When Martin Luther nailed his famous Ninety-five Theses to the door of the church at Wittenberg 500 years ago, he intended to spark debate over controversial theological issues. Instead, his actions ultimately led to the Protestant Reformation, a movement with profound religious, political, and cultural repercussions throughout Europe.

In celebration of the 500th anniversary of the Reformation, St. John’s Lutheran Church and the Salisbury Symphony have joined forces to present a special concert event, which includes music based on “A Mighty Fortress” for which Martin Luther wrote the words and music.

There will be a performance of Bach’s Cantata No. 80, which involves a small chorus and soloists from the University of North Carolina School of the Arts, the last movement of local composer David Brown’s Symphony No. 1, and the Mendelssohn Symphony No. 5 “Reformation.”

The concert will feature the first performance of the Symphony Chorale, prepared by David Tang, who directed the Charlotte Chorale. The evening will also include music by St. John’s Handbell Ensemble, its Chancel Choir, and the St. John’s Men’s Chorus.

This concert spectacular will take place on Saturday, Sept. 23, at St. John’s Lutheran Church, 200 W. Innes St. at 7 p.m.

Purchase tickets online at st.johns-salisbury.org, salisburysymphony.org, and the gift shop at St. John’s.