First Presbyterian Church of Verona Launches New Concert Series With Max Morden Performance (Verona, New Jersey)

First Presbyterian Church of Verona has launched a new concert series with a performance by local musician Max Morden. The event, titled “Music of Max,” will take place on Sunday, November 8, at the church. Morden, a beloved figure in Verona’s music community and former Summer Music director, will perform alongside fellow Verona resident John Priori and musicians Mark Peterson and Gene Lewin.

The initiative is part of a broader effort by the church’s music director, Kyle Blackburn, to expand community engagement through the arts. Blackburn noted that the church has experienced significant change in the past two years, with a focus on community outreach and new ventures. He emphasized the church’s commitment to making its sanctuary space accessible for various musical activities, including rehearsals, college recordings, and public concerts.

Blackburn’s vision includes offering as many free and low-cost performances as possible. The concert series began in June with a performance by the New Jersey Gay Men’s Chorus, marking the first event in the new initiative. Morden was chosen for the next performance due to his popularity among congregants and community members.

Morden, who has been a music teacher for 35 years, continues to compose original music. The quartet will perform some of his instrumental compositions during the November event. Morden expressed enthusiasm about the Presbyterian Church’s role in creating the concert series, calling it a valuable addition to the community.

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