In the Twin Cities, we’re lucky to have an abundance of iconic music venues offering entertainment every night of the week. But it’s not everyday that you get to see a concert against the backdrop of an early-1900s chapel.
Recently, Minneapolis’ Lakewood Cemetery announced the return of its popular “Music in the Chapel” series for 2025. Kicking off April 6 and running through December, the monthly series will host local artists and music fans for intimate shows in the Lakewood Memorial Chapel.
Built in 1910 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the chapel is an architectural marvel. Designed by renowned Minneapolis architect Harry Wild Jones, the structure was modeled after the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, Turkey—it bears a similar dome roof and curved surfaces throughout.
Courtesy of Lakewood Cemetery
Perhaps the most impressive feature, however, is the chapel’s intricate and striking mosaic work lining the interior, considered by many to be the most perfect example of Byzantine mosaic art in the United States. Created by New York designer Charles Lamb, the chapel features over 10 million mosaic tiles, called tesserae, crafted by European artists who had previously completed a project in the Vatican.
Photo by Bre McGee/Uncommon Collaborative
The series of shows kicks off this week with local favorite LAAMAR. While this show is sold out, tickets for all other performances are still available for purchase online (the chapel seats around 160, so remaining tickets are expected to go quick).
Here’s a look at the rest of this year’s lineup:
Sunday, May 4 (3-4 p.m.): Duo CORDA
This new project consists of cellist Jacqueline Ultan and guitarist Pavel Jany, who come together to blend elements of jazz, classical music, and international styles.
Thursday, June 5 (6-7 p.m.): Cantus
A low-voice vocal ensemble, Cantus is known for its trademark warmth and blend, with a distinctive approach to creating music: Without a conductor, each member of Cantus rehearses and performs as a chamber musician, contributing to the artistic process in its entirety.
Sunday, July 13 (3-4 p.m.): Heartfelt
Heartfelt is a unique choral group made up of six women spanning five decades of life, who met in the Twin Cities Women’s Choir. Their repertoire spans from 1930s classics to modern hits, focusing on songs that are uplifting, moving, and humorous.
Sunday, Aug. 10 (3-4 p.m.): Daniel the Violinist
Daniel Gilbert, also known as “Daniel the Violinist,” blends classical violin with hip-hop, Afrobeats, jazz, and Latin styles to create a spectacular musical experience. From earning his Bachelor Degree in Violin and Viola Performance at Millikin University to his graduate studies at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Gilbert’s journey is a true testament to his passion for the craft.
Sunday, Sept. 7 (3-4 p.m.): Katy Vernon
Katy Vernon is a London-born singer songwriter who is now based out of Minneapolis. Her recent project, “Suit Of Hearts” was named Album of the Year by Ukulele magazine, as well as landing on several local “Best Of” lists. Aside from her solo work, Vernon also launched feminist rock band Favourite Girl.
Sunday, Oct. 5 (3-4 p.m.): David Harland & SÓL Strings
David Harland is a singer-songwriter and fingerstyle guitarist in the tradition of artists like Michael Hedges, Nick Drake, David Wilcox, and Billy McLaughlin. By age 14, he played bass guitar, sang, and wrote songs in a Minneapolis rock band. Harland ultimately discovered his love for songwriting and melody, leading to his focus on acoustic guitar.
Sunday, Nov. 2 (3-4 p.m.): Makam Baklava
This group of musicians has been playing together for over a decade, creating performances that are celebrations of culturally diverse harmonies and musical excellence. Led by cellist Nickolai Kolarov and vocalist, saz player, and guitarist Orhan Ucer, the group highlights the rich musical traditions of Turkey, Bulgaria, and the Balkans.
Sunday, Dec. 7 (3-4 p.m.): Sarah Morris
Minneapolis-based singer-songwriter Sarah Morris combines masterful storytelling with timeless Americana melodies. Named a two-time Songwriter of the Year by the Midwest Country Music Organization, she has shared stages with greats like JD Souther, earned international airplay, and reached notable positions on the Americana Music Association and Euro Americana charts.
To purchase tickets or learn more about “Music in the Chapel,” visit Lakewood Cemetery’s website.
