Residence Organ - Dr. Frances Nobert
California, USA
Dr. Frances Nobert moves easily in the highest circles of the classical organ world, but she faced a challenge when she moved into a smaller residence in Southern California. Her custom 3-manual Rodgers organ, dubbed "Little Organ Annie," was a bit too large for the new space.
Fortunately, at this year's winter NAMM Show in Anaheim, the well-known teacher, recitalist and recording artist found the right solution: the newest Rodgers 3-manual organ, the Model 588. Rodgers Instruments Corporation is grateful to Dr. Nobert for once again selecting Rodgers to provide her residence organ, which she calls "Little Organ Annie II."
Dr. Nobert is Professor Emerita of Music at Whittier College and President of the Ruth and Clarence Mader Memorial Scholarship Fund. She has served the American Guild of Organists as Pasadena Chapter Dean, South Coast District Convener and Region IX Councillor.
Dr. Nobert earned the degrees M.M. from Salem College, M.M. from Syracuse University and D.M.A. from the University of Southern California. As a recipient of a Fulbright Grant, she studied organ, harpsichord, and piano in Germany. Her organ teachers have included John Mueller, Helmut Walcha, and Arthur Poister.
She has performed for conventions of the American Guild of Organists and the Organ Historical society, as well as for national and international festivals and conferences related to the position of women in the music profession. Her highly acclaimed CD, "Music She Wrote," champions fine organ compositions by women composers. She has appeared as recitalist in many American cities, Europe, and Asia. Dr. Nobert is a member of Pi Kappa Lambda National Music Honor Society and of Mu Phi Epsilon International Music Fraternity.
But the story gets even better, for "Little Organ Annie I" now has a wonderful new home. The Masterpiece 908 turned out to be the perfect choice for the Rolling Hills United Methodist Church in Southern California’s prestigious Palos Verdes Estates.
It is remarkable that the timing was so perfect. Under the leadership of Senior Pastor Jonathan Chute and Charles Dickerson, Director of Music, a committee was formed and voted unanimously to choose the Rodgers organ. The congregation approved, and the instrument was promptly installed.
Dr. Nobert was delighted her “baby” could find such a wonderful new home and so are the clergy, musicians and congregation. Althea Waites is the church organist and pianist. One of Los Angeles’ most capable musicians, Ms. Waite is a Steinway artist and a member of Pi Kappa Lambda National Music Honor Society.
Both organs were sold, installed and finished by Dr. Robert Tall.
