September 18 2021
The Organ Masters:  Peter Sykes plays the historic Roosevelt Organ

The Berkshire Bach Society opens its 2021-2022 season on September 18, 2021 at 6pm with a performance by distinguished organist Peter Sykes playing the historic Roosevelt Organ in the First Congregational Church in Great Barrington (MA).  Sykes is no stranger to Berkshire Bach audiences, having performed with the group for over 20 years.  In this program, he showcases the organ built by American organ builder Hilborne Roosevelt that was considered to be the finest in America at its installation in 1883.  Sykes is currently Director of Music at First Church in Cambridge, Congregational, on the faculties of The Juilliard School and Boston University, and one of the most versatile and decorated keyboard artists performing today.  His program includes a survey of music by Bach and his devoted successors—Mendelssohn, Brahms, and Reger—that explores the beauty, color, and power of this wonderful instrument.  Unlike the smaller Johnson organ at the Unitarian Universalist Meeting House in Housatonic (another historic Berkshires treasure), the Roosevelt easily handles music of greater complexity including Bach’s larger works and especially 19th c repertoire that explores the full range of stops and effects to create a memorable musical experience.  Bach was known to try out new and refurbished organs by letting out all the stops to see what kind of “lungs” the instruments had—much to the consternation (and apprehension) of the builders who were present.  The Roosevelt indeed has great lungs, and Peter Sykes takes every advantage as he creates a thrilling aural experience that truly shakes the rafters.

Join Berkshire Bach as we continue to celebrate our 30th Anniversary Year in this opening concert.  All tickets $35, available online at www.berkshirebach.org and at the door.  Berkshire Bach member discounts apply; children under 18 and students with student ID are admitted free of charge.  Covid protocols apply.