Robert Parris
Robert Parris, the Charles B. Thompson Professor of Organ and University Organist at Mercer University in Macon, Ga., kicks off the third season of Organ at Davidson in the sanctuary of Davidson College Presbyterian Church with a concert Tuesday, Sept. 23 at 7:30 p.m.
His program at DCPC will include Frescobaldi toccatas, a Rudolph Kremer sonata, three Bach selections, Langlais’ La Nativite, Dupré’s Triptyque, his own Prelude on “Divinum Mysterium,” and Prelude on “Julion,” by David Hurd.
Mr. Parris has recorded repertoire by Mozart and Reger and music of Sowerby in the album “Jubilee.” His most recent recording included music of Buxtehude, Bach, Franck, Sowerby and Dupre from a recital titled “Land of Rest” on the Loft label.
A Virginia native, Mr. Parris received a master’s of music, doctor of musical arts and a performer’s certificate in organ from Eastman School of Music. He completed post-doctoral studies in Boston and northern Germany. He serves as choirmaster and organist of Christ Church, Macon, Ga., the oldest Episcopal parish in the Diocese of Atlanta.
At DCPC, he will play on the refurbished Wicks organ, one that organists from as far away as Scotland have requested to play in recital. The organ was installed in 1969, refurbished in 2006.
Organ at Davidson programs for the year all begin at 7:30 p.m. in the sanctuary of DCPC. Here’s the full schedule:
2008-2009 Organ at Davidson
Tuesday, Sept. 23, Robert Parris, choirmaster and organist of Christ Church, Macon, Ga.
Friday, Oct. 17, Michael Rowland, associate director of musci at DCPC.
Friday, Oct. 31, Henry Lebedinsky, organist and choirmaster at St. Alban’s Episcopal Church, plays accompaniment for the classic silent film “Phantom of the Opera,” at DCPC’s annual Halloween event. Shows are at 7:30 and 11 p.m.
Tuesday, Nov. 18, Andre Lash, organist and director of instrumental activities at Christ United Methodist Church, Greensboro.
Tuesday, Jan. 27, Jane Dimmock Cain, director of music at DCPC.
Tuesday, March 17, Bach Birthday Bash, with music by Bach accompanying readings from works by Albert Schweitzer.
The church sanctuary at 100 N. Main St. faces the Davidson College campus. It may be entered through office building doors from Concord Rd. or by crossing Main St. at the BB&T bank corner. For more on the series, visit www.dcpc.org or call 704-892-5641.
