1980s
Richard Heckman, Organist 1985-1989
Mary Breuer, Director of Music 1988-2012
Derek Gordon, Organist 1989-
There are many highlights in the LAUMC music program in the 1980s.
In 1980, a concert “Go Out with Joy” was presented by the Adult and Youth Choirs under the direction of Marc Clemens and Mary Breuer.
In 1981 our marvelous Sanctuary piano was given to the church by Robert and Virginia Avery. John Ranney and Jon Martin were both influential in obtaining the 1905 Concert Grand Steinway Piano, Model C. A dedication concert was given on Feb. 22 by John Ranney.
Jan. 17, 1982, the Youth Choir, under the direction of Mary Breuer, presented the musical, The Witness, with youth members providing instrumental accompaniment, solos, and choir.
December, 1982, Marc Clemens and the Adult Choir presented The Hanging of the Greens.
Feb. 6, 1983, a Brahms chamber music concert was given featuring a solo quartet of Mary Breuer, Billie Southern, Frank Allen, and Marc Clemens.
June 29, 1983, our outstanding Director of Music and bass soloist extraordinaire, Marc Clemens, gave a recital of Spirituals.
March 6, 1984, the Adult Choir presented Peaceable Kingdom by Randall Thompson.
In December, 1987 Marc Clemens directed his last big concert before his passings. The Christmas portion of Handel’s Messiah was presented.
In the summer of 1988, the Adult Choir, under the direction of Mary Breuer and the Handbell Choir presented a well-received Pops Concert.
In 1988, the Sanctuary Choir began its annual Fall Retreat which for many years was held at the Breuer’s mountain cabin in Arrowbear.
The Fauré Requiem was presented by the Sanctuary Choir.
One of the biggest events, which established a choir tradition, was the first concert tour to Europe. Under the direction of Mary Breuer, music; and Jan Kussler, travel agent and soprano in our choir; with John Ranney returning as our tour accompanist; the Sanctuary Choir set out for a five concert tour to Germany, Austria, and Switzerland.