Festival of Sacred Music Continues 8/1 With Josef Rheinberger's Messe in F

The Summer Festival of Sacred Music at St. Bartholomew's continues with a service featuring Josef Rheinberger's Messe in F for men's voices on Sunday, August 1 at 11 am.

Rheinberger was born in Vaduz, the capital of the principality of Liechtenstein in 1839 and enjoyed the highest reputation in his time as Professor of Music and Court Kapellmeister in Munich. An accomplished organist, composer, and pedagogue, Rheinberger preserved classical principles during the tempestuous Romantic era, contributing some twenty sonatas to the organ literature (the most important since Mendelssohn) and a significant output of Catholic liturgical music. His Messe in F for men's voices and organ exemplifies his unique brand of classicism and dislike for ostentation.

The Men of St. Bartholomew's Choir will be conducted by William Trafka. Christopher Creaghan will be the organist.

The Summer Festival of Sacred Music takes place each Sunday morning at 11 am at St. Bartholomew's Church during the summer months. At a time when most churches reduce their musical offerings, St. Bartholomew's Church provides outstanding sacred music sung by St. Bartholomew's Choir and Boy and Girl Choristers, two of New York City's most renowned choirs. Works include an array of mass settings from the 15th century to the present embracing a diversity of cultures from around the world. The music is sung as part of the 11 am service, the liturgical context for which it was composed. All Summer Festival events are free and open to the public.

The Summer Festival of Sacred Music takes place at St. Bartholomew's Church at the corner of Park Avenue and 51st Street. Subway: 6 to 51st Street. For more information, call (212) 378-0222 or visit www.stbarts.org/sacredmusic.asp.