Newly Launched Summer Music@Bethel Concert Series to Feature Local Classical Artists

Bethel United Church of Christ in Elmhurst will be featuring pianist Jeff Panko and other local artists on Saturday, June 27th at 7:00 p.m. in its Sanctuary as part of the church’s new Summer Music@Bethel Concert Series. Summertime concerts are a new addition to these inspiring musical events, which have delighted Elmhurst audiences for over 16 years. This Saturday’s “Jeff Panko and Friends” concert will include works composed by Bach, Mozart, Brahms, Chopin, Dutilleux and Ibert.

Jeff Panko, world-class, award-winning pianist is the church’s Minister of Music and has been the Artistic Director of the Music@Bethel Concert Series for the entirety of its 16 outstanding seasons. Jeff is also a member of New Music School piano faculty in Chicago. Jeff will be performing with members of the Chamber ensemble Picosa, including Jennie Brown, flute, Elizabeth Brausa Braithwaite, violin, and Andrea DiOrio, clarinet.

Flutist Jennie Brown is a faculty member in the Music Departments of both Wheaton College and Elmhurst College, and is the director of the Elmhurst College Chamber Music Academy. Jennie resides in Elmhurst with her family.

Violinist Elizabeth Brausa Braithwaite is an active freelance artist who performs regularly with the Chicago Sinfonietta, the Joffrey Ballet, Elgin Symphony, Fulcrum Point, Chicago Jazz Philharmonic, and the Illinois Philharmonic.

Clarinetist Andrea DiOrio is among Chicago’s most highly sought after clarinetists, having performed in over fifteen operas with the Lyric Opera Orchestra. She has also performed as an extra with the Grant Park Symphony since 2003, as well as with numerous local orchestras including Elgin, Quad Cities, Illinois Philharmonic, and South Bend Symphony Orchestras. Andrea and her husband reside in Chicago.

“Jeff Panko and Friends” concert is on Saturday, June 27th at 7:00 p.m. at Bethel United Church of Christ, 315 East St. Charles Road in Elmhurst. A free will offering will be taken at the door. Parking is free and the church is handicapped-accessible.