Pictured: starting upper left: Andrea Borrelli, Jillian Severin, Lauren MacDonough, Colin Pazik, Sue Viavattine, Carrie Caramante, Colleen Wangler, Lynne Monacco, Mark Balestra. Kids in front: Emma Barstow, Gabby Wangler, Bridget Wangler, Tori Wangler. Not pictured: Mark Viavattine, John Robert Viavattine, Drew Viavattine, Tony Jovenetti, Jean Nickels Submitted photo
Lights of every color, a pounding drum, people from every generation on their feet clapping to the music, many are singing and the most important element, smiles. One would think this was an al fresco concert at the Hollywood Bowl or a heart pounding legendary rock idol in Madison Square Garden but, it’s right here in Mendon, New York at St. Catherine of Siena Church. A group of local parishioners and musicians come together to play Contemporary Christian Music for everyone’s enjoyment under the direction of Sue Viavattine, music director of St. Catherine of Siena.
Voices Raised will be presenting its second free concert on Sunday, April 17 from 7:30 – 9:00 at St. Catherine of Siena Church. This concert is an invitation to people of all faiths to come and be together as one community to sing, be joyful and even dance. Amidst the lights and musicians, there is a screen that projects the words for the audience to sing with the participants. Why this particular music? As per its website, voicesraised.org, Voices Raised performs Contemporary Christian Music which has been characterized as pop music with a lyrical focus on Christian faith. Since pop music is by definition current and every changing, CCM reflects a changing instrumental and vocal preference. There is no single approach. As pop music does, this music seeks to engage with its listeners and become a part of their imaginative life. The lyrics carry a strong Christian message with the energy and creativity of contemporary music.
By performing these popular Christian songs, the musicians give the audience a sense of hope and joy. Everyone goes through difficult and challenging times. This music becomes a part of the listener’s life and give the individual hope in an otherwise hopeless situation. In this world and all of the confusing, horrific events that take place in it day after day, hopefulness is welcomed.
To see the 600+ people together when the first concert happened on November 15, 2015, was an amazing experience. People of all generations, walks of life and experiences came together. They were curious and cautious at first; but then, erupted on their feet with so much energy and happiness. Ken Piazza recalls his experience. “It is so nice to learn how the music, the messages in the lyrics and even the audience response impacts you as you [the musicians] share your precious God-given talents… Your [Voices Raised] music has made such a wonderful impact on me – like a good friend walking beside me who is supporting me as I continue on my journey to strengthen my relationship with God.” Many other audience members got something they didn’t expect from that first concert in November: Joy.
If this is the kind of entertainment you enjoy experiencing, mark your calendars and join this wonderful group of people who are our neighbors on Sunday, April 17, 2016 at 7:30pm. Come with your kids, parents, friends and anyone who is looking to have a fun, positive and faith building experience.
