Linda Berg's scores big with original "Mass"
By Tony Omer
Published: October 8, 2009
The premier of Island musician Linda M. Berg's choral piece "Mass of Creation" was performed Saturday evening at The First Congregational Church in West Tisbury to a full house that was moved to a long standing ovation.
Composer Linda Berg at the organ. Photos by Susan Safford Of the performance of her first classical composition, Ms Berg said, "It is thrilling to hear the notes inside your head come to life. The choir was inspired. And the standing ovation was almost too much."
The seven-part "Mass of Creation" was sung by the church's choir, accompanied by Ms. Berg on piano. The program began with the Trio Sonata by Henry Purcell, and "Sonata for Violin and Viola da Gamba" by Philipp Heinrich Erlebach, performed by Susan McGhee (violin), Stephen McGhee (cello), and Ms. Berg (organ).
Well-known in musical circles on the Island, Ms. Berg is the church's organist, a director of choirs, music director for numerous musicals and plays, and piano teacher. An accomplished actress, director and playwright, she also serves on the board of the Island Theatre Workshop.
Ms. Berg began "Mass of Creation" while spending time with her ailing father in Denver this past January. She credits the influence of her many years in the Episcopal Church, saying it "provided me with a rich foundation for liturgical music."
Last Saturday, the First Congregational Church choir sang "Mass of Creation."
