Hillsboro, Oregon is a special location for a  group of musicians.  It is the home of the Rodger’s Organ Company.  Years ago I visited this amazing facility.

In the Rodger’s factory, artisans construct every organ from the ground up.  In a matter of weeks a console is contructed and fitted with the finest electonic components.  Miles of cables, multiple speakers, and stops are combined to give a single musician access to thousands of voices.

Fond memories of the dedicatory concert of our Rodger’s Church organ are a part of my past.  The organ was dubbed the King of instruments for a reason.  When a trained musician applies hands and feet to this instrument, audiences are transported into another world.

This past week I sat in on another Rodger’s organ concert.  It was held at the Mt. Hermon Camp and Conference Center near Santa Cruz, California.  Dave Talbot is the resident keyboard extraodinaire.

When Dave climbed on to the Rodger’s bench, it reminded me of a jetfighter pilot climbing into the cockpit of an F-14 Tomcat supersonic carrier warplane.  The picture of the four ranks of keyboards, over one hundred stops, glistening chromed pedal presets would intimidate the uninitiated.  But, for a well-rehearsed master of the keys, it is familiar territory.

The music was layered and layered and volumously presented.  Dave’s choice of a composition blended tradition classical styling with modern harmonies and intricate melodies.  We were raptured into the world of music.

We gave a standing ovation.  Dave’s smile warmly climaxed the evening performance.  I love it when the deep pedal sounds crescendo and the low notes reverberate the floor.

I am not nearly as well trained in music as a professional who makes a living with sound.  Nor am I gifted to natural combine, compose, and improvise the black notes on a musical score.  But, I am a big fan. 

I do not just appreciate good music.  Rather, I passionately love it.  Furthermore, I deeply respect the artists who dedicate their entire lives to hours of practice, countless dollars for lessons, and devoted concentrations of time delivered in concerts for the benefit of people like me.

To all of my musician friends, thank you!  I applaud your love for your craft and your dedicate to advance your skills.  As you play for the Creator of sound and music, may you be blessed for blessing all of us.

photo credit: Google image