HUGE CROWD GATHERS FOR "GATHER AT THE RIVER" CONCERT

Our Savior's Lutheran Church released the album "Gather at the River" at a debut concert on Sunday, November 15th at 2:00 p.m. A tremendous crowd gathered to hear Horace Magnusson play selections from this recording and obtain their own signed copies of the album.

At the start of the concert, Pastor Laura Gentry introduced Horace to the eager audience.

Horace played selections from the album and additional numbers for about fifty minutes.

At the conclusion of his musical set, Horace received an enthusiastic, standing ovation from the enormous gathering.

A brief question and answer session was held to allow audience members to learn more about Horace's musical style as well as the process of recording an album. On man asked: "What inspired you to make this recording at age 90?" Horace simply laughed and pointed to Pastor Laura.

After the concert, Horace was busy signing his autograph on the albums while Betty Estebo assisted.

Many friends and family members were happy to be present at the concert and greet Horie and the church members during the reception.

Pastor Laura's father is pictured here greeting Horace.

Horace's son, Tom, explained how he keeps needing more albums to give his friends. He is pictured below visiting with Amber after the concert.

Monseigneur Ed Lechtenberg, long-time friend of Horie's, was happy to attend the concert.

Our Savior's member, Gayle Bahlmann, congratulated Horace during the reception.

Horace and his wife, Amber, were still smiling at the end of the exciting event.

ALBUM DEBUT CONCERT

Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Lansing will be releasing the album "Gather at the River" at a concert on Sunday, November 15th at 2:00 p.m. The community is invited to attend this free event, which will be held at the church located at 480 Diagonal Street, a block north of Main Street at 5th in Lansing.

"Gather at the River" contains 20 old favorite hymns of faith played on piano by Horace Magnusson. At age 90, this is his first professional recording.

Hory’s vibrant style of music was developed over the years by playing in various dance bands throughout the region. As a lifelong citizen of Lansing and longtime member of Our Savior’s, he has shared his musical gifts by singing in the choir and periodically playing piano and organ for worship. He also volunteers to play piano each week for the residents of Thornton Manor in Lansing. Indeed, Hory’s music is beloved by many in Allamakee County and beyond.

This full-length album was recorded by Grammy Award winning sound engineer, Brett Huus, at Sound Strations Recording Studio in LaCrosse, Wisconsin on August 6th. Not only was the first time Hory had been in a recording studio, but it was also the first time he'd played a baby grand piano. Nevertheless, he performed brilliantly. Click here to read about the recording day and watch a video.

The art work on the album’s packaging, created by Pastor Laura Gentry, features the Missisippi River at Lansing, including the Blackhawk Bridge. This is fitting since it is truly a Lansing album.

Our Savior’s Lutheran Church decided to embark upon the unique project of producing a studio album in order to preserve and share the talents of Hory Magnusson with a wider audience. In addition, it celebrates the rich musical tradition of the Christian faith. The ultimate goal is for this album to uplift and inspire all who hear it.

The concert on November 15th will officially release the album. Hory will play a selection of songs from the project. Following his performance, CDs will be available for a suggested donation of $5 each. At this time, concert-goers will have the opportunity to obtain Hory’s signature on their CDs while a celebratory reception is held.

Click here for this story at the Standard newspaper site.

Please help us get the word out about this concert. Invite all your friends and neighbors.