A Weekend of Organ Music at First, Ottumwa

The National Undergraduate Organ Competition, sponsored by First Presbyterian Church of Ottumwa, Iowa, seeks to encourage future church musicians. The competition is made possible by a generous gift from the Mort and Virginia Schmucker Charitable Trust.

March 20, 7:30 pm: Organ Recital with Dr. Gregory Peterson
The recital will be preceded by an introduction to the pipe organ at 7 pm. A reception sponsored by the Central Iowa Chapter of the American Guild of Organists will follow.

March 21, 9:00 am: Pipes and Pastries organ event for children and youth grades 3+
Kids in grades 3 and up are invited to explore the King of Instruments through hands-on activities including constructing a fully-functioning pipe organ. Breakfast pastries will be served. Register at organcompetition@ottumwafpc.org.

March 21, 10:00 am: Conversations and Legacies organ workshop for adults with Dr. Ann Marie Rigler
Who are your organ teachers? They include not only the organists with whom you’ve studied, but also generations of your own teachers’ musical ancestors. This video-based presentation introduces you to the personalities, wisdom, and cherished memories of many of our colleagues whose teaching careers were primarily concentrated in the years 1970-2000. Ann Marie Rigler is Professor Emerita of Music at William Jewell College in Liberty, Missouri. Register at organcompetition@ottumwafpc.org.

March 22, 1:30 pm: Organ Competition
Hear three of the most talented undergraduate organists in the country compete for the top prize in this year’s organ competition. Each competitor will play in front of three judges works by Bach, hymns, and a piece of their choosing. The audience will also take part in the judging, resulting in a special audience prize to a player voted best performer. A reception will follow the program.

View flyer or learn more here.