TESTIMONIALS
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West Denmark Lutheran, Luck, WI
Our Rodgers Imagine was installed last week. The instrument was expertly voiced and the speakers placed to take full advantage of the excellent acoustic in our sanctuary. Words I heard most frequently after its first service were “outstanding, glorious, breath-taking, moved to tears.” I chose Rodgers because of the sound as I heard it standing in front of the speakers - not a trace of distortion - as well as hearing the breath of magnificent individual stops to full organ from the back of the room. The digital screen in the center of the console is a huge plus. Peggy Dahl-Bartunek, with more than 30 years in organ sales, is a consummate and patient professional. She was totally knowledgeable on every question. Peggy’s response to all communication from me was always prompt and gracious This has been a delightful experience for me and I’m really looking forward to years of glorious sound from our Rodgers Inspire organ. Charles Parsons |
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St. James Trinity Lutheran Church, Fall Creek, WI
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St. Christopher's Episcopal Church, Roseville, MN
St. Christopher's Episcopal Church has been fortunate to have discovered Peggy Bartunek and Rodgers Classic organs. We had a small, free-standing pipe organ in our sanctuary that was very sensitive to the slightest change of temperature or humidity. In addition, the organ had an abundance of 4' and 2' pipes and lacked sufficient 8' and 16' pipes needed for hymn-singing. Somehow, for this congregation that loves to sing, things had to be better.
Over a period of a few years, Peggy patiently answered all of my questions, never tried to upsell, never dissed the competition, and was always cheerful and upbeat. She offered that we could have a demo for a few weeks and it wasn't long after the Inspire 233 arrived that people started saying "perhaps it doesn't need to go away." They were intrigued by the diversity of the sound sampling that the instrument could produce and enjoyed having that big organ sound supporting their hymn singing. I am enjoying the responsive keyboards and pedalboard and the seamless method of piston setup and management. The owner's manual has become my friend as I greatly enjoy the challenge of discovering the multitude of individual sounds and how to use them.
As the Sundays go by, we're learning to take advantage of all of the new musical options that we have, and the choir and I very much enjoy the enthusiastic congregational singing. We are so grateful for the professionalism and customer support of Rodgers Classic Organs, the fine quality of the instrument, the beauty of the console, the expert installation, and the friendly helpfulness of Peggy and her team. Congratulations on a job very well done!
St. Christopher's Episcopal Church
Roseville, MN
Karla Cole, Director of Music
St. Christopher's Episcopal Church has been fortunate to have discovered Peggy Bartunek and Rodgers Classic organs. We had a small, free-standing pipe organ in our sanctuary that was very sensitive to the slightest change of temperature or humidity. In addition, the organ had an abundance of 4' and 2' pipes and lacked sufficient 8' and 16' pipes needed for hymn-singing. Somehow, for this congregation that loves to sing, things had to be better.
Over a period of a few years, Peggy patiently answered all of my questions, never tried to upsell, never dissed the competition, and was always cheerful and upbeat. She offered that we could have a demo for a few weeks and it wasn't long after the Inspire 233 arrived that people started saying "perhaps it doesn't need to go away." They were intrigued by the diversity of the sound sampling that the instrument could produce and enjoyed having that big organ sound supporting their hymn singing. I am enjoying the responsive keyboards and pedalboard and the seamless method of piston setup and management. The owner's manual has become my friend as I greatly enjoy the challenge of discovering the multitude of individual sounds and how to use them.
As the Sundays go by, we're learning to take advantage of all of the new musical options that we have, and the choir and I very much enjoy the enthusiastic congregational singing. We are so grateful for the professionalism and customer support of Rodgers Classic Organs, the fine quality of the instrument, the beauty of the console, the expert installation, and the friendly helpfulness of Peggy and her team. Congratulations on a job very well done!
St. Christopher's Episcopal Church
Roseville, MN
Karla Cole, Director of Music
Zion Lutheran Church
Detroit Lakes, MN Rodgers Imagine 235 |
In early 2021, our church appointed a committee to research options for upgrading our aging organ. Specifically, we were asked to select a new digital organ console that could unite our existing pipes with contemporary technology. We jotted down our wish list of capabilities and started reaching out to various organ companies.
