2008 Year in Review

Third Lenten Noon Recital Featuring Laurie Wilkins

The third in a series of Noon Lenten Recitals of the United Methodist Church will be held Friday, February 22, 2008, featuring mezzo-soprano Laurie Wilkins. These thirty-minute concerts begin at noon in the church sanctuary, and are followed by a soup luncheon. This hour each Friday of Lent renews the spirit, soul, and body as a variety of Morrison musicians share their talents.

Laurie’s love of music began in her family as she and her sisters sang frequently in various churches in the area. A Morrison native, Laurie is the daughter of Phil and Joyce of Wilkins and graduated from Morrison High School. Laurie studied voice with Stella Rankin in Rockford, Illinois, and is a member of the Clinton RiverChor Choir, the Morrison Ecumenical Chorus, and the Mendelssohn Performing Arts Center of Rockford. Laurie also utilizes her talent conducting the Ebenezer Reformed Church choir, and is a private vocal instructor in Mt. Carroll, Illinois.

The recital will contain a variety of musical repertoire. Beginning with a French composition and art song, “Les Chansons des Roses,” Laurie will also perform a song based on a poem by Emily Dickinson, entitled “This Little Rose.” Included in the thirty-minute concert will be the music of contemporary Christian composer, Darlene Zschech, and Tennessee Williams’ words for Blue Mountain Ballads. Joining Laurie in the concert will be friend and fellow soprano Connie Swanson DeSpain. Together they will perform “What is this Feeling?” from the Broadway hit, Wicked.

Laurie received her Liberal Arts degree (Concentrations in Music and Literature) from The Franciscan University of the Prairies, and recently completed her Master of Arts in Teaching degree from Ashford University. Currently, Laurie is a substitute teacher in various school districts in Carroll and Jo Davies counties. In her spare time, she loves spending time with her family, especially her six grandchildren.

All are welcome. There is no charge for the concert ; however, a free will offering will be accepted for the soup luncheon.

by  Editor, theCity1.com
February 18, 2008