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Testimonials

These are only a shortened form of the testimonials.  To view a testimonial in its entirety, please select the link under the testimonial.


 

St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church
Wahpeton, North Dakota

Fr. Dale Lagodinski (pastor)

Our existing pipe organ was relocated, its outdated and failing electronic console was replaced with a Rodgers 950 digital console.  The usable existing pipes were re-voiced and interfaced with a state of the art digital world of sound.

The result has been dramatic.  The qualities of our pipes are preserved and at the same time the organ itself is capable of so much more than we ever thought possible.

An instrument which once presented a huge challenge for even the professional to play has been transformed.  Its new computer system provides the flexibility required for the inexperienced musician, yet still offers the challenge sought by the accomplished organist.

We have Peggy to thank for this marvelous renovation and renewal of our organ.  She has been a first class professional from start to finish. Challenges which inevitably occur in such a daunting project have been managed with care, respect and competence.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE ENTIRE TESTIMONIAL


 

St. Mary's Cathedral
Fargo, North Dakota

Rev. Steven R.W. Reiske Master of Ceremonies/Secretary to the Bishop

Your Rodgers installation was a masterful blending of the existing pipe instrument with new digital technology. The addition of the Rodgers Organ more than doubled the size and sound of the Cathedral organ, thus elevating an aging and inadequate instrument to a level appropriate for the needs of our Cathedral community. As often as I have the opportunity to play the instrument, I am impressed by the sound quality and extensive options for registration. The Cathedral parishioners routinely express their approval of the instrument; it has brought new energy to all of our liturgical celebrations. Thank you again for your professional guidance throughout the entire process of restoring the existing pipe instrument and adding the Rodgers digital instrument with console.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE ENTIRE TESTIMONIAL


Messiah Lutheran Church,
Mandan, North Dakota

Rev. James A. Baneck (pastor)

I am a graduate of Concordia College, St. Paul, MN with a major in music in organ playing and conducting.  Our church was in the market for a new organ. I was convinced that the Allen organ would be our choice but encouraged the church organ committee to bring in both organs side by side to hear and test for themselves.  In the first hearing of both organs with the same musical score, it was without a doubt that Messiah would go with the Rodgers organ.  The Rodgers organ was more brilliant, clear, exciting, rich, and true.  Each and every stop was appreciated and loved:

Not only was the Rodgers organ in itself our buying factor, which was our first priority, but the Rodgers company and personalities were beyond excellent.  The time, patience, and Christian salesmanship of Peggy Bartunek was truly impressive and commendable.  Even after we have purchased our organ, Peggy continues to work with Messiah in making sure we are satisfied
with our investment.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE ENTIRE TESTIMONIAL


 

Zion Lutheran Church
Beulah, North Dakota

Kris Nyman, Senior Pastor

          We considered two manufacturers of new organs, Rodgers and one other brand.  We went to two churches to listen to these organs.  The Rodgers we heard was smaller than the one we purchased, but we were impressed.  The other couldn’t even be compared; the sound quality was so inferior to the Rodgers.

First off, to anyone who would consider looking at Peggy as dealer let me say, that she is first rate, top quality, knowledgeable, reliable, creative and friendly.  Her knowledge of the Rodgers product line was certainly impressive.  Peggy knew the answers to any questions we had and was willing to spend the extra time with us to make sure we were satisfied.

I especially appreciate the blending of traditional and contemporary sounds this organ is capable of.  Again, this variety has gotten our organists to dream and be creative, especially in their preludes, postludes, offering music and other special music.  The sounds, though digitally created are GENUINE.  The handbells and chimes sound like we actually have those instruments in the sanctuary.  It can sound like an actual pipe organ, not like an electronic organ trying to sound like a pipe organ.  I was impressed that it even plays like a pipe organ, with a tiny delay between the depression of the key and the sound coming out.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE ENTIRE TESTIMONIAL


 

Lord of Life Lutheran Church
Bismarck, North Dakota

Barb Hoffer, Organist

Our #1 priority was sound quality; our #2 priority was "user friendly" since we are not professionally trained organists but rather pianists. Our next three priorities included versatility, MIDI features/recording/ease of use, and variety of actual on-board stops; dealer support before, during, and after the sale; and value. The Rodgers came out with the top score by far.

