St. Bartholomew’s Church Set to Unveil 'Precious Stones' Piano Concert

Get ready for an exciting evening at St. Bartholomew’s Episcopal Church as they unveil the world premiere of John-Luke Addison’s piano concert titled 'Precious Stones'. Scheduled for 4 p.m. on Sunday, February 16, this performance is inspired by Addison's travels to Spain and Portugal, capturing the essence of precious gemstones like diamonds and rubies through music. Acclaimed pianist Bryan Verhoye will take the stage, performing a roughly 40-minute composition that translates the warmth and beauty of these stones into a captivating musical experience. Don’t miss this opportunity to witness a unique blend of art and emotion!

Get ready to experience a breathtaking musical journey as St. Bartholomew's Church prepares for the world premiere of "Precious Stones," a captivating piano concert composed by John-Luke Addison. Scheduled for February 16th at 4 p.m., this enchanting performance promises to transport audiences through the vibrant essence of various precious gemstones, translated into melodies and harmonies. With talented pianist Bryan Verhoye at the helm, attendees can expect an afternoon filled with emotion and artistry that beautifully intertwines the realms of classical music and visual inspiration.

What to Expect from the Concert

The highly anticipated concert will showcase the premiere of "Precious Stones," a roughly 40-minute suite composed by Addison. This work draws its inspiration from a trip he took to Spain and Portugal, where he immersed himself in the colors and architectural styles of the region. Music lovers are in for a treat as Verhoye performs not only the new piece but also a selection of other piano pieces, creating a rich tapestry of sound for the audience to enjoy.

This concert is being held at St. Bartholomew’s Episcopal Church, located at 16275 Pomerado Road in Poway, California. The church is known for its welcoming atmosphere and commitment to community engagement, making it an ideal venue for this exciting musical event.

John-Luke Addison: The Visionary Behind 'Precious Stones'

As the director of music and liturgy at St. Bartholomew’s Church, John-Luke Addison holds a unique position in the realm of music composition. His efforts in creating "Precious Stones" spanned nearly three years, where he meticulously sought to convey the qualities of precious gemstones such as diamonds, rubies, emeralds, and sapphires through sound.

Addison's approach to composition is both layered and dynamic. He describes his passion for embracing multi-faceted ideas within his work, much like the classical piece "The Planets," which captures different celestial bodies through dedicated compositions. "Precious Stones" consists of seven distinct segments, each encapsulating the unique characteristics of a specific gemstone, inviting listeners to explore the emotional depths related to each one.

Inspiration Derived from Travel

During his travels to Spain and Portugal with his wife, Michelle, Addison was deeply inspired by the stunning colors and architectural nuances encountered along the way. Studying the environment, he observed how various precious gemstones influenced both the aesthetic and emotional atmospheres of each locale. Addison translated these observations into music, shaping the notes and rhythms to reflect textures, colors, and emotional responses that each gemstone evokes.

He notes, "I was looking at the colors of stones in their natural habitat and was getting inspired by what type of music would match what they are like. Music and color are so related with dark and light and soft and hard elements." This reflection further illustrates the connection humans share with the beauty of nature and how it can inspire artistic expression.

The Role of Bryan Verhoye

Adding to the excitement of the event is the seasoned pianist, Bryan Verhoye. Known for his brilliant performances as a solo recitalist, accompanist, and chamber musician, Verhoye is no stranger to captivating audiences. His interpretations of music span not only San Diego but the entire West Coast, making him a renowned figure in the music community.

In addition to his extensive performance background, Verhoye also engages with educational initiatives, sharing his passion for music with students and aspiring musicians alike. He holds positions at various institutions and has been involved with the San Diego Chamber Orchestra, La Jolla Music Society, and the Mainly Mozart Festival. His multifaceted expertise makes him the perfect choice to bring Addison's compositions to life during the concert.

