arts & entertainment

Easter is a time for celebration, as Christians around the world commemorate the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Various traditions include the attending of religious services, the sharing of special foods and the playing of music. On Easter Sunday, March 31, the Chancel Choir of First Presbyterian Church of Vero Beach will present an Easter Cantata during the 9:30 AM and 11:00 AM services at the church located at 520 Royal Palm Boulevard, 32960. The Easter Cantata music was curated by the Director and Associate Director of Music and Arts for First Presbyterian Church of Vero Beach and is comprised of celebratory works of the season, both modern and traditional. The audience will recognize two movements from the Easter portion of Handel’s Messiah, as well as contemporary Christian hit songs like “Agnus Dei,” from artist Michael W. Smith. The cantata will be performed by the 45-member Chancel Choir, under the direction of Dr. Jacob Craig, who will also play the piano and organ during the services. Additional live musical accompaniment for the Easter Cantata will be provided by a chamber ensemble and handbell choir. Baritone John Toohey will be a featured soloist. For more information, visit www.FirstPresVero.org or call 772-562-9088.       

Dr. Jacob Craig, Director of Music and Arts for First Presbyterian Church of Vero Beach, looks forward to sharing the Easter celebration with Vero Beach residents.

“This glorious cantata is a compilation of works assembled by myself and the Associate Director of Music and Arts, Peter Mahtani,” said Dr. Craig. “The music is just beautiful– and our Chancel Choir has been rehearsing it for weeks. We hope many members of the community will join us on Easter Sunday for this special celebration of the resurrection.”

First Presbyterian Church of Vero Beach is known for its musical and artistic outreach to the Central Florida community. Under the direction of Dr. Jacob Craig, the Chancel Choir welcomes musically inclined adults and high school students. The 45-member group rehearses on Wednesday evenings in the choir room from 6:30-8 PM. The choir performs for all Sunday services, including special events and cantatas at Christmas and Easter. For a list of upcoming events or for more information about First Presbyterian of Vero Beach, visit www.FirstPresVero.org.