The Rodgers is very user friendly for us. I really appreciate the versatility. I can sit at the organ with my piano music and select MIDI sounds or MIDI/organ combinations and, using the "sustain pedal," play that style of music. With the four memory levels, 10 general presets, and 5 each of swell and great presets, it is so simple to switch sounds "on the fly." The "bass" piston is the greatest for non-foot-pedal players.

I also like the "touch" action of the keys. Peggy also puts a back on the organ bench, which is great !! We have had some "guest" organists who have come in to play for weddings, and they have been very impressed with the sound quality of this Rodgers. This gives us reassurance that we have selected a very versatile organ that fits our needs for the full, traditional organ sound as well as for the more contemporary sounds/styles of music. We did spend a lot of time and consideration in making our selection, but it was all worth it.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE ENTIRE TESTIMONIAL


 

Calvary Lutheran Church,
Bemidji, Minnesota

Cindy Sorenson, head organist

Our church had an old pipe organ that needed major repair.  After extensive research, our music committee recommended a Rodgers Organ to our congregation.  Peggy graciously left an organ at our church for a few weeks for us to try.  We fell in love with it and bought it.  We enjoy both the contemporary and pipe organ sounds that it can produce.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE ENTIRE TESTIMONIAL


 

Grace Lutheran Brethren Church,
Bottineau, North Dakota

Sharon Strand, pianist (and now organist too)

This organ made everything so EASY, knowing that there were 40 pre-sets that WE chose to have!  Also, because of a special stop on the organ, it will play the bass.  An inexperienced organist, like myself who doesn’t feel comfortable using the pedals, can have the full organ sound WITH pedals!  This is one of the most important stops, as ANY pianist can sit down to the organ and play it.

  I do not want to forget Peggy.  Peggy has been very helpful to our congregation in showing us what is available and what she truly felt was best for our church.  She has given the organist and me a lot of instruction and that means SO much.  She hasn’t just dropped off or sold an organ and left it there.  She has contacted us to see how things are going and to answer any questions that we have.  She has been there for me at all times.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE ENTIRE TESTIMONIAL


 

Wesley United Methodist Church,
Grand Forks, North Dakota

Daniel Pederson (organist)

I am especially pleased and continually astonished how the digital sounds blend so well with our pipes and how several of the digital sounds replicate our pipes.  The digital Oboe on the Swell, for instance, is an almost perfect match for the pipe Oboe on the Choir.

It is exciting to have the variety of sound that the new console afford, along with the MIDI Sequencer.  We use those sound capabilities every Sunday with our contemporary Praise Team. Also the addition of Reeds and Mixtures really complement the ensemble sound of the combined instrument.  And, of course, the Festival Trumpet speaks for itself!

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE ENTIRE TESTIMONIAL
 


 

Wesley United Methodist Church,
Crookston, Minnesota

Jim Kent (choir director)

I personally have found Peggy to be very professional.  She understand how church communities work, and understand the length of time and the process that must take place in building a new church and in the installation of a new organ.  She is sensitive to peoples' needs and understands how committees operate.  She is quick to take care of details, and wants to deliver the best product.  She is eager to please and willing to share her expertise on the instrument.

It has been a pleasure to work with Peggy Bartunek and Rodgers Classic Organs on this project.  We made the right choice.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE ENTIRE TESTIMONIAL
 


 

United Methodist Church,
Detroit Lakes, Minnesota

Jane Ballard (Organist)

............Every time I play the organ, I am amazed at the quality of sound, and the "user-friendliness" of the instrument.  ...........The PR300 is also a wonderful addition to the organ.  The last time we had communion, I played all the music during communion using strings and guitar.  I can't tell you how many comments and compliments I received from using those new sounds.  I even had people tell me that was the most meaningful communion experience they had ever had!

