DC Concerts: July 17-18

Sunday, July 18

6pm: Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception

Summer Concert Series

Different this week...hear the Basilica's Crypt Church organ in concert at 6. It's a neat space directly under the main sanctuary.

Meet the Kings: 1964 Möllers, 1987 Schudi, Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception

Put down the iPad, turn off the iPod, and stop worrying about the Nats' recent dry spell. The Basilica this summer is again hosting a summer recital series on its three magnificent pipe organs - and what better place to hear the live roar and rumble of these modern-day giants!

According to their website, the two M.P. Moller organs of the Basillica's Upper Church, one in back and one next to the High Alter in the Chancel, were built in 1965. They're played by identical 4-manual consoles located in both the South Gallery (back loft) and in the Chancel. The instruments total 9,393 pipes, 157 stops, and 172 ranks. That's a lot of pipes.

In addition, the architectually-stunning Crypt Church, located directly under the main sanctuary floor, is home to a 1987 two-manual instrument of 25 ranks and 1,355 pipes, built by the Schudi firm.

Concerts run every Sunday evening through August 29. Directions.