Symphonic Organ
I heard Hector Olivera in concert last month in Jacksonville. He is not only masterful in his interpretation of classical literature but also in transforming the Rodgers organ into a complete symphony orchestra.
Hector performed a medley of tunes from the theater organ era that was truly outstanding, recreating the sounds of a Wurlitzer theater organ. His second set of tunes incorporated orchestral instrumentation from Rodgers MX-200 sound module. The entire audience sat in amazement as they listened to orchestral arrangements employing authentic instrumental sounds. In fact a musician who is a former musician from our local symphony said he never thought he would hear such realistic sounds from an electronic organ.
Rodgers can certainly be called the "symphonic organ."
Symphonic Organ is important in worship
It is so good to read comments such as yours about Hector's music and another regarding Dan Miller's new arrangements. The 'Symphonic Organ' is as important in worship as you have heard in concert. For the first time an organist has unlimited expression at their fingertips and can illustrate each text fully. Orchestral music is also the most unifying of musical styles. Young children and adults alike take great delight in hearing the sound of a symphony orchestra. This is seen in the sound tracks of favorite movies. In everything from "Harry Potter" to "Star Wars" the plot is developed as much by orchestral music as it is the dialogue. Scenes are developed and moods created by the tone of the music including the melody, the harmony and the instrumentation. No 'rock band' can come close to this level of communication. The symphonic organ is a powerful worship tool that more organists need to embrace and explore.