AUBURN – The Wesleyan Singers of the United Methodist Church of Auburn will present a cantata, “Songs of Freedom and Faith,” at 7 p.m. on Friday, May 20, and at 10 a.m. on Sunday, May 22.

The program “is a time for patriotic music and an opportuntity to recognize the many strengths of our nation,” said Susan Barre, the choir’s director. “The timing is, of course, intentionally just before Memorial Day and we hope to recognize all veterans, young and old.”

She said invitations have been sent to members of the 133rd Engineer Battalion of the Maine National Guard, as well as to congregations of other churches.

The cantata, created by Randy Vader and Jay Crouse, includes pieces such as “God of our Fathers” and “A Candle in the Darkness.” The performance is woven together with narrations crafted by Vader.

Soloists are Tom Riechard and Melissa Sundell. Riechard is a member of the Wesleyan Singers and both Riechard and Sundell are members of the Androscoggin Chorale and are active in the Lewiston-Auburn musical community.

Caroline Young, a longtime member of the Wesleyan Singers and a student at the University of Southern Maine, is also a featured soloist, and there will be patriotic pieces performed by smaller ensembles.

Norma Rice Gould, organist at the church, will perform additional patriotic numbers on the organ.

The United Methodist Church of Auburn is at 439 Park Ave. Donations are welcome.


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