Music Man — Hannemann reaches milestone at Emmanuel Lutheran Church

Southern hospitality goes a long way, according to Daniel Hannemann, music minister at Emmanuel Lutheran Church.
Originally from Iowa, Hannemann came to Lincolnton in 1979.
He has since led music at the church for 25 years. He will celebrate this milestone in his career and faith Sunday, Aug. 15 at 3 p.m. with a recital.
The music will feature Hannemann as he plays pieces by Johann Sebastian Bach, Lloyd Larson, Ludwin van Beethoven, Cat Stevens and other composers.
The musician expects the performance to be quite nostalgic. It will mark to the day the 25th anniversary of his first day in Lincolnton. He hopes the audience at the church will be filled with family, friends and music lovers.
Attendance shouldn’t be difficult for someone who has played for more than 1,800 services and directed hundreds of people in youth, chancel and hand bell choirs.
Hannemann is always taken aback when he sees his old students.
“It’s always fun to look back and see how people have grown up,” he said.
He has been focusing on the past a lot lately. Members of the church are creating a memory book for the music minister. He has been asked to look through old photos to contribute.
The people he has worked with and spent time with have been a large part of why Hannemann has stayed in the area so long.
When Hannemann visits family and friends in the northwest, he tells them about the benefits of living in Lincoln County.
“I let them know that southern hospitality does exist.”
Hannemann came to Lincolnton after three years with First English Lutheran Church in Lockport, N.Y.
He said the move was a clear choice.
“This is the only place where the door opened wide,” he said.
While here he has been involved in various arts and music organizations, including organizing and starting the Friends of Music at Emmanuel.
In the fall he put out a CD of his recordings entitled “A Savior is Born.” His newest CD, “Good News Piano,” will be available at the upcoming recital.
Hannemann said the pastors at Emmanuel have made working at the church an enjoyable experience.
While he is content, he admits that you never know where the future may take you.
“I’m prepared to do as the Lord leads.”
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The Friends of Music at Emmanuel will host the performance by Daniel Hannemann Sunday, Aug. 15 at 3 p.m. at Emmanuel Lutheran Church, 261 S. Aspen St. Donations will be accepted.by Diane Turbyfill