January 14, 2004

CSU's Jordan Concert Organ and its 3,600 pipes will be pitted against two new-fangled electronic organs in a unique concert in the RiverCenter's Legacy Hall on Jan. 17 and Jan. 18.

In a grand-scale twist to the dueling banjos concept, the Jordan Concert Organ,and guest organist James Cochran of Naples, will 'compete' against and two Allen electronic organs, one a classical organ and the other a state-of-the-art theater organ. The electronic organs will be on the Legacy Hall, competing against the towering pipe organ that fills the wall inside the RiverCenter for the Performing Arts

But this duel won't be frightening. The event is being billed as a fun-filled afternoon of music for the whole family, and will include classical selections, Broadway show songs and even a Charlie Chaplin silent film.

'This will be a lot of fun. People should not miss this rare opportunity to see and hear three organs in the same afternoon, with music from the classic, light classic, and theater traditions,' said Golden, a Columbus State University organist and professor who designed and regularly plays the Jordan concert organ. He will concede that seat for this concert and will be playing the electronic organs.

'This will be a great way to spend a Saturday or Sunday mid-afternoon,' he said.

The lineup for the concert includes such famous works as the Bach 'Toccata and Fugue in D Minor' and the 'Air on the G String,' Wagner's 'Pilgrim's Chorus,' Handel's 'Hallelujah Chorus' and other favorites.

'Then, get set for a musical journey through Broadway and Hollywood award-winning scores, utilizing a spectacular new Allen Theater Organ,' Golden said. The event will culminate with the showing of a Charlie Chaplin silent film, 'The Rink,' featuring an original score composed and performed by Golden.

Tickets are available at the RiverCenter Box Office. Adult tickets are $28 and children's tickets are available for the special price of $5.

For more information, contact Joseph Golden at 649-7246.