Madison Stake of LDS Church hosted Make Music Huntsville
MADISON – “Make Music Huntsville 2025” offered a full day of live music, worship and community connection. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter- day Saints in the Madison Stake participated with the event.
The meetinghouse in Madison opened its doors for a day of entertainment on June 21 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. This Madison component for Make Music Huntsville 2025 involved more than 20 performers who shared hymns, original compositions, children’s worship songs and instrumental music in a joyful celebration of faith and artistry, according to publicist Angela Walser.
This year was the first time that the Madison Stake engaged in the celebration. “The event encourages musicians of all backgrounds to perform in public spaces around the world on the summer solstice,” Walser said. “The peaceful setting and warm acoustics of the chapel provided a welcoming stage for artists of all ages and skill levels.”
“We were so excited to open the church to the community,” event organizer Reed Carpenter said. “The performers all showed up and shared great music from their hearts.”
Local community artist GB Music was on the bill. She brought original music, inspired by her faith and love for others.
“My inspiration for participating was the opportunity to share God’s love and His message through the music He gave me,” GB Music said. “As a community artist, I couldn’t have asked for a more welcoming environment for my worship experience.”
GB Music felt genuine smiles and excitement delivered an inviting and comfortable atmosphere for the artists.
Sessions throughout the day showcased a wide range of instruments, including harp, acoustic guitar, brass, piano, organ and voice. “Family groups with young children shared simple, heartfelt renditions of hymns and songs of worship, while soloists and ensembles contributed more complex musical offerings,” Carpenter said.
The various musical styles and performers, from seasoned professionals to first-time musicians, made the day rich with meaning.
Ralph Cobb, who led Core Harmony Barbershop Quartet, contributed gospel favorites. Cobb formerly served as Chief of Madison Fire and Rescue Department.
“When we learned of Make Music Huntsville, we thought a full day of Christian music was an interesting opportunity to express our faith through music and to hear how others do the same,” Cobb said. “Our repertoire for the day consisted of hymns and songs by Southern gospel musicians through the years.”
“It was our prayer that our music would revive memories of how we all sang of our faith through the years,” Cobb said.
The lineup featured several other community performers, such as David Hughes, Mario Yarbrough and Kenny Hatton of Fraternity Barbershop Chorus. Each brought a unique voice and background, contributing to an atmosphere that felt both sacred and celebratory.
“Though a last-minute scramble to replace a forgotten instrument briefly disrupted the schedule, Carpenter’s calm leadership and the flexibility of both audience and performers kept things running smoothly,” Walser said. “The audience responded with patience and warmth, embodying the spirit of community that defined the day.”
“As performances finalized in early evening, the event left behind more than music . . . it left behind connection, gratitude and a renewed sense of shared purpose. Organizers hope this marks the beginning of a new annual tradition and look forward to welcoming even more community voices in future years,” Walser said.
For more information, visit makemusicday.org/Huntsville.
