Our Schoenstein organ’s fifth birthday highlights our good fortune to have this fine instrument, which contributes so much to our worship - - and to again thank all those involved in bringing the organ to life.

The Principal Players begin with former Director of Music Dr. Cathy Rodland, who, in the late ‘90’s, envisioned a more flexible instrument, with broad tonal colors, designed specifically for our present Meetinghouse and worship service. Her inspiration got us started, assisted by her husband and accomplished organist, Brian Carson.

We were guided by Senior Pastors Carl Schultz and David Taylor, and by Church Presidents Shelby Nussbaum, Clem Pontillo and Sarah Moriarty. Our Organ Committee included them and Don Auchter, Pete Burgess, Ginger Kousen and Elise Strickland. We gave serious consideration to five organ builders, and heard approximately 20 instruments in this journey. Organ consultant Walden Moore, Music Director at Trinity Church on the Green, New Haven, guided us through the selection process that brought us to Schoenstein & Co. of San Francisco.

Pete Burgess led the very successful Capital Campaign of 2001, which funded the organ and several other projects, including total refurbishment of the Meetinghouse and purchase of the van. Hundreds of First Church families provided the financial support for these vital projects.

Construction included lowering the floors and ceilings, and increasing the tonal openings, of both pipe chambers. Lead people in this work were Doug Black, Jack Espenshade and Jonathan Russell. The Meetinghouse work, which contributed significantly to the success of the organ, was led by Sylvia and Earl Thompson and Evelyn Pontillo - - from window shutters to chandelier tassels. Chuck and Chip Monziglio of CFM Construction Corporation in Glastonbury contributed much time and expertise as construction advisors, connecting us with several key contractors. Architects Brian Davis and Ron Paolillo donated both ongoing advice and their design of the organ chamber grilles.

Schoenstein installed the new instrument in the fall of 2003. Organ Professor Thomas Murray of Yale performed the dedicatory concert on March 14, 2004.

Finally, we again thank Jack Bethards, President and Tonal Director of Schoenstein, and his entire organization, for designing, building and installing this superb organ, which brings us such joy each week.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, SCHOENSTEIN / BETHARDS # 148!

Angela Salcedo, Director of Music Ministries
     Dick Dann, Organ Committee Chair
          Allen Shenk, Project Manager

Organ Description and Specifications