Right from the start we noticed a significant difference between companies. The response time, expert product knowledge and customer service demonstrated by Peggy Bartunek so impressed us, that we immediately decided we wanted to work with her on whichever hybrid organ purchase we made. Peggy answered our questions, made recommendations and set up a visit with another church so we could see a similar instrument in action. We then made the decision to purchase the new Rodgers Imagine 235 and it was installed and ready to play just in time for Reformation Sunday as promised. Peggy even shared her great musical talents with our congregation that day at both Sunday services. The whole process was as fun as it was informational. The committee thoroughly enjoyed working with Peggy as she is a true professional and very personable. We would certainly recommend Rodgers Classic Organs and Peggy Bartunek to anyone. It was a great experience and we are very happy with our new organ! Sharon Haarstick, Organist Kim Matter, committee member Zion Lutheran Church, Detroit Lakes, MN |
St. Matthew Lutheran Church
Worthington, MN Rodgers Hybrid Imagine 351 hybrid |
St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Worthington, MN. made the decision to purchase the Rodgers Imagine Series Hybrid Organ last February to replace our Reuter console. We could not be more pleased with our choice. Peggy and her team provided an instrument that allows us to continue using our wonderful pipe organ, but it has been brought into the 21st century with its wide variety of orchestral and digital sounds. We now have an instrument that honors our past while embracing the future.
Peggy provided excellent and patient training for our organists, and we know that she is just a phone call away whenever we have questions or concerns. We have received very positive feedback from our congregation. They are amazed at the variety of sounds this instrument can produce. I played for a wedding recently, and was playing solo violin with soft pipe accompaniment. The soloist for the wedding leaned over to my husband and asked where the violin player was. My husband explained it was all in the instrument I was playing. That is how good the digital sound is on this organ. We are confident that our Rodgers Hybrid Organ will be used to make music to the Glory of God for many years to come. Lorenda Glade Director of Traditional Music St. Matthew Lutheran Church Worthington, MN |
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Katie Rolf, Immanuel Lutheran Church, Fargo, ND
My church chose a Rodgers organ because of excellent and professional customer service and organ features. Our Rodgers reps went the extra mile to answer questions and demonstrate organs for our committee. Rodgers organs come with many advanced features and intuitive access to these features. I particularly love the access to 4 stops for every drawknob. We decided on a hybrid organ. Rodgers and the Moe Pipe Organ Company were clearly the best choice for knowledge, experience, and thoroughness in combining digital and pipes. |
First Presbyterian Church
Mankato, MN Rodgers Hybrid Infinity 361, 8 ranks |
To whom it may concern:
First Presbyterian Church, Mankato, MN purchased a three-manual Rodgers Infinity 361 organ in July, 2020. We could not be happier with the quality of the instrument, the quality of the sound it produces and the attention to detail and level of expertise involved in the installation process. Our congregation has a tradition of great choir music combined with grand, traditional full pipe-organ sound. Our organist however, is also a talented jazz player. We are now integrating some jazz and gospel sound into our worship. The congregation and the musicians are ecstatic about the variety and quality of beautiful music in which this new instrument is capable of producing. We were able to keep our eight ranks of pipes. Dave Yoder, the installer and voicer, was a master at integrating our pipe ranks into the new organ. He even made some repairs to our pipes at no extra charge. All digital stops were voiced note-by-note to properly fit the acoustics of our church. To my knowledge no other organ company offers this attention to detail by a qualified organ master. Our Rodgers representative, Peggy Bartunek has been a gem to work with. During the whole purchase and installation process, if we had questions, she got back to us immediately. If she didn’t have the answer, she contacted the Rodgers factory and got back to us. We have full confidence that should we have questions or problems in the future, she will be there for us. I strongly encourage you to consider the Rodgers Classic Organ. I know you will not be disappointed! Richard Kramlinger Organ Committee First Presbyterian Church Mankato, MN. |
Church of St. Anne, Bismarck, ND Inspire 343
Working with Peggy to install our new Rodgers Inspire 343 Organ has been an absolutely wonderful experience! Selecting, purchasing, installing, and becoming familiar with a new organ is a big process, and Peggy has been so helpful through the entire journey and has walked with us every step of the way. I couldn't imagine going through it with anyone else! Peggy is very knowledgeable and is always willing to patiently answer any and all questions. She is reliable, very thorough, always full of energy and enthusiasm, and is such a joy to work with! I am especially grateful for Peggy taking the time to come personally visit the church and introduce the organ to me. She was very thorough in going through all the functions of the organ and setting useful stop combinations, and we even enjoyed playing some music together at the end of it all. We are very happy with our new Rogers Inspire 343 Organ; the sound is so clear and so real, and the variety of stops to choose from is incredible! Thank you, Peggy, for helping us turn our dream of having a new organ into a reality! Anne Storick, Organist and Director of Music 
