Renowned organists perform at University Auditorium July 17

July 2, 2012

GAINESVILLE, Fla. — University of Florida Performing Arts presents Janette Fishell, organist in concert and silent films, accompanied by Dwight Thomas at 7:30 p.m. July 17 at University Auditorium.

During the first half of the evening, Fishell will perform three blocks of dramatic and colorful music by composers Petr Eben, Louis Vierne and Calvin Hampton, each associated with a film – “Fright Night” (1985 and 2011); “An American in Paris” (1951); and “New York Stories” (1989).

For the second half of the performance, silent films “Double Whoopee” (1929) and “Angora Love” (1929) – both staring Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy – will be presented with organ accompaniment between them by Dwight Thomas.

The event is part of UFPA Chords of Color for a Cause – raising cancer awareness and promoting healing through music – and the Gainesville Pipe Organ Encounter.

Fishell serves as professor of music and chair of the organ department at Indiana University’s Jacob School of Music. She is an ovarian cancer survivor. Thomas is director of music ministries and organist at the Cathedral Church of St. Peter in St. Petersburg, Fla. He also teaches organ at State College of Florida in Bradenton, Fla. and is the artistic director for Una Voce, The Florida Men’s Chorale.

Visit www.concertorganists.com/artists/janette-fishell/ for more information about Fishell and http://www.gainesvillepoe.com/ to learn more about Gainesville Pipe Organ Encounter.

Tickets are $15 for general admission and $10 for students and Pipe Organ Encounter attendees. Tickets can be purchased at the door, at the University Box Office in the Reitz Student Union, by calling the Phillips Center Box Office at 352-392-2787 or by visiting www.ticketmaster.com.