Pianist Abriana Church is set to deliver a mesmerizing multimedia recital as part of the Sundays of Sound series presented by Rhapsodia. This immersive experience weaves biblical Scripture and evocative visual imagery with timeless classical keyboard masterpieces, inviting listeners to reflect on themes of creation, redemption and divine promise.

“I am thrilled to bring this audio/visual concert to new audiences,”  Church said. “As a Christian artist, this format allows me to explore the profound creativity and philosophy that align with my mission to glorify God through music.”

The performance aims to transport attendees into “a musical celebration of God’s work in creation and the promise of a redeemed humanity” where sound, sight and story converge in harmonious inspiration.

The performance is at 2 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 21 at the historic La Crescenta Presbyterian Church, 2902 Montrose Ave., where Abriana (now based in Arlington, Northwest Washington) will perform. Originally from Idaho, she began piano studies at age 6 and graduated in 2022 from The Master’s University, a Christian liberal arts institution in Santa Clarita. Her accolades include an honorable mention at the 2021 Los Angeles International Liszt Competition and she has graced stages across the Pacific Northwest and internationally, from concerto appearances with the Culver City Symphony Orchestra (featuring Prokofiev) to collaborations with the Chamber Orchestra of the Slovak State Opera in Vienna (showcasing Mozart).

Church’s affinity for multifaceted artistry shines through in past collaborations including setting biblical texts to music, and echoes the legacy of mentors like the late Longview piano teacher Martin Kauble. Her previous recitals, including a rendition of Liszt’s “Paganini Etudes,” remain available on the “Martin Kauble Memorial Concert Series” YouTube channel — a testament to her ongoing commitment to enriching communities through live performance.

At the heart of this recital lies Johann Sebastian Bach’s “Passacaglia and Fugue in C Minor,” a monumental work unfolding across 20 intricate variations, building from haunting introspection to majestic, hymn-like grandeur. As Bach himself composed to honor the divine, this piece evokes a profound sense of standing in sacred presence.

Complementing Bach are selections from Frédéric Chopin, the unrivaled “poet of the piano.” Expect his evocative Etudes, including the buzzing energy of “The Bees” (Op. 25, No. 3), the galloping drama of “The Horseman” (Op. 10, No. 12), and the ethereal, wind-swept lyricism of the “Aeolian Harp” (Op. 25, No. 1). Church will also interpret Chopin’s beloved keyboard arrangement of “La ci darem la mano,” the seductive duet from Mozart’s opera Don Giovanni.

The program rounds out with “Müller und der Bach” (“Müller and the Brook”), a poignant “song without words” drawing from Liszt and Schubert, blending joy, sorrow and quiet contemplation.

Biblical narratives from Genesis and Revelation will be presented in the program to complement the music: lush nature scenes symbolizing creation’s splendor and the intricate biblical engravings of 19th-century French artist Gustave Doré, famed for his vivid illustrations of Scripture and Dante’s Divine Comedy. 

This multi-sensory approach draws inspiration from Richard Wagner’s vision of total artwork, akin to ancient Greek drama. “For believers like me, the Bible is the ultimate living drama – the sweeping tale of creation, humanity’s journey and ultimate redemption,” Church explained.

Admission is by donation with freewill offerings gratefully accepted to support Rhapsodia’s mission of supporting emerging artists. 

Abriana Church’s performance is a don’t miss opportunity to experience her talent. For more details or to reserve prime seating, visit rhapsodia.org.