The Early American Singing Tradition
FRIDAY, MAY 29, 2026
Matthews United Methodist Church
7:00 pm
(Note: This event starts 1/2 hour earlier than other Festival evening performances.)
Early American sacred song and communal singing in celebration of America’s 250th, with a reception following.
This is a FREE event. Registration is encouraged.
DATE
Friday, May 29, 2026
7:00 pm
TICKETS
General Admission: FREE
VENUE
Matthews United Methodist Church
801 S. Trade Street
Matthews, NC 28105
Ample parking is available in Matthews United Methodist Church’s parking lot.
Celebrate America’s 250th with a free program of communal singing. We’ll connect America’s early hymnody to Bach’s chorale tradition, and have some fun exploring how both shaped worship, culture, and community identity.
This is a casual, participatory musical experience. All attendees are invited to sing in whatever way feels best (or not to sing and just enjoy the music). Following the event is a free reception, open to all attendees.
This is a FREE event, open to all ages. Tickets are not required, but registration is highly encouraged.
SET 1
J.S. Bach
A Mighty Fortress Is Our God
Early American Congregational Hymns
How Firm a Foundation
Come Ye Sinners
SET 2
J.S. Bach
O Sacred Head, Now Wounded
Early American Congregational Hymns
What Wondrous Love Is This
When Jesus Wept
SET 3
J.S. Bach
Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring
Early American Congregational Hymns
Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing
My Shepherd Will Supply My Need
SET 4
J.S. Bach
Now Thank We All Our God
Early American Congregational Hymns
Simple Gifts
Amazing Grace
LAURA ATKINSON
HOST
In addition to carving out a successful career as a professional singer and music educator in both the U.S. and Europe, Laura Atkinson is a public radio host for Louisville’s (KY) classical music station, 90.5 WUOL. She appears on-air weekday afternoons from 12:00 to 3:00 pm. Laura is also a roster member of NouLou Chamber Players and continues to work as a professional ensemble singer and soloist.
EON MALAN
ORGANIST
Eon Malan, from South Africa, is a proud Stellenbosch University graduate with a Master of Music in Organ. In 2020, he moved to New Zealand, to serve at St Peter’s Anglican Cathedral. Eon is currently the Music Ministry Associate / Organist / Admin Assistant, & Director of Handbells at Matthews United Methodist Church. Since April 2023, has been pursuing a Master of Divinity in Pastoral Care & Counseling at Gardner-Webb University.
— FESTIVAL SPONSOR —
— TITLE SPONSORS —
— COMMUNITY PARTNERS —
This Venue Access Grant is funded by Mecklenburg County and proudly administered by the Arts & Science Council.
Repertoire, musicians, dates, and venues are subject to change.
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