Artist 579 for St. Michael’s Anglican Church, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.

In the spring of 2016, a committee was formed to search out for a new organ to replacing the ailing electronic organ of over 30 years of age. The technology of the old organ was long out-dated and while the organ had served well for many years, it was not feasible to continue on with repairs. After a careful investigation of a number of different brands of organs, the committee chose the Rodgers Artist Series model 579. A multi-channel audio system installed at the front of the church supports the liturgy for both choir and congregation.

An antiphonal audio system provides the room with surround ambience, discreet enough to feel natural, but effective in creating a rich and inviting sound within the sanctuary. The antiphonal system also provides additional music flexibility by enhancing processionals, or organ voluntaries. Through Rodgers’ Audio Map system, the organist is able to select individual divisions of the organ to sound from the rear of the church. Jan Van Der Stad of Van Der Stad & Associates, Rodgers representative for Southwestern Ontario, along with Dan Amorim of Rodgers Canada designed and installed the new Rodgers Artist Series organ.