AMHERST TIMES
EAST AMHERST — Trinity Lutheran Church on Transit Road will be dedicating a new organ on Sunday, October 8, and they’re eager for you to hear it: it’s a one-of- a-kind organ in Western New York.
When Trinity spent a year searching for a new organ, they looked for one that could both accompany the lusty singing of their traditional Sunday worshipers and also accompany their Saturday contemporary worship. They found the perfect solution in the Viscount Sonus 245.
The Sonus 245 is the only organ in Western New York that uses cutting-edge physical modeling technology. Viscount’s “Physis” technology produces sound using algorithms that are based on all the parameters of pipe organ sound production, resulting in sound virtually indistinguishable from that of actual pipe organs. All other electronic organs use recorded pipe organ samples, a method now some 30 years old.
Trinity music director Marian Van Til is thoroughly enjoying the new organ. “Of course organists love pipe organs – it’s still the King of Instruments,” she says. “But they are prohibitively expensive. This organ is definitely the very next best thing. The sound is superb. And I almost hate to admit it, but this organ is also far more versatile than pipe organs are.”
Van Til notes that at the upcoming recital, which she will play, she has chosen music to show off that great versatility. “There will be pieces from across music history and in a variety of styles, using all kinds of sound combinations. You’ll also hear a piece for organ and cello. And we’ll even use the organ as a harpsichord. We’ll use it, too, as a piano, string bass and “Hammond” organ in a bluesy gospel version of a well known hymn.” Church member Andrew Cassidy will be the cellist.
The organ was donated by Melinda Ruth Burgwardt Gibson, DVM, and her husband Glenn Gibson. Melinda, who had a long-time veterinary practice in Lancaster, died of ovarian cancer last year. The recital is being played in her memory. Melinda’s mother, Clarice Burgwardt, a retired organist, will
participate by playing an arrangement of several of Melinda’s favorite hymns.
The recital is at 2 p.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church, 8760 Transit Road, East Amherst. Admission is free. A reception will follow.
Originally published on Amherst Times. Republished with permission.
