Halloween Concert Brings Spooky Sounds to Florence, S.C.
Florence, S.C. – What’s better than a chilly Halloween night? A night filled with spine-tingling music! That’s exactly what happened at the Central United Methodist Church this past Halloween, where some of the best organists from the Pee Dee area gathered to showcase their talents and get their spooky vibe on. The concert was a delightful blend of haunting tunes and festive fun that had everyone tapping their toes and shivering with delight.
Setting the Scene for a Spooktacular Night
Organized by Beverly Hazelwood, the director of handbells and music associate at the church, the atmosphere was as engaging as the performance itself. With black candles adorning the organ and an eerie ambiance filling the air, attendees felt like they were in for a special treat. Hazelwood explained, “Some of them have a sense of that eerie nature and mortality. Some are just loud.”
To kick off the evening, a cheeky skeleton named Bertha made an entrance, opening the concert at the organ console with a powerful rendition of Bach’s Toccata and Fugue in D minor. This timeless piece has become a staple in horror films, known for its dramatic flair and unforgettable melodies. “It’s played by the organ. We have a new elaborate console, and it has the ability to record and play back,” Hazelwood shared, adding that they even pre-recorded part of this iconic piece. And just like that, our charming skeleton was wheeled off stage by a mad scientist, paving the way for an evening filled with talent.
Musical Highlights with a Dash of Skill
What followed was an impressive lineup of performances, showcasing the skills of some seriously talented musicians. Each piece was handpicked by the organist, ensuring a mix of styles that kept the audience engaged. Hazelwood, who played a lively version of March de Triomphe, affirmed that these pieces were not for the faint-hearted. “You have to be a practiced organist,” she stated, showcasing the dedication and skill required to master these challenging works.
In addition to Bach, concertgoers were treated to pieces such as Concerto in B Minor, Fantasy on Phantom of the Opera, Fantasie in C Minor Adagio, and even a lively Bounding Ball Polka. The line-up promised something for everyone, capturing the very essence of Halloween while honoring the complex art of organ music. Other performers included Will Carswell, Jim Helper, Elizabeth Lewallen, Tim Smoak, Jackson Stone, and Robin Thompson, each bringing their unique touch to the evening’s performances.
A Halloween Tradition Roots Deep
The Halloween concert is not a new tradition in Florence. As Hazelwood explained, it traces its origins back to a time when the church was undergoing renovations and pews were removed from the sanctuary. “It started way back when Bill Mills was the organist here,” she reminisced. “It happened on a rainy Halloween night where a small group decided to come together and play at the church because of its amazing acoustics.”
After that fateful evening, the group made a pact to make it an annual event. “That was when we said let’s do this again next year,” Hazelwood revealed. And indeed, it has become an annual highlight for the community, continuing to attract enthusiastic audiences each Halloween.
A Plan for Next Year? You Bet!
Even before this year’s haunting concert concluded, Hazelwood was already thinking ahead. “I know what I’m going to play next year – Funeral March of a Marionette,” she chuckled, already excited about next Halloween’s festivities.
The Pee Dee’s Halloween concert undoubtedly brings together community members in a spirit of fun and celebration while showcasing the important musical talent of the region. With spine-chilling tunes and a hauntingly good time, it promises to keep everyone looking forward to the next spooky season!
