Union to honor legends of the ivories
The Union Baptist Church First Friday Summer Series will open tomorrow (Friday, June 7) at 7:30 p.m. with the Key Legends and Hall of Fame Celebration.
The black and white gala event will honor and recognize church organists and pianists – from the 1960s-’80s – who have shaped the spiritual music landscape in Winston-Salem. Ten legends will be inducted into the Hall of Fame: David Allen, Eugene Bess, Aldine Griggs Rucker, Apostle Sylvester D. Johnson, Jimmy Lowery, Rev. Bennie Plowden, AdeleScott-Norton, Walteria Spaulding, Dr. Rudolph Sullivan and Dr. Pete Thomas.
The special guest musician will be Elder Moses Tyson, who grew up in Vallejo, Calif. steeped in gospel music. He picked up his signature Hammond B-3 primarily by ear, and credits his cousin Sly Stone with helping him develop his onstage swag.
Music will be provided by the Union Baptist Choirs, the Renaissance Choir and Willie Mason and Friends. Attire for the free event is black and white or semi-formal.
The First Friday Summer Series will continue in July with the presentation of the stage play “How To Make A Wrong Relationship Right.” The play is based on the book authored by Union Pastor Dr. Sir Walter Mack Jr. It is written for the stage and directed by Garrett Davis.
Union Baptist is located at 1200 N. Trade Street. For more information, call 336-724-9305 or visit www.unionbaptistwsnc.org.