Internationally acclaimed organist David Jonies brings a deep sense of reverence, artistry, and tradition to his upcoming organ recital at the Basilica of the Sacred Heart. In this Meet the Artist feature, Jonies reflects on performing in sacred spaces, the craftsmanship of the Murdy Family Organ, and the spiritual throughline that shapes both his program and his approach to music-making.
You’ve performed in some of the world’s most renowned sacred spaces. What stands out to you about performing at the Basilica of the Sacred Heart and on the Murdy Family Organ?
Playing one of the finest instruments in the country in one of the most beautiful church buildings anywhere.
What inspired your program for this recital, and how did you select the works by composers like Bach, Cabanilles, and Widor?
Most composers who wrote for the organ were organists themselves—this is true of Bach, Cabanilles and Widor, and their own artistry as organists shines through in their music.
Each composer on the program brings a unique style and emotional voice. What throughline or mood do you hope the audience experiences across the evening?
The common thread of all the repertoire I am playing is that it was all intended to be played in a church, and for an audience that would be in that church for a religious service. I believe that sentiment is audible in every piece I will play.
The Murdy Family Organ is a majestic and complex instrument. What do you most enjoy about playing it?
The exquisite craftsmanship of Paul Fritts and his team—this is an instrument where attention to detail is audible in every single stop.
What do you find most moving or challenging about performing sacred organ music in a concert context?
Music can be an extension of a prayerful experience, and I hope that the Vesper attendees who stay for the recital will feel that way.
Your career spans both liturgical leadership and concert performance. How do those two roles influence each other?
Both during liturgies and concert performances require to be your best musical self.
Is there a particular piece in this program that feels especially meaningful to you—either personally or spiritually?
The Pavane by Richard Proulx—Mr. Proulx was one of my predecessors, and I had the privilege to meet him several times.
What would you encourage a first-time organ listener to pay attention to during this recital?
The different colors the organ is capable of producing.
For audience members staying after Vespers, what do you hope they carry with them as they head into the rest of their evening?
A sense that all music is done as many composers wrote at the end of their works: Soli Deo Gloria.
Rooted in sacred tradition and shaped by centuries of organ artistry, Jonies’ program invites listeners into a reflective and immersive musical experience. Those who remain after Vespers for the recital can expect an evening that honors the spiritual intention, craftsmanship, and expressive range of the organ repertoire.
February 15, at 8 p.m.
David Jonies, organ
Internationally acclaimed organist David Jonies performs a free organ recital following Sunday Vespers at the Basilica of the Sacred Heart on February 15.
Made possible by the Marjorie O’Malley Sacred Music Series. Co-presented by Sacred Music at Notre Dame.
