Synergy; Barhydt Organ Spotlight

A synthesis of classical and contemporary, this performance will be an evening of lively flute and piano music featuring Eastern European composers. Expect native folk melodies in a modern style with classical techniques, tonal yet fresh with dance-like rhythms and sophisticated harmonies. Also music by Herman Beeftiink, whose cinematic compositions have made an extensive contribution to film and television, as well as works by Johann Sebastian Bach on the Barhydt Organ.

The Barhydt Organ Spotlight Series features master organists and pianists that show our beautiful Barhydt Organ and Steinway grand piano at their finest. Admission to all performances is free! Voluntary donations will be accepted at the door ($10 suggested).

About the Artists:

KAREN AOKI KOUIDER, FLUTE

Karen studied classical flute and piano from an early age, graduating from the Interlochen Academy and the Eastman School of Music with a flute major. Her celebrated teachers were Tyra Gilb, Lorant Kovacs, and Bonita Boyd. Karen is a frequent performer for Maharishi International University and community events and has been a flute soloist for the Chamber Singers of Southeast Iowa since 2009. She is delighted to be joining Paul Skevington for this fall recital.

PAUL SKEVINGTON, PIANO & ORGAN

Paul Skevington is the newly appointed Music Director at St. Alphonsus Catholic church in Mount Pleasant, Iowa.  Known for his artistic skill in supporting choral voices, he accompanied many of the large, symphonic choruses in the Washington D.C. area in performances at all the major concert venues and cathedrals including numerous engagements at the Kennedy Center.

For 28 years Paul was Director of Music and Liturgy at Saint Luke Catholic Church in McLean, Virginia, where he developed a highly acclaimed sacred music program, founded the Music in McLean Concert series hosting 18 musical events a year, and recorded five compact discs on the Saint Luke Pipe Organ including the internationally released Rheinberger Organ Concertos on the Naxos label. As adjunct faculty member of Northern Virginia Community College and instructor with the Potomac Organ Institute, he taught private organ lessons.