Get ready for an unforgettable afternoon of music and history on Saturday, March 1st, as the Mennonite Historical Society of BC presents a truly special concert to mark a milestone—500 years of Anabaptist history!

Under the expert direction of Calvin Dyck and Ben Ewert, this event promises to be a celebration of both heritage and artistry. A powerful 70-voice choir and a 42-piece orchestra will take the stage to perform an array of timeless pieces, including the stirring Mennonite Piano Concerto, dramatic excerpts from Mendelssohn’s “Elijah” and “Reformation Symphony”, and the majestic Bach “Christmas Oratorio”.

The afternoon will feature Paul Williamson, one of the Fraser Valley’s top pianists and a current doctoral candidate at Northwestern University in Chicago, as the soloist for the Mennonite Piano Concerto. This piece, rich with beloved kernlieder (hymn melodies beloved by Mennonites), holds deep historical significance—particularly the poignant 2nd movement “Wehrlos und Verlassen”, the hymn sung by Mennonites as they boarded trains to flee the Soviet Union in the 1920s. Commissioned by the B.B. Fast Foundation in 1975 to commemorate 450 years of Anabaptist history, this concerto has become a cherished work within the Mennonite community.

Directed by Ben Ewert, the combined choirs from Trinity Western University and Masterworks Choir will also perform new orchestral arrangements, including Larry Nickel’s “Melodies of Molotschna”, David Squires’ “Exalted”, and a specially commissioned arrangement of “Now Thank We All Our God” by Mel Bowker.

In addition to the breathtaking music, Richard Thiessen, President of the Mennonite Historical Society of BC, will share reflections on Anabaptist history, adding a personal and thoughtful dimension to the evening’s celebration.

The concert will take place at Central Heights Church and will serve as a fundraiser for the Mennonite Historical Society. It’s an event you won’t want to miss—both a musical journey and a powerful tribute to 500 years of faith, perseverance, and community.