“First Lady of the Organ” in concert at Yale for SCSU

NEW HAVEN — Southern Connecticut State University will present a concert by the “First Lady of the Organ” Diane Bish at 7 p.m. April 9 at Yale University’s Battell Chapel.


Bish will perform organ favorites and original hymn arrangements with a choir of local vocalists, including members of the Heritage Chorale and other area groups, organizers said in a statement.

Bish performs at famed cathedrals, concert halls and churches around the world, the statement said. For 25 years, she has aired her performances to over 300 million people internationally on her television program, The Joy of Music, the statement said. Bish was the first American woman to record on the four organs of Freiburg Cathedral, Germany, the statement said.

In 1989, Bish was awarded the National Citation by the National Federation of Music Clubs of America, the Federation’s highest honor. She is known as the “First Lady of the Organ” because of her unparalleled achievements, the statement said. Bish’s book, Church Music Explosion, describes her personal philosophy of excellence in church music. She has numerous recordings and is also a composer and conductor.

Tickets are $35, $20 and $5 for students. Group packages are available. For tickets or more information, call the Lyman Center box office at (203) 392-6154 or visit tickets.southernct.edu.

A premium package is also available for $100 and includes a special private reception with Bish on April 8 at SCSU, a photo opportunity, an autographed copy of her CD On Tour, and premium seating at the April 9 concert, the statement said. Call (203) 392-5598 for details.

All proceeds from the event will support arts programs at SCSU.