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Casavant Frères | Saints Philip and James Catholic Church | Baltimore
Photo: Len Levasseur
Casavant Frères | Saints Philip and James Catholic Church | Baltimore
Photo: Len Levasseur
Main Festival Artists
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Ken Cowan
Regarded as one of North America’s finest concert organists and praised for his dazzling artistry, impeccable technique, and imaginative programming by audiences and critics alike, Ken Cowan maintains a rigorous performing schedule that takes him to major concert venues in America, Canada, Europe, and Asia.
Recent feature performances have included appearances at Verizon Hall in Philadelphia with the Philadelphia Orchestra, Berlin Philharmonie, Davies Symphony Hall in San Francisco, Vienna Konzerthaus, Maison Symphonique in Montreal, St. Paul’s Cathedral in London and Walt Disney Concert Hall. In addition, Mr. Cowan has been a featured artist in recent years at national conventions of the American Guild of Organists in Los Angeles, Minneapolis and Houston. He has performed at many regional conventions of the AGO and has been featured at several conventions of the Organ Historical Society and the Royal Canadian College of Organists.
Numerous critically acclaimed compact disc recordings by Mr. Cowan are available. Most recent, serving as organ accompanist, is Maurice Duruflé: Complete Choral Works (Signum Records), recorded with Robert Simpson and the Houston Chamber Choir, for which the Houston Chamber Choir was awarded a GRAMMY award in 2020 for Best Choral Recording; Dynamic Duo, (Pro Organo), featuring Mr. Cowan and Bradley Welch in a program of original works and transcriptions for duo organists, performed on the monumental Casavant organ at Broadway Baptist Church in Fort Worth, TX; Ken Cowan plays The Great Organ (Pro Organo), recorded on the newly-restored organ at the Cathedral of St. John the Divine, New York City; Works of Franz Liszt (JAV), recorded on the Michael Quimby organ at First Baptist church in Jackson Mississippi; and Ken Cowan Plays Romantic Masterworks (Raven), recorded on the 110-rank Schoenstein organ at First Plymouth Congregational Church in Lincoln, Nebraska. Mr. Cowan also joined organist Justin Bischof in the 1999 world-premiere recording of American composer Aaron Miller’s Double Concerto for organ, recorded with the Zurich Symphony Orchestra on the Kleuker organ in the Tonhalle, Zurich, Switzerland (Ethereal Recordings). Many of Mr. Cowan’s recordings and live performances have been regularly featured on the nationally distributed radio show PIPEDREAMS from American Public Media.
A native of Thorold, Ontario, Canada, Mr. Cowan received the Master’s degree and Artist Diploma from the Yale Institute of Sacred Music, studying organ with Thomas Murray. Prior to attending Yale, he graduated with a Bachelor of Music degree from the Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia where he studied with John Weaver. Following initial studies with his father, David, his principal teacher during his high school years was James Bigham, Music Director at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, in Buffalo, NY.
In 2012 Mr. Cowan joined the keyboard faculty of the Shepherd School of Music at Rice University, where he is Professor of Organ and head of the organ program. He is additionally Organist and Artist-in-Residence at Palmer Memorial Episcopal Church in Houston, TX. Previous positions have included Associate Professor of Organ at Westminster Choir College of Rider University in Princeton, NJ, where he was awarded the 2008 Rider University Distinguished Teaching Award, and Associate Organist and Artist in Residence at Saint Bartholomew’s Church in New York City.
Recent feature performances have included appearances at Verizon Hall in Philadelphia with the Philadelphia Orchestra, Berlin Philharmonie, Davies Symphony Hall in San Francisco, Vienna Konzerthaus, Maison Symphonique in Montreal, St. Paul’s Cathedral in London and Walt Disney Concert Hall. In addition, Mr. Cowan has been a featured artist in recent years at national conventions of the American Guild of Organists in Los Angeles, Minneapolis and Houston. He has performed at many regional conventions of the AGO and has been featured at several conventions of the Organ Historical Society and the Royal Canadian College of Organists.
