Long a vibrant hub for the arts in Baltimore, Emmanuel Church's music programming takes another leap forward this year in scope and diversity and we invite you to join us regularly in our beautiful and historic space at the corner of Cathedral and W Read Streets
Our 2025–2026 season features two main series: The Emmanuel Choir Maryland's premier professional church choir and Tuesdays at Six, a happy-hour chamber music series showcasing exceptional Baltimore area musicians We're also delighted to continue hosting Mount Vernon Virtuosi, one of the region's most dynamic chamber orchestras, as our Ensemble-in-Residence
The Emmanuel Choir series offers something for everyone, from the sublime beauty of Arvo Pärt's Magnificat by candlelight to the intricate polyphony of Bach's Singet dem Herrn. December brings two special holiday events audience favorite Candlelight Carols and Benedict Sheehan's brilliant new setting of Dickens' A Christmas Carol, featuring beloved WJZ-TV anchor Denise Koch as narrator In January, we celebrate America's 250th birthday with a program of protest, patriotism, and pride, while June welcomes Bishop Gene Robinson the first openly gay bishop in the Episcopal Church for an encore performance of Craig Hella Johnson's poignant Considering Matthew Shepard We're also proud to present the world premiere of Graham Gordon Ramsay's Requiem, composed specifically for The Emmanuel Choir, alongside Sarah Kirkland Snider's Mass for the Endangered, a modern masterwork celebrated by The Boston Globe as a "top ten reason to keep falling for classical music "
Our early-evening Tuesday series features exceptional chamber music by notable local artists including BSO performers and Peabody faculty beginning with Bach's cherished Cello Suites. Concert pianist Chengcheng Yao celebrates Maurice Ravel's 150th birthday with virtuoso repertoire; Duo Sorolla honors Cinco de Mayo with Latin American music; and two vocal quartets enhance this season's programming: audience favorite The Polyphonists in November and Anchorites in their debut February concert
This year brings an extraordinary range of guest performers to Emmanuel Lyyra, the newest ensemble from VOCES8, opens our Choral Festival weekend in October, which welcomes singers from across the city and state Also in October, New Boys Choir Hamburg visits Baltimore, while February features Tenet Vocal Artists one of the country's premier early-music ensembles presenting works by Monteverdi and Strozzi Acclaimed harpist Parker Ramsay offers a candlelit Holy Week meditation in March, and by popular demand, Hot Club of Baltimore returns for Mardi Gras!
Of course, none of these offerings is possible without your presence, enthusiasm, and support We invite you to mark these dates on your calendar and plan to attend We also encourage you to subscribe, which enables you to save on ticket costs, reduces our administrative costs, and adds the flexibility of ticket exchanges should your plans change So, please do subscribe Please also share these events with friends, neighbors, and colleagues and invite them to join you! And, finally, we hope you will consider becoming or renewing your support as a “Friend of Music” by making a tax-deductible financial contribution to strengthen and sustain this important series in the heart of Mt Vernon New this year: donors are invited to an exclusive January dinner program featuring Ah Young Hong and Aaron Sheehan!
Again, welcome to this new year of Music at Emmanuel! We look forward to seeing you often this season!
Christian Lane Director of Music
The Rev. Anne Marie Richards Rector
CHORALEVENSONG
Sunday,September21,2025at3:30pm
QINGLIviolin
MICHAELKANNENcello
CHRISTIANLANEpiano
Legendary Estonian composer Arvo Pärt celebrates his 90th birthday in September 2025, and The Emmanuel Choir marks this milestone with a special service of Choral Evensong The program begins with two of Pärt's most beloved chamber works: Fratres (1977, for violin and piano) and Spiegel im Spiegel (1978, for cello and piano) The liturgy at 4:00 p m features Pärt's stunning settings of the Magnificat and Nunc Dimittis, and culminates with fellow Baltic composer Pēteris Vasks' mesmerizing work for choir, violin, and cello, Plainscapes (2002) This candlelit program brings together distinguished guest artists Qing Li, Principal Second Violinist of the Baltimore Symphony, and Michael Kannen, Professor of Chamber Music at Peabody Institute Immerse yourself in the transcendent sound world that has established Arvo Pärt as the world's most-performed living composer for much of the past two decades
Music at Emmanuel is a treasure From the unparalleled artistry of the Emmanuel Choir to the fantastic guest artists that grace such a beautiful space, Baltimore is lucky to have such easy access to performances of this scope and caliber
Tom Hall, host of Midday on WYPR & Music Director Emeritus, Baltimore Choral Arts Society
REQUIEM—MASS
Sunday,November2,2025at4:00pm
CHRISTIANLANEdirection
GRAHAMGORDONRAMSAYfeaturedcomposer
$35/$25/$10
Sarah Kirkland Snider's Mass for the Endangered (2018) stands as "a hymn for the voiceless and the discounted, a requiem for the not-yet-gone " Through a masterful blend of new and traditional Latin texts, this moving work serves both as a prayer for endangered species and their habitats and as an urgent plea to protect our shared planet The Boston Globe celebrated Mass for the Endangered as a "top ten reason to keep falling for classical music ” In parallel, Graham Gordon Ramsay's Requiem (2025) delivers a visceral, emotional response to our tumultuous world. Composed specifically for The Emmanuel Choir, this significant new work for choir, soloists, and chamber orchestra makes its world premiere at this concert Don't miss this rare opportunity to hear a new work by a composer whose work Fanfare praises for its "balance between depth of content and expressive effect" alongside an acclaimed contemporary masterpiece
Creating this requiem has been a significant and deeply personal endeavor for me. Entrusting its premiere to the musicians of The Emmanuel Choir under Christian Lane’s direction is an experience few composers can wish for When I first heard the ensemble perform a work of mine several years ago, I knew this was where I wanted my requiem to be born Superb musicianship, artistic vision, and a willingness to take risks these are the qualities that make such a collaboration a true gift to any composer.
