Christopher Alexander to perform a concert of his choral work

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (KQTV) -- St. Joseph native choral composer Christopher Alexander will be performing some of his award-winning pieces in a special free concert at the church he attends.

Growing up in St. Joseph, Alexander, like most young children, was introduced to music and quickly developed a deep love for it. Soon after, he began playing various instruments and singing.

Next came the step that would help him turn this into a career: earning a Bachelor of Science in Vocal Music Education from Missouri Western State University in 2009.

"I've seen other writers write some music and they get a lot of prestige out of it. I wonder if I could try and dabble into this as well," Alexander shared.

Alexander has had numerous published pieces, worked with the New-G singers, and more.

Along with awards, publication, and recognition for his eventual journey into writing choral music, a deep honor for him was when the Tennessee All-State Choir picked one of his pieces to open their concert.

"I got to zoom in and hear the choir sing my piece and goodbye, little $0.02 here and there. And so that's kind of been a big thrill," he shared.

Alexander has always been thankful for his home congregation, Ashland United Methodist Church, which helped him fall in love with choral music. After years of being asked to perform a concert of his works at Ashland, he's finally ready to perform for the public welcomed into their sanctuary.

"His gift is extraordinary. He's a part of our faith community, and people have been asking for (a concert)", shared Shaun Agnew with Ashland United Methodist Church. "They want to celebrate Chris and all of his gifts and also be blessed by what he does in the same way."

On October 25 at 3:00 pm, he will put on a concert at Ashland United Methodist Church. The event is free to attend and will be held at the church at 2711 Ashland Avenue in St. Joseph.