A Native of Lafayette, Louisiana, Lew began playing the organ at age ten and started formal piano studies five years later. At Texas Christian University, he won several competitions in organ playing, gave numerous recitals, and graduated with a Bachelor of Music degree and Performers Certificate, studying with Emmit G. Smith. At Southern Methodist University, Lew earned a Master of Music degree as an organ pupil of Dr. Robert T. Anderson. He also won the regional competition of the American Guild of Organists. From 1979 until 1987 he was staff organist at Organ Stop Pizza restaurants in Phoenix and Mesa. Concert work has taken him around the USA several times. He has played five concert tours in England, where he was engaged twice as a clinician at the annual Cinema Organ Society Workshop in London. A frequent recitalist at conventions of both the American Guild of Organists and the American Theatre Organ Society, he was named "Organist of the Year" by the ATOS in 1988.

 

Charlie Balogh is originally from Trenton, New Jersey. His Musical instruction began at age 11, continuing through classical organ instruction at Trenton State College. Charlie began his professional playing career at the Phoenix Organ Stop in 1973. In 1976, Charlie moved to Grand Rapids, Michigan, performing at The Roaring 20's restaurant (subsequently changed to Good Time Charley's). His 14 year involvement there as a performer, musical director and owner was highly acclaimed. In 1991, Charlie returned home to Arizona with his family. In addition to performing at Organ Stop, Charlie is also a leading national concert artist, and has many pipe organ recordings to his credit and was named "Organist of the Year" by the Atos in 2000.

 

Clark Wilson is a native of Ohio and began his musical training at the age of nine.  Clark held numerous playing positions throughout high school and was listed in "Who's Who in the Midwest," as well as "Men of Achievement."

Clark has worked extensively in all aspects of organ building.  He has received high acclaim for his tonal finishing work and reed voicing for both theatre and classical organs.

In the area of organ performance, Clark brings a wealth of experience to Organ Stop.  He has held several successful positions, including engagements in Milwaukee and Indianapolis.  Clark has concertized in the United States, Canada, Australia and England.  He is also well known for his work in silent film accompaniment.  Clark has received the "Technician of the Year" and "Organist of the Year" awards from the American Theatre Organ Society, the only person to receive both.  Organ Stop hopes that you enjoy this highly talented, personable artist.

 

Ron Rhode was born in Moline, Illinois, and has been playing piano and organ since age four. His formal training includes six years of popular piano and three years of French Horn. He has completed a Bachelor of Arts degree in Education at Arizona State University, a Masters of Arts degree from Northern Arizona University and currently is a librarian for Mesa Public Schools. In June of 1973, Ron moved to Phoenix and began his tenure at the former Phoenix Organ Stop. He then came to Mesa when this location opened in 1975. An active concert artist, Ron has presented theatre organ concerts across the country and internationally. In 1989, Ron was named "Organist of the Year" by the American Theatre Organ Society, in recognition of his valuable contribution to the state of the art. We hope that you enjoy Ron's "musical mastery."