A beautiful gemin a small village of Bergamo, Italy

This is the story of a little-known organ by a leading builder now restored to working condition and its marvelous voice after more than twenty years of derelict state of repair. The sound of the Lewis organ represents a new important treasure in the province of Bergamo – the land of the Serassi firm, the most popular organ-building family in Italy during the 19th century.

Built in 1911 by T.C. Lewis & Co. for the Vineyard Congregational Church in Richmond – London –, the organ was substantially modified throughout its lifetime, especially in the second half of the 20th century. In 2015 it was donated by Amigoni family and moved to the PIME (Pontifical Institute for Foreign Missions) Seminary Church in Sotto il Monte Giovanni XXIII, the place of birth of the Catholic Pope St. John XXIII. The works included the provision of electric action, a new case and building frame and the addiction of few stops. The prominent French organist Jean Guillou performed the opening recital.

The instrument has a distinct personality and possesses a wide palette of beautiful delicate stops, really exquisite and warm in tone, flutes with great cantability and reeds of arresting quality. But ultimately it is the effect of full organ that evokes the greatest admiration.

The annual International Organ Concert Series features some of the leading performers from around the world and exceptionally talented young organists, providing the best spiritual and emotional experience. Don’t miss this chance to see the highly-skilled work of the maestros’ hands and feet and to hear the majestic sound of the ‘king of instruments’ come to life.

Please enjoy and support the organ.

| Fabio Amigoni, Artistic Director |