Organized Crime Duo brings 'classical music with a twist'

NEW GLASGOW, N.S. — NEW GLASGOW, N.S. – Sarah Svendsen and Rachel Mahon, two young and talented organists, call their act Organized Crime Duo. 
Asked to describe their show they say, “Think of the Carol Burnett shows or Victor Borge – classical music with a twist.” 
Their comedy show is built around the pipe organ, in this case the organ of First Presbyterian Church, New Glasgow, where they will perform at 7:30 p.m., Saturday, June 29.
It all started, they say, when some six years ago they happened to buy matching pairs of stiletto heels and matching sparkly dresses for a Halloween concert they were asked to do in Toronto. From there, the show developed and took on a life of its own. Now they travel with 12 ball gowns and who knows how many pairs of shoes. Sarah Svendsen laughingly says, “Our biggest problem is the costume changes.”
While it is a fun night with hilarious and outrageous hijinks on and around the organ bench, there will be music that is light hearted and pop, mixed with traditional virtuosic works. It’s a multi-generational show designed to delight the kids, the moms and dads, and the grandparents. And, it is followed by a reception and a chance to meet these two performers.
All laughter aside, these are two organists who have serious pedigrees in music. Both started organ as teenagers – Sarah Svendsen in New Glasgow, with Wayne Rogers and the music program at North Nova Education Centre, and Sarah Mahon in Toronto. They earned their bachelor degrees at the University of Toronto and both have continued their education: Svendsen with a master`s degree from Yale and doctorate in the making at the University of Toronto; Mahon with organ scholarships at Truro and St. Paul’s Cathedrals (UK). Mahon is currently full time assistant organist at Coventry Cathedral (UK).
Tickets are adults: $25 and students: $5. Available from parishioners, the church office, by phoning 902 752-5691 and also at H&R Music, New Glasgow and Fulmore's Pharmacy, Pictou.