The Consultants: John Gearhart

Dr. Rhonda Furr, Professor of Music and University Organist from 1989-2021 and University Organist Emeritus, served as organ consultant on the Smith Organ.  Dr. Furr worked closely with Létourneau’s artistic director, Andrew Forrest, in the design of the Smith Organ, mindful of its use for performance, worship, and instruction. “It is impossible for me to express what this remarkable gift from the Smiths means to HCU,” said Furr. “Performance and worship will be deeply enhanced for generations and countless students will be trained on this majestic instrument.”

Mr. John Gearhart has also served as consultant on the Smith Organ.  As a pipe organ design and tonal consultant for more than 30 years, his expertise served as a valuable resource for the design of this instrument.  For more than 16 years, he served St. John the Divine Episcopal Church in Houston where they installed a 144-rank Létourneau instrument.  His expertise also includes experience with other installations around the United States.