February Event Recap - by Karen Longwell

On Sunday February 19, Dr. Robert Chase gave an interesting lecture on styles of organ pedagogy at St. Columbanus Church in Cortlandt Manor. He started out with a quiz for the attendees, which essentially illustrated that many of the major composers through 1700 to 1800 were taught by organists. He cited such pedagogists as Johann C.H. Rinck (1770-1846), John Zundel (circa 1860) and Justinian Knecht (1752-1817) and then played a piece by Knecht which is found in his organ studies book, illustrating that even an exercise can be useful repertoire for an organist. He discussed the progression of the organ and how the teaching of it had to change through time. Of worthy note is Dr. Chase’s own book, Gradus ad Parnassum, which highlights a lot of his lecture’s information. Terry Flanagan, our illustrious dean, played a beautiful piece by J.S. Bach - a setting of An Wasserflüssen Babylon BWV, 653b - to help illustrate certain methods of pedagogy. Afterward, all were treated to light refreshments by host, Karen Longwell, Music Director of St. Columbanus. If you wish to purchase Dr. Chase’s book, it can be found at http://www.wayneleupold.com/gradus-ad-parnassum-robert-chase.html.