by Eric Lesher | From Fall 2007
The Rittenhouse neighborhood is home to several highly regarded musical establishments and venues, such as the Curtis Institute of Music, the Philadelphia Art Alliance, and the Academy of Vocal Arts. Most of these organizations, however, adhere to the traditional concert season of September through May, leaving the summer months wanting for performances of orchestral, choral, and ensemble music.
On 19th and Walnut Streets, The Church of the Holy Trinity, Rittenhouse Square provides the public with performances throughout the summer. These performances are free of charge, making the church a concert venue for parishioners and the wider community alike. The church hosts choral performances every Sunday morning at 11:00am and guest performances from highly acclaimed musicians every Wednesday, from 12:30 - 1:30pm, with special events booked throughout the summer as well. College Choir Festivals, Art Showings, and Community Outreach Programs are just a few types of events offered to the community.
The Church of the Holy Trinity, Rittenhouse Square opened its doors to the public on Easter Sunday, March 27th, 1859. The beautiful sanctuary features stained glass windows and a skylight ornamenting the hall. The chancel dwells beneath a gilded semi-dome, and Mercer tiles on the aisle and chancel floors reflect the Arts and Crafts movement of the late nineteenth century. A triptych on the wall behind the altar refers to one of the best-known Christmas carols, O Little Town of Bethlehem: a canticle written by the parish’s own second rector, Reverend Phillips Brooks, and church organist, Lewis Redner, between 1865 and 1868. Victorian stenciling garnishes the ceiling, and a gold-leafed Apse embellishes the Norman architecture of the Church. The building is a Certified Historic Building by the City of Philadelphia and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
A beautiful organ with gold-leafed pipes and a polished case adorns the church gallery. Housed in the church tower is the oldest manually operated carillon in North America, consisting of 25 chiming bells. There is a brief carillon recital daily at 12:00 noon and 6:00pm, as well as at 10:45 am on Sundays, with guest carillonneurs ringing the instrument throughout the summer. The choir, led by distinguished organist and choirmaster Dr. John French, performs every Sunday at 11:00am and on special occasions throughout the year. A Steinway piano, situated to the right of the chancel, is the newest addition to the church’s impressive instrumental collection.
Nearly two years ago, the church’s music committee initiated the Brown Bag Lunch Concert Program. Every Wednesday from 12:30pm - 1:30pm, the church holds a showcase of Philadelphia’s best local artists as well as artists from outside the region. Performances range from instrumental and choral ensembles to open rehearsals and performances by local students. The Brown Bag Lunch Concert Program is open to the public, and concert attendees are encouraged to bring and eat their lunch during performances in the sanctuary.
Whether looking for a beautiful historical site or a concert hall with live performances of music, The Church of the Holy Trinity, Rittenhouse Square is the answer to your prayers! For more information, please visit their website at www.htrirt.org or stop by 1904 Walnut Street.