St. John's Episcopal Cathedral in downtown Knoxville has been undergoing a number of extensive renovations for quite a while now. Director of music, Jason Overall, explains that the renovations in the sanctuary have returned it to its original state, when the cathedral was built in the late 1800's, and as a result, the acoustical properties have improved significantly. That's saying quite a lot, as the cathedral was widely considered to be one of the best spaces for music-making in Knoxville. In addition to building renovations, a new organ is being installed and is estimated to be completed by February 23rd, when people can hear the new instrument in an Evensong service at 5pm.
Orison, Knoxville's male vocal ensemble, who specializes in authentic performance of plainsong and chant-based works, will try out the new acoustics during Compline, which will be shared on Sunday evening, February 9th at 7:30pm. This candlelit service will last between thirty and forty-five minutes and will offer a time of peaceful meditation and reflection.
More information and links to see the organ installation is at http://stjohnscathedral.org