St. John's Lutheran, Britton, SD, Inspire 233
Written by one of the organists to a private donor who was unable to attend the first use of the organ. The donor made it possible for St. John’s to purchase a Rodgers Inspire 233 instead of an Inspire 227 as originally budgeted: Words cannot express adequate thanks to you for your contribution to the new organ in our church! It is a beautiful organ and the sound is just out of this world, beautifully filling up the church! I asked Peggy to get me to the point where I could play for church the next Sunday. And Peggy did just what I asked! We had the basic prelude settings, and settings for the hymns and liturgy. We had many post-it-notes on the organ and on my music. It was all so helpful. Then I went to the church each day, just to get comfortable with the new organ and the settings. Each day I became more comfortable with it. Sunday, the people came in quietly, listening to the pre-service music. And then the hymn singing with the full organ just filled the church with sound. The congregation really sang out. Our 2nd hymn was “Holy, Holy, Holy.” On each verse I increased the hymn settings (that Peggy had set), and they just kept singing louder. It was great! There is so much more to learn about this organ, and I am so privileged to be able to do so! I can’t thank you enough for your contribution to our church’s new organ. And also your encouragement to move up from the Inspire 227 to the Inspire 233 organ! Thank you and God Bless you. Reva Mary Mette |
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Second Church of Christ, Scientist, Minneapolis, MN, Johannus Ecclesia T370 After spending many years as principal organist at several large churches with significant pipe organ installations, I am very proud to announce that I am now playing a new three-manual Johannus Ecclesia T370. For several years, I have been shopping for a new instrument for Second Church of Christ, Scientist, which had a budget for the purchase of a new organ. We are a smaller congregation but still wanted the pipe organ sound. After gathering information from several organ companies, I thought I would check out the Johannus organs online. The pipe organ sampling from the Johannus was unbelievable. I looked up the Johannus dealer in the Twin Cities and started working with Peggy. She invited me to her home to play the Johannus home model Opus 270 in her music room. When I played a few chords, I was really starting to get excited about its beautiful pipe organ sound. The more I played the more excited I got. Peggy and I talked about Second Church of Christ, Scientist, where I am principal organist and she explained what we should consider. Well, to make a long story short, I was sold on the Johannes. Peggy was so patient with me, which really impressed me about her. I would email and call her, asking her all kinds of questions, and she always had an answer for me. I presented the T370 proposal to the board. I received a call after the membership meeting and was told the congregation voted a unanimous "yes" to purchase the Johannus T370. I couldn't wait to call Peggy and tell her the good news. Peggy and her team did a fantastic job of installing the speakers in our Auditorium. We had a custom dolly made for the console so it can be moved to the front and center of the auditorium without damaging the console. After it was installed, Peggy called me and said I could come to the church and play. When I arrived, she was there to greet me with her beautiful smile. I was so impressed with how the console looked. Without any hesitation, I sat down at the console and started playing with the beautiful strings and that brought tears to my eyes. I kept adding and adding until I reached full organ. When I was finished playing, I just sat at the console in awe. We definitely chose wisely! Thank you, Peggy, for working with me and our board. All I can say is, I have been energized! With excitement, Dr. Stephen. J. Thompson, Principal organist |
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St. Leo the Great Catholic Church, Minot, ND Artist 579
Installed in 2019, this organ has served every need with high satisfaction. If I were to sum up this organ: versatile, high quality and reliable. Working with Peggy Bartunek has been a joy. She is always just a phone call away with any questions or concerns I've had. She is courteous and professional and it is a joy to work with her. The case design was created by Allen Warmka, the cabinets built by Minot Sash and Door, and the original pipes restored by Cory Almy of Minot's Finest Auto Body Shop. Will Shilling, Director of Music |
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Redeemer Lutheran Church, Lisbon, ND, Inspire 227
This organ has the most amazing sounds! I am absolutely in awe! From serene to triumphant and everything in between, our new organ greatly enhances our worship services! Congregation members almost every service comment on some sound that I have used. It is so fun to hear, coming from those who seem to have had little musical interest in the past! This YouTube video was recorded in our church. Louise K., organist |
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Memorial Presbyterian Church, Pollock, SD
