Local artist/pianist to give two holiday concerts

Published 4:06 am Friday, December 5, 2008

Pianist Jennifer Goodenberger will perform two solo piano concerts of music for the holidays. The first is at 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, at Grace Episcopal Church, 1545 Franklin Ave., Astoria, and another is at 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 14, at St. Catherine of Alexandria Episcopal Church, 36335 U.S. Highway 101 in Nehalem. There is a $10 suggested donation at the door. For these concerts, Goodenberger will play original compositions and her arrangements of Christmas and Celtic music.

A mesmerizing fusion of classical, improvisational and contemporary styles, Goodenberger’s compositions and piano playing are transcendent, inspirational, meditative, moving and deeply peaceful. Her music is often used in the healing arts, for relaxation and in birthing and hospice. It has also been used for film soundtracks.

Known for the elegance of her playing and her sensitive and expressive performances, Goodenberger has worked as a classical concert pianist, composer, studio and ensemble pianist and musical director for theater for more than 30 years. She currently concertizes as a solo pianist and teaches private piano lessons. She is also a visual artist, working in fibre arts and collage.

Goodenberger has two recordings of original piano solos, “Mystical” and “Return,” in addition to “Simple Gifts: American Folk Songs” and “Christmas Reflections.”

Following the concert at Grace Episcopal Church, the audience is invited to the monthly labyrinth walk, held the first Sunday of each month in the church’s parish hall from 3 to 6 p.m.

For more information, call (503) 325-5310 or contact Goodenberger at Jenniferspiano@hotmail.com or www.jennifergoodenberger.com