New book tells the story of the building of the Conference Center organ
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When the mammoth new Conference Center was constructed in downtown Salt Lake City from 1997 to 2000, John Longhurst, chief Salt Lake Tabernacle organist, was appointed by Church leaders to take a leading role in the planning and construction of an organ to befit the grand new edifice.
Now, Brother Longhurst has completed a book chronicling that task.
Magnum Opus, The Building of the Schoenstein Organ at the Conference Center of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has just been published under the imprint of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir which, these days, produces and releases its CDs and DVDs under its own label, in addition to publishing relevant books from time to time.
Brother Longhurst, who retired from his position in 2007 after 30 years of service, has created a 210-page work which, in addition to an engaging narrative, includes striking color photos, diagrams, charts, notes, appendices and an index.
An accompanying CD attached to the inside back cover of the book offers "A Tonal Tour of the LDS Conference Center Organ" and includes samples of many of the organ stops plus excerpts from musical masterworks, including Brother Longhurst's own "Postlude on 'National Hymn.' "
Also featured in the book is a timeline from 1996 to 2008, with highlights from the organ's brief history; a diagram of the organ console control layout; a "Pipe Organ Tonal Color Wheel" from Schoenstein and Co.; and a glossary of organ terms.
For both the expert and the uninitiated, the book provides a fascinating behind-the-facade glimpse of what is certain to be viewed in coming years as one of the musical icons of the Church.