We knew that we needed a new organ and after receiving a gift, we started looking. After viewing a Rodgers organ in Faulkton, SD we got the information for Peggy Bartunek. We formed an organ committee and had a video call with Peggy where we learned all of the Rodgers features. With much excitement and awe over the provision of God for our church, we purchased a Rodgers Inspire 227 organ. We couldn't wait for it to arrive. It was a most exciting day for our congregation, and especially for me, the organist. We played it and were amazed by the quality of the organ and the wide range of sound. However, the most exciting part was that Peggy came for a teaching session with us. By the time she left, we felt that we knew so much more about the organ. We felt so personally taken care of by her. She is still available to us by phone when we have questions on settings or want to learn new features, or even for a review of previously taught features. This organ has not only been a blessing to me, but to our entire church family and the radio broadcast audience as well. We pray that we will be able to continue to glorify God with beautiful music from our Rodgers Inspire 227. Joan Wittmeier, organist |
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Our Redeemer Lutheran Church, Williston, ND, Infinity 361
If only all purchases in life could be as smooth as the organ purchase for Our Redeemer’s Lutheran! Peggy was my contact person when the church council gave the green light for the purchase of a new organ. She was in touch with me frequently and had answers to the questions of the committee. She set aside many hours to Face Time with the committee as we discussed the needs of our church. Her input as to where to place the organ as well as to the correct speaker configuration for our sanctuary was most valuable. She coordinated all facets of the organ installation from start to finish. Once she was in town to complete the installation she spent numerous hours training our musicians and that lessened their concerns about playing this beautiful new instrument. And did I mention the bundle of energy Peggy Bartunek is? Her enthusiasm certainly rubbed off on all people who were in contact with her. We were blessed with the right person to help us fulfill this goal of purchasing a new organ. The sound that now fills the sanctuary is simply stunning! Thank you, Peggy for all your assistance. We appreciate you. John Quie Organ Committee Chairperson Our Redeemer’s Lutheran |
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Holy Family Catholic Church, Mitchell, SD, Artist 589
Our church was in desperate need of a new instrument, having relied on a previous electric organ for decades. Peggy was extremely helpful, timely, and informative with all her services, and made this process very painless. Through creative ideas of speaker placement, everyone believes that our purely digital instrument is actually a real pipe organ. It sounds gorgeous and we are very pleased with our three-manual Rodgers Artist 589 organ. |
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Bruflat Lutheran Church, Portland, ND, Artist 579
I am the full time organist at Bruflat Lutheran Church in Portland, North Dakota. Our church purchased a new organ from Peggy Bartunek last spring, 2018. We were, and still are, very pleased dealing with Peggy on this major purchase. She visited our church and provided the best information for the organ that would best suit our needs. The organ was delivered promptly, and Peggy has been to the church two or three times since then to help set the organ up and give extra training to me, the organist, which has been very helpful. Peggy is easy to work with, sells a high-quality instrument, and is very willing to go the extra distance to provide training and time to make certain the organ meets the needs of the church and the organist. We greatly appreciate her and the work she has done for us and with us and would highly recommend her and this particular organ model to anyone in need of an organ. Marlene J., organist |
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Spirit of Life Catholic Church, Mandan, ND, Artist 589
We installed our Rodgers Three-Manual Artist 589 Organ a few weeks before Easter Season in 2018. The organ added so much to our celebration of Easter and Easter Season! I cannot imagine celebrating any other way, now that we have this beautiful instrument. We have now used the organ regularly at our liturgies for about 7 months. Peggy was so helpful as we went through the process of preparing for and purchasing our Organ. The Rodgers 589 Organ was affordable for our parish and offered all the tools that we needed to lead and enhance the worship of our community. Peggy helped us to figure out where to position the speakers so that they could be discreetly hidden and we could achieve the best sound in our space. When the organ arrived, Peggy did most of the installation work herself with help from some of our parish volunteers. To watch Peggy crawling around close the ceiling installing all the speaker wiring is quite entertaining. You can tell that she has a great passion for these instruments. Dominick G, Director of Liturgy and Music |
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St. Mary Catholic Church, Grand Forks, ND, Classic 569
Our new Rodgers organ is a fantastic addition to our worship at St. Mary's. The whole process was seamless from beginning to end which is credit to Peggy's professionalism, friendliness and knowledge. After making the decision to purchase a new Rodgers Classic 569 organ I was in contact with Peggy numerous times. She was easy to get reach and had answers to all of my questions. After installing the organ she contacted me several times to ask if there was anything we needed help with and came to Grand Forks on multiple occasions to conduct training sessions and help me better understand the functions. Peggy provided advice and support materials including manuals she wrote herself with step by step instructions and books to aide our music ministry to begin playing the organ with proper technique. We are so happy to have our new organ and I can't imagine going through this process without Peggy's support. Alyce S., Director of Music |
