They say a picture is worth a thousand words. So is the music of pianist Anthony Burger. His non-vocal approach to music may seem different in a genre that depends so heavily on lyrics to express the message of Christ, but once you see Mr. Burger in concert or sit back and enjoy one of his projects, you'll never view the piano in the same light. While listening to his magical piano playing, close your eyes. A majestic picture will appear, reach in and touch your soul.
One of gospel music's premier musicians, Anthony Burger, delivers more than Christian entertainment to listeners. He also communicates an inspirational story through his testimony of God's healing. As Anthony shares with his audience, "When I was eight months old I was learning to walk in a walker. Like many homes of our era, we had an old floor furnace in our house. As I was going through the hallway, one of the wheels got caught on the furnace grate and the walker turned over, throwing me down on the heater and burning my legs my face, and both my hands. " The burns Anthony describes were not light - they were third degree. "I was carried on a pillow for a year, during which time I received three medicated baths a day for my burns. The doctors said I'd never be able to move my hands after that. But gradually, the Lord healed my hands because He had a job for me to do. I thank God every day that the doctors were wrong, and that I stayed with it and play for Him."
Another source of inspiration Anthony credits is his mother. It was God's healing grace, combined with her encouragement, carried him through those painful years. She supported his natural talent for the piano at a time when the doctors could only give a negative view of the future. "I remember Mom taking me to the conservatory of music when I was young." The word "young" is quite an understatement. In fact, Anthony was the youngest student ever accepted at Chattanooga's Cadek Conservatory...at the ripe old age of five! However, even with his natural ability, it took a little practice to polish this young prodigy. "I had my first piano recital when I was six years of age, and it was the worst night of my life!" Anthony laughs. "After about four or five years at the conservatory, though, they finally came to me and said it was time to learn the classics, including Beethoven, Bach, and Mozart." Despite the teachings at the conservatory, Gospel music was his favorite. He dedicated his life to Christ at nine years old. Therefore, you could say Gospel and inspirational music have been his favorite for the majority of his life.
Do not miss Anthony Burger, Live on the RCCM stage, November 9, 2003 at 7:00pm.

This concert is free and open to the public. No ticket is necessary. It is advised that guests arrive early as seating is limited. Doors open at 6:00pm. For directions to RCCM, click here

RCCM ARTS