Classical pianist Yaroslav Boychenko from Nizhny Novgorod, Russia, will perform at 3:30 p.m. Sunday at Immanuel Lutheran Church, 605 S. Walnut St., Seymour.

Born in 1969, he began studying music and piano at the age of 6. He graduated from the College of Music in Vinnytsia, Ukraine, and went on to finish at the Conservatory of Music in Nizhny Novgorod, Russia.

“I grew up in an atheist Soviet family where God was not mentioned, yet I always sensed that atheism doesn’t provide answers to the basic questions about the meaning of life and why I myself am alive," Boychenko said.

"I first came into contact with ideas of the divine when I attended a movie at 9 years old and heard a J.S. Bach piece, which was used as part of the soundtrack. I was immediately entranced by Bach, and over the years, my love and interest in him and his music grew. Through his music, I clearly felt the creator’s presence, experiencing feelings of awe and joy.”

Johann Sebastian Bach, a Lutheran, was a renowned 18th century composer. Wanting to know more about his faith, Boychenko met Leif Camp, a missionary in Nizhny Novgorod supported by Immanuel.

Boychenko became a Christian and is now the pastor of the Lutheran church in Nizhny Novgorod. He loves to share with his musical talent the beautiful, classic works of Bach and the message of Christ they contain.

All are welcome to attend this free concert. A freewill offering will support the building of a church in Nizhny Novgorod.