Product ReviewsMagnum Opus : The Building of the Schoenstein Organ at the Conference Center of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Salt Lake City by Jack M. Bethards and John Longhurst (2009, Hardcover)

A unique document.

This is a book designed for people who have particular interest in pipe organs, though the history of the construction of the LDS Conference Center, which contains the organ, is also included. For those who are unfamiliar with this building, it is across the street from the famous Mormon Tabernacle, and its main hall, which contains the organ, seats over 20,000 people. It is the largest such room to accommodate people seated theatrical style, and all have unobstructed views. The organ is a marvel of engineering, being capable of providing major musical support to the Tabernacle Choir, Temple Square Orchestra, or both. It is used as a solo instrument as well. The incredible venue is frequently featured on the weekly TV program, "Music for the Spoken Word," which is the longest running radio broadcast in history. Dr. John Longhurst, the book's author from former Chief Tabernacle organist, writes as beautifully as he plays. The book is lavishly illustrated, and has a CD which provides demonstrations of the organ's pipe divisions, as well as other musical selections. Sadly, the book is out of print. The dealer from whom I bought the book "lightly used" provided a superb copy, along with the CD, at a bargain price. I am very happy with my purchase!Read full review...

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