“I  am delighted to be involved in this project to restore and preserve one of the great treasures of our state and region. The organ in Byrnes is a rare and valuable instrument and a great cultural asset to our community. Its future depends upon private contributions.”

David White
Campaign Co-chair, Former Winthrop Board of Trustees Chair 

“I am honored to be part of this project and I am looking forward to meeting alumni and talking with them about the refurbishing of our instrument. For many years, those of us who play this organ have become concerned about the desperate need for repair. Because 2005 marks the 50th anniversary of the installation of the organ, it is appropriate that we start this campaign.”

Shirley Fishburne `72 and `73
Campaign Co-chair 

“As a performer, one of my main concerns is the quality of the instrument on which I am performing. The D.B. Johnson Memorial Organ produces a variety of incredible sounds, which inspires the performer and enhances the musical experience of the listener. As a native Rock Hillian, I feel it is important to maintain this musical gem, and I hope the Rock Hill community and the Winthrop alumni will participate in our fundraising effort.”

Ann Herlong
Campaign Committee Member  

“As a music teacher (my husband) Ray has always recognized the advantages of a good instrument for instruction and practice. I experienced those advantages when, after retirement, I took lessons and practiced on that magnificent organ in Byrnes Auditorium. What a thrill it was to realize that my fingers and feet could manipulate the magnificent sound I heard all around me!”

Emma Doughty
Campaign Committee Member  

“While a senior at Winthrop I was invited by Dr. Walter B. Roberts to play the piano for an Alumnae Association sponsored concert in Greenville to benefit the organ fund. Five years later Dr. Roberts' dream was realized with the dedicatory concert by Virgil Fox. That moving experience of hearing this fine Aeolian Skinner organ in the remarkable acoustics of Byrnes Auditorium is etched in my mind and heart forever. Having been involved in the original financial campaign, I treasure the opportunity of playing a role in the restoration of this rare instrument which is a credit to Winthrop University.”

Bettye Hinson Rawls `50
Campaign Committee Member  

  
“It was very important to me having that magnificent instrument playing for certain events, particularly graduation. I also had three children to graduate in Byrnes with “Pomp and Circumstance” being played on that marvelous organ.”

Claudia Ann Jenkins  `49
Campaign Committee Member  

"Playing the organ is one of my God-given talents, and I feel that it is my duty to use my ability for a good cause. I plan to become a church organist, which will be my way of sharing this gift with others. The organ at Winthrop is a fantastic instrument and keeping it in good condition is essential for the education of the students."

Katharine Carlson
Organ Student  

"Being an organ student at Winthrop University is a privilege when such a fine instrument is available for play. A student is spoiled spending so much time with such an array of color and possibility. Investing in years more of its magnificence is only common sense when its breezes are felt and heard by the ear. Therefore its restoration is a major contribution to the survival of fine secular and sacred music."

Gregory Gafford
B.M.E Choral Education
Canterbury Peer Minister
Diocese of Upper South Carolina