Since its installation, the beautiful authentic sounds of the organ have been heard by thousands of people who have come to the weekly Sunday mini-recitals or the special Organ Showcase Concerts by internationally known guest artists and Eastman musicians. The only full-sized Italian baroque organ in North America, the organ provides a unique opportunity to hear 18th-century organ music as its composers envisioned it.
"The instrument is a living, breathing, singing work of art," said David Higgs, chair of Eastman's organ department. "It is one of the oldest organs now in America, and its sound has a profound effect on the musical sensibilities of those who hear it."
The organ was built around 1770 in central Italy by an anonymous artisan. Its lavishly ornamented, carved, and gilded 22-foot tall case links the instrument to the Italian court culture of the Tuscany or Naples region. Each side of the case features a 10-foot high painting of a vase of flowers. The crown ornament is adorned with an unusual motif depicting St. Andrew. Boasting 600 pipes, the masterpiece is as much a feast for the eyes as for the ears.
Sunday, Oct. 17
Celebrating 5 Years with the Italian Baroque Organ. Eastman School of Music faculty performers David Higgs and William Porter, and students Chelsea Barton, Anne Lam, and Shinon Nakagawa
5:30 p.m.
Sunday, Nov. 14
Celebrating 5 Years with the Italian Baroque Organ. Edoardo Bellotti, organ; Harry van der Kamp, bass, and Veronika Skuplik and Bjarte Eike, violins.
7:30 p.m.
Sunday, Dec. 19
Celebrating 5 Years with the Italian Baroque Organ. Festive vocal and instrumental music for the holiday season by Eastman School of Music faculty member Ulrika Davidsson and students.
5:30 p.m.
All Performances
Memorial Art Gallery, 500 University Ave.
Tickets: $10/$7 students, available from the RPO box office or at the door by cash or check.
For more information, see the listings at http://mag.rochester.edu/calendar/.
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