World-Famous Organist Returning to New Bedford Church

World-renowned musician Dr. Michael Szostak so enjoyed playing the historic 113-year-old Casavant organ last year at St. Anthony's Church that he wants to do it again. Concert coordinator Gisele Pappas said Dr. Szostak will return to New Bedford on Sunday, May 31 at 3 p.m., the second stop on his 2026 North American Tour.

Who Is Dr. Michael Szostak?

"Dr. Szostak is renowned," Pappas said. "He has played pipe organs all around the world. He uses different combinations of pipes that make the sound very special. I was fascinated with him. He is a specialist in improvisation, and he displayed that talent many times last year."

The History of St. Anthony’s Casavant Organ

The pipe organ was installed at St. Anthony's in 1912. Maintenance is performed on the organ twice a year, and Pappas said the instrument will be tuned prior to Dr. Szostak's performance on May 31.

A Fundraiser for St. Anthony's

Pappas said while last year's organ recital was held to raise money to maintain the organ, this year's event is for an entirely different purpose.

"We are switching from raising money for the organ to repairing our beautiful stained-glass windows," she said. "All the exterior window frames need to be painted, and the protective glass on the windows needs to be replaced at the same time. So it's a significant project, probably costing hundreds of thousands of dollars."

How to Attend the New Bedford Organ Concert

Tickets for the organ recital are $25 and can be purchased by visiting the Music at St. Anthony's website or at the door. Donations for the window project are also welcome.

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