First United Methodist Church of Bradenton

Fine Arts Concert Series

First United Methodist Church presents an exciting concert series, led by Dr. Jim Culver, Director of Music, in a beautiful historic space with great acoustics. 

Jim Culver, Organist

Something Bold, Something Blue, Something wonderful just for you

A perfect way to begin the season. Our own Music Director and friend, Jim Culver, promises a concert of great variety – old composers and new but all beginning with a “B”! . From Bach to Count Basie. From the Beatles to the Hammond B3 organ. From Basilica to Baseball. A fun and inspiring afternoon of classical, jazz, and American standards.

Projected 2022 Date: November 13, 2022 @ 4:00 PM

Ceremony of Carols  

As part of the 10:30 worship service, we present this concert of Benjamin Britten’s Ceremony of Carols. Written for harp and choir, Ceremony of Carols begins with an unaccompanied procession, ‘Hodie Christus natus est’, (Today, Christ is born) before the harp joins with the choir for a series of carols telling the traditional story of the birth of Christ. The text is Middle English and Latin.

Projected 2022 Date: Sunday, December 4, 2022 @ 10:30AM

Broadway Blockbusters With Love

Award-winning performers Craig & Heather Weiskerger are back with an all-new edition of their hit cabaret se- ries, Broadway Blockbusters! This dy- namic duo has appeared countless times in area theaters, such as The Asolo, FST, and The Manatee Players. They have also performed in Europe and Asia. Now they are combining their talents to bring you a collection of the Great White Way’s most unforgettable love songs. Selections in- clude “All I Ask of You” from The Phan- tom of the Opera, “People Will Say We’re in Love” from Oklahoma!, “Can You Feel the Love Tonight” from The Lion King and many, many more. Grab a loved one, and come enjoy a little slice of Broadway in Bradenton.

 
Projected 2023 Date: February 19, 2023 @ 4:00 PM

SEIPP/ Sheets Duo

What Audiences Say — Engaging ~ Innovative ~ Entertaining ~ Virtuosic ~ Diverse

Trumpeter Chuck Seipp and organist Randall Sheets are two performers at the top of their game. “The Duo dazzled as they put on a beautifully crafted organ and trumpet recital that covered repertoire from beloved favorites to serious music lovers’ delights.”

“A terrific performance!” and a standing ovation from a very excited audience. “The Seipp/Sheets Duo played with sensitivity and brio, with comic glee and utter seriousness.”

Randall Sheets is the Ceremonial Organist for Arlington National Cemetery Dr. Seipp is Sergeant Major (retired) from The United States Army Band.

 

Projected 2023 Date: March 5, 2023 @ 4:00PM

Messiah

As part of our Palm Sunday Service, the glorious tradition of Handel’s Messiah returns! The choir and orchestra will present selected choruses from Parts 1, 2, and 3 of Messiah. From the ethereal Hallelujah Chorus to the many thrilling arias, Handel’s Messiah is an unmissable musical experience.

Projected 2023 Date: Sunday, April 2, 2023 @ 10:30 AM 

The Jacobites

Not your grandpa’s pipe band, the Jacobites are beloved in the area and on our series. It’s a rollicking afternoon with everything from Celtic, calypso, rock and gospel, to Classical, Americana, and sing- along. They bring a truly unforgettable crowd-pleasing entertainment experience!

Projected 2023 Date: Sunday, May 21, 2023 @ 4:00 PM 
The Fine Arts Concert Series relies on the support of its audience.  If you would like to become a supporter of our series, we invite you to join our list of donors.
 
The five donor categories are:  
BRINGING DOWN THE HOUSE   1500+
WHISTLES AND CHEERS            1000-1499
ENCORE PERFORMANCE             500-999
STANDING OVATION                   250-499
ENTHUSIASTIC APPLAUSE         100-249

APPLAUSE                                     25-99

All monies go directly to support this Concert Series and are tax deductible.  If you have any questions, please call Jim Culver at (941) 747-4406.