N 2017, Dr. Denis McNamara published an excellent and informative article on Pope St. John XXIII’s allocution given for the blessing of the renovated pipe organ in St. Peter’s Basilica, which took place just before the opening of the Second Vatican Council. Seeing that most official Church documents lack detail about the “foundational theology of the pipe organ,” this papal address turns out to be one of the more important ecclesiastical utterances of that which holds ‘pride of place’ among musical instruments. Both grandeur and the eschatological are part of the organ’s milieu, providing unity across cultures, support from its own ‘breath,’ and the foretaste of heaven’s never-ending liturgy. These elements are especially true when executed by a master musician.
I am pleased to announce that this Sunday, February 23rd, at 7:30pm, Olivier Latry, one of three titular organists from the Cathedral of Notre-Dame, Paris, will be in recital at St. Rita Catholic Church in Dallas, TX. Mr. Latry will play an all-French program including improvisations.
The uncertain future of his home Cathedral and of the magnificent organ contained therein lends an extra pathos and gravitas to Latry’s concert appearances these next several years; whether he or anyone ever plays there again remains unknown. Anyone fortunate enough to have heard him in person at Notre-Dame, with the fiery reeds of the Cavaillé-Coll blazing down the ancient nave, know full well the power and mastery of his playing. If you are anywhere near Dallas this Sunday, please do join us. There is no charge for admission. Check here to stay updated via our Facebook pages.
