1998 Austin organ at Saint Mary’s College Chapel, Moraga, California

Some music just makes you want to tap your toes, and our next Pipedreams broadcast offers plenty of encouragement in that direction. From a Renaissance Basse Dance to modern Bolero, our collection explores that natural urge to move to music. You’ll hear some of the popular hits of the early 16th century and before, a rock-and-roll waltz, the Saint Louis Blues Twist, a Ritual Fire Dance, and even a macabre revel of spooks and goblins. Our instruments run the gamut from a tiny medieval-style organetto, to sassy theatre organs in Chicago, Oakland, and Hollywood, and a fine new installation at Saint Mary’s College in Moraga, California. Just try to keep from moving. We’ll explore the extremities of tonal variety and rhythmic energy in music that urges “Dance, Everyone!” this week on Pipedreams.

Through folk tunes and patriotic airs, the pipe organ celebrates our national spirit with it’s own kind of fireworks.

A four-century survey of organ music and a review of some resplendent recent recordings.

…hot to the touch, and hotter to hear, these compositions cover the keyboard with memorable sonic effects.