Jazz Legend Dave Brubeck and a world premiere at FUMC

Jazz Legend Dave Brubeck

1967: A Bicentennial Moment

Dave Brubeck, one of the most popular jazz musicians in the world temporarily dissolved his famous quartet in 1967 to concentrate on a new piece of music, an oratorio based on the teachings of Christ and the Last Temptation. That same year, Brubeck contacted his friend and colleague Charles Webb and suggested that the FUMCB choir premiere the first public performance of his work, The Light in the Wilderness.  Charles notes that he was "stunned and delighted!"

History has it that the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra premiered Brubeck’s oratorio in 1968.
However we know that the actual world premiere occurred right here in this sanctuary, as part of our Sunday services December 3, 1967 with Dave Brubeck at the piano.

It was sung by a 106 member chorus which included our chancel choir and conducted by FUMC music director Dr. Charles H. Webb.

The oratorio also included Dave Brubeck and guest musicians from Indiana University: David Arnold, soloist, David Matthews, organist; Arthur Corra, string bass; George Gaber, Paul Salvatore, and James Nelson, percussionists. 

Listen to excerpts from the Cincinnati Symphony's 1968 recording with full orchestra:   40 Days.  and   The Temptations.  

Just Jazz -Watch/listen. Brubeck’s jazz quartet perform 40 Days.   

View the December 1967 bulletin and program. Do you recognize someone in the chorus? Were you there? Tell us about it!   

Read more: A fascinating note from Brubeck about his work on The light in the Wilderness.

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The wonderful world class music at Bloomington’s First United Methodist Church is the result of the vision and efforts of Reverend Dr. Merrill McFall, who developed an intentional and enduring connection with the IU School of Music. Led by renowned musicians Dudley Ralph Appelman, Charles Webb, Jr, Michael Schwartzkopf, and Gwyn Richards, to this day FUMC has a national reputation for it’s exceptional music program.