Graham Gordon Ramsay
QINGLI
GRAHAMGORDONRAMSAY
ACHRISTMASCAROL
Sunday,December7,2025at4:00pm
DENISEKOCHnarration
CHRISTIANLANEdirection
BENEDICTSHEEHANfeaturedcomposer
$35/$25/$10
Charles Dickens' timeless masterpiece A Christmas Carol finds breathtaking new life in this innovative program featuring The Emmanuel Choir and distinguished guest narrator and beloved WJZ-TV anchor Denise Koch! American composer Benedict Sheehan's brilliant choral setting illuminates Dickens' timeless narrative with rich, glorious harmonies while weaving in inventive arrangements of cherished Christmas classics Experience Deck the Halls, Silent Night, and the hauntingly beautiful Coventry Carol interspersed throughout this remarkable journey Gather your loved ones this holiday season to rediscover Dickens' universal story of redemption, forgiveness, and charity reimagined through the transcendent power of choral music
CANDLELIGHTCAROLS
Sunday,December21,2025at6:30pm
CHUYOUNG&ERIKWM.SUTERorgan
CHRISTIANLANEdirection
The celebration of Christmas reaches its pinnacle through the vivid retelling of Christ's birth in both word and music Experience the magic as The Emmanuel Choir and distinguished guests present our annual festival of readings and carols, bringing to life the timeless story of shepherds under starlit skies, heavenly angels in chorus, three wise men bearing gifts, and one miraculous Christ Child. Begin your evening with a soul-stirring Christmas organ recital and then immerse yourself in an enchanting candlelit liturgy, where ancient tradition and beautiful harmony unite to create an unforgettable celebration of the season's true meaning
AMERICA250
Sunday,January25,2026at4:00pm
$35/$25/$10
Music has long served as more than just a backdrop to America's story it has been the heartbeat of our nation's journey. As the United States celebrates its semiquincentennial, The Emmanuel Choir proudly presents a transformative program of American choral music spanning centuries and traditions Our musical expedition begins with the sacred songs of Native peoples and continues through the colonial hymns of New England settlers We'll encounter the pioneering 19th-century composers who first introduced European art music to American audiences, hear the spirituals that guided and uplifted the enslaved, and revel in the quintessential Americana sounds of Aaron Copland and Randall Thompson Finally, we'll explore contemporary voices expressing protest, pride, and patriotism all vital threads in our national fabric. Join us for this extraordinary concert as we experience the soundtrack of America's evolution and discover renewed optimism for our collective future
The Renaissance marked a period of profound cultural, artistic, and intellectual transformation across Europe and from this era springs much of the magnificent choral repertoire we still revere and perform today Indeed, this rich a cappella tradition continues to guide and inspire contemporary composers of remarkable talent In this program, experience recently composed works by Nico Muhly, Steven Stucky, Kerensa Briggs, and Zachary Wadsworth paired directly with the Renaissance masterpieces that informed and inspired them timeless compositions by William Byrd, Thomas Tallis, Orlando Gibbons, and others Join us for this extraordinary musical journey and witness the conversations between composers separated by centuries yet united in their shared pursuit of beauty and meaning
Gabriel Jackson's innovative and compelling setting of The Passion of Our Lord Jesus Christ, winner of the 2020 BBC Music Magazine Choral Award, tells a familiar story with extraordinary emotional depth and intrigue The composer masterfully weaves together texts from all four biblical gospels, Latin hymns, and the powerful writings of Edmund Blunden and T S Eliot, bringing Christ's journey to the cross vividly to life through richly textured choral writing and imaginative instrumentation The work's distinctive soundscape featuring prominent soprano saxophone, piccolo, harp, and percussion creates a translucent yet raw musical experience Rather than concluding with the Resurrection, Jackson ends with a passage from T.S. Eliot's Little Gidding, reminding us, as the composer notes, "that the events of Christ's passion are not merely historical but occur and reoccur in an eternal present " Join us this Lent for a profoundly moving musical journey that will resonate deep within your soul
Join us as The Emmanuel Choir presents a traditional service of Choral Evensong for Eastertide This sublime, music-filled liturgy bathes in the gentle glow of candlelight on a spring afternoon The program features Charles Villiers Stanford's famous Evening Canticles in A Major and Gerald Finzi's breathtaking masterwork, Lo, the full, final sacrifice Distinguished concert organist Daniel Aune, coordinator of the organ program at Peabody, begins the afternoon with a recital of varied repertoire Evensong provides a beautiful way to conclude your weekend and center yourself for the week ahead. Make plans to join us for this transcendent experience.
