Walter Mitby Frasier Scholarship Recital

Walter Mitby was the winner of the 2025 Frasier scholarship and is a talented high school student currently in tenth grade. He studied piano with Keiko Kagawa for six years and has studied organ for six years with AGO member and organist of Lutheran Church of Our Savior in Cupertino, Julie Fleming.

His program on February 26 showcased the German Baroque in many forms, and he used the 1993 58-rank Schantz organ to its full capacity. Walter’s playing was clearly articulated, with lively tempos when appropriate, and beautifully shaped phrases. He showed full command of pedals and manuals, and changed registrations with ease. Walter Mitby played and gave verbal program notes incredibly well, like someone twice his age. About 70 people attended this recital, including many of Walter’s friends and their families and including about 12 of our AGO members (some with spouses).

Here is the program he performed:

Fantasia and Fugue in G minor, BWV 542 - Johann Sebastian Bach (1685–1750)
Ein feste Burg ist unser Gott - Michael Praetorius (1571–1621)
Vater unser im Himmelreich - Georg Böhm (1661–1733)
Te Deum laudamus, BuxWV 218 - Dieterich Buxtehude (c. 1637–1707)
Vor deinen Thron tret ich hiermit, BWV 668 - Johann Sebastian Bach (1685–1750)
Finale from Organ Sonata No. 1 in D minor - Alexandre Guilmant (1837–1911)

A lovely reception of finger-foods and hot and cold drinks was hosted by the San Jose Chapter in the church’s Fellowship Hall. Many of the audience stayed for almost an hour to congratulate the young artist and enjoy each other’s company. Barbara Wade, the church administrator, was very helpful at all turns. Many thanks to Barbara and all at the United Methodist Church in Campbell for hosting this splendid recital.