Chiz Rider concert planned at Lafayette church

LAFAYETTE — Emmy Award-winning trumpeter Chiz Rider will bring a blend of traditional and contemporary Christian music to the Lafayette Federated Church on Sunday, June 8 at 6 p.m.

In his own totally unique style, yet reminiscent of the great Louie Armstrong & Wynton Marsalis, Charles 'Chiz' Rider has spread Christ's message of love and salvation to millions. Featured at a Billy Graham Crusade, major colleges, conference centers and churches across the land, this man from State College, Pa., will touch the hearts of everyone attending this Sunday evening concert.

Since the age of 4, Chiz has been refining his contemporary pop-jazz style to present the great music of the church that is still beautifully traditional. Chiz is 90 percent self-taught. He began by imitating songs on the radio, and later studied with Penn State's band director, Don Smith. His first major concert was at the age of 7, and he became the youngest artist to be signed by Myrrh Records since Amy Grant. This is Chiz's second concert at Lafayette.

Chiz has played openings for many professional sports events worldwide. He played for President Bush's campaign and the opening ceremonies of the Special Olympics in West Virginia and Pennsylvania. Chiz has also played with renowned artists such as Michael W. Smith, Carmen, Margaret Becker, DC Talk, The Newsboys, and Larnel Harris. Chiz's music will prove itself to be enjoyed by all ages and a free-will offering will be taken.

The concert will kick off the church's summer concert series. The next concert will feature the Palisades Park Fire Department Band on Sunday, July 13 at 6 p.m. in the pavilion behind the church. The Franklin Band also will perform in August with the date to be determined. The church is located at 180 Route 15N, Lafayette, N.J.

For more information call 973-383-4461. Chiz also will perform at the Sunday morning worship services at 8:15 p.m. and 11 a.m. All are invited.