Numerous critically acclaimed compact disc recordings by Mr. Cowan are available. Most recent, serving as organ accompanist, is Maurice Duruflé: Complete Choral Works (Signum Records), recorded with Robert Simpson and the Houston Chamber Choir, for which the Houston Chamber Choir was awarded a GRAMMY award in 2020 for Best Choral Recording; Dynamic Duo, (Pro Organo), featuring Mr. Cowan and Bradley Welch in a program of original works and transcriptions for duo organists, performed on the monumental Casavant organ at Broadway Baptist Church in Fort Worth, TX; Ken Cowan plays The Great Organ (Pro Organo), recorded on the newly-restored organ at the Cathedral of St. John the Divine, New York City; Works of Franz Liszt (JAV), recorded on the Michael Quimby organ at First Baptist church in Jackson Mississippi; and Ken Cowan Plays Romantic Masterworks (Raven), recorded on the 110-rank Schoenstein organ at First Plymouth Congregational Church in Lincoln, Nebraska. Mr. Cowan also joined organist Justin Bischof in the 1999 world-premiere recording of American composer Aaron Miller’s Double Concerto for organ, recorded with the Zurich Symphony Orchestra on the Kleuker organ in the Tonhalle, Zurich, Switzerland (Ethereal Recordings). Many of Mr. Cowan’s recordings and live performances have been regularly featured on the nationally distributed radio show PIPEDREAMS from American Public Media.
A native of Thorold, Ontario, Canada, Mr. Cowan received the Master’s degree and Artist Diploma from the Yale Institute of Sacred Music, studying organ with Thomas Murray. Prior to attending Yale, he graduated with a Bachelor of Music degree from the Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia where he studied with John Weaver. Following initial studies with his father, David, his principal teacher during his high school years was James Bigham, Music Director at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, in Buffalo, NY.
In 2012 Mr. Cowan joined the keyboard faculty of the Shepherd School of Music at Rice University, where he is Professor of Organ and head of the organ program. He is additionally Organist and Artist-in-Residence at Palmer Memorial Episcopal Church in Houston, TX. Previous positions have included Associate Professor of Organ at Westminster Choir College of Rider University in Princeton, NJ, where he was awarded the 2008 Rider University Distinguished Teaching Award, and Associate Organist and Artist in Residence at Saint Bartholomew’s Church in New York City.
Regarded as one of North America’s finest concert organists and praised for his dazzling artistry, impeccable technique, and imaginative programming by audiences and critics alike, Ken Cowan maintains a rigorous performing schedule that takes him to major concert venues in America, Canada, Europe, and Asia.
Nathaniel Gumbs
Nathaniel Gumbs is a native of the Bronx, NY and has performed throughout the United States and abroad, including Antigua, St. Thomas, Ghana, Paris, and Munich, and is consistently gathering new fans and followers. The New York Times described Nathaniel’s playing in their review of his recording with bass-baritone Dashon Burton, as “mature, lyrical, accurate and energetic,” and that his performance was presented “deftly and with feeling.”
Dr. Gumbs currently serves as Director of Chapel Music at Yale University where he works with students, faculty, and guests to coordinate music for three worshiping communities: the University Church in Battell Chapel, and at Yale Divinity School in both Marquand Chapel and at Berkeley Divinity School. He earned his undergraduate degree from Shenandoah Conservatory in Virginia, his Master of Music degree from Yale University, and his Doctor of Musical Arts degree from the Eastman School of Music. Nathaniel’s principal teachers include Steven Cooksey, David Higgs, and Martin Jean.
Prior to his position at Yale, Dr. Gumbs served as Director of Music and Arts and Church Organist at Friendship Missionary Baptist Church in Charlotte, NC, where he led several hundred volunteer musicians and staff in four choirs and other ensembles. Nathaniel currently serves as the Interim Minister of Music and Fine Arts at the historic Abyssinian Baptist Church in Harlem, NY.
In 2017 The Diapason magazine recognized Nathaniel as one of 20 outstanding organists under 30 years old for his achievement in organ performance and church music. In 2018, Nathaniel curated the opening Hymn Festival (Singing Diverse Music in The New Church) for the Hymn Society’s annual conference. He is also featured on various recording projects through GIA publications with James Abbington, choral projects with award winning conductor Jason Max Ferninand, and recordings of revised choral works by Margaret Bonds with NY Philharmonic's Chorus Director, Malcolm Merriweather. Most recently, Dr. Gumbs is a contributing composer in Pulling Out The Stops, Volume 3, Congregational Song Accompaniments for Organ, published by Augsburg Fortress.
