Memorial Chapel Filled With Organ Notes as David Higgs Performs

As part of the ongoing organ recital series hosted at the University of Redlands, music lovers filled the Memorial Chapel Sunday evening, Jan. 12, for David Higgs's performance. Higgs, a world-renowned organist, played intricate pieces composed by preeminent organists from the 19th century. A New York native, Higgs has taught and performed internationally, including at the International Organ Festivals and Competitions in Germany, Denmark, Italy, Ireland and England. He is currently chair of the organ department at the Eastman School of Music. This recital was the third annual performance held by the School of music at University of Redlands and began at 3 p.m. Sunday. After the audience gathered in the chapel, Higgs commenced his performance with Sinfonia from Cantata No. 29, “Wir Danken Dir,” composed by Johann Sebastian Bach. Thechords filled the silent chapel as Higgs charmed the captivated audience with a cornucopia of musical selections that ranged from the light airiness of "Canon in B Minor" to the dark yet delightfully macabre "Variations de Concert." All of the compositions were complex, yet serene, and when asked how he prepares for his concerts, Higgs replied, “Practice, practice, practice, and I dedicate my life to my music.”