The latest performer in Trinity United Methodist Church’s Candlelight Concerts series didn’t need to be invited to take part.

According to Beth Kissinger, one of the organizers of the Candlelight Concerts, Seattle-based concert pianist Michelle Huang contacted her first.

“She had heard about our concerts, and emailed me to find out if she could come and perform at one,” Kissinger said. “We’ve had a number of performers contact me in this way. I suspect it’s because they know other Candlelight Concert performers, who give good reviews of our venue.”

She added, “I’m always pleased when someone finds us, and we can add another marvelous performer to our list.”

Huang will be performing at Trinity United Methodist Church at 7 p.m. Thursday, April 24, for one set, with no intermission, which will also be streamed live on the church’s website.

The concert will likewise be simulcast on KPTZ 91.9 FM.

Kissinger explained that the program Huang will be presenting at the Candlelight concert is one “that really speaks to her: The idea of connecting the past to the present, that the living composers are often influenced, in some ways, by masters from the past.”

The concert will present three sets of composers: impressionist Claude Debussy and contemporary Australian Natalie Williams; “romantic pinnacle” Johannes Brahms and American Missy Mazzoli; and ragtime giant William Bolcom and Carter Pann, one of Bolcom’s students and a professor of composition at the University of Colorado.

“These three sets of pieces are, without a doubt, connected to one another through rhythms, harmonies, styles and musical languages,” Kissinger said. “Audiences are invited to hear the newly composed pieces through the lens of the old masters.

A native of Taiwan, Huang has described herself as equally at home performing music from “esteemed masters” and “novel voices.” Since moving to Seattle in 2021, she’s collaborated with musicians from the Seattle Symphony and Philharmonic, as well as Seattle Pro Musica. She has said she’s happiest when playing concerts that allow her to tell stories, make connections and create “expansive and imaginative” listening experiences for audiences.

Huang has held teaching positions at Lincoln Memorial University, Edward Waters College and Virginia Commonwealth University, in addition to maintaining a private teaching studio in Seattle.

What to know

Admission to the concert is free, with a suggested donation of $15.

Half the proceeds will go to Jefferson County Immigrants’ Rights Advocates.

Trinity United Methodist Church is located at 609 Taylor St., across from the Community Center, in Uptown Port Townsend. To listen online look for the link to the Candlelight Concerts on the church website.

Attendees are advised to arrive early, with doors opening at 6:30 p.m. Masks are encouraged.