St. Mary's to Introduce Charitable Concert Series

St. Mary's Church in Bethel will introduce its "Concerts of Caring" Series on Sept. 18 at 3 p.m. Sunday's performance will be led by music director and pianist, Michael Ferrari, who will accompany Alyce Cognetta-Bertz, concert master and first violinist of the Waterbury Symphony Orchestra. 

"Our hope is that the concerts will raise funds to benefit local charities and will also bring attention to our music program here at St. Mary's," Ferrari said. 

Ferrari has been the music director of St. Mary's since January 2010 and is also the performing arts chair at Chase Collegiate School in Waterbury. 

"Along with this concert series we hope to explore and discover new talent in the Greater Danbury area and encourage those interested to join our music program here," he said.  

Ferrari's music ministry began at the age of 13 where he played piano and organ at Holy Trinity R.C. Church in his home town of Fort Lee, N.J. At 19 he became musical director of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church in Passaic, N.J.  

A graduate of the Manhattan School of Music, he has held various posts as accompanist and music director in catholic churches throughout the tri-state area. He has a vast performance and composing background and plans to perform and publish some of his pieces, including his most recent work, a Mass he wrote for Blessed John Paul II. 

Sunday's concert will be held at St. Mary's, 26 Dodgingtown Road, Bethel, at 3 p.m.  Proceeds from this first annual concert will benefit the Dorothy Day Hospitality House in Danbury and the St. Mary's Music Program.

There is a suggested donation of $15 at the door.  Light refreshments will be available after the concert.

Those interested in joining the music program at St. Mary's may contact either Music Director, Michael Ferrari or Choir Director, Elizabeth Barnes  at 203-744-5777.  For future concert information visit our web site: www.stmarybethel.org.