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Hope Lutheran North, Fargo, ND, Artist 599
In 2014, our church purchased the Rodgers Artist 599. Peggy Bartunek was instrumental in helping us decide upon this organ as best for our needs. She also assisted helping our organist to become familiar with the organ after the installation. Peggy has a keen musical ear and the speaker placement for our sanctuary was superb. The organ helps support congregational song so beautifully for our traditional worship venue. It has been fascinating exploring its possibilities with our contemporary worship teams, too. This is a marvelous instrument with a solid and full sound that all our congregation has come to appreciate so much. Thank you Rodgers and Peggy! Pastor Kevan Smith |
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North Buffalo Lutheran Church, Kragnes Township, MN, Classic 558
Our church’s Classic Series 558, although among the smallest of organ models Rodgers had to offer at the time, has far surpassed what I previously thought a church organ was capable of performing. I would have to say that the voice palette system in conjunction with the user midi library are the features that put Rodgers above any other modern digital organ I have heard or played. The addition of orchestral voices has also been of benefit to me on occasion, especially when the need for contemporary music in the church service arises. This greatly expanded tonal palette allows the organist to perform such a wide variety of repertoire, and the sampled stops that Rodgers has programmed into this organ encapsulate everything from Baroque sounding registration for a Bach prelude and fugue, the powerful sforzando for the boldness and majesty of a Paul Manz chorale improvisation, rich, warm celestes for the warmth and romance of a Dale Wood piece, and everything in between. An added bonus for me has been the 20 theatre organ stops in the user midi library, which have allowed me to practice for my other organist job at a local theatre. When it came time for my church to purchase a new organ 3 years ago, I knew form the start that a Rodgers would best serve us, and our little country sanctuary is now able to experience the rich, full sound of a real pipe organ that is possible through playing a Rodgers. Alex S., organist |
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St. Andrew Lutheran Church-West Fargo, ND, Artist 589
“What a joy to work with Peggy Bartunek and to end up with such a wonderful instrument. The Rodgers 589-3 manual organ truly accompanies the congregation’s singing and enhances the worship life of our congregation. What an improvement over our previous used-organ from the 1970’s. We knew we had to do something because a nail file kept it going. We tested a Rofgers two manual organ for two special North Dakota District occasions and were very pleased but never had the support to make it happen. Working with Peggy, who worked closely with our volunteers, the congregation financially supported and worked together for the installation. The whole thing came together in a matter of months and was ready for Christmas 2017. What a way to conclude the 500th Anniversary year of the Reformation! Again a big thank you to the Rodgers in producing such an excellent instrument and to Peggy who serves with such attention to detail, dedication and joy!” Rev. Clark H. J., Senior Pastor Thank you, Peggy, for all of your insight and help with the purchase, installation, education and dedication of our new organ. It was a true blessing. Your outstanding and hands on service contributed to a harmonious and uniting experience for our congregation and will continue to be a blessing for years to come...' Del Ruff, President of St. Andrew Lutheran Church |
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Our Savior Lutheran Church, Brookings, SD, Infinity 223
When we started researching organs for our congregation, we heard a lot of conflicting advice about what would work best in our sanctuary. One piece of advice was consistent, however: The Rep matters! After working with Peggy, I wholeheartedly support that statement. We love our new Rodgers Infinity, but without Peggy's knowledge and guidance we would not be close to utilizing the features this beautiful instrument provides. She supported us with hands on individualized attention, helping each organist select key registrations for hymns and favorite pieces. What a blessing Peggy has been for us as we seek to glorify God through music! Sue B., organist Thank you for all the help and advice you gave us during our organ purchase and installation. The time you spent with each of our organists has meant that they have all been able to play for a Sunday service with little or no transitional difficulty. For my part, your input on material sources and the “how to” with respect to working with the speaker cloth was invaluable in producing a very professional looking install. When I began our search for an organ I gathered information from several sources and talked to several sales representatives before I contacted you. While Rodgers Organs certainly enjoyed a fine reputation, my thinking at the time was that you were too far away and you would therefore be too hard to work with logistically. I apologize that I made such an erroneous and unearned assumption. Ultimately, our decision to purchase the Rodgers Organ was not based on the instrument’s reputation, but on the personal service you gave to our congregation and your zeal in working with us through the entire project. For all the effort you put in, I want to thank you again. As far as our Rodgers Organ, I will attest that I have seen many smiling faces and have heard many complimentary comments. I think we did well! Jim B, Our Savior Lutheran Church committee chair |
