“During hard times like the one we are living in right now, music and art will always find a way to bring joy and encouragement. The power of song is an amazing tool,” said Iowa Central Community College Director of Vocal Music Will Lopes.

This concert will kick off the Iowa Central Music Department’s fall season. The performance will feature a collection of inspirational and religious pieces.

“They will perform traditional hymn song favorites and many will recognize melodies interwoven amongst all the instrumentation,” said Lopes. “These students are performing for only the second time together after kicking off the first week of school by welcoming the Honor Flight veterans back home again.”

The concert will be held at First United Methodist Church, 127 N. 10th St.

“I look for unique venues for students to have the opportunity to perform, and one of our hometown churches, First United Methodist Church, has graciously offered their beautiful sanctuary as our concert venue this year,” said Lopes.

Lopes said he hopes this performance will inspire and unify those who attend.

“The music program has a dynamic group of students who will collaborate to share some uplifting music,” he said.

The Concert Band will provide instrumental music under the direction of Paul Bloomquist. It will play an introduction for the concert and music throughout the performance.

Singers will include the Triton Singers, Vocal Jazz, Encore Singers and Pop Voices. The concert will also provide an opportunity to feature some of the music and theater soloist students. ”Vocalists will be underscored by a talented group of local musicians,” Lopes said.

The concert finale will bring all the ensembles together to perform a rendition of the hymn “How Can I Keep From Singing?”

If you go:

What: Sacred & Beyond Concert

When: 7 p.m. today

Where: First United Methodist Church, 127 N. 10th St.

Cost: Admission is free.