The concert series was started in 2009 at the time the church was completing a major renovation. The theme became appropriately “Beautiful Music in a Beautiful space.” It has provided another avenue of evangelism and outreach for St. George’s to the community to hear quality musical talent at a reasonable price. John Vreeland has been the creative force behind the concerts, including planning and implementation.
There were other concerts presented sporadically before the regular series in 2006-2007. While the series started in 2009, a pattern developed by 2013. There would be 9 concerts from September through May. About 5 would feature St. George’s groups and 4 would be outside groups. Washington’s Camerata has appeared most years since 2013 as one of those groups. Other performers who have been here more than once include the Portland Guitar Duo and Chanson du Soir. The most popular concert was not “classical” but guitarist Daniel Bachman who grew up at St. George’s and plays American Primitive style of acoustic guitar.
The concerts offer premium entertainment at inexpensive rates. Typically the cost has recently been $75 for a season ticket and $8-$10 per individual show. The concerts have been supported by a restricted concert fund which includes subscriptions, 3rd party advertisements from the Fredericksburg community as well as targeted gifts.
The concerts have been a way to provide St. George’s groups with a regular venue but also a way to extend evangelism to the community for the St. George’s community. Vestry and others from the church have been in attendance to greet concert goers.
Here is a list of concerts presented with some links (in the left column) to some of the programs, particularly the later ones.