ARCA’s celebratory 250th Wurlitzer concert on Sunday, July 12th by internationally acclaimed theatre organist Dave Wickerham and Metropolitan Opera bass-baritone William Powers was one of the most profoundly inspiring and emotionally moving of any ever experienced by ARCA audiences.
Many in the audience were moved to tears multiple times – touched by the rich American music and thrilled by the brilliance and pyro-techniques of Wickerham’s genius improvisations and the richness and power of Power’s voice and artistic intent.
And both are the most talented – and kindest, down to earth people you ever want to meet and with great senses of humor.
Especially powerful was William Powers’ singing of the military service songs – a veteran himself – as the audience applauded veterans of each of the branches, honoring their service and sacrifice.
To open the concert, William Powers sang the fourth verse of the Star Spangled Banner, ending in “And this be our motto – ‘In God is our trust’ – And the star-spangled banner in triumph shall wave O’er the land of the free because of the brave.”
Long-time Wurlitzer friends and generous ARCA donors – some of whom themselves had served their country – were delighted to be together, inspired by the combined forces of Wickerham and Powers to celebrate America’s Anniversary. William Powers and Kears Pollock were both veterans.
Some drove from as far as Allentown, PA and Rochester, NY – and of course Grove City, Slippery Rock and Pittsburgh.
As Dave heard younger voices in the audience, he interpolated in his program a Disney medley for the Littles in the audience.
Two standing ovations thanked the artists – ending with a special treat – as an audience request – as Dave performed the ever popular theatre organ display of ‘all the bells and whistles’ of the McKissick Mighty Wurlitzer – Chattanooga Choo-Choo.
After the concert people lingered in the glow, meeting the artists and enjoying the opening wine and cheese reception for the Red Brick Gallery exhibit of watercolorist Andrew Hazelton as well as the display of historical Foxburg photographs.
It was a special moment when William Powers joined in singing Happy Birthday to Clarion County Economic Development board president, Bill Henry.
None of this would be possible without the brilliant Wurlitzer restoration project and preparation of the Lincoln Hall Wurlitzer for the July 12 concert by ARCA’s extraordinary theatre organ technician, Jason Wiles.
Mark your calendars – so you do not miss Dave Wickerham’s return to Foxburg’s Lincoln Hall and the McKissick Mighty Wurlitzer to perform the holiday audience favorite – his annually sold-out Christmas Wurlitzer concert on Sunday, December 13 at 2 PM.