Tarentum church kicks off concert series with 'Todo Tango'

Central Presbyterian Church will launch the return of its concert series on Sunday with tango music, an upbeat show that gets people dancing in the aisles after the series’ extended pandemic-related hiatus, organizers said.

“Todo Tango” will feature Argentine singer Ada Lis Jimena performing classics with pianist Tom Roberts and violinist Warren Davidson.

The concert is at 7 p.m. at the church, 305 Allegheny St. in Tarentum.

All ages are welcome.

“We offer the concerts because the arts are important to us,” said David Rankin, event organizer.

“Cultural offerings in our local communities here are sparse. These concerts allow local residents the opportunity to enjoy beautiful music and quality fine arts programming right in our own backyard without having to travel into the city.”

Sunday’s concert marks the start of the series’ seventh season after an 18-month break.

Usually there are four concerts offered in each series but Rankin said this year will see five — a reward to people after being cooped up during the pandemic.

The season runs through April.

“We are a small congregation, but we have a beautiful space for concerts, and the appetite for concerts in this area is great,” Rankin said.

Rankin said the church was halfway through the sixth season when the covid-19 shutdown hit. He chose tango music for the series return to kick things off at a high tempo.

“There were kids dancing in the aisles when a similar concert happened three years ago,” he said. “We’re hoping for the same response.”

Concerts are offered at the church through its mission arm, Faith Community Partners. Admission is free but donations are welcome.

As testament to the series’ popularity, Rankin said the events are well-attended and people are eager to learn more about the artists.

“People are hungry for these programs,” he said.

The concerts are promoted through a partnership with WQED.

Next up, on Nov. 7, will be “Buried Treasure: Hidden Gems for Strings” with the Academy Chamber Ensemble.

Scheduled for Dec. 5 is “Voces Solis,” followed on Feb. 27 with “Music of the People: Classical Music Inspired by Folk Tunes,” and April 24 with “North Indian Classical Music.”

For more information, call 724-224-9220.