DANIELAUNE
BACHMOTETS
Sunday,May17,2026at4:00pm
ADRIENNEHYDEbaroquecello
ADAMPEARLorgan
CHRISTIANLANEdirection
ADRIENNEHYDE
$35/$25/$10
The six surviving motets by Johann Sebastian Bach (BWV 225–230) stand as towering monuments in choral music works of extraordinary beauty, complexity, and challenge Revered for both their profound depth and exhilarating exuberance, these masterpieces represent the pinnacle of Western classical choral writing Indeed, they hold the distinction of being Bach's only vocal compositions to receive regular performances during the century between his death in 1750 and the mid-19th century "Bach Revival."
In this special program, The Emmanuel Choir performs all six of these transcendent works, from the deeply moving Jesu, meine Freude to the jubilant, virtuosic Singet dem Herrn Acclaimed baroque cellist Adrienne Hyde and organist Adam Pearl join the ensemble for this rare opportunity to experience Bach's complete motet cycle in a single concert an unforgettable musical journey not to be missed
At Emmanuel, Christian Lane is marking off a sacred precinct for the most interesting and beautiful music of past, present, and future to be lovingly performed and enthusiastically heard. Attending Music at Emmanuel's 2023 performance of Considering Matthew Shepard transformed what had been a rather narrow view of sacred music into a richer appreciation of the everexpanding power of music to speak to our times with new sounds and innovative ways of storytelling It was one of the most moving performances we have ever experienced. We plan to go again this year with many friends!
Fred & Elizabeth Wise
CONSIDERINGMATTHEW SHEPARD
Sunday,June7,2026at4:00pm
CHRISTIANLANEdirection
guestspeaker
$35/$25/$10
Pride is more than a celebration it is a profound period of remembrance, resilience, and hope To mark the beginning of Pride month in Baltimore, The Emmanuel Choir presents an encore performance of Craig Hella Johnson's extraordinary passion oratorio, Considering Matthew Shepard. This groundbreaking work transcends traditional musical boundaries, weaving together jazz, blues, country, and gospel to tell the heart-wrenching story of Matthew Shepard the young gay Wyoming college student whose 1998 murder became a pivotal moment in the fight for LGBTQIA+ rights This year, we welcome the Rt. Rev. Gene Robinson, who in 2003 became the first openly gay priest consecrated as a bishop in a major Christian denomination Bishop Robinson, who also interred Matthew Shepard's remains at Washington National Cathedral, will offer reflections after the program In collaboration with the Maryland Pride Center and Baltimore Pride, this performance is more than a concert it is a testament to the power of art to heal, remember, and inspire Join us as we honor Matthew Shepard's memory and celebrate the resilience of the LGBTQIA+ community, reminding us all that love will always triumph over hate
BISHOPGENEROBINSON
BACHCELLOSUITES
Tuesday,September9,2025at6:00pm
WADEDAVISbaroquecello
$15/$10
Johann Sebastian Bach's six cello suites are among the most beloved works in the entirety of Western classical music. Indeed, famed cellist Yo-Yo Ma has said of the Suite in G Major: "It has connected me to others all over the world and helped me to understand life in new ways " In this season-opening concert, experience the transformative power of Bach's First and Third Suites performed by Wade Davis, one of the region's foremost specialists in Baroque cello repertoire This special program pairs these two monumental Bach works with complementary pieces by Italian Baroque master Joseph Dall'Abaco Come discover for yourself why these Baroque masterpieces have inspired more than 200 recordings and continue to move audiences centuries after their creation!
