Peter Niedmann is perhaps best known as a mild-mannered organist and director of music at Church of Christ, Congregational in Newington, but the veteran composer/organist/pianist has a diverse musical background — and unknown to many people — a keen interest in progressive rock.
The unique style emerged in the late 1960s, blending rock with classical, jazz and experimental elements. King Crimson, Yes, The Moody Blues, Genesis, Jethro Tull, Emerson, Lake & Palmer and Pink Floyd were some who pioneered complex song structures, concept albums and virtuosic musicianship. By the mid-1970s, prog rock had peaked, but its influence continues to this day.
On Nov. 14, Niedmann will celebrate three vital keyboardists who, along with their respective bands, are synonymous with prog — Tony Banks (Genesis), Rick Wakeman (Yes) and Keith Emerson (ELP) — as he presents Prog Rock Piano! The one-man show, which is free and open to the public, takes place at Church of Christ, Congregational, 1075 Main St., in Newington. Showtime is 7:30 p.m.
The Nov. 8 edition of Greasy Tracks was laden with prog music and includes an interview with Niedmann who shared insight on the trio of keyboardists he’ll be featuring in his show where he’ll perform on a Yamaha C6 grand piano, accompanied by stage lighting, video and more to create a rock concert experience.