Wikman Takes Helm Of New Series
The Paul Manz Organ Series
Thomas Wikman has been appointed Artistic Director of the Paul Manz Organ Series at the Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago.
Named in honor of the renowned Lutheran church musician, the free monthly series of midday concerts features artists from Europe as well as local performers. The chapel at the Lutheran School, 1100 E 55th ST, Chicago, was remodeled for the 2004 installation of a versatile new pipe organ by M.L. Bigelow, named for Paul Manz and his wife, Ruth.
"Ruth and I thoroughly support this series," said Manz recently. "Inviting distinguished organists to make the art of music come alive falls into an honored tradition going back to the time of Bach."
A Danish organist launched the prestigious new series in October. Sven-Ingvart Mikkelsen is Organist of the Royal Chapel at Frederiksborg Castle, Denmark. Wikman will take the bench on January 8. The 2008 concerts continue on March 4, April 1, and May 6, 2008.
The concerts begin at 12:20 pm/CT and end at 1:00 pm/CT on the first Tuesday of each month at 1100 E 55th ST in Chicago.
"Organ music is a thriving art form in Europe," says Wikman, who spends part of every summer giving concerts in Italy, Germany, France, Scandinavia and other European countries. "My dream has been to build concert series here in the European style." More >>
