Detroit Chamber Winds & Strings continues its 2022-2023 season by blending together two music genres with Detroit history for its next concert. On November 6, at 2:30 p.m., pianist Alvin Waddles and violinist Kimberly Kaloyanides Kennedy explore the intersection of gospel and classical music at St. Matthew’s and St. Joseph’s Episcopal Church. 

“While they’re two very different genres of music, their impact comes both from their rich history and the communities they pull together.” DCWS president Maury Okun said. 

The concert is part of DCWS’ Structurally Sound series, which challenges musicians to create concerts inspired by the city’s historic and culturally relevant architecture. The series has held concerts in venues like Pewabic Pottery, the Redford Theatre and the Motown Mansion.

St. Matthew’s & St. Joseph’s church has been a community pillar for more than 170-years. It was created from the merger of St. Matthew’s Mission, among the oldest historically black congregations in the Episcopal Church and in the nation, and St. Joseph’s Church in 1971.

Both musicians performing in this concert are notable figures in the Detroit community, making their names within their respective genres. 

Waddles was born and raised in Detroit and has immersed himself in the rich musical culture of the city, benefiting from the diverse influences that would eventually shape his own performance style. A pianist, singer, composer and director, he is frequently involved with local churches, schools and arts organizations.

Kennedy won the position as a violinist with the Detroit Symphony Orchestra at the age of 22. In 2003, she became the DSO Associate Concertmaster. She was one of the few Americans invited to the International Violin Competition of Indianapolis in 1998. Similar to Waddles, she focuses her talents on serving others through her music, both at church and around the community.

Dr. Richard Smith, a local historian and member of the St. Matthew’s and St. Joseph’s congregation will present the history of the church at 2:30 p.m.

At 3 p.m. the concert will open with a student performer, as part of a new DCWS program to spotlight the next generation of performers. The program began in 2021 for the organization’s 40-year anniversary celebration. The student performer for this concert will be announced at a later date.

The church has been a long-time collaborator with DCWS and will also be the location of the annual Holiday Brass concert. 

Subscriptions to the full season are on sale with the purchase of five or more concerts. Visit detroitchamberwinds.org/subscriptions for more information and to purchase.

Tickets to the concert can be bought at detroitchamberwinds.org/performances or by calling 248-559-2095 Monday to Friday 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.