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Photo: Tamela Abrahamson

JAMESTOWN, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – The University of Jamestown Music Department has come up with a new concert series to highlight an instrument that’s located inside the historic Voorhees Chapel.

Build in 1917, Voorhees Chapel was designed by architect Barend Kroeze. It has since been listed on the National Register of Historic Places. In the 1920’s, an organ was installed inside the building and used during chapel services.

Through the years, the organ has been used less and less.

Dr. Richard Walentine says the organ currently located inside the chapel isn’t the original one built in the 1920’s and has since gone through some renovations and rebuilds.

To highlight and use the instrument, Dr. Walentine says they were inspired to create their new concert series beginning Sunday, November 7th.

John Clodfelter is a music instructor at the University. He says they’ve invited Dr. Beverly Everett, Music Director of both the Bismarck-Mandan and Bemidji Symphony Orchestras. She is also an active concert organist, teacher and service player.

Clodfelter stated that Dr. Everett would be performing works by Bach, Widor, Duruflé, among others. He added that organists will typically prepare music that works for specific organs and their designs.

Photo: Tamela Abrahamson

The recital program will also feature Jason Kihle, Assistant Professor of Percussion and Assistant Director of Bands; John Clodfelter, Instructor of Piano and Collaborative Arts; Laura Lynch, Professor of Music and Director of Bands; Aaron McDermid, Assistant Professor of Music and Director of Choirs; and Richard Walentine, Professor of Voice and Department Chair.

The concert will begin at 2 PM on Sunday, November 7th and is free and open to the public. Free-will donations will be accepted to help fund the program and future concerts at the University.

Future concerts are planned with the series in February and March of 2022. More details can be found at uj.edu.

Listen to a full Let’s Talk About It with Dr. Rick Walentine & John Clodfelter below: