Performers:
Violin: Dr. Laurel Butler Lawshae, DMA
Cello: Fr. Vit Fiala, OMF
Piano / Organ: Dr. Konrad Binienda, DMA
Soprano / Oboe: Brianne Samson
Mezzo-Soprano: Denise Abbas
Harp: Allison Miller
Organ: Victor M. Marsilio
About the Shrine Organ:
It is with great excitement to announce that the Pipe Organ installed in the Shrine is being enlarged into a proper concert instrument capable of playing all periods and styles of ecclesiastical music. Several components of the new instrument have already been installed in preparation for future additions. This concert is in part to benefit and defray expenses of the installation. The Pipe Organ itself has been completely donated, however aesthetic changes will be necessary.
In 1936, Richard O. Whitlelegg of the M.P. Moller Pipe Organ Company, Hagerstown, Maryland, designed a Pipe Organ for First Baptist Church, New Castle, Pa. His distinctive tonal design has become the benchmark in organ building and still is acknowledged today. After nearly 75 years of service, First Baptist Church decided to convert their worship style from traditional music to contemporary and no longer had the need for their Pipe Organ. This instrument was removed and placed in storage until a new home could be found. In January of 2024, Fr. Vit Fiala agreed to accept the donation of the instrument on behalf of the Franciscan Shrine. The organ is in the process of being completely restored and reengineered to fit in its new home.
The final Pipe Organ will be 30 ranks (voices) over 3 Manuals and Pedal. Facade pipes will soon be seen on each side of the Chancel and an Angelic/Echo division is to be installed on each side of the Infant of Prague. The original organ console was installed on the right side of the Chancel. This room will now hold the Choir Division. The final instrument will have a full dynamic range from a whisper of ethereal Angelic voices to the full volume needed for processionals, such as at Christmas and Easter, congregation singing and orchestral accompaniment. This organ will take it’s place among the few elite Pipe Organs installed in Youngstown.
Event Address:
517 S. Belle Vista Ave.
Youngstown, OH 44509
