The Hidden Beauty of Calvin's Organs
Most students may walk past the chapel or music department without realizing that Calvin houses seven pipe organs on its campus, each with its own voice, history, and unique beauty.
From the resonant Dobson organ in the chapel to the portable continuo tucked away in the CFAC, these instruments tell a rich story about worship through music and a legacy of musical excellence at Calvin.
The DeWitt Family Organ
At the front of Calvin's chapel stands the DeWitt Family Organ, built in 1989 by Dobson Pipe Organ Builders of Lake City, Iowa.
As a Baroque-inspired instrument, it is suited for both rich organ solo repertoire and congregational hymnody.
Calvin organ instructor Rhonda Edgington, a frequent performer across West Michigan, the United States, and Europe, discussed with Chimes the history of the DeWitt organ.
Author's summary: Calvin University has seven unique pipe organs on campus.