The Bach Choir of Bethlehem and Unitas Chorale unite again at “Bach at Noon,” noon July 14, St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, Allentown.

“This year, the Moravian Music Foundation’s Unitas Chorale and the Bach Choir of Bethlehem are partnering to present Johann Friedrich Peter’s ‘Psalm of Joy,’” says Kyle Johnston, Unitas Chorale Interim Director and Moravian Music Foundation Associate Director.

“Individuals who missed our May 8 performance during the Bach Choir’s 118th Bethlehem Bach Festival now have an additional opportunity to enjoy this celebratory work,” Johnston says.

“‘Psalm of Joy’ is a 1783 collection of chorales and anthems compiled by Moravian composer Johann Friedrich Peter [1746-1813] and performed at the first Independence Day celebration by Moravians in Salem, N.C.,” says Johnston. It is believed to be the first organized July 4th celebration in the nation.

When the Moravians in North Carolina received a letter from Governor Alexander Martin (circa 1739 - 1807) proclaiming July 4th a day of celebration and thanksgiving, the Moravians turned to music.

Rather than revel in victory; however, it was the return of peace that spoke to them and inspired the music of the joyful work. Whether it is in regard to the end of armed conflicts or a respite from the chaos of everyday life, the message of gratitude, peace, and joy endures.

Born in Holland and educated in Germany, Peter emigrated to America in 1770 and was music director at Moravian communities in Pennsylvania; Salem, N.C.; Maryland, and New Jersey.

Explains Johnston: “‘Psalm of Joy’ consists of 17 different movements. The majority are four-part hymns which were likely sung by congregations.

“However, the second movement, ‘Es ist ein Tag,’ is a larger scale work by Moravian composer Christian Gregor [1723-1801].”

Gregor, a prolific composer, was an organist, minister and bishop. Considered one of the most influential musicians of the Moravian Church, he was in Pennsylvania and North Carolina communities from 1770-1772.

“In celebration of ‘America250,’ the Moravian Music Foundation’s goal is to perform ‘Psalm of Joy’ in as many of the areas of the early Moravian settlements as possible,” says Johnston.

Unitas Chorale will perform “Psalm of Joy” July 11 at “Easton Heritage Day,” July 11. Information: https://heritageday.org/easton-heritage-day/

The Moravian Music Foundation is in search of a Music Director for the Unitas Chorale. For information, contact Executive Director Christopher Ogburn at christopher@moravianmusic.org

Bach Choir of Bethlehem and Unitas Chorale, “Bach at Noon,” noon July 14, St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, 37 S. Fifth St., Allentown. Information: 610-866-4382; https://bach.org

“Classical View” is a column about classical music concerts, conductors and performers. To request coverage, email: Paul Willistein, Focus editor, pwillistein@tnonline.com