By Chris Turner

I Have Seen the Light” will be performed at the Concordia Bank Lobby in Vidalia at 7 p.m. Thursday, April 14, with Corey Trahan, Veronica Chapman, Claire Vangelisti, Alicia Reitzell, Susan Wible and Richard Seiler on piano.

Music has played a vital role in conveying the message of faith and providing uplifting encouragement throughout life. Classic composers such as Handel and Bach transformed Biblical texts into famous compositions. Hymns were written throughout history; some based on an author’s personal account while others were based on principles and foundations of different religions. Spirituals such as, “At The River,” resulted from a traditionally sung method of communication. Contemporary composers have adapted all of these genres to fit into current musical trends as well as created a medium that provides guidance to people of all faiths. You will enjoy songs such as “Ave Maria,” “Amazing Grace” and “It Is Well With My Soul.”

Corey Trahan has been a frequent performer for the Community Concert Series. With more than 60 roles in his repertoire, he is an active performer in opera, oratorio, music theatre and operetta and recital venues. Known for his comic timing, versatile voice and onstage charisma, he has been seen and heard around the nation in repertoire ranging from operatic classics to modern musical theatre. Richard Seiler, a native of Brevard, N.C., is a professor and keyboard area coordinator in the Division of Music in the School of Visual and Performing Arts at the University of Louisiana at Monroe where he teaches piano, piano literature and music theory. Veronica Chapman-Smith, called “operatic splendor … with her richly-hued soprano voice” has sung roles with Lyric Opera of Chicago, Opera Birmingham, Opera Colorado and Opera Delaware just to name a few. Claire Vangelisti has a voice that has graced both the national and international stages. She has a doctorate of musical arts from the University of Texas and is currently voice area coordinator/assistant professor at University of Louisiana at Monroe. Alicia Reitzell-Walker, a native of Monroe, La., has been active in the arts through the years as a performer, accompanist, actress and model. She has performed for former president’s such Ford, Carter and Bush. Susan Wible, a lifelong lover of music and theater, has seen her on stage, back stage and directing. Church choir is her primary outlet but she loves to support and follow her very talented friends.

Mark your calendars for this uplifting, inspirational and moving concert at 7 p.m. April 14, at the Concordia Bank in Vidalia. This program is free and open to the public. Concordia Parish Library presents this concert with funds granted through the Louisiana Decentralized Art Funds.

Chris Turner is a Vidalia resident.