Heart & Soul: Music in Moravian Bethlehem Walking Tour
Bethlehem’s musical identity was in place long before the start of Musikfest. Our Heart & Soul: Music in Moravian Bethlehem Walking Tour explores our musical city.
Heart & Soul: Music in Moravian Bethlehem Walking Tour
Music is deeply rooted in Bethlehem’s heritage, and Musikfest is just the latest note in the legacy of this uplifting and important art form in the city. When the Moravians founded Bethlehem, their strong religious convictions created a musically sophisticated community. They celebrated their love for music all through the streets, believing that it was a way to glorify God.
On the Heart & Soul Tour, attendees will discover how Bethlehem gained its musical roots. Let history be your soundtrack as you stop outside the 1752 Old Chapel, where to this day the Moravians still perform weddings, baptisms and worship services. It’s also the birthplace of the Moravian Easter sunrise, which is believed to be the oldest Easter sunrise service in the United States.
You’ll also learn about the Bethlehem Area Moravian Trombone Choir, which was founded in 1754, making it the oldest organization of its kind in existence.
During a visit to the Moravian Museum housed in the 1741 Gemeinhaus – the oldest building in Bethlehem – attendees will see some of America’s most impressive and intricate musical instruments, including the oldest viola in the nation, made by composer Johann Antes in 1764. Other unique instruments they’ll discover include the serpent and crumhorn.
Heart & Soul also includes a visit to the Gemeinhaus Saal, the first place of worship in Bethlehem and the location where the first piano was delivered in the city. Here attendees will learn about the Moravian Lovefeast, a sacred church service that includes singing and something to eat, such as milk and cookies.
Come follow the melody of the past, because in Bethlehem, history doesn’t just speak…it sings!
