Michal Szostak of Warsaw Poland ~ Organist for Music at St. Anthony's ~ SUNDAY, May 25, at 3:00 pm

Start: Sunday, May 25, 2025 3:00PM
End: Sunday, May 25, 2025 5:30PM

New Bedford, MA - On Sunday, May 25, 2025, at 3:00 p.m., internationally acclaimed concert organist and improvisation specialist Dr. Michal Szostak of Warsaw, Poland will perform as part of the Music at St. Anthony's Concert and Recital Series, held at the majestic St. Anthony of Padua Church. This highly anticipated recital is a featured stop on Dr. Szostak's 2025 North American Tour.

The program will include masterworks by Buxtehude, Beethoven, Bach, and Lefebure-Wely, as well as two of Dr. Szostak's signature improvisational compositions. Known for his dynamic artistry and commanding stage presence, Dr. Szostak's performances have captivated audiences throughout Europe, North America, and beyond.

A suggested donation of $10 will be accepted at the door for general admission seating. Preferred seating is available for $20, with all proceeds benefiting the ongoing restoration of the church's historic pipe organ.

Dr. Szostak holds a Doctor of Musical Arts degree and serves as an Associate Professor at both the University of Social Sciences in Warsaw and Collegium Civitas. His formal training includes studies at the Royal College of Organists in London, the Pontificio Istituto Ambrosiano di Musica Sacra in Milan, and numerous master classes worldwide. His expansive repertoire, ranging from Baroque to contemporary works, is distinguished by a unique flair for improvisation that has become his artistic hallmark.

The performance supports the preservation of St. Anthony's historic Casavant Frères pipe organ (Opus 489), a magnificent instrument designed specifically for the church in 1912. Although still in use during services, the organ requires urgent restoration -- particularly the re-leathering of its 113-year-old wind chest that will cost $18,000. With just $6,000 remaining to fully fund the repairs, this concert is a pivotal moment in the campaign to restore the instrument to its original grandeur.

St. Anthony of Padua Church is regarded as one of the most breathtaking ecclesiastical structures in New England. Completed by the French-Canadian community in 1912, the church features a modest red lime stone exterior that belies an awe-inspiring interior filled with intricate sculpture, stained glass, and sacred art. First-time visitors are often astonished by its beauty, with many describing the sanctuary as nothing short of heavenly.

Don't miss this rare opportunity to experience a world-class musical performance within one of the region's architectural treasures. For tickets, donation opportunities, and more information about the Music at St. Anthony's series, please visit www.musicatsaintanthonys.org or contact Gisele Pappas at (508) 264-8010.