Sharpsville United Methodist Church's new organ makes its official debut at 4 p.m. Dec. 8 with a recital by Dr. Raymond Ocock, organist and choir director at First Presbyterian Church in Sharon.

"We hope to make it first in a series," said Janet Stahl, church organist, of the recital. An organ and brass recital is scheduled for Feb. 23.

The organ has actually been at the church for almost nine months, but the recital will serve as the organ's inauguration.

"We've been playing it since March, but this is the official dedication ... we've been getting it fine-tuned and it's ready to go," Ms. Stahl said.

The state-of-the art electronic "Renaissance" by Allen organ was a gift to the church from several parishioners. It is designed to play and sound like a pipe organ, Ms. Stahl said.

"It's extremely versatile," she said. "Some of those things we want to show off for the recital."

Among its many functions, the organ can play back pre-recorded music on a computer disc.

"I even had it play a service when I wasn't here ... It's just amazing," Ms. Stahl said.

The church had a small Hammond organ for about 40 years before receiving the new organ this year, Ms. Stahl said.

"It is a gorgeous instrument ... It has a gorgeous sound," she said.

The recital will give the public the chance to appreciate the organ, Ms. Stahl said.

"We're happy the community can come and enjoy this. We came by the gift and we want to share it," she said.