“I have never thought of writing for reputation and honor. What I have in my heart must come out; that is the reason why I compose.” – Ludwig van Beethoven

Over the past year I have penned several posts detailing how this community is such a beacon of the arts, from symphony to ballet to “Art in the Park”. This weekend is another great example, with “Tarboro Music Festival 2025” featuring masterworks by Brahms, Bach and Beethoven.

Friday evening the festival got under way with a delightful “Evening in Vienna,” when a packed house of music-lovers squeezed into the parish hall at Calvary Episcopal Church. The soiree was generously hosted by the Tarboro Choral Society.

After opening remarks by Anderson Ferrell we were treated to the dulcet tones of Jeffrey Ambrosini (baritone), Rebekah Ambrosini (contralto) and Emily Wagner (soprano), accompanied most ably by Zach Ross on the piano.

A Glittering Success:

Then, and much to everyone’s delight, the North Carolina Choral Artists ensemble took the stage, sharing a delightful series of 18 short Brahms songs known as the Liebeslieder Waltzes (Op. 52). James Mauk conducted.

Additionally, adding significant flare to the choral interpretation, a troupe of four dancers waltzed along with several of the songs (see second video, after photo gallery below).

Friday evening was in every way a glittering success, setting the stage for the remaining two performances:

• First, “The Music of J. S. Bach,” performed by the East Carolina Guild of Organists and hosted at Howard Memorial Presbyterian Church. The church has a magnificent 1913 Austin Organ (Opus 473). The concert begins at 7:00 pm and the public is welcome.
• Then, Sunday evening at ECC’s Keihin Auditorium, The Tarboro Choral Society and featured soloists will share music from “The Three B’s” (Brahms, Bach and Beethoven). The evening is open to the public and – I guarantee – will be a beautiful performance you will not want to miss.

This is one of the reasons Rebekah and I are so happy to be living right here in the middle of the historic district. It elevates us. Even I, it turns out, can learn to appreciate a little Brahms, Beethoven and Bach.

Peace and blessings, always – DEREK