Community assembled for Sunday concert
Solos and duets were brought to harmonic life by singers performing Sunday, Nov. 12, at Christ Church Episcopal in Sharon. At the left is soprano Marthe Ryerson, performing with soprano Donna Marie Castaner. Accompaniment was provided by organist Jon Lafleur. 
Photo by Leila Hawken

Community assembled for Sunday concert

Clearly, there is no shortage of lovers of good music in Sharon, judging from the capacity audience that assembled at Christ Church Episcopal in Sharon for a benefit concert of sacred and secular solos and duets on Sunday, Nov. 12.

Church organist Jon Lafleur ably accompanied sopranos Marthe Ryerson and Donna Marie Castaner, offering an eclectic mix of music. Each piece was selected to showcase the versatility and talents of the performers, whose voices blended harmonically to perfection.

Castaner self-accompanied on lever harp, smaller than a symphony harp but effective as a gentle companion for a solo rendition of “Amazing Grace.”

For Lafleur, it was his first concert in 13 years, when he accompanied Trumbull High School’s choir for a European tour. 

The program was chosen by Lafleur to range from Mendelssohn to Broadway by way of Mozart and Schubert. Composers’ dates spanned from the 13th to the 20th centuries, all still relevant to 21st-century ears, minds and hearts.

Secular pieces included an array of serenades, or love songs, in German, French and Italian.

Proceeds from the concert will benefit outreach mission programs of Christ Church.

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