WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. (WGHP) — For several Sundays leading up to Easter, members and non-members of area Moravian churches gather for a special rehearsal at God’s Acre in Old Salem.
“There are six different bands scattered here and up throughout the graveyard,” said Dr. Nola Knouse, director of the Moravian Music Foundation. “You’ll hear one band and another will answer it. It’s like 18th-century surround sound.”
Since 1772, they’ve gathered for the annual Easter Sunrise Service. It’s been done the same way, using the same music, for 246 years.
While some people keep coming back year after year, the band still attracts new players.
“I’ve always looked longingly at the band and thought ‘I really want to do that,’” first-time player Maggie Harper said. “This year I’m doing it.”
Many of the players will start playing early in neighborhoods around 2 a.m. The tradition dates back to the first service when Moravians would play early to wake church members so they’re not late for the sunrise service.
“Anybody who knows Moravians will know this is the way we’ve always done it,” band member Ross Gobble said.
The 251st Easter Sunrise Service starts Sunday at 6:15 a.m. For more information on attending, click here.
