially for this occasion. Other than the brass tones to which I am partial, I personally really enjoyed the exquisite sound of the classical guitar trio directed by their teacher Laura Mazza-Dixon. It was so pure and peaceful.
The note of praise was very clear in the Copper Hill Choir’s rendition of Andre’ Crouch’s “My Tribute” under the direction of JoAnne Jones. On an interesting historical note, the choir contained members of three generations of the descendants of the founder of Granby, John Griffin. The congregation then had a chance to join the celebration by singing together, “To God be the Glory,” a famous hymn of praise written in 1875 by Fanny Crosby, and still very popular today.
Afterward, everyone gathered in the fellowship hall to get better acquainted and enjoy light refreshments. Photo credit goes to Robison Imagery. Thanks Christian.
