Music and ministry in harmony: Ellen Chapel Live Music Series marks 18 years of community tradition

LEWISTOWN -- For nearly two decades, a unique music ministry has been bringing performers and listeners together in a setting where appreciation for live music, fellowship and hospitality share the spotlight.

The Live Music Series at Ellen Chapel Church in Ferguson Valley grew from an idea launched in 2008 by the Rev. David Pennebaker and promoter R.B. Powell at Alfarata Lutheran Church, located north of Lewistown.

Powell said the mission from the beginning was simple.

“The purpose was to promote live acoustic or non-electrified instruments, and to provide a listening space for an audience who wanted to focus on the music,” Powell said.

The monthly gatherings became known as the Alfarata Coffee House and were held on the second Saturday of the month from fall through spring. Over the years, a wide variety of performers shared their talents, often volunteering their time for audiences who gathered simply for the enjoyment of live music.

According to Powell, performers included “a classical harpist, Penn State Singing Lions, brass players, singer-songwriters, gospel singers, bluegrass and country bands, school choirs, pianists, accordionists, etc.”

As attendance grew, events were held either in the church’s lower level or sanctuary depending on audience size. Donations from supporters eventually helped purchase a sound system for the venue.

Powell and Bridget Allen, who perform and promote events throughout central Pennsylvania as The Acoustic Connection, recruited many of the acts that appeared throughout the years.

The series entered a new chapter in 2017 when Pennebaker retired from the ministry. Rather than ending the popular concerts, organizers sought a new home and found a welcoming partner in Ellen Chapel Church.

“In the fall, David Pennebaker acquired a new venue at the Ellen Chapel Church in Ferguson Valley,” Powell added. “Pastor Mark Hill and the Ellen Chapel members welcome the events.”

The transition marked the beginning of the Live Music Series at Ellen Chapel. The sound system was moved to the new location, a Facebook page was established and volunteers organized refreshments for concertgoers.

Powell said longtime audience members followed the series to Ferguson Valley, while new listeners discovered the monthly performances.

Today, the series continues on the second Saturday of each month from October through May, offering a relaxed coffeehouse atmosphere with free entertainment, refreshments and an opportunity to experience music up close.

“We moved the sound system, enrolled Helen Kirk and Cathy Pennebaker to lead the intermission refreshment team, opened a Facebook page, and brought along faithful attendees and enrolled new listeners who attend in rewarding numbers,” Powell said.

The concerts have featured both experienced entertainers and young musicians, solo performers and groups. While many acts appear only once, several audience favorites have returned for repeat performances. Powell noted that the Penn State Singing Lions and several local bluegrass groups have been invited back because of strong audience response. Altogether, more than 200 performers have appeared during the history of the series.

The format has evolved over the years. Acts now receive compensation through a free-will offering collected during performances, while refreshments continue to be provided by volunteers.

“The Live Music Series, mostly secular acts, appeals to all who enjoy seeing and hearing the music come alive,” Powell explained.

That tradition will continue Saturday when two acts take the stage at Ellen Chapel. Opening the evening at 6:30 p.m. will be Chiz Rider, of State College.

“Chiz Rider … is a virtuoso with his trumpets,” Powell said. “Chiz has built a following who appreciates his humor, song selection, and unique use of the horn.”

Following refreshments during a 7:30 p.m. intermission, Long Acre Hollow, of Lebanon, will perform the second set. Powell said the band is back after performing during a previous season.

“This new band is returning from last season by popular demand,” he added.

While the performers change from month to month, the purpose remains much the same as it was 18 years ago: creating a place where people can gather, listen and enjoy live music in a church setting that emphasizes community and hospitality.

Operating through the support of volunteers, musicians and faithful attendees, the Live Music Series continues to demonstrate how a congregation can open its doors and create meaningful connections through the universal language of music.

Admission is free.