After decades of service, the old Rodgers analog organ was no longer meeting the needs of the music ministry at Sanlando United Methodist. After a few meetings at the church to discuss the project, Organist Mark Kelly and Central Music’s Regional Representative Gary Galloway scheduled a trip for the committee to visit our Clearwater showroom.
Although the musical styles at Sanlando had expanded over the years to include contemporary music, the organ, traditional hymns and classical literature are still very important.
After careful consideration of multiple brands… Their choice: a new Rodgers Inspire Series organ.  Not only does it offer a wide variety of stereo HD organ voices, it also has excellent built-in orchestral sounds with velocity-sensitive keyboards and pedals to control them.
One problem… Easter was just weeks away. Thankfully, we have a considerable assortment of organs in stock and were able to install the same model (in a different color) before the big weekend. Mark received a standing ovation after his prelude on Easter Sunday morning!
According to Mark, ” The congregational singing has gone through the roof now that our folks are “surrounded” by the authentic pipe voicings and feel supported by the organ. I am having so much fun trying out all the features and playing music that has been boxed away for a decade due to limitations of our older analog instrument. The new Rodgers instruments will inspire the next generation of worship at Sanlando UMC – it certainly was appropriately branded as Inspire!”
Chairperson of the Board of Trustees Gary Summitt writes, “Thanks Tim. We have really enjoyed the organ. Mark has been like a kid in a candy store. The versatility of the organ is incredible!”
We want to thank Colton Brooks (Director of Worship and Music) Gary, Mark, and the rest of the wonderful team at Sanlando. Make a joyful noise!