RAVEL150
Tuesday,October7,2025at6:00pm
CHENGCHENGYAOpiano
$15/$10
The piano music of Maurice Ravel (1875–1937) is cherished worldwide for its translucent textures, colorful harmonies, and rich impressionistic qualities Celebrating 150 years since the birth of this French master, acclaimed concert pianist Chengcheng Yao presents an all-Ravel program featuring both favorite classics and hidden gems. Included are the enchanting dance suite Valses nobles et sentimentales (1911) and the monumental masterpiece Gaspard de la nuit (1908) whose breathtaking final movement stands as one of the most technically demanding works in the piano repertoire Join us for an unforgettable evening of sublime artistry in the warm, intimate acoustics of Emmanuel Church
WADEDAVIS
MOSTLYMAHLER
Tuesday,October28,2025at6:00pm
ROBINMCGINNESSbaritone
JOSEPHGOTOFFcello
NATALIAKAZARYANpiano
$15/$10
Join acclaimed baritone Robin McGinness, an award-winning Mahler interpreter, and pianist Natalia Kazaryan lauded for her "prodigious ability" and imaginative artistry for a memorable evening of vocal music Featuring two of Gustav Mahler’ s most beloved song cycles, the heartfelt Lieder eines fahrenden Gesellen and the profoundly introspective RückertLieder, these esteemed artists are also joined by distinguished cellist Joseph Gotoff for a curated selection of non-Mahler works for voice, cello, and piano, providing a perfect complement to the evening’s centerpiece repertoire. Don’t miss this enchanting mid-autumn celebration of exquisite art song
CHENGCHENGYAO
ROBINMCGINNESS
THEPOLYPHONISTS
Tuesday,November18,2025at6:00pm
AMYBROADBENTsoprano
SYLVIALEITHmezzo-soprano
MATTHEWHILLtenor
EDMUNDMILLYbass-baritone
$15/$10
THEPOLYPHONISTS
The word polyphony describes many independent voices interwoven in harmony and this is the essence of The Polyphonists, four criticallyacclaimed soloists who unite to create music transcending individual artistry National Finalists for the 2023 American Prize in Chamber Music Performance, this exceptional vocal quartet has rapidly cultivated a devoted following across the nation and remains a perennial favorite of Emmanuel audiences This concert features a collection of water-themed works, including Darius Milhaud's mesmerizing 1936 Cantique du Rhône a voluptuous, spellbinding musical love poem to the river in France Set to text of Paul Claudel, this enchanting piece weaves rich, anachronistic imagery of ravishment and conquest into its captivating composition
Music at Emmanuel presents a fantastic combination of music performed by the Emmanuel Choir (ranging from Palestrina to Pärt) and a stellar line-up of visiting artists both local and international. Taken as a whole, the programming is an innovative portrait of music whose history is in the church, and music whose presence there is challenging, reflective, ancient and modern
composer Nico Muhly
THEPOLYPHONISTS
ARENAISSANCECHRISTMAS
Tuesday,December9,2025at6:00pm
MARKCUDEKbassviol,cittern,percussion
RONNMCFARLANElute
MINDYROSENFELDflutes,bagpipes
$15/$10
Travel back in time to experience the enchanting sounds of Christmas as they echoed through England, Ireland, and Germany during the 16th and 17th centuries! Former Chair of Historical Performance at Peabody, Mark Cudek, joins renowned colleagues Ronn McFarlane and Mindy Rosenfeld in this captivating holiday concert Their ensemble, Gut, Wind, and Wire, draws its evocative name from the natural elements that breathe life into their instruments: delicate gut strings, resonant wire strings, and the living breath of wind Their masterful performances will transport you to candlelit cathedrals and festive Renaissance celebrations of centuries past. Delight in familiar melodies, reimagined through historical authenticity, as these virtuosos perform lively seasonal favorites You'll surely leave with the timeless melodies of Greensleeves and In dulci jubilo dancing in your heart!
We attend and support Music at Emmanuel’s programs because they include a wide variety of musical experiences, all of which are of the highest artistic quality We are pleased to have superb musical events here in Baltimore which rival those found in cities such as New York and Philadelphia! We urge you to attend these offerings. You won’t be disappointed
Gene Miller & Don Zimmerman
DUOBRILLANTE!
