Still enjoying the AGO National Convention in sunny Nashville, TN. Yesterday we heard 3 young organists - one from Atlanta who - Brian Anderson - a student at Curtis Institute. He played Marcel Dupre's 2nd Organ Symphony on a 1970 Aeolian-Skinner. At age 19 this young man has poise, presence, musicality and technique way beyond his years. Very proud of our Atlanta talent.
Yesterday afternoon we were treated to a performance by Tom Trenney. What a brilliant player. He began with Charles' Ives beloved "Variations on America" where he exploited the abilities of the 130+ rank, 5 Manual, Moeller of West End United Methodist Church. The highlight of the program was improvisation. He improvised on poetry by Shel Silverstein and on the hymn tune "Ora Labora." The latter was offered in memory of the great American organist and improviser, Gerre Hancock. I was breathless.
Last night's concert was offered by Thomas Trotter, the stunning English concert organist and organist of Birmingham Town Hall (England). This was elegant music played with class and style. Incidentally I was told at a reception last night that Trotter will be featured in Atlanta at the Cathedral of St. Philip in March 2013. Plan to attend!
Today we were treated to another municipal organist (employed by the city) organist from across the pond. Raul Ramirez appeared earlier this season at Peachtree Presbyterian in Buckhead (Atlanta) and I missed the concert. What I heard today was breathtaking. He played transcriptions of Saint-Seans' "Danse Macabre" and Liszt's "Mephisto Waltz." A brilliant artist playing in a beautiful room - and from memory! We have to have him play at Johns Creek when the organ is complete. Maybe a dedication recital?
The next recital today was percussion and organ! More Saint-Seans...Carnival of the Animals. Incredible playing by percussionist and organist.
Tonight after our banquet we will go to the Ryman Auditorium to hear "Straight No Chaser." Look them up on youtube, they're great!!! 10 men singing a capella pops.
Looking forward to a sweltering 4th of July tomorrow along the river.
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