Dr. William Tortolano, professor emeritus of fine arts and chapel organist emeritus will present a concert in the St. Michael’s College chapel in Colchester on May 25 at 12:15 p.m.

A 50-year faculty member and founder of the Fine Arts Department, 91-year-old Tortolano will play a variety of musical styles that reflect his personal favorites.

The 1966, two manual organ is dedicated to him.

The live concert is free and open to the public; it will reflect the many tonal colors of the organ. The program includes two compositions from the Baroque era: the Toccata in D Minor by Froberger and the Jig Fugue by Buxtehude.

Three Jewish organ pieces by Reuven Kosakoff explore the emotional moods of praise and prayer with modes/scales. The harmonies of the great blind jazz pianist George Shearing are warmly expressed in two American folk hymns.

Respected as a worldwide authority in Gregorian Chant, Tortolano will play the Mariales Suite by Lebanese composer, Naji Hakim. These combine the chant with Near Eastern sounds.

The concert is his 54th annual presentation.

The audience is requested to observe Covid-19 protocols.

Dr. William Tortolano