BISMARCK – Dr. Emerson Eads, director of choral activities at Minot State University, and Abbie Eads, cellist and development officer/data analyst at MSU, will take part in two upcoming performances by Dakota Pro Musica, North Dakota’s professional choral ensemble and two other music organizations.

The performances are being done in partnership with the Bismarck Mandan Symphony Orchestra and Bismarck Mandan Civic Chorus, according to Dakota Pro Musica information.

The two historic performances of J.S. Bach’s “St. John Passion” will be presented March 21 at 7 p.m. (Mountain Time) at the Assumption Abbey in Richardton and March 22 at 7 p.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church in Bismarck.

Emerson Eads will play the role of the evangelist/narrator and Abbie Eads will be performing as the cellist for the concerts.

The performances will be directed by Dr. Jason Thoms, founder and artistic director of Dakota Pro Musica. Nearly 100 musicians from Dakota Pro Musica, the Bismarck Mandan Symphony Orchestra, and the Bismarck Mandan Civic Chorus along with nationally and regionally renowned professional soloists.

The performances will mark the first time in 40 years that a major work of J.S. Bach has been presented in central North Dakota since Bach’s 300th birthday in 1985, according to Dakota Pro Musica information.

The March 21 concert is free with a suggested donation and there is a charge for the March 22 concert. For information about tickets visit the Dakota Pro Musica website.