Our congregation is enjoying the new organ almost as much as the organist!  People have been very kind in their comments, which helps me feel like I can experiment with different registrations.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE ENTIRE TESTIMONIAL
 


 

Fisher Lutheran Church,
Fisher, Minnesota

Bonnie Knutson (organist, organ committee chairperson)

As we began to look at what we could do with our existing pipe organ, it became very clear that by interfacing it with a digital organ, we could have the best of both worlds:  a complete pipe organ and a brand new digital organ with state of the art technology and sounds.  We were able to keep our pipe organ and combine it into one magnificent instrument with almost unlimited potential.

Also, the PR300 adds sounds we never had before; great for special music, preludes, solos, choir, and the list goes on and on.

Each of us who plays the organ really appreciates the fact that we can play all pipes, all digital, or both combined for a full, rich quality of sound.  As we heard at the dedication, many of the pieces played would not have been possible without the digital components.

The strategic placement of the speakers from within the casework really creates a harmonious blend of the sounds.  Most people are not able to distinguish the pipe from the digital sounds, as all sounds are coming from the same area.

We now have an instrument that will take us into the next century, giving us the best of both worlds!

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE ENTIRE TESTIMONIAL
 


 

First United Methodist Church,
Lisbon, North Dakota

Mary Jo Smith (organist)

...........Our church purchased the Rodgers 525 with the PR300.  The sound of the organ is so wonderful during worship I can' begin to explain it.  I really feel the congregation is singing louder.  They are very impressed by the many sounds I can get out of the PR300, especially the sound of the trumpet.  The organ sounds like a pipe organ.

.........Just a word about Peggy.  She doesn't just forget about you once she has made the sale.  She gives the church organist lessons on getting started and leaves you with a simplified version of directions to help you.  Also, she is available if you have questions or problems down the road.  I'll never forget the first time I spoke with her on the phone.  I was apprehensive about choosing an organ because I am a piano player.  Peggy put me right at ease.  I knew she would do the best she could for our church............

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE ENTIRE TESTIMONIAL


 

St. Paul Lutheran Church,
Java, South Dakota

Pastor Anna M. Peck (pastor)

As pastor of St. Paul, I wish to say I'm delighted with our new organ  I feel this is the congregation's sentiment as well.  On its own, our new organ has a beautiful and full pipe-organ sound.  With the addition of the PR300 we can add many sounds that are highly realistic in quality.  As a classically trained musician, I never thought I'd see the day when I would be excited about an electronic organ.  I am though.  In a word, our new computerized organ is "wonderful!"

We are also delighted with the services of Peggy Bartunek as consultant, salesperson, and trainer.  From the beginning, Peggy earned our trust.  We came to see as one who is knowledgeable about Rodgers organs and about the best model for a particular church structure.  We trusted her to make the best recommendation for our needs and budget.  We also trusted her when she said she would make a fair offer.  We benefited that Peggy is herself a church organist and has had several years experience as a music teacher. She gave our organist excellent training, instilled confidence in her, and
offered to come back for further sessions.  Peggy's own competence as an organist, along with her good teaching skills, has been the "frosting on the cake."

..........May God bless your congregation in your plans and dreams for a new organ.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE ENTIRE TESTIMONIAL
 


 

Bethany Lutheran Church,
Minot, North Dakota

Allen M. Walter, Property Committees Chairperson and Organ Committee Member

     It was a happy day, "October 17, 2004," for Bethany and the music community in Minot.  The dedication service for Bethany's new organ was attended by a full house of Bethany members, community church people and interested music people of Minot.  The music "showed off" the organ very well.  The music filled the church and the attendees participated and appreciated the concert.
 
     It was a pleasure working with you and choosing the Rodgers organ.  This project has turned out well and will be enjoyed by the congregation for years to come.
 
     I can't tell you how many people have thanked the organ committee for a job well done with our new Rodgers organ.  I feel we made the right choice, and want to say "thank you" once again for your cooperation, consideration and patience, as Bethany worked its way through this project.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE ENTIRE TESTIMONIAL
 

 

 

Church of Corpus Christi,
Bismarck, North Dakota

 

Sonvy Sammons, Music Director (& choir director)

             At Corpus Christi the Rodgers organ with the PR 300 replaced a very old electric organ that we knew we had outgrown.  Peggy Bartunek left an organ at our church so we could try it out, but it was her willingness to stay and play it for one entire weekend’s masses that sold it.  People loved what it could do (and she was able to masterfully demonstrate that), and a parishioner bought it for us that day! 

