John and Coralee Dey Barhydt Organ

John and Coralee Dey Barhydt Organ

The 21 rank, 1693 pipe, 3 manual Möller organ was installed in Barhydt Chapel in 1966. The dedication naming the Barhydt organ for donors John and Coralee Dey was held April 25, 2010 in the Sondheim Center for the Performing Arts at the Fairfield Arts and Convention Center. In the process of moving the organ to the Sondheim Center, John Connet has reconditioned and modernized the organ along with installing a computer system in the console.

The mission of the John and Coralee Dey Barhydt Organ Committee is:
To ensure the ongoing maintenance, development and public awareness of the Barhydt organ and organ music in general.

Objectives:
•  Obtain financial support for maintenance, programming and organ education.
• Invite professional organists to perform recitals.
• Engage wider audiences with various organ styles.
• Inspire use of the organ for local choir and other concerts, as well as innovative collaborations.
• Arrange demonstrations of the organ for local school children.
• Support development of future generations of local organists.
• Encourage excellence in the performance of organ music.

The estimated replacement value of the organ is now over one million dollars. Only a rare musical instrument such as a Stradivarius violin are equal in value. It is important that we use the Barhydt organ and keep it in good working order. The Barhydt Organ Committee includes organists, those interested in organ music and community members who have a concern for developing an audience interested in organ music.

Donations are Welcome!
There are 3 organ funds:  Organ Maintenance Fund, Organ Performance Fund & Organ Endowment Fund

Checks can be sent to:
The Fairfield Arts and Convention Center. Attn.: Barhydt Organ
200 N. Main Street
Fairfield, IA 52556.


Shooting-Star