Inspiring commitment to the Cathedral as a world-class treasure in our community
Cathedral of Saint Paul will host live in-person organ concert
“Laetare” Sunday, March 14
Featuring prize-winning organist, Christopher Ganza
(Saint Paul, Minn.) Dr. Christopher Ganza, Choirmaster and Organist of the Cathedral of Saint Paul, will present a free organ recital at 3 p.m., Sunday, March 14, 2021 at the Cathedral of Saint Paul, 239 Selby Ave., St. Paul. The public is invited to attend in person, or via live stream. The Cathedral follows Minnesota’s Covid-19 protocols in order to provide a safe indoor environment by following social distancing and mask requirements.
Dr. Ganza will present Charles-Marie Widor’s 6th symphony for organ, performed on the esteemed E.M. Skinner and Æolian-Skinner pipe organs. First premiered in 1878, Widor’s symphony brings its listeners on an epic journey from darkness into light. As the Church throughout the world celebrates “Laetare (rejoice) Sunday,” the name given to the Fourth Sunday in the season of Lent, this journey from darkness to light accords with the upcoming joy of Easter following the observance of Jesus’ Passion. Having been inspired by the orchestral music and the advancements in organ technology of his time, Widor challenged the organ to imitate a full orchestra in depth and sound and expression. The magnificent organs of the Cathedral of Saint Paul, having been themselves constructed after many of the same design ideals, will bring Widor’s ideas to life.
The concert will be simultaneously streaming on the Cathedral website (www.cathedralsaintpaul.org). Free parking is available in the Selby lots or on the streets as marked. Admission is free, but freewill offerings will be gratefully accepted.
Cathedral of Saint Paul
239 Selby Avenue
St. Paul, MN 55102