            It is a delightful instrument with great versatility.  A traditional organist and choir can enjoy using it as much as the contemporary choir and pianist.  Peggy’s beyond-the-call-of-duty willingness to come to our parish to demonstrate, train, and troubleshoot was wonderful and very helpful in getting our musicians ready to use the organ.  In our recent major renovations of our church, Peggy was our primary advisor all along the way as to the installation of the organ and new pipes.  We relied on her expert advice and the results are magnificent in our new worship space.  She was truly professional at all times. And she was, without fail, so patient and present to us; we almost consider her part of our parish family!  

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE ENTIRE TESTIMONIAL
 


 

Our Saviour's Lutheran Church,
Park River, North Dakota

 

Sheryl Kjelland & Monica Tufte, Organists

     Our congregation purchased a Rodgers Trillium 807 Organ from Peggy Bartunek in July of 2000 and have been so very happy with the instrument and also with all of our dealings with Peggy ever since. She has provided such knowledgeable, professional, and friendly help with suitability and selection of just the right organ for our sanctuary, installation and necessary adjustments in order to provide the best sound for our worship services, and also trouble-shooting when that was needed.

     Our Rodgers organ was moved during the re-carpeting of our sanctuary this summer. When the carpeting was completed and the organ was returned to its place in the sanctuary, the pedals would not work. We called Peggy and she was there so quickly doing all that she could to successfully remedy our problem.

     It has been our pleasure to work with Peggy Bartunek. We enjoy our Rodgers organ very much and are grateful to Peggy for all that she has done to serve our congregation.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE ENTIRE TESTIMONIAL
 


 

St. Olaf Lutheran Church,
Devils Lake, North Dakota

 

Rodger Haugen, Council Member

     On behalf of St. Olaf I would like to thank you for all the help and joy you have brought to our church family.  My wife could not say enough about how great the (Dan Miller concert) was.  Each time I hear that organ I know we did the right thing.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE ENTIRE TESTIMONIAL


 

Leeds Lutheran Church
Leeds, North Dakota

Dan Nybo, organist

     Our church made a huge “leap of faith” by deciding to purchase a large 3-manual drawknob instrument and replacing an aging 2-manual instrument with no memory or capabilities for MIDI .  We will never have to regret buying a smaller instrument that wouldn’t have had the expanded capabilities or the lack of the 3rd manual.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE ENTIRE TESTIMONIAL

 

Good Shepherd Lutheran Church
Clearbrook, MN

by Charlotte Stoker

MY HEARTFELT THANK YOU FOR YOUR KNOWLEDGE AND LEADERSHIP SHOWN IN HELPING US CHOOSE THE RIGHT ORGAN FOR GOOD SHEPHERD; FOR BEING PARTICULAR ABOUT EVERY ASPECT OF THE INSTALLATION; FOR YOUR ENTHUSIASM, SINCERITY, EXUBERANCE, AND THE LIST OF GREAT QUALITIES THAT COULD GO ON AND ON..

YOU ARE THE MOST DELIGHTFUL LADY- TRULY A BLESSING!

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE ENTIRE TESTIMONIAL

 

Hawley Lutheran Church
Hawley, MN
by Maria Regnier, Organist
I was also amazed at the extensive range of sounds that I, as the artist at the organ, could create. With our new console, I fully enjoy the sound of the full pipe organ as I play service music and other. However, I also have completely enjoyed having the many digital sounds that are now at my disposal. The congregation has loved the solo by the cello or the saxophone….

