By: Geri McShane, Assistant Editor

Three local organists are banding together to bring Advent and Christmas music to people on their lunch breaks.

Eileen Nelson Ness, Gail Thurnau and Bob Tewes, all members of the American Guild of Organists, will give recitals from 12:15 to 12:45 p.m. for the following three Wednesdays at Christ Episcopal Church, 204 Fountain St., Albert Lea. Nelson Ness will perform this week. Thurnau, accompanied by vocalist Mary Wayne, will perform Dec. 13, and Tewes will perform Dec. 20.

While the three organists have worked together on programs before, this is the first time they&8217;ve given an Advent program at Christ Episcopal. &8220;It&8217;s an extension of our offering of having the church open from noon to 1 p.m. on Wednesdays for quiet meditation and prayer,&8221; said Thurnau, the organist at the church. &8220;The front door is open.&8221;

All three are members of the American Guild of Organists. The purpose of the guild is to promote the organ in its historic and evolving roles, to encourage excellence in the performance of organ and choral music, and to provide a forum for mutual support, inspiration, education and certification of guild members.

Thurnau said American Guild of Organists members give Advent and Lenten recitals all over the country. Nelson Ness, Tewes and Thurnau have all given programs at Calvary Episcopal Church in Rochester, which is located downtown near the Mayo Clinic and many medical professionals come for the recitals. They are hoping since the church is located near the Albert Lea Medical Center that employees will similarly take advantage of the offering, Thurnau said.

Those attending are welcome to bring brown bag lunches, she added.

&8220;Take a break from the holiday rush and enjoy the music,&8221; Thurnau said.

There will be fair trade coffee and other gifts available for purchase.