MARK LAUBACH, ORGAN, AT GALLOWAY MEMORIAL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH,
APRIL 11, 1997.

   Mark Laubach was introduced by Chris Brunt, Dean of the Jackson Chapter
of the American Guild of Organists, who, together with Galloway Church,
sponsored this program. Mr. Laubach was a student of David Craighead at
the Eastman School of Music, and of Donald McDonald at Westminster Choir
College. He also won the AGO National Organ competition in 1984. It was
quite apparent from the outset of the program that the audience would
be treated to extraordinarily fine organ playing. I had never heard the
beautiful organ at Galloway sound so impressive. There were times when 
Mr. Laubach utilized the resources of the organ sparingly, opting for
beautiful colors and characters, then when a large ensemble was needed he
presented a sound that was massive and exciting without losing clarity.

   The opening selection was a transcription from Die Meistersinger von
Nurnberg", by Richard Wagner. I am always skeptical about using music
intended for another medium but this selection, arranged by Edwin Lemare,
was played with such grace of interpretation that the organ sounded like
the proper - or perhaps better - original instrument. The first part of
the program closed with the Toccata and Fugue in F Major, BWV 540, by
J.S. Bach. Mr. Laubach played as if there were not the slightest
difficulty in this brilliant work. Period interpretation made complete
sense in his playing, with note groupings and articulations exquisitely
executed. The Fugue, which is often omitted due to its restrained nature
after the exuberance of the Toccata, was presented with absolute charm
and interest. 

   The second half began with the "Chorale Improvise sur le 'Victimae
Paschali'", by Charles Tournemire. It was in this selection that I was
most impressed by Mr. Laubach's use of the large ensemble sounds of the
Galloway organ. The stops blended and thundered as was intended, but
always with good taste. His use of the organ and registration changes
were quite incredible. The "Scherzo", Op. 2, by Maurice Durufle, that 
followed, was a perfect contrast. Light, playful, and effervescent, the 
piece ended quietly with an exquisite registration. The program concluded
with the formidable "Variations sur un Noel", Op. 20, by Marcel Dupre.
The ending fughetta and Toccata were brilliantly presented and the
audience responded with a standing ovation. [Special thanks are due the
leaders of the Jackson AGO who were responsible for introducing Mr.
Laubach to organ lovers in the area.] I would like a return engagement.

                                        - Billy S.[?] Trotter