Cathedral Concert Series offers a ‘glimpse of God’ through the beauty of classical music

By Carissa Krautscheid

Over the next five months, the community will be blessed by the monthly Cathedral Concert Series, featuring live classical music made available at no charge to attendees by the Catholic Foundation for the Diocese of Tucson.

“The concert series has proven to be a significant asset to the community,” said artistic director Carlos Zapién. “Besides having internationally renowned performers, the concert series fosters local talent by providing a platform for musicians and artists to showcase their work, while also attracting visitors and enhancing community engagement. The concert series promotes social cohesion, bringing together diverse groups, and encouraging dialogue among attendees.” 

 

From October to February, concerts at the various venues of Cathedral Square in downtown Tucson offer attendees, Catholic or otherwise, the opportunity to engage with the classical arts in a beautiful setting. The series includes a diverse collection ranging from mariachi to love songs, classical guitar and piano. 

 

“Art holds vital importance in society,” said Zapién. “Art serves as a means of expression, allowing individuals to convey emotions and ideas that may be difficult to articulate through conventional communication. Art challenges perceptions, provokes thought, and can be a powerful vehicle for social change.” 

In St. John Paul the Great’s Letter to Artists, the pontiff said, “Society needs artists, just as it needs scientists, technicians, workers, professional people, witnesses of the faith, teachers, fathers and mothers, who ensure the growth of the person and the development of the community by means of that supreme art form which is ‘the art of education’. Within the vast cultural panorama of each nation, artists have their unique place. Obedient to their inspiration in creating works both worthwhile and beautiful, they not only enrich the cultural heritage of each nation and of all humanity, but they also render an exceptional social service in favor of the common good.” 

 

Throughout history, the Catholic Church has been a champion of the arts. “The Catholic Church recognizes the transformative power of art in conveying spiritual truths and enhancing worship,” said Zapién. “Through architecture, music, and visual arts, the Church seeks to elevate the human spirit. This commitment to the arts reflects the Church's understanding of beauty as a pathway to experiencing and understanding faith.” 

 

 

The Cathedral Concert Series is one way that the local Catholic Church engages with the transcendence of beauty. Past years were extremely successful and “overwhelmingly positive,” said Zapién. “Many attendees expressed appreciation for the opportunity to enjoy live performances, which enrich their cultural experiences. These free concerts have not only entertained but also inspired a sense of pride in local artistry.”