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE ENTIRE TESTIMONIAL

St. Mark's Lutheran Church
Grand Forks, ND
by Kristine Middleton, Organist
I really enjoy playing a Rodgers Organ, especially the Rodgers 658 our church purchased. The features are wonderful. I love the endless combinations I can use to make new sounds. Our congregation looks forward to hearing what I'm going to play and how it is going to sound. Never before, have I received so many positive comments after a service thanking me for playing or for trying out new sounds.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE ENTIRE TESTIMONIAL

Grace Lutheran Church
Bruce, SD
by Wayne Hjermstad, Pastor
It is with sincere appreciation that I write this letter of commendation on behalf of the Grace Lutheran Congregation.  We always had the confidence that she had our best interests at heart and that this would be her chief motivation in guiding us through the process of selecting an organ for our Sanctuary.  Our thanks to Peggy for all her help.  Her engineering ability as well as her musical accomplishment and acumen astonished us all.  We thank God for her. 
 
by Jane Perry, Organist

It was our pleasure working with Peggy; she has so much energy and has a wonderful personality. She was very thorough in showing us how to use the new organ and informed us that we can call her anytime should we have questions. I have called her many times, and she always promptly returns my call or email and is always able to walk me through any difficulties I may be having.

 I have really enjoyed using the orchestral sounds; I enjoy the sound, plus I like the fact that I can play songs on the organ that I would normally have to play on the piano and use the damper pedal to connect the sounds. The orchestral setting seems to hold the sound and make it more legato. Additionally, I like the fact that we have three volume pedals – a separate swell and great pedal, along with a crescendo pedal, which is a nice option to use for an impressive finish for some hymns.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE ENTIRE TESTIMONIALS


St. Paul Lutheran Church
Minot, ND
 
by Rita Footh, Deaconess
     We have had our new  organ now for two months. Each Sunday our organists add new sounds as they get more familiar with the organ. The sound keeps getting better and better. Thank you Peggy for helping us with the selection of an organ that is the right sound for our church.
CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE ENTIRE TESTIMONIAL

Redeemer Lutheran Church
Mandan, ND
 
by Lois Miller, organist
    

     Thank you for the help you gave me to explain the many wonderful registrations and other uses of our Rodgers Allegiant 778.  I treasure the thought that I may contact you for musical advice in the future.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE ENTIRE TESTIMONIAL

New Life Lutheran Church
Rothsay, MN
 
by Paul Huso, Pastor
   

  

     I am absolutely convinced that we made the right choice in purchasing the Rodgers Signature Masterpiece 234 from Peggy Bartunek and Rodgers Classic Organs.  Peggy's representation of the Rodgers product line was superb.  Installation was flawless, and Peggy's follow-up and instruction with our organists is outstanding.  We made the right choice!

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE ENTIRE TESTIMONIAL

Evangelical Lutheran Church
Langford, SD
 
by Barb Bunk, organist

     Today I had 2 middle school kids and a younger sister each play a song or two on the organ….prelude, offering, and postlude.  The people LOVED IT!!!  They sound so good.  It’s partly the organ, itself, which is so easy to play. 

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE ENTIRE TESTIMONIAL

 
First Lutheran Church
Hunter, Minnesota
by Linda Ewertz, pianist and organist

     The congregation was spellbound beginning with the first note played of the prelude through the final note of the postlude!  The sound was magnificent! The congregation was buzzing with excitement.  Everyone loved the organ!

     I highly recommend Peggy for her professionalism, her personal attention to detail, patience and outstanding service.  The Rodgers C-380 will serve our First Lutheran family well for many years.   

 

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE ENTIRE TESTIMONIAL

St. Timothy Catholic Church
Manvel, North Dakota
by Bob Hoverson, organist

     I have received many positive comments about the sound of the organ and the many settings and voicings that are available. I am particularly very pleased with all the time you spent showing me how to set the pre-sets, the record process, and all the innovations of the organ.

    Thank you for all your time to help us select the correct organ, install it and spend the time to teach me how to use it to its fullest.

 

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE ENTIRE TESTIMONIAL
 
 

Page last updated 02/07/2012 07:58 PM -0600

 RODGERS CLASSIC ORGANS authorized distributor for Rodgers and Ruffatti in North Dakota, South Dakota and Northwestern Minnesota
Peggy Bartunek
PO Box 430 · 500 Hill Avenue
Grafton, ND 58237-0430
Tel: 800-962-6989 Fax: 701-352-2565