The Kotzschmar Organ Presents the Second John Weaver Memorial Concert featuring Paul Jacobs

PORTLAND, Maine – The Friends of the Kotzschmar Organ are thrilled to announce the highly anticipated return of Grammy Award-Winning Organist Paul Jacobs to Merrill Auditorium on Friday, August 18th, 2023, at 7 PM. Presented as part of the Second John Weaver Memorial Concert, this event promises an evening of musical brilliance on the Kotzschmar Organ.

Paul Jacobs, recognized worldwide as "one of the major musicians of our time" by Alex Ross of The New Yorker, has garnered praise as "America's leading organ performer" from The Economist. Renowned for his exceptional technical mastery and profound musical insight, Paul Jacobs is celebrated for his diverse repertoire, encompassing timeless classics and innovative contemporary works. His interpretations breathe life into the music and captivate audiences across the globe, making him a true ambassador for the organ.

Trained under the tutelage of the revered John Weaver, Mr. Jacobs holds a special connection to the instrument and demonstrates a profound understanding of its capabilities. His imaginative and soul-stirring performances and magnetic stage presence have earned him critical acclaim worldwide. Notably, in 2011, Paul Jacobs made history as the first organist to be honored with a Grammy Award for his exceptional rendition of Messiaen's monumental "Livre du Saint-Sacrément."

With performances that have mesmerized audiences on five continents and in all fifty states of the United States, Paul Jacobs has left an indelible mark on the world of organ music. Now, the Friends of the Kotzschmar Organ is proud to welcome him back to Portland, Maine, for what promises to be a truly unforgettable concert experience.

"We are excited to have Paul Jacobs grace the stage once again for the Second John Weaver Memorial Concert," said Sophie Bray, Administrative Director of Friends of the Kotzschmar Organ. "His extraordinary talent and passion for the organ will undoubtedly create an evening of musical splendor that all attendees will cherish."

Tickets for this exceptional performance are available for purchase at PortTIX, both online and over the phone at (207) 842-0800. Given Paul Jacobs' immense popularity and the limited seating capacity of Merrill Auditorium, we encourage music enthusiasts to secure their tickets promptly to make sure to attend this extraordinary event.

Join us for an enchanting evening of transcendent music as Paul Jacobs takes center stage on the Kotzschmar Organ. Be a part of this unforgettable musical celebration, and immerse yourself in the artistry of one of the world's most distinguished organists.

About Friends of the Kotzschmar Organ:

Friends of the Kotzschmar Organ (FOKO) is a dedicated organization committed to preserving and promoting the Kotzschmar Organ, an iconic instrument residing in Merrill Auditorium in Portland, Maine. FOKO hosts various musical events and concerts featuring renowned organists to celebrate and share the magnificence of this historic organ with the community and beyond.

For more information about the event, please contact Sophie Bray at assistant@foko.org or (207) 553-4363.

Check out this clip of Paul Jacobs talking about Bach:

https://youtu.be/0DGYK-T-G6k

For tickets:

https://boxoffice.porttix.com/kotzschmar-organ-paul-jacobs-john-weaver-memorial/3849