Ephrata Cloister Spring Concert

The Historic Ephrata Cloister has always been known for the nearly one-thousand original pieces of music created at the site in the 1700s. Now, along with this amazing achievement, three of Ephrata’s Sisters can claim the title of the first documented female composers in the British American colonies. Research into the lives of Ephrata’s founding members is ongoing, and thanks to recent work by Dr. Christopher Herbert, these women have been identified as composers. Recognition of their work now finds these Sisters, Ketura, Hanna, and Föben, on a new historic marker at the Ephrata Cloister. The public is invited to join in the dedication of the blue and gold marker on Saturday, May 14, at 1:00 p.m. While these markers are often found along the road, this new marker will be placed along the entrance to the historic site where guests can slow down and take in the significance of these Sisters’ efforts. There is no charge to join the dedication ceremonies. Regular admission fees are charged to join guided tours of the historic site.

Music composed by Sister Föben will join other composers and authors of Ephrata music in the Ephrata Cloister Chorus Spring Concert at 2:30 p.m. the same day, May 14, in the Saal (Meetinghouse). A free will offering will be collected at the concert to support the Chorus.