The power of music to calm and inspire has never been more necessary. When the coronavirus pandemic caused St. John’s Church to close in mid-March, Music at the Red Door quickly pivoted to an online program, including 19 weeks of benefit recitals featuring local musicians, three Pipes Alive! organ recitals, and a chamber music concert from our ensemble-in-residence, the New World Trio. We are grateful for all who performed, tuned in, sent notes of thanks and encouragement, and gave generously to our program and community partners.

Even as we turn to music as a balm in these tough times, we also grieve the loss of vital experiences — listening to live music in a packed concert hall, attending a child’s school concert, singing in St. John’s beautiful nave. Fortunately, Music at the Red Door’s model of providing high-quality music free of charge has allowed us to plan a full program for 2020–2021, because we do not rely on ticket sales for funding.

With your support, we will again offer a diverse musical program, including a concert by organist David Hurd and an expanded Pipes Alive! schedule in celebration of our magnificent Austin organ’s 25th anniversary; the perennial favorite Jazz at the Red Door concert with Nat Reeves; beloved choral events, including Lessons & Carols and Evensong, presented creatively and safely; and chamber music programs, including cello/guitar duo Boyd Meets Girl, Hartford Symphony Orchestra concertmaster Leonard Sigal on violin, and the New World Trio. All programs will be livestreamed online, and we will welcome live audiences back when it is safe to do so.

One of this year’s toughest losses was our second annual Kids’ Community Music Camp scheduled for June. The camp introduces young neighbors from Hartford to a variety of musical expression, from strings and piano to dancing and drumming, and fosters an appreciation for how music can nurture and connect. Energized by renewed calls for justice and equality, we are committed to providing this opportunity for children who may not have access to robust and inclusive music education. We will host a Kids’ Camp next summer, as well as during the winter and spring school breaks, as the public health situation allows.

Even and especially in the most trying circumstances, we can reach people with the gift of great music because of donations from people like you. Your generous donation allows us to support our community in these uncertain times with creative, quality programming.

May you be sustained and comforted by the gift of music.

Karan Emerick, President                                                       Scott Lamlein, Artistic Director