Tuesday,January20,2026at6:00pm
GIORGIOCONSOLATIflute
HUI-CHUANCHENpiano
$15/$10
Experience the exquisite artistry of Duo Brillante! as they showcase the remarkable works of female composers spanning diverse eras, backgrounds, and cultures Let yourself be transported by the translucent melodies and captivating virtuosity of masterpieces written for flute and piano by Clara Schumann, Amy Beach, Yuko Uebayashi, Tebogo Monnakgotla, and other groundbreaking women in classical music The duo features acclaimed Italian flutist Giorgio Consolati and brilliant concert pianist Hui-Chuan Chen, whose performances have earned standing ovations worldwide including at the prestigious Carnegie Hall. Don't miss this rare opportunity to witness their sublime musical partnership in an intimate Baltimore setting
The season ’ s program of events for Music at Emmanuel gives one a snapshot of its sheer musical ambition and scope, ranging from chamber music to Renaissance polyphony to contemporary compositions, to name only a few Last year, I had the privilege of working with the outstanding Emmanuel Choir and musicians Together with a wonderful line-up of guest artists, the beautiful setting, and lovely acoustics, they will combine to create a unique cultural and spiritual experience that should not be missed
James O’Donnell, Organist Emeritus of Westminster Abbey
ANCHORITES
Tuesday,February10,2026at6:00pm
KAYLEIGHSPROUSEsoprano
KAYLEEPARKERmezzo-soprano
CAMERONFALBYtenor
T.J.CALLAHANbass-baritone
$15/$10
GIORGIOCONSOLATI
Experience the debut concert of Anchorites, a remarkable new vocal quartet featuring four singers from The Emmanuel Choir! Taking their name from composer Tim Holt's powerful triptych Anchorites, the quartet offers an extraordinary program entitled To Know Ourselves, exploring humanity's timeless quest to transcend suffering The performance weaves together exquisite a cappella selections spanning from the Renaissance to the 21st century, illuminating how humans have sought meaning through love, lust, devotion, and isolation As medieval mystic Julian of Norwich wrote, "Pain it purgeth, and maketh us to know ourselves." Join us for this intimate musical journey toward self-knowledge and revelation.
The music program at Emmanuel which embraces everything from Choral Evensong to Django Jazz is anchored by a stunning liturgical choir I have been uplifted, moved, and sometimes even devastated by the music and by the program's deep, thoughtful engagement with tradition This is a great part of what makes Emmanuel a place where one feels, in the fullest sense, human.
HUI-CHUANCHEN
ANCHORITES
Michael Seguin
TIMHOLT
ZANEFORSHEE&JEFFSTERN
Tuesday,March10,2026at6:00pm
ZANEFORSHEEguitar
JEFFSTERNpercussion
$15/$10
Internationally acclaimed artists and Peabody faculty members Zane Forshee and Jeff Stern bring masterful precision and profound artistry to their captivating collaboration Together, they explore the intricate relationships between rhythm, resonance, and musical storytelling through distinctive works that expand the boundaries of chamber music This special program begins with Paul Lansky's Partita, a composition that brilliantly pairs architectural clarity with lush sonic textures, establishing an immersive dialogue between guitar and percussion Christopher Cerrone's evocative Double Happiness follows. The program culminates with Gene Koshinski's
Killjoy, a virtuosic, clock-inspired piece that seamlessly fuses mechanical precision with passionate intensity Experience how these remarkable performers transform sound, memory, and artistic collaboration into an unforgettable concert that will forever reshape your expectations of what guitar and percussion can achieve together
Peabody Institute stands as one of the nation's premier training grounds for aspiring opera singers and we are thrilled to welcome these exceptional young artists for an unforgettable evening of operatic brilliance! Masterfully curated by distinguished faculty leaders Elizabeth Futral, Chair of Vocal Studies, and Mary Duncan, Artistic Director of Peabody Opera, this captivating program will feature showstopping arias and transformative moments from the greatest masterpieces in the operatic repertoire!