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Messiah Lutheran Church, Mandan, ND, 905
Messiah Lutheran did a "side-by-side" with another brand of organ. Rev. Baneck wrote: 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, and rich, and true. Each and every stop was appreciated and loved: principal stops, flute stops, reeds, strings, and trumpet reeds. 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. If I could make an additional comment, it would be this: obtain the most versatile organ you possibly can at this time. Messiah moved from a worn-out 2-manual Baldwin to a 3-manual quality organ. This was overwhelming at first for some of our organists and congregation, but now we have an organ we can grow into, which can be used by satisfactory organists and can be treasured by the most accomplished organists. Never do we need to regret having down-sized by purchasing what we needed and wanted in the first place All of our organists spend more time now in preparing for leading the worship in music because they have an instrument of quality sound in which they take great pride. And amazingly so, every organist has expanded their performance capabilities because of practicing on an organ that fosters the joy of playing. Most of all, you are purchasing an organ that supports and excites the singing of God's people to His glory and for our edification. This is an instrument of praise to our Most High God; Father, Song, and Holy Spirit. God bless you in choosing the organ that is is appropriate for your church in worshiping our God. Rev. James B., Pastor |
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St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church, Fargo, ND, Artist 599
Peggy was very helpful in assisting us to choose the best organ for our needs and space/sound issues at St. Anthony’s. She held a great workshop for us organists/keyboard players. Her teaching style was phenomenal, for all levels of proficiency. After the workshop, we had individual organ lessons, which were amazing. I learned SO much, and with Peggy’s expertise, I will feel comfortable in playing the organ for mass, and also learning more as the months/years go by. We were all impressed with the beautiful sounds of this new Rodgers organ, and also how Peggy created many pre-set registrations for us to use, during different parts of our Catholic mass/liturgy. Peggy’s enthusiasm and positivity was very contagious! She was so encouraging, and each of us had hands-on experience during the private lessons, which was very helpful. Peggy really has a gift of music, and teaching Our new Rodgers organ is such a gift to our St. Anthony’s Parish family! Janet K., organist |
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St. Paul Lutheran, Spearfish, SD, Artist 588
I am so delighted with our new Rodgers organ. It is a beautiful and well crafted instrument with enormous versatility and music potential. The simplest piece of music sounds magnificent on this organ. I feel truly blessed to have the opportunity to play this wonderful instrument. The service that was provided by Peggy Bartunek was phenomenal. I am still in awe of the individualized instruction each of our organists received from Peggy. She assisted me in preparing music for a Thanksgiving service with some of the many combinations of midi and orchestral settings. She even helped us develop an accompaniment for our choir with an incredible flute, bell choir, trumpet and organ piece in one short session. I cannot put into words the tremendous joy I feel as an organist playing the Rodgers 588 organ. Kim H., organist |
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St. Timothy's Catholic Church, Manvel, ND, Classic 558
I have received many positive comments about the sound of the organ and the many settings that are available. I am particularly very pleased with all the time you spent showing me how to set the presets and the recording process. Your taking the time to come to Manvel three times was more than generous. You would have to ask the congregation, but I think I have become a more proficient organist and I know I have become a more confident one. With the satellite speakers, wherever you sit in the church, the sound is like it is coming from a wall of pipes at the front of the church. Thank you for your time helping us select the correct organ, installing it, and spending the time to teach me how to use it to its features. Bob H., organist |
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Grace Lutheran Church, Bruce, SD, 658
With church organs lasting generations, it is intimidating for a church to consider what is needed and where to turn when it needs replacing or upgrading Our difficulties, as it turns out, were solved with a call to Peggy Bartunek and the wise and helpful counsel she was about to provide. 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. We never doubted that the instrument we would receive would be the one which would best fit our building and our needs. With the gentle and accommodating spirit she exuded, our Organ Selection Committee felt assured with their final recommendation which inspired the congregation to whole-hearted acceptance. The church was united in this wonderful project which has been nothing less than a miraculous working of GOd. The whole process of selection and installation was augmented with a sweet willingness to contribute to the purchase of the organ which was paid in full when the bill was due. Peggy was on hand for the dedication of our organ and provided a wonderful concert showing the Congregation the potential of the instrument which we are discovering more for ourselves each week. A Pastor hopes for such an outcome of a project such as this and all our hopes were fulfilled. 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. Pastor Wayne H. |
