Organist Loreta Aramendi (Courtesy photo)
International concert organist Loreta Aramendi will perform a concert of joyous music at Broad Bay Congregational Church at 941 Main St. in Waldoboro, beginning at 7 p.m. on Saturday, April 7.
In keeping with Easter week’s celebrations, the program will include work by J.S. Bach, Buxtehude, Rameau, and Vivaldi.
Aramendi has performed all over the world including Japan, Russia, Chile and throughout Europe, and is the main organist of the Cavaillé-Coll organ (1863) at the Basilique of Santa María del Coro, in San Sebastian, Spain.
“To listen to her is an exhilarating experience, because she someone who plays with great vision and intensity,” said Kevin Birch, who arranged this concert and is a concert organist himself. “She is always energetic and virtuosic. Hers is one of the most incredible techniques I have ever encountered.”
Aramendi is a professor at the F. Escudero Conservatoire in San Sebastian and has recorded three CDs. One of Aramendi’s passions is 19th century organ culture and the process for building pipe organs. Since 2014, she has collaborated and participated in several organ restoration projects in France and Spain.
Broad Bay Church’s organ was built in 1875 by E. & G.G. Hook & Hastings, a pipe organ designing and manufacturing company based in Boston. They built organs from 1827-1935 and became one of the most prominent organ-building firms in the country. Broad Bay’s organ was restored by David Wallace.
“In the hands of a world-class organist, Waldoboro’s historic organ can make a sound that runs through your whole body,” said Broad Bay Pastor Nancy Duncan. “It’s thrilling!”
Broad Bay Congregational Church invites everyone far and near to attend. “This will be a glorious celebration. Everyone who comes will be in for a treat,” Duncan said.
The concert is free to everyone, with donations gratefully accepted.
Broad Bay Congregational Church United Church of Christ is an open and affirming congregation.