DUOSOROLLA
Tuesday,May5,2026at6:00pm
ISMARGOMEScello WAN-CHISUpiano
$15/$10
Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with Duo Sorolla! Experience the vibrant sounds of Mexico and Latin America as two of the region's finest chamber musicians present a captivating program centered on the renowned Cello Sonata by Mexican composer Manuel Ponce. Peabody graduate Ismar Gomes, celebrated for his "impressive virtuosity, energy, and handsome tonal range" (Berkshire Review), brings his exceptional cello mastery to the program He is joined by acclaimed concert pianist Wan-Chi Su, one of Baltimore's most sought-after collaborators, who regularly performs with Baltimore Symphony members and Peabody faculty Known for her "sensitivity and imagination" (The American Scholar), Su has graced prestigious venues including Carnegie Hall and the Taiwan National Concert Hall Don't miss this festive and exhilarating finale to this season's Tuesdays at Six series
ZANEFORSHEE
PEABODYOPERA
JEFFSTERN
LYYRAINCONCERT
Friday,October10,2025at7:30pm
$50/$30/$15
“They are still at the beginning but their sound is already perfect” PNP de Lyyra, the groundbreaking all-women vocal ensemble from The VOCES8 Foundation, is boldly redefining the role of upper-voice groups in today's choral landscape. Showcasing the astonishing capabilities of the full spectrum of women's voices, this bright, dynamic ensemble combines velvety richness with star-like brilliance With their extraordinary tonal palette and exhilarating vocal range, these gifted artists masterfully blend classical, jazz, pop, and folk traditions from diverse cultural backgrounds After hosting VOCES8 for a sold-out show last season, we are thrilled to welcome these six exceptional vocalists for their Baltimore debut Don't miss this spectacular concert that also launches our 2025 Choral Festival weekend
“I believe in God Especially do I believe in the Negro Race I believe in Pride of Race I believe in Liberty I believe in Patience ” W E B Du Bois (1904)
Renowned conductor Dr Anton Armstrong, director of the St Olaf Choir and one of America's most distinguished choral leaders, comes to Baltimore to lead our 2025 Choral Festival Concert, I believe! This triumphant performance brings together exceptional choral singers from across our city and state for the crowning event of our festival weekend. The program showcases a rich tapestry of beloved choral masterworks by William Dawson, Moses Hogan, and other celebrated African-American composers At the heart of this concert stands Margaret Bonds' powerful 1967 work Credo, setting profound texts of W. E. B. Du Bois Though written over a century ago, Du Bois' stirring words resonate with remarkable relevance in our society today Don't miss this rare opportunity to experience this transformative work under the masterful direction of Dr Armstrong
NEWBOYSCHOIRHAMBURG
Friday,October24,2025at7:30pm
JENSBAUDITZdirection
$35/$25/$10
One of the most celebrated boys’ choirs in Germany, New Boys Choir Hamburg sets a new standard for artistic excellence and creative programming, regularly touring throughout Europe and the USA In this one-night-only event in Baltimore, experience the unique and luminous sound of a top-notch boys’ choir through performances of classical German repertoire by Heinrich Schütz and Felix Mendelssohn alongside American favorites by Amy Beach and Frank Ticheli There will even be some jazz and popular tunes you will be sure to recognize Don’t miss your chance to hear this wonderful boys choir on their US tour!
CARLDUPONT
LYYRA
ANTONARMSTRONG
AHYOUNGHONG
CHRISTMASEVEATEMMANUEL
Wednesday,December24,2025at7:00pm
Christmas Eve is a time for family, friends, music, and joyous celebration This year, gather your loved ones and join us at Emmanuel for a magical, traditional Choral Eucharist on Christmas Eve Experience the timeless story of Christ's birth brought to life through powerful readings and exquisite musical responses performed by The Emmanuel Choir The Rev Arianne Rice will share an inspiring Christmas message that will touch your heart and illuminate the true meaning of the season.
AARONSHEEHAN
FRIENDSOFMUSICCELEBRATION
AHYOUNGHONG&AARONSHEEHANINCONCERT
Saturday,January31,2026at6:00pm
AHYOUNGHONGsoprano
AARONSHEEHANtenor
CHRISTIANLANEpiano
In an exclusive program for our Friends of Music Partners, acclaimed soprano Ah Young Hong and Grammy®-winning tenor Aaron Sheehan present an intimate song recital accompanied by pianist Christian Lane Hailed as "absolutely riveting" (Chicago Tribune) and "transfixing" (The New Yorker), Ah Young Hong is one of the world's most groundbreaking sopranos who, while studying at Peabody Institute, also sang in The Emmanuel Choir Aaron Sheehan, appearing on more than 35 recordings, is a rare tenor who "balances grace and urgency" (The New York Times) A 2015 Grammy® award recipient, Sheehan has been a remarkable artistic partner to Emmanuel in recent years Friends of Music donors who have given at the Partner level in 2025 $250 or above are cordially invited to this exclusive evening of drinks, dinner, and extraordinary music.
JOLLEGREENLEAF
TENETVOCALARTISTS
Friday,February6,2026at7:30pm
JOLLEGREENLEAFsoprano&artisticdirection
ELISASUTHERLANDmezzo-soprano
JAMESREESEtenor
JACOBPERRYtenor
JEFFREYGROSSMANharpsichord
DANIELSWENBERGtheorbo&baroqueguitar
$35/$25/$10
Claudio Monteverdi changed the course of music history forever Come and hear why as preeminent New York City-based early music ensemble Tenet Vocal Artists presents Note e Parole ("Of notes and words"), a spellbinding program of 17th-century Italian chamber music The 17th century marked a period of intense intellectualism and bold musical experimentation that forged profound connections between music and poetry Step into a world of heart-wrenching dissonances, quick wit, and lush poetry as TENET breathes new life into the masterworks of Monteverdi and Barbara Strozzi through a captivating array of solos, duets, and trios for voices and continuo. Artistic Director Jolle Greenleaf, hailed by The New York Times as a "golden soprano" and "a major force in the New York early music scene," leads this extraordinary journey through one of music's most innovative periods
MARDIGRASCELEBRATION
Tuesday,February17,2026at6:00pm
MICHAELJOSEPHHARRISbandleader
Back by popular demand, Michael Joseph Harris and the Hot Club of Baltimore return to Emmanuel for a spectacular Mardi Gras celebration! Step into Emmanuel's magnificent Great Hall for an unforgettable evening of festive revelry featuring delectable cuisine, extraordinary entertainment, and the irresistible rhythms of authentic New Orleans Jazz Each ticket includes a full dinner experience, but hurry seats are strictly limited and this event consistently sells out Secure your tickets today for this extraordinary night of music and celebration!
