Sound of music

Twillingate - "Music hath charms to soothe the savage beast," - that is, according to the English playwright William Congreve of the late 1600's.

That being the case, then those who attend the organ/accordion recitals at the church museum in Twillingate during the months of July and August will be mere little pussy cats when they leave the church regardless of any pent-up animosity or negative outlooks they may have had upon entering the building.

Every Monday, Wednesday and Friday afternoons at 3:30 p.m., the Northeast Church Heritage Association sponsors an hour-long music recital with Steven Rogers of Durrell as the virtuoso. Mr. Rogers, a graduate of J.M. Olds Collegiate, has some four years of study at the Music School of Memorial University under his belt to go along with an outstanding natural talent.

For the first half hour of each recital, Mr. Rogers presents selections on the recently restored Bevington pipe organ with a repertoire that covers classical, traditional and spiritual numbers. For the second half-hour, Mr. Rogers moves to the button accordion. Those who love accordion music will be charmed breathless. His manipulation of the keys both in the treble and the bass is nothing less than magical.

The invitation is extended to all members of the public whether local residents or tourists to attend. No admission is charged with the suggestion that individuals, if they so desire, may make a donation towards the upkeep of the building. Known formerly as the South Side United Church, the building was slated for demolition but a group of interested residents decided to save the building as a heritage centre.

The building is open to the public throughout the summer with the help of a summer student as tour guide.