On Sunday, January 13, the At the Parish House performance series of Middleburg's Emmanuel Church will showcase the keyboard brilliance of pianist Brian Woods. He has emerged as a promising soloist and collaborator in the United States and abroad, and is currently studying with John O'Conor at Shenandoah Conservatory.

His passionate and expressive performances attract a wide array of listeners, from aficionados to casual listeners, and his artistry has won him several piano competition awards.

Mr. Woods will perform varied selections that highlight his virtuosity. The concert will include Beethoven's surprise-filled Sonata in E-flat Major, Op. 31 No. 3, selections from Debussy's Préludes, and three of Chopin's poetic Mazurkas. The concert concludes with Samuel Barber's stunning Sonata, Op. 26. The sonata was first performed by Vladimir Horowitz who declared it "the first truly great native work in the form."

Commenting on his interpretation of Beethoven, one music reviewer stated, "Woods plays with convincing technique and captures the music's dual sense of heroism and jubilation." For a sampling of this musician's impressive talent, search "Brian Woods piano" on YouTube.

The concert is Sunday, January 13 at 3 p.m. at Emmanuel Episcopal Church's Parish House, 105 East Washington St. in Middleburg. Reservations are recommended but not required (540-687-6297). A donation of $10 is suggested but not required; all are welcome.