Unstopped: Works for Organ by Women Composers celebrates the depth, brilliance, and expressive power of organ music written by women across centuries and styles. This thoughtfully curated program highlights voices that have too often been overlooked, featuring works that range from intimate and meditative to bold, virtuosic, and triumphant. From historic figures to living composers, the evening explores how women have shaped—and continue to shape—the organ’s repertoire through innovation, lyricism, and spiritual depth.
The performance will be presented by Dr. Karen E. Black, Rudi Inselmann Endowed Professor of Organ at Wartburg College in Waverly, Iowa. An accomplished organist, conductor, and educator, Dr. Black teaches organ, church music, music theory, and aural skills, serves as organist for weekday chapel and worship services, and conducts both the Kantorei choral ensemble and Handbell Choir. She holds degrees from St. Olaf College and Indiana University, where she earned her Doctor of Music in organ performance and literature.
Dr. Black is an active recitalist and clinician who has performed throughout the United States and internationally, including recitals in Germany at the Castle Church in Wittenberg and St. George’s Church in Eisenach. She has been featured on the nationally broadcast Pipedreams program and is a published composer and arranger with Augsburg Fortress and Morningstar Music. Her 2021 album Ein feste Burg celebrates the Dobson organ at Wartburg College, and she currently serves as President of the Association of Lutheran Church Musicians.
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).
