The dictionary says that to celebrate is to “publicly acknowledge a significant or happy day or event with a social gathering or enjoyable activity” and that is exactly what is planned for Sunday, March 1 at the Congregational Church of Boothbay Harbor. All ages, all religions or not, all community members and guests, all singers or not are invited to gather at 4:30 p.m. for a celebration in songs and piano performances to welcome the newly refurbished Steinway piano to the church.

This celebration is not a worship experience although music can often resonate deep inside of us. There will be no collecting of goods or money and audience members are encouraged to come dressed as they might come for a choir rehearsal (casual clothes with room to breath).

When Marion Dash, a life-long singer and arts supporter, died she left a gift to the church which has been used in several ways including the purchase of music, handbells, and the Steinway and Kawai pianos. The decision to purchase a different piano for the sanctuary was not made without much discussion and investigation. Once made, the church asked piano tuner/technician Paul Rice to keep his eyes open for the perfect piano.

Approximately 14 months ago he came into possession of a 1901 Steinway in excellent condition and called for the Music Committee of the Church to come have a look.

After playing, listening and photographing, the church purchased the piano which then journeyed to Boston for a new soundboard and refinishing. It returned to Phippsburg for more refinishing and interior work, and then moved to the Boothbay peninsula in January of 2015. Celebrating the arrival of this instrument will be pianists Joanne Annino, Mason Erhard, Dominic Garvey and Kevin Kiley. The newly formed Bell Choir of the Congregational Church, under the direction of Jamie Knoblock, will open the concert with “The Prince of Denmark’s March.”

Listening to music is a joyful and soul-filling experience but singing together builds community. Jester Hairston once said that people will sing together when they won’t even talk to each other. Singers include the Congregational Church Choir performing their “A” list, which includes “Away from the Roll of the Sea”, “America, the Beautiful” and “Amazing Grace” (with the help of Methodist Choir members) and the audience who will have several opportunities to sing together.

Many years ago Minister of Music, Eugenie O’Connell promised John Andrews that she would reassess what’s important in life when she reached a certain round number birthday and as that moment approaches, she knew that one of the things in life that is important is a good “sing.” She has often remarked that as much as she loves it when the singing is fantastic at a memorial service it would be even nicer if we could all get together and sing without having to lose a community member. So come dressed casually, sing to your heart’s content, have a great time and celebrate with our extraordinary community.