“Pedals and Pipes” Celebrates Organ Supporters

by Casey Oelkers, Director of Development

Friends of the Overture Concert Organ members at the J.S. Bach and Curator Circle levels gathered for a spring social and musicale called “Pedals and Pipes” on Monday, April 6 at the Overture Center. Following a reception in the Promenade Lounge with Principal Organist and Curator Greg Zelek and MSO staff, the group then migrated to the Overture Hall stage to enjoy up close experience with Greg and the Overture Concert Organ.

MSO’s Director of Development, Casey Oelkers, and Manager of Individual Giving, Meranda Dooley, joined Greg Zelek on stage to perform a musical bouquet of thanks to these generous organ supporters. As a trio, Greg, Meranda (clarinet), and Casey (flute) opened with the “Flower Duet” from Lakme by Delibes. Next, Meranda and Greg performed the lovely “Cantilene” by Louis Cahuzac. Meranda invited listeners to imagine themselves walking down a street in Paris on a spring day. Greg then performed “Prelude and Fugue in A minor” BWV 543, by J.S. Bach which showcased his incredible artistry and virtuosity. To close, Casey joined Greg for the sprightly “Tambourin” by Gossec.

Casey then led a tour of the backstage of Overture Hall. Participants saw the organ chamber and how it moves on boxcar wheels and railroad tracks built into the stage. They also saw the dressing rooms and the space where the organ console (keyboards/pedals/bench) is stored when it is not on stage.

Special thanks to Dave Parminter for taking photos at this event.

“Pedals and Pipes” was a special donor appreciation event, hosted by the Madison Symphony Orchestra, for J.S. Bach Society and Curator Circle members of the Friends of the Overture Concert Organ. For information about Friends of the Overture Concert Organ membership levels and benefits, visit the FOCO Membership Page.