Celebrate the Holidays Virtually with Bach

On Wednesday evening December 16, 2020, The Sanctuary Series, in conjunction with the South Salem Presbyterian Church (New York) will present a virtual concert for the holidays entitled, “Celebrate with Bach,” featuring acclaimed keyboardists, Anthony Newman and Mary Jane Newman, presenting works by J.S, Bach for two pianos and on the Church’s Russell & Co. pipe organ, as well as seasonal music by C-L Daquin and traditional carols featuring baritone, Buddy Courtenay. The “virtual” performance will be webcast live from the church sanctuary at 7 pm on the Church’s Facebook page: www.Facebook.southsalempresbyterianchurrch (@southsalempresyterian).

The event is organized by Mary Jane Newman who is artistic director of the piano recital series, as well as director of music at the Church. Mrs. Newman is herself an acclaimed pianist and organist who has appeared as soloist and conductor with orchestras, chamber ensembles and vocal groups throughout Europe, the U.S. and Israel.  Labeled the “High Priest of Bach” by Wynton Marsalis, her husband, Tony, is music director at St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church in Bedford and an internationally renowned organist considered by many to be America’s leading Bach specialist.

Buddy Courtenay is a New Orleans native and veteran of many American opera venues. Courtenay and his wife Shalyn, perform as cantorial soloists at Temple Shaaray Tefila in Bedford, and regularly cross lines of faith to create meaningful life cycle events for individuals of all denominations.

The concert is the fifth in a series hosted by the Church during the pandemic. Mrs. Newman thanked Pastor Mark Salmon for his continued support and assistance. An ordained Rabbi and director of music at Shaaray Tefila, she is also a chaplain at Greenwich Hospital (CT). Mrs. Newman praised the church congregation for the support they have been showing for medical personnel and other essential workers since March by joining with members of the community to ring the steeple bells each evening at 7 PM.

Questions or comments may be directed to office@southsalempc.org.