Date/Time
Date(s) - January 14, 2024
1:30 pm - 3:00 pm
Location
Canadian Memorial United Church
Categories No Categories
Sunday, November 12, 2023, December 10, 2023, January 14, 2024 | 1:30- 3:00 PM
Tickets: $25 for 1 concert and $60 for 3 concerts
Early Bird Ticket -$20
Free entry for children under 12 years
At Canadian Memorial United Church, we are honoured to mark a significant milestone in our history – 95 years of service and dedication to our community. To commemorate this momentous occasion, we are thrilled to announce a special series of organ concerts. The 95 years old organ at Canadian Memorial is a beautiful 42 rank, 3 manual instrument built by Casavant Frères (Opus 1269).
This year’s celebration holds even more significance as we have successfully digitized our historic memorial organ. These organ concerts serve a dual purpose; they are a fundraiser for the memorial organ and an opportunity to showcase the rich musical heritage of our beloved church.
CMUC is an affirming and inclusive community that seeks to be anti-racist in all we do and reconciled to the Indigenous peoples on whose unceded lands we work, play, and pray.
PRESERVING HISTORY THROUGH DIGITALIZATION
The decision to digitize our memorial organ aligns with our commitment to stewarding our unique, historic building. Just like the iconic stained glass windows and Books of Remembrance, the memorial organ plays a crucial role in our heritage. A remarkable gift from our American friends, we cherish this organ and accept the responsibility to care for it into the future.
The Casavant pipe organ was originally donated by generous Americans in memory of over 1,500 American servicemen who lost their lives while serving in the Canadian Armed Forces. Valued at $30,000 during its installation, the organ holds a place of historical importance, equivalent to $550,000 in today’s currency. Built by the renowned organ builders from Quebec, its rich legacy has been further enriched over the years.
In April 1960, the organ underwent a reconstruction and was rededicated in memory of those who made the ultimate sacrifice during the First and Second World Wars. In 1971, it was rebuilt and rededicated once more, this time in memory of all members of the Armed Forces who laid down their lives in the service of their country.