FREDERICK  SWANN

Renowned Recitalist to Participate in Organ's 50th Birthday Series

On March 14, 2010, Community of Christ will participate in a significant musical event. Frederick Swann, one of the premier organ recitalists living today, will play only 10 concerts in 2010—and one of them will be part of the celebration of the Auditorium Organ’s 50th birthday!

Mr. Swann has a long connection with Community of Christ and the Auditorium Organ, having appeared in concert five times over the past 50 years. When he was president of the AGO (2002–2008), Dr. Jan Kraybill, principal organist and director of music at Community of Christ, served with him on the AGO’s National Council. Jan describes him as “the consummate gentleman and musician, always responsive with a smile and an encouraging word to those of us who try to emulate his many achievements. This will be an unforgettable recital! Fred was one of the performers who helped begin the Auditorium Organ’s 50 years of excellence, performing and offering workshops here first in 1963 and many times thereafter. He was one of Bethel Knoche’s favorite guest organists at this instrument. It will be wonderful to welcome him here again.”

Mr. Swann has said, “I look forward with much pleasure to being there and once again performing on the Auditorium Organ.” Whenever he plays, he receives rave reviews. He has been described as “a colorist at the keyboard” who “lets the music speak for itself” and who displays “a genuine sense of musicianship, supported by a total command of technique.”

Community of Christ is delighted to have him share in the organ’s birthday celebration. Through the generosity of many donors, admission to this event is free. If you would like to contribute to the Auditorium Organ’s 50th anniversary celebration series, contact Pam Robison at probison@CofChrist.org or (816) 833-1000, ext. 2324.

—Pam Robison reporting