What are the areas of strength in the organ demonstration
recitals?
What programs or recitalists have been most attractive?
This is one way we can fight to keep the art of organ playing alive. There
have been some wonderful recitals on two of our country's fabulous instruments.
I hope it continues for eternity.
The programming and the diversity of pieces played
Guest organists from around the world...anything played LOUDLY!!
The 2 organs at CofC are world famous and right across the street from each
other! It's a unique opportunity for anyone to see and hear them. More publicity
and general organ information would be useful.
variety of pieces played by organists variety of organists and their
playing/perspectives a reflective, spiritual place to be and hear beautiful
music
I think familiar music is best received. And those who are teachers seem to
be the most comfortable in describing the organ
Most of the recitalists I have heard perform music which is audience
friendly, and designed to make more friends for organ music - so the attendees
will want to return for more programs in the future.
Music baised on hymn tunes people know.
I like programs where the recitalist tells about both the music and the
inspiration of the composer
Unique musical interpretations by the organists, ability to hear the organ's
unique sound, soothing and relaxing sound, and ministry value.
All of the organ demonstrations are amazing
Information about the organ could be handed out. Could we not afford to
invite special guests from all over the world (using the Organist Guild)?
jan kraybill because she is so nice and friendly and competent and
enthusiastic - jan van otterloo because she always tells about the organ as well
as the organ pieces
The repertoire is always well selected, and each organist seems to know they
are doing. I particularly enjoy the French organ music, and I will never forget
the when (at least 5 or 6 years ago now, I'm 20) Jan Kraybill, played a Marcel
Dupre piece. This is one of those inspirational moments, which had there not
been a recital, I wouldn't have had. I always enjoy the Super Bowl Concerts as
well.
All that I have been to I have greatly enjoyed. I love the variety. I come
from a Methodist Episcopalian background. Maybe 2 or 3 times a year join with
the other area denominations and have a joint Hymnal sing to draw more crowds
and show off those wonderful instruments. It would be fun for everyone and a
change from all the modern worship services everywhere-------which are ok but
some of us miss the old hymns with a great organ. I am only in my 40's and I
miss this!
When the staff organist take time with the guests upon conclusion. I enjoy
listening to traditional Christmas music.
The most recent recital I attended was played by Pam Robinson. She talked a
bit about the piece that she was going to play and about the stops that she was
going to use. I think I would have found it interesting even if I weren't
musical.
Variety of players
Variety is essential
I love the rich tone of the full organs and the pontifical/en chamade
trumpets are absolutley phenominal
I feel the more inspirational type recitals should be encouarged as most
visitors obsiously want to hear the organ, but are not organ students or as
interested in seeing all it can do as to be uplifted and feel the spiritual
message the organ provides.
Using the colors of the organ and being more conversational with the audience
helps.
I'm responding from the perspective of a former recitalist, a couple decades
ago. I don't believe we can expect large audiences. . . whoever happens to be
touring at that moment will stay for a short while IF they're interested.
Intermittent programming will only frustrate visitors who are interested. The
more we can share our enthusiasm and information about the instrument and it's
value to our worship and the community, the better, in my opinion. Is there a
video that guests see when they arrive for a tour?? Does it include footage of
and about the organ to peak interest in hearing it? Personally, I became an
organist because of hearing a recital on the Auditorium organ when I was fairly
young.
The organ demonstrations certainly add to an IHQ visit experience. However,
the song choices usually sound like a cat being tortured. Last time I visited we
happened to be in the Auditorium chamber while an organist was practicing. My
extended family were the only ones present. The songs were almost unbearable.
Then we requested HS33. The power in the organ was phenomenal. The song
familiarity made the experience a holy/supernatural one because the music became
a part of us, of our being. The other songs being practiced prior to HS33,
though magnificent in demonstrating the ability of the organ, were tormentuous.
Programs should largely include shorter works, accessible music, emphasis on
sharing the story of the music, variety, telling a spiritual story.
Opportunity to display our unique instruments and the God-given talent
resident in our volunteers. Programs which are diverse and recitalists who are
friendly and approachable are the most attractive to our audiences.
I enjoy the restoration hymns but also enjoy all the selections chosen by the
organists.
perhaps they should be turned away from demonstration recitals to incorporate
other educational and worship encounter with them... that is becoming part of a
greater program that would help the needs of the people locally and globally and
empower and equip people to transform the world in need
Dr. Jan Kraybill's Special concerts are really good. There should be at least
one of these per quarter.
It is a thrill just to be able to hear both wonderful instruments.
Impresses them to hear our organs
Super Bowl is good. You could do Easter, Christmas, etc.
One important factor is the variety of organists. They come from different
churches, backgrounds, and reasons. That is good for the organists and for the
church.
We have a great church organist who provides wonderful recitals and
demonstrations--much appreciated. During the summer, tourists love to hear the
organ and to hear familiar music that is uplifting. Great staff and church
organists! I like the Super Bowl recital and recitals that include music I'm
familiar with.