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Hawley Lutheran, Hawley, MN, 908 hybrid
I have been an organist for over 30 years and have had the opportunity to play many different types and styles of organs. The organ I have been playing was a pipe organ. When we decided to begin looking at console replacements, my first inclination was to replace it as a pipe console. I have always felt the pipe organ to be the master instrument and felt the pipe sounds were superior to the sound of any other type. As we began researching the options, it became apparent that technology had advanced faster than my understanding of it! I was amazed to find an organ that could combine the sounds of the pipes and the digital sounds to create a well-orchestrated sound and the pipe organ sound did not go away. 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. I continue to learn the vast amount of options I have with this organ! It has enhanced my appreciation of the “art of music." I am grateful that my congregation supported the purchase of such an instrument! Maria R., organist |
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St. John the Evangelist, Wahpeton, ND, 950 hybrid
Our existing pipe organ was relocated, its outdated and failing electronic console was replaced with a Rodgers digital console. The usable existing pipes were 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. I am happy to recommend her to anyone seeking a fine instrument for liturgical worship and invite visits to our church for review of our new organ. Rev. Dale L., Pastor |
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First Lutheran Church, Hunter, ND, 380
I consider myself a pianist who plays the organ so I needed a user friendly model. Peggy suggested the Rodgers C-380. It was a perfect match! On March 1, 2011 we installed our new marvel. Peggy stayed the entire day working with me, teaching me how to use the organ, setting up all the stops, and even helping me rehearse the music I would play the next Sunday. I wanted everyone to love the new organ as much as I did. Well.....The congregation was spellbound! The sound was magnificent! The congregation was buzzing with excitement. Everyone loved the organ! Peggy's support did not stop after the installation Over the past year Peggy has offered musical support through phone conversations and emails. I highly recommend Peggy for her professionalism her personal attention to detail patience and outstanding service. Linda E., organist |
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Augustana Lutheran, Grand Forks, ND, Classic 569
Our organ literally died one Sunday morning during worship. It was a used organ that had a life expectancy of 8 years when it was purchases, and yet helped to accompany worship for just about 20 years. So, with thanksgiving, and in grand “Augustana humor” we actually had a “funeral service” for it in a sense as we decommissioned it and even served a funeral lunch during our Coffee Hour. After that, our council put purchasing of a new organ on the back burner due to budget. Then, we had two members who came forward and offered to help pay for replacement of the organ. They did the leg work, contacted Peggy, and everything just flowed after that. Our new Rodgers 569 is a gift to our congregation from the two donors and a variety of members and others who love music. Within the year, the funds were raised and our new organ was purchased and installed. Peggy has been wonderful to work with throughout the entire process. We recently had a dedication concert and hymn sing (October 2017). You can listen to some of the concert on our website: www.augustanachurchgf.org. All were amazed at the tone, quality, and versatility this instrument offers. Peggy has been most helpful as well in teaching several of our musicians how to utilize the organ’s recording and Hymn Player functions so, on those Sunday’s when no organist is available, we can still use the organ to enhance our worship. Pastor Jo. G. |
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First Lutheran Church, Rugby, ND, Artist 589
We knew for many years that we needed a new organ but struggled to find funds to purchase a new one and also wondered if there would be anyone with the interest or capabilities to play it after I retired. When we received a monetary gift from a member’s estate and the church council approved using some of the money for the purchase of a new organ, the organ committee was thrilled. The committee immediately contacted Peggy, and with her expertise and guidance we selected our new instrument. We are so happy with it, organists and congregation alike. It will take many, many months of exploring to find all the sounds the instrument is capable of producing and to learn how to use all the wonderful features that are available. Some of the big selling points for us was the over 300 pre-recorded hymns available in the internal memory, pedal follow (BASS coupler), and USB compatibility features which will be useful for Sundays when no organist is available (it has already been used!) The sounds available on our old Allen organ had become limited the past years, and so practicing was very discouraging. Practice is fun again with the availability of a wide array of sounds that are clear and have a true-to-instrument sound. We are SO happy with our selection and grateful to Peggy for her enthusiasm, guidance, expertise, and musicianship. Thanks Peggy! Pam A, organist for 42 years |
