1965 Schlicker organ at Mt. Olive Lutheran Church, Minneapolis, Minnesota.

PAUL MANZ: Hymn Improvisation Suite in G: All Praise to Thee, Eternal God; Praise the Almighty; All glory be to God on high; If thou but suffer God to guide; Praise God, from whom all blessings flow –Paul Manz (1965 Schlicker/Mount Olive Lutheran, Minneapolis, MN) Manz Music CD-921

It’s a multiplicity of riches on our next Pipedreams program, a sampling from sixteen new releases, including historically correct instruments at Stanford University in California. We’ll also visit Presbyterian churches Rochester and Buffalo, New York, Hexam Abbey in England, and the Cathedrals in Fulda, Germany and Washington DC, hearing Wolfgang Rübsam, Paul Manz, Gillian Weir and still others perform at the top of their game. From the Church of Saint Sulpice in Paris to the west coast of America, we’ll hear colorful music from four centuries of repertoire showcasing the king of instruments in all its glory.

Our songs are without words, colorful portraits painted with tones alone. This week, Paul Manz spins tuneful improvisations around familiar holiday melodies, and then Olivier Messiaen infuses mere chords and rhythms with an almost iconic presence. Shepherds and Magi, heavenly hosts and eternal purposes hover above a mother and child in Bethlehem, as we meditate upon the magic of the season and the mysteries of faith. Nine recitalists, from Germany, Britain, Sweden, the United States and France retell the story of The Nativity of the Lord in a unique expression for holiday reflection.

Whether it’s a wakening call, a Brazilian sleighride or a gentle lullaby, this week we’ll serenade the spirit of the holiday season with a fanciful collection of familiar carols. From the pen of Leroy Anderson or Julien Zbinden, both choirs and instruments are combined into one harmonious message which speaks of peace on earth. Our seasonal offering sounds the wake-up call and makes plans to be home for the holidays, as we listen to musicians raise their voices in praise at Christmas time. Join with them as they Sing, Beloved.

Join us for a merry mingling of composer and performers, celebrating the holiday season.

Our own composers and performers know how to bring a unique and special flavor to the holiday season.

…from Ann Arbor to Atlanta, whether on campus or at home, in church or theater, organ music for the season resounds with glad tidings!

…composers and performers blend their talents in a melodious tribute to the holiday season.

…a dramatic, romantic French organ symphony with some of its composer’s other thoughts regarding it included.

…an ongoing tribute to some of our native composers who know how best to exploit the pipe organ’s colors and agility.

…what better way to show appreciation for the bounties of life than through melodious outbursts of joy.

…a time for celebration, reflection, and projection of new expectations for the new season ahead.

…a multi-cultural exploration of diverse musicks for the Festival of the Nativity.

…across many generations, songs of faith have provided composers with familiar themes to embellish.

…compositions and performances by Minnesota musicians, from the Pipedreams archive.

…a sampler of some instruments heard next month during the Organ Historical Society's national convention.

…give thanks for the quantity and and quality of American composers for the pipe organ.

…the immeasurable treasure of Bach’s compositions for organ provides perpetual pleasure.

…recalling famous and forgotten names from the past who still engage us with their unique talents.

…concert and competition performances feature ‘live’ music made vivid in the moment.

…highlights from a national gathering of the Organ Historical Society in and around the Twin Cities.

…the immeasurable treasure of Bach's compositions for organ provides perpetual pleasure.

…music for an Earth Day celebration of the world's splendor and the environment which is our life-support.

From San Diego to Brooklyn, from churches and theaters, this collection offers warm and friendly greetings of glad tidings and good cheer.