The Bermuda School of Music (BSM) is launching the first of its 2013-14 Lunchtime Concert Series performances at Wesley Methodist Church this Friday, starting at 12 noon.

The hour-long programme will feature works by Dr Charles Callahan, Prokofiev, Sir Walford Davies, and John Cook. Performing them will be BSM faculty members Jerremiah Smith (guitar), Zacc Rodwell (organ), Lionel Thomas (violin), Oliver Grant (piano), and BSM executive director Lloyd Matthew (organ).

The opening work, ‘Four Celtic Preludes for Guitar and Organ’ (Kelvingrove, Slane, St Columba, and Durrow), was written by Dr Callahan between 2011 and 2012, and is his first composition for guitar. It will be performed by Jerremiah Smith and Zacc Rodwell. ‘Slane’ is dedicated to Steve Crawford, while ‘Durrow’ is dedicated to Mr Smith, both of whom are BSM guitar instructors, and whom the composer met while teaching piano, organ and composition at the music school.

Renowned US organist, educator and teacher Dr Callahan is well known to Bermuda audiences, having performed on many occasions during and after his tenure at the BSM. In addition to his many compositions for organ, Dr Callahan has written music for numerous solo instruments and ensembles.

The first movement of Prokoviev’s Concerto No 2 in G minor Op 63 will be performed by Lionel Thomas and Oliver Grant. This work was composed in 1935 for the French-Belgian violinist Robert Soetens, and masterfully combines traditional and established elements of classical form with a unique 20th century harmonic language. The music is filled with dazzling, virtuosic displays and beautiful, soaring melodies, and is one of the most beloved works for violin.

The programme will conclude with two contrasting selections for organ, played by Lloyd Matthew: ‘Solemn Melody’ by British composer Sir Walford Davies, and ‘Fanfare’ by Anglo-American composer, organist and church musician John Cook.

The popular Lunchtime Concert Series provides an excellent opportunity to enjoy fine music during a break in the busy working day. Traditionally, these events also showcase the many talents of the BSM faculty. Admission is free, but donations are gratefully accepted for the Bermuda School of Music’s bursary programme, which funds music lessons for students who would otherwise not be able to afford them.