South Salem Church presents Hymns of Hope and Healing: South Salem Presbyterian Church presents a virtual concert, “Hymns of Hope and Healing” featuring Improvisations on 6 beloved hymns from the American hymnal performed on piano, organ, violin, mandolin and guitar. The event which will not have an audience will be webcast live on the Church Facebook page: www.Facebook.com/southsalempresbyterianchurch (@SouthSalemPresbyterianChurch).

Performing in Thursday’s virtual concert will be Mary Jane Newman, who is music director and organist at the Church, along with local resident and member Vincent Castellucci. Centrally located in the heart of the South Salem Hamlet, over the years the church, which at one time was also home to Jewish and Catholic services, has served as host for community meetings designed to bring the Town together. “While the current pandemic prevents us from doing so now, we thought that a virtual concert of hymns would be a nice way to express our desire to begin the healing process, “said Newman. “Hymns are a wonderful vehicle for solace and inspiration that relate beyond religious or racial lines,” she added.

Ms. Newman is an ordained Rabbi and serves as director of music at Temple Shaaray Tefila in Bedford and as a chaplain at Greenwich Hospital (CT).  An acclaimed pianist and organist, she has appeared as soloist and conductor with orchestras, chamber ensembles and vocal groups throughout Europe, the U.S. and Israel.  Castellucci has played at the SSPC with Mary Jane Newman for many years along with former pastor Dr. Chip Andrus. A former professional Southern Rock touring musician and artist, he has won over 50 awards including an ASCAP Scholarship for musical composition while at Syracuse University Crouse College Conservatory. Known as an innovative music industry tech executive, he also performs at local venues as a solo musician playing music from contemporary recording artists and his own original songs.

Questions or comments may be directed to office@southsalempc.com.