The Contemporary Music Ensemble (CME) at St. John the Evangelist will host a free concert in the upper church on Sunday, January 22 from 1-2pm, with refreshments following in the Social Hall. Musical selections will include contemporary liturgical music with an upbeat flair, as well as some pop tunes that have an uplifting message, such as People Get Ready, done by Rod Stewart and others, Oh Heavenly Day, written and recorded by folk artist Patty Griffin and The Rose recorded by Bette Midler.
The Contemporary Music Ensemble grew out of a community project that Julie Freeman developed over a year ago. Ms. Freeman, director of the group, envisioned a project that would touch and inspire people of all ages to participate in uplifting and meaningful music, while raising money for local mental health agencies who reach out to our teens affected by anxiety and depression. The concert, Power Of One, took place at St. John’s on November 3, 2010, and was successful in doing just that. Since that time, our pastor Fr. Tom Powers and the Religious Education team asked if the group could become more of a regular part of the Music Ministry and we are pleased to say that we are in our first year coming together as a group.
The backbone of the group are folks who have been playing at St. John’s in various capacities for many years. Chris Holownia, Director of the Family Mass and 5pm Sunday Mass, brings years of vocal and piano talent. Jamie Walker, leader of the professional band The Swinging Steaks and solo vocalist on albums directed toward spiritual healing, brings vocals, guitar and experience with all the technology that goes into making a live sound with electric instruments! MaryJo Tecce, former Music Director of the Family Mass, lends harmony and on occasion, guitar. Ashley Freeman and Caroline Eldridge, vocalists, have been singing with the Family Mass and now the 5pm Sunday Mass since making their First Communion. They have been very loyal to participating, enrolling other friends and growing in their own talents over these years. Elizabeth Szabo and Marie and Stephen Brown have participated in St. John’s music for many years and were part of the original folk group under the direction of MaryJo. Newest members to our group this year include four high school students. Jack Griffin is a talented guitar and bass player who participates in many special band groups at Wellesley High School, as well as having his own band that frequents occasions here in town. Ian Kinney is a talented sax player who is also involved in special bands at the high school, and Ben Wardwell participates in various choral groups and a jazz band. Jess Ober is a parish member fromWestonHigh School, where he is a talented choral member and has been in many productions directed by Chris Holownia.
We have an amazing group of young and “young at heart” that come together to praise God while having fun! We continue to be open to inviting new members to our group and look forward to having the church filled with enthusiasm. For more information about the concert or to join the group, contact Julie Freeman, frejul@msn.com.