To us, Music at Emmanuel is more than glorious music in a gorgeous space It's a premier professional choir, superb musicians of all kinds, and music spanning time, space, and genre with an arc of feeling that takes us out of this world yet firmly roots us in it, together with a community of others who love music We believe there truly is something for everyone
Ellen & James Adajian
HOLYWEEKMEDITATION
NICOMUHLY&ALICEGOODMAN’STHESTREET
Sunday,March29,2026at7:30pm
PARKERRAMSAYharp
JUDITHKRUMMECKnarration
EDMUNDMILLYbass-baritone
Within the candlelit tranquility of Emmanuel's nave, immerse yourself in a meditative evening of reflection and beauty as Holy Week begins American composer Nico Muhly's The Street is a concert-length meditation on the Fourteen Stations of the Cross, scored for solo harp and interwoven with ancient Gregorian chant and original texts by celebrated librettist Alice Goodman Goodman's poignant narrative, which renders these familiar spiritual events with striking contemporary sensibility, will be narrated by beloved WBJC 91 5FM host Judith Krummeck and the evocative plainsong will be chanted by acclaimed bass-baritone Edmund Milly. Internationally renowned harpist Parker Ramsay for whom the work was specifically composed travels to Baltimore for this intimate, powerful performance
EASTERATEMMANUEL
Sunday,April5,2026at10:30am
The days leading to and including Easter are among the most powerful, provocative, and beautiful in the Christian liturgical tradition Throughout the centuries, composers have created their most magnificent works specifically for this sacred time This year, we invite you to experience Holy Week and Easter with your Emmanuel family The Emmanuel Choir will offer soul-stirring liturgies on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings April 2, 3, and 4 culminating in Easter Sunday's triumphant celebration with majestic brass fanfares Come join us in this journey from reflection to rejoicing All are welcome
JUDITHKRUMMECK
MICHAELJOSEPHHARRIS
PARKERRAMSAY
MOUNTVERNONVIRTUOSI
Emmanuel'sEnsemble-in-Residence
AMITPELEDfounder&artisticdirector
Founded in 2018, Mount Vernon Virtuosi is a chamber orchestra based in Baltimore. Comprised of seventeen string players, its mission is to provide a place of artistic growth for the young musician on the brink of their professional career By providing a platform for musicians to continue developing their skills, the ensemble encourages their personal growth by engaging with audiences of all ages through exceptional performances and community engagement activities throughout the Baltimore and Washington, D C region
Through the generous contributions of dedicated individuals, all regular season performances are presented free of charge. The orchestra continues to develop meaningful partnerships with community organizations throughout the Baltimore area, with concerts and education initiatives in schools, prisons, hospitals, hospice, and in collaboration with local venues that expand our reach and provide easy access to community members
Beyond regular season concerts in the Baltimore/Washington area, Mount Vernon Virtuosi has toured throughout the East Coast and records exclusively for the CTM Classics recording label The orchestra’s first recording, “Mozart Live,” was released in 2019
A ticket is required of all attendees for concert programming, and may be obtained prior to the concert or at the door beginning 30 minutes prior to the performance. Tickets are not required for free events.
CHOIRCONCERTS
$35 atthedoor
$25 online
$10 low/limitedincome
TUESDAYSATSIX
$15 atthedoor
$10 online
Emmanuel Church is committed to ensuring all persons have access to its space and its musical offerings, regardless of income and ability to pay Therefore, for most concerts, a limited number of Free Rush Tickets will be offered, online only, beginning 24 hours in advance of a concert's start time
Single tickets are transferable, but not refundable
If your plans change and you can no longer attend a performance, we encourage you to transfer your tickets to a friend To do so, open your ticket on eventbrite com and click edit to assign a new name and email address
Subscription tickets may be exchanged free-of-charge for a different concert in the same series! So, don't hesitate to put dates on your calendars now and, if your plans change, write to tickets@emmanueldowntown.org to request an exchange.
