Day of Music

Experience the Sounds of Early America at Day of Music at Historic Ephrata Cloister!

Immerse yourself in a celebration of history and music at Day of Music, happening from 1 PM to 4 PM on Sunday, October 13th at Historic Ephrata Cloister!

Music played a central role in the spiritual life of Ephrata Cloister in the 18th century. The community is home to some of the earliest documented women composers in America, as discovered in a 1739 manuscript titled Zionitischer Weyrauchs Hügel. The Ephrata Cloister Chorus will perform these unique compositions in the historic 1741 Saal (Meetinghouse), where they were originally sung by the Cloister’s members. In addition, attendees will hear pieces from other early American religious groups, including the Shakers and Moravians, offering a rich and diverse musical experience.

Adding to the day’s performances, flutist Glenn Fisher will play in the Saal, while Faith Martin (harpsichord) and Mercy Martin (violin) will perform in the Visitor Center Auditorium.

Performance Schedule:
1:00 PM: Faith and Mercy Martin, harpsichord and violin, in the Visitor Center Auditorium, Glenn Fisher, flute, in the Saal (Meetinghouse)
1:30 PM: The Ephrata Cloister Chorus in the Saal (Meetinghouse)
2:00 PM: Faith and Mercy Martin, harpsichord and violin, in the Visitor Center Auditorium
2:30 PM: The Ephrata Cloister Chorus in the Saal (Meetinghouse)
3:00 PM: Faith and Mercy Martin, harpsichord and violin, in the Visitor Center Auditorium, Glenn Fisher, flute, in the Saal (Meetinghouse)
3:30 PM: The Ephrata Cloister Chorus in the Saal (Meetinghouse)
Please note that seating for performances is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Admission:
$10 for adults
Free for ECA members
$9 for seniors (65+)
$7 for students (6-17)
Free for children (5 and under)
Tickets can be purchased at the Visitor Center front desk on the day of the event and include access to all performances and the historic grounds.