Organists and Organ Playing

Not a viola joke

For some reason, the viola has become a butt of many jokes. According to Wikipedia: Viola jokes are jokes directed towards violas and viola players. Viola jokes are thought to have originated in the 18th century, when viola parts were often simple and thus amenable to untalented musicians. Some examples: Pity the poor violist. Except… Read More Not a viola joke

Organists and Organ Playing

Five standing ovations and five curtain calls!

In his introduction to the Hawaii Symphony Orchestra concert, President Michael Titterton told us tonight would be “a life-changing experience!” You bet it was! I counted five standing ovations and five curtain calls! Tonight was American Guild of Organists (AGO) Night at the Symphony, with guest artist Cameron Carpenter. Listed in the program were Francis… Read More Five standing ovations and five curtain calls!

Organists and Organ Playing

Brava, Connie!

BRAVA!!!!!!!!!!!!!! WHAT HIGHS, CJ!!!!!!! That was the comment on Facebook yesterday by Glenn Uejio,  Constance Harding Uejio‘s husband,  after her exquisite rendition of Handel’s “Concerto in B-flat for Harp and Strings,” op. 4 no. 6, with the Hawaii Symphony Orchestra. Of course, I know the piece intimately, since I played a transcription of it in high… Read More Brava, Connie!