First Lutheran launches concert series

First Lutheran Church in Sandpoint is launching a new cultural initiative, the First Lutheran Concert Series, with its inaugural performance "Love Denied" in collaboration with Inland Northwest Opera. 

The new series is dedicated to bringing top-tier classical music to the Sandpoint community and begins with the debut of its new world-class concert grand piano, purchased to support this ambitious musical vision.

"Love Denied" will take place Sunday, Sept. 14, at 4:30 p.m. Headlining the performance are Grammy Award-winning tenor Robert McPherson of Seattle and acclaimed coloratura soprano Chloe Sundet, presenting dramatic excerpts from Donizetti’s "Lucia di Lammermoor" and Gounod’s "Roméo et Juliette." These works vividly portray the tragic consequences when love is bound by tradition and divided by hatred.

Admission is by suggested donation: $40 general, or free for youth under 30.

A frequent guest of the Metropolitan, English National and Israeli operas, McPherson is known for dazzling high notes, dramatic intensity, and comedic brilliance. His portrayal of Andres in Alban Berg's "Wozzeck" helped the Houston Symphony secure the 2018 Grammy for Best Opera Recording.

Chloe Sundet, originally from East Wenatchee, Wash., has been recognized for her virtuosic technique and vocal versatility. She has sung roles such as Mabel in "The Pirates of Penzance" and Morgana in "Alcina." A graduate of USC’s Master of Music in Vocal Arts program, she currently teaches at Holy Names Music Center and North Idaho College.

Sandpoint native — and internationally acclaimed pianist — Daniel Hughes will accompany the program. Since his studies at the Manhattan School of Music, Hughes has won top honors in global competitions and performed in major venues across the world. He has been lauded as a pianist of “striking sensitivity and sterling musical intelligence, considerable technical skill, and a bold, mature, and individual musical voice” (Marc Silverman) and is a laureate of numerous international competitions. He has collaborated with musicians from the Metropolitan Opera and with top Billboard artists such as Pink Martini, Hunter Noack, and the Portland State Chamber Choir.

The concert also features celebrated local singers Lars and Ann Mellander. Lars Mellander, once renowned throughout the country for his commanding voice and dramatic portrayals, is returning to the stage after more than two decades, bringing extraordinary artistry back to his community.

Additional performers include regional singers Noah Lauer, Jennifer Daniels, Katelyn Wallinger, and Logan Shevalier, all of whom contribute to the vibrant musical life of the Inland Northwest as both teachers and accomplished artists.

Audiences will also enjoy a lively preview from Inland Northwest Opera’s upcoming fully staged English-language production of the hilarious "Die Fledermaus," planned for the fall of 2026.

    Chloe Sundet is pictured at a past performance. The acclaimed coloratura soprano will present dramatic excerpts from Donizetti’s "Lucia di Lammermoor" and Gounod’s "Roméo et Juliette at the Sept. 14 First Lutheran Concert Series in Sandpoint.
  

    Among those headlining the First Lutheran Concert Series performance is Grammy Award-winning tenor Robert McPherson, pictured on the left.