Concert Schedule
Music for Organ & Orchestra
Sunday, October 13, 4:00 PM
Join us for an inspiring musical evening featuring conductor Adam Hendrickson and organist Christopher Urban as they present a captivating program of music for organ and orchestra. The highlight of the evening will be Camille Saint-Saëns’ magnificent Symphony No. 3 in C minor, Op. 78, known as the “Organ Symphony.” This is a performance you won’t want to miss, filled with powerful and breathtaking music!
Rutter’s Requiem
Wednesday, October 30, 7:00 PM
You’re warmly invited to a special community-wide All Saints’ Day service, where the Concert Series will present Rutter’s Requiem. This beautiful and moving piece will be performed by a choir featuring singers from First Pres and neighboring Arlington Heights choirs, accompanied by talented soloists and a full orchestra. It’s an evening of music and remembrance that promises to be both powerful and uplifting. We hope you’ll join us for this meaningful event!
Bruce Blanck & Friends
Sunday, November 24, 4:00 pm
Join us for a delightful concert featuring long-time First Pres member Bruce Blanck, known for his unique jazz piano stylings. He’ll be joined by other talented musicians for an engaging program that includes both sacred and secular selections. It’s an evening of musical variety and brilliance that you won’t want to miss!
The Glory of Christmas
Sunday, December 8, 4:00 pm
Join us for a festive Christmas celebration as the Chancel Choir, Men’s Chorus, and orchestra present a delightful program featuring music by John Rutter, Dan Forrest, and Elaine Hagenberg. We’ll be celebrating the season with beautiful Christmas compositions and inviting you to join in on familiar carols. Come early to secure your seat and be part of this joyous event!
Messiah Sing Along
Sunday, December 22, 4:00pm
You’re warmly invited to our annual Handel’s Messiah sing-along with the Northwest Symphony Orchestra and talented soloists! Experience the joy of becoming part of the chorus as we come together to fill the Sanctuary with the uplifting sounds of beautiful music, including the beloved Hallelujah Chorus. Warm up those vocal cords and join us in celebrating the birth of our Savior through this cherished tradition.
The 40th Annual Organ Fest
Sunday, February 16th, 4:00pm
Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to experience an inspiring organ concert featuring a stellar lineup of organists: Michael Gagne, Marianne Kim, Christopher Urban, and Gary Wendt. Together, they’ll bring you a dynamic performance that’s sure to captivate and delight. This popular event promises to be a memorable highlight, so be sure to join us for an unforgettable evening of extraordinary music!
First Presbyterian Talent Show
Sunday, March 16, 4:00pm
Come and clap your hands for many of the talented members of First Presbyterian Church and the broader community. There will be four categories of performers: K-5th grade, 6th-12th grade, adults (non-retired), and adults (retired). Contact Adam Hendrickson to sign up adamhendrickson@ firstpresah.org.
Haydn’s The Creation
Sunday, April 13, 4:00 pm
Join us for a stunning performance of Haydn’s The Creation, presented by the Chancel Choir, orchestra, and talented soloists. This remarkable oratorio, celebrated as one of Haydn’s masterpieces, beautifully depicts and honors the creation of the world as described in the Book of Genesis. It’s an evening of majestic music and inspiring storytelling that you won’t want to miss!
Organ Crawl
Sunday, May 18, 4:00 pm
We invite you to a delightful afternoon of music with four captivating 20-minute organ concerts at different Arlington Heights churches. Enjoy performances by:
– Matthew Doran at St. Peter’s Lutheran
– Matt Haider at Our Saviour’s Lutheran
– Eunice Son at Southminster Presbyterian
– Christopher Urban at First Presbyterian
Our musical journey begins at St. Peter Lutheran at 4:00 PM and will conclude with a light reception at First Presbyterian around 6:00 PM. Each church is just a short drive away, making it easy to experience this wonderful musical event. We look forward to sharing this afternoon of inspiration and community with you!
Recitals
.Come and enjoy a special midday musical experience in the First Pres Sanctuary from 12:10 to 12:50 PM. Delight in performances by our guest musicians and the rich, resonant sounds of the 52-rank Schantz organ. It’s a wonderful opportunity to take a break, relax, and immerse yourself in beautiful music. We look forward to seeing you there!
- October 2 – Brian Schoettler, organ. From First United Methodist Church, Evanston
- November 6 – Christopher Urban, organ. From First Presbyterian Church, Arlington Heights
- December 4 – Chuck Beech, piano; Christopher Urban, organ. Music for piano and organ. From First Presbyterian Church, Arlington Heights
- February 5 – Christopher Urban, organ. From First Presbyterian Church, Arlington Heights
- March 5 – Bobby Nguyen, organ. From First United Church, Oak Park
- April 2 – Matthew Doran, organ. From St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, Arlington Heights
- May 7 – Christopher Urban, organ. From First Presbyterian Church, Arlington Heights
Want to Watch Past Concerts?
We’ve got the past couple years’ worth of concerts posted for you to watch any time.
