David Minton

FINALLY -- A USEFUL Vatican Specification!!!!!!!!!! (only kidding!)

Please allow me to add my agreement with Karl! Even though I do speak only for myself, ("officially"), I think I can say with fair certainty that most other American church musicians would NOT share Mr. Bournais' terrible comments. Indeed, we DO look to England as upholding the highest possible standards in church music. As a Roman Catholic musician, I can attest to some sad examples of the dismal state of Roman Catholic church music. My own R.C. choir is proud to be affiliated with RSCM (and "Voice for Life"). My church is blessed with a long nave and about 3 seconds of reverb with very warm acoustic. Given the dead, dead, DEAD acoustic of many churches over here, I'd think it fair to say that many American church musicians would gladly work in those old, hard-to-heat-or-cool, stone churches and cathedrals in England! What glorious sounds that live in those old places!! If Mr. Bournais is going to place his frighteningly huge (and "unique") specification for St. Peter's Basilica on this board for discussion, he'd best be willing to accept graciously the comments by other posters. And, he would do well to not make sweeping accusations and negative comments "on behalf of" other Americans -- musicians or otherwise. All best wishes to our dear friends in England! David

I, too, offer my deepest sympathy to John Pike Mander on the passing of his father, Noel Mander. I know of Mander organs only through this website and through recordings - most notably in the US that of St. Ignatius Loyola, New York City. The organ- and organbuilding-community has lost a true pioneer and master builder. Thankfully, his wonderful work continues in the hands of his son, John Pike Mander. For Noel Mander, grant him eternal rest, and may light perpetual shine upon him. David Minton Louisville, KY, USA