Award-winning Ragtime pianist to perform free concert in Naperville

Renowned ragtime pianist and composer Reginald R. Robinson will play a free concert at 3 p.m. Sunday, May 15, at Community United Methodist Church, 20 Center St., Naperville. The concert also will be livestreamed on the church's website, onecumc.net/events/ragtime/.

Robinson was awarded a John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Award (known as a "Genius Grant") in 2004 for his innovative ragtime piano works and his music research. His lectures at colleges and universities has helped preserve the legacy of African-American history.

His love for traditional jazz styles started as a child when he enjoyed listening to swing music recordings, and his professional music career began with a recording of 17 original tunes in 1992. He has since recorded several albums, performed in concert around the world and created music for theater and film.

Robinson's performance at Community UMC is the latest in a series of "Sunday musicales" sponsored by the church's Senior Outreach and Music ministries.

The afternoon concert will be in the church's sanctuary, which is accessible by elevator and features a hearing loop device to enhance hearing aids.

No admission is charged, but donations will be accepted to support this and future Sunday musicales.

More information about Robinson and videos of his performances can be found at his website, reginaldrrobinson.com. Information about the Naperville performance is available at the church website or from the church office, (630) 355-1483.