No. 2 Vol. 10
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www.musconetcongnews.com
October 2016
Netcong Resident Marks 50 Years Of Making Beautiful Music
By Elsie Walker hen Henry Repp of Netcong was five years old, he got the major role of Joseph in the Rockaway Presbyterian Church’s Christmas pageant. However, he soon found himself distracted. “I was more interested in what the organist was doing than playing the part of Joseph,” he says. “Her name was Janet Fisher, and she was my first inspiration on playing the
organ. I couldn't really see the pedals from where I was. So the next week, I sat in the balcony so I could really see. When I got home that day, I used the radiator as my ‘pedal board’ to practice my pedal technique.” What sparked that childhood interest would lead to a career which so far has spanned a remarkable 50 years. Earlier this month, Repp marked his 50th anniversary as a church organist at the First Methodist Church of Newton, where he is now director of music/organist. Repp has played at a variety of venues. The most interesting of which might be the one where he got his start. “He began his organ career in jail,” said Repp’s wife Barbara. “He played for Sunday Mass at the Morris County jail.” In contrast, most of Repp’s other venues have been playing for churches and choral groups, many times taking on the role of choral director. First as an organist and then in his dual role, Repp has developed a loyal following which appreciates his talents. “I have known Henry 30 plus years,” said Barbara Landini of Randolph. “Henry came to our congregation, First Memorial Presbyterian Church in Dover, as church organist. It was apparent from the beginning that Henry was truly gifted. I participated in several presentations when Henry was organist or organist/director. It has been pure pleasure to watch as Henry has expanded his talent to include choral works. The choral works performed at the Reformed Church in Peapack/Gladstone and now in Newton, have been extraordinary.” Ted Anderson of Stockholm said that he’s performed with Repp more times than he can count and admires the way that Repp easily wears two hats. Anderson shared, “I retired from 35 years singing and recording with the Gregg Smith Singers in New York City in 2001,but wished to continue singing
chorally. I first worked with Henry in one of his early Sussex County Oratorio concerts. Then sang in his church choir at Peakpack-Gladstone for 11 years. It is truly amazing anyone can play the organ so well while still conducting a choral group. That is no easy task! Even when he is frustrated and tries to correct errors in the choir, he always has a smile and a sense of humor about him. He also does a great variety of works which keeps me going.” For some, staying in one career or even loving it for any length of time might be a challenge. However, it has never been like that for Repp. “Once I began my organ career, I never had a desire to do anything else,” he said. “Playing the organ is my life. I enjoy playing solo organ as well as working with choirs and continued on page 4