Ursuline Archives to host organ historical discussion and organ concert
Enjoy beautiful organ music while learning more about the history of organs at Cincinnati’s Music Hall and the historic Sacred Heart Chapel on the former Chatfield College campus in St. Martin.
The event will feature a presentation by Thea Tjepkema, an historian from Friends of Music Hall. Following the presentation, stay for a performance on the Roosevelt organ by Angel Waits.
The event takes place at 1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 1 on the former Chatfield College campus, 20860 state Route 251, St. Martin. This event is hosted by the Ursuline Archives.
Tjepkema will discuss the rich history of the many organs found in Music Hall. One is the Hook and Hastings organ, first heard on the hall's grand opening night May 14, 1878. This organ captivated audiences with its grandeur and rich, full-bodied tones.
The Ursuline Sisters of Brown County have their own unique organ stories to share. The 1886 Roosevelt organ stands as a monument to the enduring legacy of musical craftsmanship.
These organs are more than just musical instruments; they are historical artifacts that connect everyone to the past. The Roosevelt organ continues to "pull out all the stops" with its inspiring carved wood art, a testament to the craftsmanship of a bygone era.
Enjoy an afternoon of music, history and the inspiring stories of those who have contributed to the legacy of these magnificent instruments.
The event is sponsored in part by Chatfield Edge and the Ohio Arts Council. Donations will be accepted.
The Ursuline Archives houses the rich history of the Brown County Ursulines who first came to the area in 1845 and started a tradition of providing education to students in local communities.
Thea Tjepkema, historic preservationist and historian, serves on the Friends of Music Hall board, guiding restoration projects, managing archives, and developing talks and tours of Cincinnati Music Hall. Her regular blogs @FriendsofMusicHall.org reveal many untold stories of Music Hall’s dynamic and diverse history. Ms. Tjepkema holds a B.F.A. in historic preservation from the Savannah College of Art and Design and an M.A. in arts administration from the University of Akron.