A Premiering Composition

Not only will Verhoye spotlight "Precious Stones," but he will also perform other piano pieces beforehand, seamlessly transitioning audiences into the musical experience. The premiere of this composition holds a special significance for Addison, who has expressed a mixture of excitement and nervousness about sharing his work with an audience. As he shares, "It’s always very vulnerable in any art medium, such as painting a picture and having a soiree to unveil it.”

The Emotional Connection in Music

For Addison, composing music is not merely about the notes on a page; it’s about the emotional journey that each piece can evoke. His past works include poignant compositions such as “Good Night: A Requiem,” which served as an homage to his late father. Addison’s deep emotional investment translates into the music he creates, inviting listeners to connect with the themes he explores.

“Good Night: A Requiem” reflects his father’s love of poetry and was performed at St. Bartholomew’s Church in November 2023. This past experience of translating personal grief into musical form likely influences the depth he seeks to convey through "Precious Stones." The concert will provide a space for attendees not only to appreciate the beauty of music but also to remember and honor their loved ones.

Event Details and Ticket Information

Mark your calendars for Sunday, February 16! The concert begins at 4 p.m. at St. Bartholomew’s Episcopal Church. Tickets are available for $20 each, with a discounted price of $10 for students. This makes it an accessible opportunity for everyone in the community to experience this world premiere. Tickets can be purchased through the church's website or directly via event links such as here.

Become Part of the Musical Journey

This concert represents not just a performance but an opportunity for evocation and connection through the medium of music. Whether one is a lifelong classical music enthusiast or new to the world of piano concerts, "Precious Stones" has something for everyone. It’s about coming together to enjoy a beautiful afternoon filled with inspiring compositions and delightful company.

Join the Vibrant Community at St. Bartholomew’s Church

St. Bartholomew’s Church has long been a cherished community hub, offering various events and concerts throughout the year, promoting a vibrant cultural dialogue. The church welcomes everyone and fosters an inclusive environment where all can appreciate art, music, and the deeper connections we share as a community. This concert is a testament to that spirit, and it showcases the talent and dedication of both Addison and Verhoye.

For further details and to stay up-to-date with community happenings, visitors are encouraged to access the church’s calendar of events here. Each performance, including “Precious Stones,” contributes to the rich tapestry of arts and culture in the community.

The unveiling of “Precious Stones” at St. Bartholomew's Church promises to be a remarkable event that resonates with the soul of every attendee. With its innovative approach to music inspired by the beauty of precious gemstones and the artistic vision of John-Luke Addison and Bryan Verhoye, this concert is a celebration of creativity, emotion, and the shared human experience.

Witnesses Share Their Thoughts on St. Bartholomew’s Church Unveiling the 'Precious Stones' Piano Concert

"I’m beyond excited for the premier of 'Precious Stones' at St. Bartholomew’s! The concept of translating precious gemstones into music is just brilliant. It makes me curious to see how the pianist will bring those colors and textures to life. I wouldn't miss the performance for the world!"

"Attending events at St. Bartholomew’s is always a joy, but this concert feels extra special. I can only imagine the amount of passion and dedication John-Luke Addison has poured into this piece. Being able to experience its premiere in such a beautiful setting makes it even more memorable."

"I've had the pleasure of hearing Bryan Verhoye play before, and he never fails to leave the audience in awe. I'm really looking forward to his interpretation of 'Precious Stones'. It’s fascinating how music and emotion can intertwine, and I feel like this concert will be a true testament to that."

"The thought that each piece in 'Precious Stones' represents a different gemstone is intriguing. It speaks to how music can capture the essence of something so beautiful and meaningful. I can't wait to feel those emotions through the performance!"

"As a local resident and a supporter of the arts, I'm thrilled that St. Bartholomew's Church is hosting this concert. It goes to show how community spaces can come alive with creativity. I really admire what Addison has been doing for music and liturgy at the church."

"The warmth and inclusiveness of St. Bartholomew’s makes it a great place for such a premier. I'm eager to experience this unique fusion of art and spirituality. 'Precious Stones' promises to be much more than just a concert; it’ll be an experience!"