For date day this past week we attended the Vivaldi & Bach Concertos at St. Ann’s by-the-Sea Episcopal Church in Kennebunkport, Maine.
I don’t even remember how I heard about the summer concert series {there are two more concerts this summer if you’re interested in attending} but I’m so glad we went! Not only was the music wonderful, but you’d be hard pressed to find a church in a more idyllic setting.
St. Ann’s by-the-Sea Episcopal Church has been holding summer services since it was completed in 1892 {you can read more about its history HERE}.
The concertos were performed under the direction of artistic director Ian Watson by a talented group of 12 musicians {Mr. Watson included}. But what most caught my eye {or ear} was the music from the harpsichord.
It was the first time I’ve heard one played in person. What a treat! And while we didn’t snap any photos during the concert, we did see someone taking a video which was later posted on Instagram {by the church} if you want to hear a little clip of the concert.
I love old buildings and I especially love old churches so after the concert was over, I took a few photos to share with you.
Many of the stained glass panels in the church date from the late 1800s/early 1900s. Aren’t they beautiful?
St. Ann’s by-the-Sea Episcopal Church in Kennebunkport, Maine, if you’re ever in the area be sure and stop by. The church is along Ocean Avenue {a great area for walking} and is open to the public on most summer days. They even encourage picnics.
A picnic. Maybe we’ll do that next time. 😉
~Mavis
Karen Picoult says
I’m with you, Mavis. I love old churches… the history, the stained glass windows, the wooden pews. And the acoustics are wonderful for music of any sort! I also like roaming through the cemetery on the church grounds if there is one. Reading the headstones is wonderful. I hope you go back and share your visit again.
Teri says
Absolutely beautiful church and setting. Thanks so much!
SueD says
I love old churches, and their stained glass windows. The acoustics are spot on. I remember the first time I heard a harpsichord live. I was 14, and we were on a family day trip out to the Hamptons. We had to make a stop at a colleague of my mother’s house, and he had a harpsichord he’d built from a kit. I actually got to play it for a few minutes.
Marianne M Lewis says
Did it happen to be in Southampton in the ’70s?
Sherry in Sumner says
Several years ago my sisters and I had a wonderful sisters’ trip exploring parts of Maine. We spent time in Kennebunkport and went to that charming church. I sat in the last pew writing in my journal about the area. I’ve written a journal, with photos, for all the trips we’ve taken. Now in my mid-70s, I occasionally peruse one of the journals to relive the amazing trips we’ve taken together, both home and abroad. Thanks for posting this beautiful church, Mavis, and bringing back great memories.
Tiffany F says
I agree! I also love old churches. Those windows are gorgeous! I also love Vivaldi so I’m a little envious.