By Carolyn N. White
The Spring Concert presented by the Chancel Choir and professional soloists of The Congregational Church of Manhasset will be held in the church’s Sanctuary on Sunday, April 29, at 3 p.m. Songs of Praise is a concert in celebration of the life of John W. Walter, longtime member of the church, the Chancel Choir, and the Manhasset community, who passed away on Jan. 5.
Songs of Praise is a compilation of some of Walter’s favorite anthems and organ pieces. “Swell the Full Chorus” by Handel, Beethoven’s “Hallelujah,” Mozart’s “Ave Verum,” “How Lovely Is Thy Dwelling Place” by Brahms and Haydn’s “The Heavens Are Telling” are among the selections included in the concert. Other composers featured are Thompson, Franck, Faure, Bach, Malotte and Mendelssohn. “Songs of Praise” is under the direction of Craig Tocher, director of music at The Congregational Church of Manhasset, with organ accompaniment by Daniel Beckwith, current organist at St. Ignatius Loyola on Park Avenue in Manhattan.
In addition to Walter’s involvement in and dedication to The Congregational Church of Manhasset since the early 1960s, his life of service benefited the greater Manhasset community. He was mayor of the Village of Flower Hill for eight years and served on various village committees. More recently, he joined the Greater Manhasset Civic Associations to pursue his interest in local government. With his incredible dedication to any position he held and organization or project with which he was involved, his innate work ethic, his problem-solving skills, his knowledge of almost everything, his caring personality and strong heart, Walter is truly missed by all who knew him.
The community is extended a cordial invitation to attend “Songs of Praise,” a free concert, and the reception in the church’s Parish Hall following the performance. The Congregational Church of Manhasset is located at 1845 Northern Boulevard, Manhasset. All areas and facilities are handicapped accessible and there is on-site parking.
For additional information, call 516-627-4911 or visit the church’s website at www.uccmanhasset.org.
