Composer Johann Sebastian Bach (1685-1750) is acknowledged as one of the most famous, if not the most famous, and gifted of all composers past and present in the western world. Bach, a staunch and devoted Lutheran, is known for his music that was written primarily for the liturgical life of the church, to the glory of God.
The jazz ministry at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church at 54th and Lexington in Manhattan was founded by John Garcia Gensel, pastor of the congregation. He began the Jazz Vesper Service for those musicians who couldn’t attend Sunday morning services after playing gigs late into Saturday night. St. Peter’s became the home for many musicians including the legendary jazz artist Duke Ellington, pictured here with Gensel. Ellington called Gensel “The shepherd who watches over the night flock.”
The rich Lutheran tradition of liturgies, choral works, hymns, songs and instrumental music has added to the worship experience throughout the centuries.
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