Pittsburgh Chapterof the
American Guild of Organists
Pittsburgh ChapterPittsburgh Chapter
American Guild of Organists
Pictures Of Recent Events
15-Nov-2009 - Organ Artists Series Concert featuring Michael Unger, Winner of the American Guild of Organists’ National Young Artists Competition in Organ Performance at Heinz Memorial Chapel.
Michael stayed at Dr. Hugh and Alice Young's beautiful house in Squirrel Hill. The Youngs, who are regular and generous contributors, have also frequently hosted artists which has been a terrific boost to the OAS budget! 
It took him a few minutes to take in the beauty of the Chapel, which has some of the largest stained glass windows in the world.
However he quickly got to work at the console setting registrations and practicing.
The carved figured in the woodwork listened approvingly.
....practice continued through the day...
The chapel organ has a MIDI device that permits recording and playback. A useful technique that Michael used during practice. It allowed him to go out into the Chapel and hear his registrations as the audience will hear them during the performance. Note the windows that rise almost 70 feet in the right most picture!.
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On Sunday, the console was pulled out to the center of the chancel and made ready.
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Down in the basement Helen Houggy (left) was making ready for a fantastic reception. |
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John Henninger (left) joined in to help downstairs with Helen while up the the lobby Charlotte Roederer got the ticket area set up. |  |
A very young patron and her mom showed up early to get a good seat near the front. This young lady wanted to see all the action!
Charlotte Roederer (left) and Stan Yoder (right) had some time to chat before most of the patrons arrived.
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Alan Lewis (below left) and Jon Tyillian helped staff the doors to make sure everyone got a seat and program.
Some old friends had time to catch up before the concert began...
A bit over 100 music lovers came to hear the performance.
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The performance began; the little girl in the front got a treat looking at Michael's flying fingers and feet.
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Intermission provided a chance for folks to stretch their legs.
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The concert resumed, with more time for bows....
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And, then finally, the last bow!
Everyone headed downstairs for the reception.
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Lots of good food, conversation and a chance to meet the artist. |
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Of course, the inevitable cleanup time came, with Dave and Helen Houggy leading the cleanup charge.....
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Afterwards, Alice Young had prepared a delicious dinner that everyone enjoyed. Michael was happy to relax and enjoy a nice meal after an exhausting performance.
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