Calvary United Methodist Church Presents "Spring Serenade: Songs of Joy, Nature and Renewal"

Online, April 9, 2010 (Newswire.com) - Ms. Paschal and Mr. Kraus' program, "Spring Serenade: Songs of Joy, Nature and Renewal" features songs celebrating the arrival of Spring and the renewal we experience in nature, and through the Lord's passion and resurrection. Come experience these beautiful, uplifting works in the American and European tradition, including Dominick Argento's cycle Songs About Spring, as well as beloved gems from Bach's Passion of St. John and Handel's Messiah.

Jennifer Paschal, soprano, is an accomplished soloist and ensemble singer, and possesses a broad repertoire that includes oratorio, opera, art song, and popular genres. Recent performances include a recital with pianist Andrew Kraus in Wake Forest, NC, and the lead role of Miriam in The Book of Daniel, an opera by living composer Richard Rose. Her choral credits include the Emmy Award-winning Master Chorale of Washington, which has appeared at such esteemed venues as Wolf Trap, the Kennedy Center, and in televised appearances with the National Symphony Orchestra.

Mr. Kraus holds degrees from Boston University (B.M.) and East Carolina University (M.M.), and has studied with Peter Feuchtwanger, Lily Kraus, Bela Nagy, David Saperton, and chamber music with Artur Balsam. Recognized for his work as a collaborative pianist, he regularly works with singers and instrumentalists in concerts around the greater Washington, DC area. In Spring 2009, he performed as featured soloist with The Mantovani Orchestra on their Spring tour of China.

Calvary United Methodist Church, incorporated in 1878, is one of the oldest United Methodist Churches in the United States with continuous service. For more information about Calvary, visit www.calvaryumc.org. For questions regarding this concert, contact the Calvary United Methodist Church office at 301.662.1464.