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First Presbyterian, Bemidji, MN, Artist 578
She is ORGANized. I walked into her store, knowing our church would not buy from her. Something happened. She presented the organ, its possibilities, its technology, comparisons with the contending competition, outstanding features of the Rodgers, and so on. Multiple calls and questions to her were promptly returned after the initial meeting. We bought, and I have been challenged to keep learning, astounded by the sounds. I don’t care if I ever play another pipe organ! Calls and questions are still answered promptly. And I have never heard her put down the competition. MM., organist |
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First Reformed Church, Mitchell, SD (Ecclesia T-170)
Working with Peggy Bartunek and Rodgers Classic Organs made the somewhat daunting task of finding a new church organ a very effortless process. From the first contact I had with Peggy, she made certain that everything was explained in detail; asked a multitude of questions (a good thing); followed up phone calls with product information that was very well put together; and, was readily available to answer any questions and address concerns that our organists and leadership had along the way. Peggy was understanding of the process of waiting for committee/leadership approval and was just as supportive throughout the fund raising process. When the time came, she was so accommodating in arranging a time for install, a process which she made look easy by the way. She arrived on time, well prepared and very organized. She made certain before our volunteers starting pulling wires and taking out stairways that the speaker placement in the attic would result in a sound that everyone would fall in love with - and we have. We were up and running with the new organ in a very few short hours. And wow, her knowledge of the organ and what is has to offer is amazing! To quote the brochure, “the instrument is powerful enough to fill every nook and cranny of the church with rousing pipe-organ music.” It certainly does that and a whole lot more. Peggy had so much to share with us about what this organ was capable of, yet took her time and made certain we were comfortable which one feature before she moved on to the next. Beginning with the first phone conversation to the last hug good bye when she was ready to leave ‘First’, she had proven herself over and over to be a person that is to trusted and worthy of your business. Laura D., organist |
WHY WE CHOSE AN ORGAN INSTEAD OF A DIGITAL KEYBOARD
Sharon S., pianist and organist at Grace Lutheran Brethren Church, Bottineau, ND.
When we first started looking for something to replace the present organ we were really concentrating on keyboards. We felt that the keyboard would be easier for pianists to play. I did not want to see us purchase an organ for a couple of reasons: I did not know of anyone else other than the present organist who would be able to play it, and it did not look like anyone else had an interest in it. And the cost. I have since changed my mind. Peggy brought a Rodgers organ for demonstration. It is such an EASY organ to play! I had said that whatever was purchased I would learn to play, and now I am beginning to wonder if I will have much chance as others are so interested! This organ made everything so EASY! Also, because of a special stop on the organ, it will play the bass. An inexperienced organist, like me 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 soon found that a keyboard was not what we needed, but it was the ORGAN. Not only was it easier to play but also there was NO comparison in the sound. I also found that it would not be so expensive to have the organ rather than the keyboard, as there were things on the keyboard we would most likely not use at all and there was so much on the organ that we WOULD use.
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 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.
Sharon S., pianist and organist at Grace Lutheran Brethren Church, Bottineau, ND.
Sharon S., pianist and organist at Grace Lutheran Brethren Church, Bottineau, ND.
When we first started looking for something to replace the present organ we were really concentrating on keyboards. We felt that the keyboard would be easier for pianists to play. I did not want to see us purchase an organ for a couple of reasons: I did not know of anyone else other than the present organist who would be able to play it, and it did not look like anyone else had an interest in it. And the cost. I have since changed my mind. Peggy brought a Rodgers organ for demonstration. It is such an EASY organ to play! I had said that whatever was purchased I would learn to play, and now I am beginning to wonder if I will have much chance as others are so interested! This organ made everything so EASY! Also, because of a special stop on the organ, it will play the bass. An inexperienced organist, like me 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 soon found that a keyboard was not what we needed, but it was the ORGAN. Not only was it easier to play but also there was NO comparison in the sound. I also found that it would not be so expensive to have the organ rather than the keyboard, as there were things on the keyboard we would most likely not use at all and there was so much on the organ that we WOULD use.
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 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.
Sharon S., pianist and organist at Grace Lutheran Brethren Church, Bottineau, ND.