Organ Concert to Benefit Christ Church

Christ Episcopal Church in Newton will host a recital by organist John V. Baratta on Saturday, May 13th, 4:00 p.m. A New Jersey native, Baratta studied piano and organ at Jersey City State College and worked as a music educator for 32 years, teaching both instrumental and vocal music in the public school system. He is currently the resident organist and director of music for the Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church in River Edge, New Jersey. Baratta has offered recitals at the Cathedral of Saint Patrick in New York City and at many of the local churches in and around the tri-state area. In addition, he has performed as the house organist for the Middletown Paramount and Lafayette Theatres in New York, as well as the silent film series at The Grand Theatre Organist in East Greenville, Pennsylvania.

Baratta served as the past chairman of education for the North Jersey Chapter of the American Guild of Organists. Recently, Baratta organized an educational student outreach program which is co-sponsored by the New York Theatre Organ Society, Garden State Theatre Organ Society, and The North Jersey American Guild of Organists.

Baratta’s many accolades include receiving the Music Talent Award and the Music Achievement Award given by the Garden State Arts Center. He was awarded the honor of conducting the New Jersey Region One Middle School Concert Band and Jazz Ensemble during his tenure in the public school system. Building on his experience as an educator, Baratta has written and published a method book aimed at middle school instrumental instruction.

A free will offering will be taken at the concert to benefit the music program at Christ Church as well as the Sussex County Oratorio Society. Christ Church is located at 62 Main Street in Newton. For more information about Christ Episcopal Church in Newton, call 973-383-2245 or visit www.christchurchnewton.org.