Album Notes

Anthony VanPelt (b.1977) of New Market, Virginia, began playing the violin at age four. He received his BA in Violin Performance from Eastern Mennonite University and James Madison University in 1999, and received his MM in music composition from Shenandoah Conservatory in 2002.
He has performed in the eastern United States, Mexico, Japan, and has taught music masterclasses and lectures from elementary to university levels. He enjoys sharing the excitement of music with young children, encouraging them to make music a part of their lives.
Since his composition and conducting debut in 1994, his music has been performed in Europe, China, Japan, Mexico, Guam, and throughout the United States.
"The Hymn Collection - Volume I" is his sixth released CD. The previous five are releases of his own compositions ranging from solo to full orchestra, including three works recorded by the National Opera Orchestra in Beijing, China. His style covers a wide area. Growing up in the Shenandoah Valley on a farm has instilled a bluegrass side also. One of his CDs is of his original bluegrass music. His varied style is evident in the groups he performs with: Lexington Symphony Orchestra and SouthRiver Bluegrass.
"The Hymn Collection - Volume I" is a collection of the familiar and favorite hymns performed by Anthony VanPelt with his personal touch and arrangement on solo violin. Anthony has been playing in churches throughout the Shenandoah Valley and abroad and this long awaited project has been requested of him for years. Now it is here.