for subscriptions, please visit or scan the QR code
Ample street parking, both free and metered, is available in historic Mt. Vernon. After 6:00 p m on weekdays, and all day on Sundays, many meters do not require payment and most residential restrictions are lifted Please be sure to consult signage carefully
However, we strongly encourage our patrons to avoid the stress of searching for street parking, and to make a parking plan before arriving into our residential neighborhood To that end, the following websites and mobile apps may be very useful:
www.parkopedia.com
www.honkmobile.com
www.spothero.com
The closest paid parking lot is directly behind Emmanuel Church, at 810 N Charles Street Public lots within a three-block radius of the church include:
The church is also served by local bus routes on both Cathedral and N Charles Streets, as well as the Charm City Circulator (Purple Route) and Baltimore LiteRail Link (Mt Vernon/Centre St Stop)
ABOUTTHEVENUE
Emmanuel Episcopal Church is located in the heart of Baltimore's historic Mt. Vernon neighborhood. Its tremendous stone tower at the corner of Cathedral and W. Read Streets serves as a beacon in this community, and the nave's warm acoustic and gentle ambiance contribute to creating an ideal environment in which to hear choral and chamber music
In 2022, the church building underwent a $3 2M transformation to make each space in its physical plant fully accessible to all; included in this project was an elevator, increased ramp access, and new restroom facilities
Music at Emmanuel presents programming of the highest caliber for the enjoyment of our neighbors and friends, and for the enrichment of our community
Ticket revenue covers only a portion of the tremendous costs incurred when presenting music of this quality
The support of our friends will ensure the sustainability of this series in the future
Friend a donation of any amount
Supporter gifts of $100 or more
Partner gifts of $250 or more
Promoter gifts of $500 or more
Sustainer gifts of $1,000 or more
Sponsor gifts of $2,500 or more
Donors are acknolwedged in concert programs and are invited to occasional special events
Donors who contribute at least $250 in calendar year 2025 are invited to an exclusive concert and dinner on Saturday, January 31, 2026 featuring groundbreaking soprano Ah Young Hong and Grammy®-winning tenor Aaron Sheehan.
Gifts are tax deductible to the extent provided under law.
To make a 2025-2026 Friends of Music gift online, please scan the QR code or visit www.emmanueldowntown.org
Click "Donate" and select "Friends of Music"
Checks should be payable to Emmanuel Episcopal Church with "Friends of Music" noted in the memo line and mailed to 811 Cathedral Street, Baltimore, MD 21201
Robert B Kershaw
Christian Lane
Gene Miller & Don Zimmerman
James & Ellen Adajian
Charles & Rebecca Atwater
Wendy S Aylward
Kathleen Aylward Baker
Kelly McConkey & Laurie Siebert
Patrick Moulds
Brook & Anne Marie Richards
Michael Seguin
Bart & Janet Marie Smith
anonymous (1)
Jigger & John Kratz
Richard & Shirlie Lake
Dayna & Albert "Bert" Lane
Eric Price
Susan & Pete Powell
Sally & John Robinson
Tim Teeter
Reid & Liza Thompson
Jeff Trueman & Bridget Parlato
Elizabeth & Fred Wise
Rob & Lucy Wood
anonymous (1)
Richard Bell
Jennifer Browning
Nathan Butler & Laura Gillis
Sandy Daignault, in honor of Michael Milligan
Phi Duong & Michael Gardiner
Doreen Falby
Doug Griffin
Judith Harris & David Schoepf
Mary McDaniel Chapman
Arwyn Ivey
Priscilla & Richard Huffman
Mark & Barbara Jacobs
Cary & Kevin Kelly
George Johnston, in honor of Michael Milligan
Sarah Lau
Jim Kucher & Cindy Leahy
Henry & Leigh Lowe
Tiffany Lundquist
John S McDaniel III
Gail Milne
Kirk Mullen
Philip & Barbara Olsen
Elizabeth Ketzner
Bilal Khan
Jean Lall
Amy Lowe
John R McDermott
Daniel Moody
† in memoriam
Elizabeth Good
Drusilla P Jones †
Myrna Konajeski
Patterson Park Academy of Music
Dr. & Mrs. Leon Podles
Betty Ridgeway
Julia & Kevin Schnupp
Alison E Shafer
Nancy Struever
Barbara Stob & John Detzner
Gregory R Weidman
David J Williams
Dan Zhang
anonymous (1)
Erin Mellot
Gabriel Myers
Michael & Maria Myers
Restoration/Craft
Mary Scott
anonymous (1)
Donor List reflect gifts made in calendar years 2024 and 2025, and is current as of May 2, 2025
