church organist

December 18, 2024

Final Words & Parting Gifts: Thoughts on Pre-Selecting Funeral Music

Earlier this week, I played for a funeral. Although this is a regular part of my job as a church organist, this particular service was uniquely encouraging. The departed was clearly a remarkable lady. Her children and grandchildren and great-grandchildren sang the hymns with incredible confidence, leading me to believe she has left behind a Continue reading

literary living

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April 4, 2021

An Easter Rehearsal

I know my feet are prone to slip, unsure, So I play it again: Alleluia. And I know my hands may strike without measure, So I play it once more: Alleluia. But, worst, I know my heart is yet impure, So I pray it again: Alleluia, Amen. The organist and choristers know well The rehearsed Continue reading

Faith, literary living, Music, Poetry

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September 22, 2020

Musical Martha: Minding the Rest as a Church Musician

I have always struggled with Sundays. I have always loved keeping busy throughout the whole day—even on weekends—but the very structure of Sundays is set against this. As a musician and writer, I deeply enjoy my work and take satisfaction in doing it well. My love for productivity, however, makes Sundays a challenge. Before I Continue reading

Music

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May 31, 2020

Pedals and Pandemic

I moved to St. Andrew’s, Scotland in September of 2019 to pursue my master’s degree in “Theology and the Arts.” Almost immediately, I was given an organ scholarship at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, which featured a beautiful historic building and a loving community. Serving in music ministry and being a choir member has long been Continue reading

Faith, Music

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May 29, 2020

Organ Sonnet 1

Until sent stepping down the pedals—scalar,My feet were not sure of their footing hereBut then, at once, my most pressing fearBecame naught but a small organ failure! And once my frigid fingers found their noteI settled into newfound harmonyIn a choir which turned much-loved companyAnd rendered far-off home not so remote. But now, removed, another Continue reading

Music, Poetry

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