St. James Episcopal Church to host afternoon of organ music

"Toccatas Galore!," an afternoon of organ music, will be presented by seven talented organists at 4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 18, in the sanctuary on the Rogers combination digital and pipe organ at St. James Episcopal Church, Sixth and Washington streets in West Dundee.

The organists are Rosalie Cassiday, organist at St. David Episcopal Church, Aurora; Phyllis Connelly, handbell director at St. James and adjunct instructor in organ and piano at McHenry County College; Jeffrey Neufeld, principal organist at Barrington United Methodist Church; Jose Rosado, organist at St. James; Steven Smith, CEO of Roger's Organ Co.; Vernon Studt, director and organist at the First Congregational Church, Huntley; and Dale Voelker, organist at Judson University in Elgin.

The focus of compositions played at this concert is fast, brilliant music using all the resources of the organ. Some of the composers who will be heard are J.S. Bach, Maurice Durufle, John Rutter and Danial Pinkham, covering music from the 16th to the 20th century. There will also be a special presentation for young people, "A Young Person's Guide to the Organ" by Randolph Currie.

Tickets are $10 or $12 at the door. Children are free of charge. For tickets, call the church office at (847) 515-5612.