As Macy's prepares to close its iconic Center City store in Philadelphia, the city braces to say farewell with a majestic day-long concert featuring the storied Wanamaker Organ. Esteemed organists and the public will gather this Saturday for a series of hourly recitals, according to The Philadelphia Inquirer. The organ has filled the halls with music for decades, played twice daily, and while its future is uncertain, commitment to its preservation has been publically voiced by the building's owner, TF Cornerstone.
The retailer, synonymous with the holiday season and its long-standing traditions, will close its doors at the end of business on Sunday, a day after the closing concerts. Not only performers but also throngs of music lovers and history aficionados are expected to join the "Make a Joyful Noise" event, cozying one last time between the past and the present of a space that has been a cultural hub since 1904. According to a statement obtained by CBS News Philadelphia, the enormous Wanamaker Organ, known for its reverberating music echoing through 28,000 pipes, is not to be easily forgotten.
While the organ and the Grand Court Eagle are protected by the city landmarks, their fate within the Wanamaker Building's next chapter remains a critical concern. Philadelphia City Councilman Mark Squilla told CBS News Philadelphia that TF Cornerstone, which will own the organ once Macy’s exits, has assured that both the organ and the eagle will continue to be highlights of whatever comes next for the space. The company has been quoted as saying they plan to keep the organ a daily feature, ensuring its sounds remain a vibrant part of Philadelphia's soundscape.
Even as TF Cornerstone has not disclosed detailed plans, the Friends of the Wanamaker Organ remains resolute, spearheading efforts to not only maintain but showcase the organ's grandeur. Ray Biswanger, executive director of the Friends, described initial discussions with TF Cornerstone as "positive" and expressed optimism about the possibility of continuing their restoration work – and even to potentially record or streamcast performances, per a report by The Philadelphia Inquirer.
As for the festivities at hand, the "Make a Joyful Noise" concert series will launch at 9:00 a.m. with Peter Richard Conte, the Wanamaker Grand Court Organist since 1989, performing the national anthem. Throughout the day, organists including Aaron Patterson, Mark Bani, and Luke Staisiunas will command the keyboard. Closing out the event, Conte will return at 5:00 p.m. for a "grand gala," said one of the event organizers, as quoted by The Philadelphia Inquirer. Meanwhile, an emotional community waits, cherishing the memories of their experiences with the resounding pipes and pondering the evolution of this historic-touchstone-turned-modern-conundrum.
Facing the imminent end of an era, many Philadelphians like Donna from Erdenheim, who recall coming down with their parents for the light show, hearing the organ play, feel it deep down, as shared with FOX 29 News. Their collective concern is ensuring that future generations will also be able to experience the awe-inspiring presence and performance of the Wanamaker Organ, as they did in the days before Macy's control assumed its final bow.
