UNIONTOWN — The Palouse Choral Society will perform “Amazing Grace,” a melodic journey that blends gospel, bluegrass and classical music together, at 4 p.m. Sunday at the historic St. Boniface Catholic Church in Uniontown.
Michael Murphy, Palouse Choral Society artistic and musical director, said although the goal of the concert is to bring together a unique combination of different genres, he is also excited to highlight music that’s being composed by women.
“Amazing Grace” will feature the 65-member choir accompanied by Richard Kriehn, of “A Prairie Home Companion,” on mandolin and local musicians J.P. Shields on guitar, Paul Smith on banjo, Mabel Vogt on fiddle and Dave Snider on bass.
Hailing from Houston, Kriehn completed a master’s degree in violin performance and conducting at Washington State University before becoming a member of the Guy’s All-Star Shoe Band. He now tours as part of the radio show “A Prairie Home Companion.”
“Richard’s participation is big,” Murphy said. “But by joining forces with the local musicians is what really enriches our community.” Murphy said he’s seen a shift in musical taste in the community during his time as artistic director that he wanted to represent with “Amazing Grace.”
“I’ve talked to people who really have this fascination with classical music, but they also like bluegrass music,” Murphy said. “It’s very apparent to me that our community has diverse musical taste. I wanted to have a concert that made sure it reflected that.”
Since this is the only concert of this choir’s repertoire, Murphy encourages community members to attend, regardless of experience with bluegrass, classical or gospel music.
“We do hope to reach out and get people to come to this concert, and maybe make some audience members faithful attendees,” Murphy said. “There’s so much out there as far as great music goes. People should really expose themselves to it.”
If You Go WHAT: “Amazing Grace” WHEN: 4 p.m. Sunday WHERE: St. Boniface Catholic Church, Uniontown
