Community Honors Frisch with Recital, Hymn Sing

HOWES CAVE — Saturday night was alive with music to honor organist Benjamin Frisch, who passed away earlier this year. The church was filled with local community members taking part in the multi-act performance.

Musician Wally Jones played first, including playing Ave Maria on organ and a version of the Hallelujah by Leonard Cohen. Rhea and Rachael Owens played the piano and organ, including a rendition of Be Still my Soul. 

Sid Chase spoke about his experience meeting Ben two and a half years ago, describing him as "very curious" about playing the organ and that he "learned very quickly." Chase taught him to tune brass reeds, which Frisch picked up "instantly." Chase said Frisch had an "insatiable appetite" for playing the organ. The group organized the transfer of an organ that was in storage in Worcester formerly at Hartwick College. Frisch offered to help and the unique organ, one of three originally created for the Union Theological Seminary in New York City, is now playing in Howes Cave.

The organ was the last of the three built in the 1950s. "Ben was very happy with it," said Chase. "It was a pleasure to work with Ben on this project and get to know him." The organ will "always remain here in honor of his efforts."

Elder Steve Dube said that it was "very nice to get together" to honor Frisch. "Look what's happened," he said. Dozens turned out to honor the young man and God. Five local churches participated and future events will be planned in the future. Frisch "certainly left his work on the community," Dube said and that he was "loved by eveyone." Those who knew Frisch understood his warmth and enthusiasm, he continued.

Pastor Tom Davis said that he would like to do a memorial service like this every year. Frisch had been the youngest member of the congregation. "Sometimes I thought he knew the Bible more than me," joked Davis. Frisch had been studying for the ministry and had been a bright light in the parish. "I'm going to miss Ben, but he is in a place with the Lord," said Davis.