BRATTLEBORO- On Saturday, May 9, at 7:30 pm, All Souls Church Unitarian Universalist will host “Bach, Bloch & Beyond,” a benefit recital for its Community Outreach Programs. Tom Baehr will play on chromatic harmonica accurate transcriptions of classical music spanning four centuries, with piano accompaniment by Charles Butterfield and Eva Greene. In an informative pre-recital talk at 7 pm, Baehr will share the harmonica’s history, construction, and playing techniques.

Tom Baehr carries on this tradition of classical chromatic harmonica in his recital. This is a unique opportunity for area concertgoers to hear some of their favorite music, and some unfamiliar selections, on an instrument that has taken its rightful place on classical music stages all over the world.

Like many children, Baehr became fascinated with harmonica, playing for his own enjoyment and in talent shows until he entered high school. Although his interest waned, he continued with his music studies, culminating in degrees from the University of Michigan, where his principle instrument was flute. When he took up harmonica again in 2004, Baehr chose not the little diatonic harmonica of his childhood, but the larger chromatic one, to allow him to play the classical repertoire he studied as an adult. These harmonicas have a full chromatic range of three to four octaves.

A lifelong singer, he continues his love of vocal music as a member of the Blanche Moyse Chorale and the Brattleboro Concert Choir, and has participated in the Western Wind Vocal Ensemble Workshops for the last seven years. Baehr’s other musical activities have included teaching instrumental and vocal music in public schools in Michigan and Vermont, playing flute in various ensembles, and coordinating the Cranberry Dulcimer and Autoharp Gathering in Binghamton, NY, for 23 years. His two dulcimer recordings have been well received. He is a master craftsman for Brannen Brothers Flutemakers in Boston.

Admission for “Bach, Bloch & Beyond,” including the pre-performance talk, harmonica recital, and a festive reception, is $12 per person, payable at the door. All Souls Church, which is also known as West Village Meeting House, is located at 29 South Street,

For further information call (802) 254-9377.