Dr. Gumbs currently serves as Director of Chapel Music at Yale University where he works with students, faculty, and guests to coordinate music for three worshiping communities: the University Church in Battell Chapel, and at Yale Divinity School in both Marquand Chapel and at Berkeley Divinity School. He earned his undergraduate degree from Shenandoah Conservatory in Virginia, his Master of Music degree from Yale University, and his Doctor of Musical Arts degree from the Eastman School of Music. Nathaniel’s principal teachers include Steven Cooksey, David Higgs, and Martin Jean.
Prior to his position at Yale, Dr. Gumbs served as Director of Music and Arts and Church Organist at Friendship Missionary Baptist Church in Charlotte, NC, where he led several hundred volunteer musicians and staff in four choirs and other ensembles. Nathaniel currently serves as the Interim Minister of Music and Fine Arts at the historic Abyssinian Baptist Church in Harlem, NY.
In 2017 The Diapason magazine recognized Nathaniel as one of 20 outstanding organists under 30 years old for his achievement in organ performance and church music. In 2018, Nathaniel curated the opening Hymn Festival (Singing Diverse Music in The New Church) for the Hymn Society’s annual conference. He is also featured on various recording projects through GIA publications with James Abbington, choral projects with award winning conductor Jason Max Ferninand, and recordings of revised choral works by Margaret Bonds with NY Philharmonic's Chorus Director, Malcolm Merriweather. Most recently, Dr. Gumbs is a contributing composer in Pulling Out The Stops, Volume 3, Congregational Song Accompaniments for Organ, published by Augsburg Fortress.
Nathaniel Gumbs is a native of the Bronx, NY and has performed throughout the United States and abroad, including Antigua, St. Thomas, Ghana, Paris, and Munich, and is consistently gathering new fans and followers.
James Kealey
Winner of the First Prize and Audience Prize at the 2022 American Guild of Organists’ National Young Artists Competition in Organ performance (NYACOP), James Kealey is a young artist of great distinction who has appeared in recital in England, the U.S.A., and in Europe.
Previous engagements include recitals at Westminster Abbey UK; Methuen Memorial Music Hall, MA; St John the Divine, NYC, the Spreckels Organ Pavilion; and recitals for many AGO chapters around the country. Upcoming engagements include two recitals in Hawaii, a recital at Butler Hall at The University of Dubuque, a solo organ recital at the 2024 National Convention of the American Guild of Organists in San Francisco, and many other prominent venues across the U.S.A.
A native of Great Britain, James came to the U.S.A. having held positions at notable English Cathedrals. He received his undergraduate degree from Royal Holloway, University of London, and worked as Senior Organ Scholar to the Chapel Choir there in their series of live broadcasts, international tours, CD recordings, weekly services, and concerts.
In the spring of 2020, James completed his Master of Music degree from the Eastman School of Music in Organ Performance and Literature. In 2021 he was honored to be named one of The Diapason’s “20 under 30,“ an accolade awarded to the most successful young artists in the field.
In the summer of 2023, his debut CD “Rhapsodic” was released on the Pro Organo recording label. Performed on the incredible E. & G. G. Hook & Hastings / Andover organ at St. Joseph’s Cathedral, Buffalo NY, it features works by Whitlock, Delius, Price, Howells, Vierne, Still, and Franck.
Currently, James serves as full time Interim Director of Music/Organist at Third Presbyterian Church in Rochester, NY. In this capacity he directs the Chancel Choir and the Third Church Choristers. Alongside this position, James is a candidate for the Doctor of Music Arts degree at the Eastman School of Music, Rochester, NY in the studio of Prof. David Higgs. He is represented in North America by Karen McFarlane Artists, Inc.
Previous engagements include recitals at Westminster Abbey UK; Methuen Memorial Music Hall, MA; St John the Divine, NYC, the Spreckels Organ Pavilion; and recitals for many AGO chapters around the country. Upcoming engagements include two recitals in Hawaii, a recital at Butler Hall at The University of Dubuque, a solo organ recital at the 2024 National Convention of the American Guild of Organists in San Francisco, and many other prominent venues across the U.S.A.
A native of Great Britain, James came to the U.S.A. having held positions at notable English Cathedrals. He received his undergraduate degree from Royal Holloway, University of London, and worked as Senior Organ Scholar to the Chapel Choir there in their series of live broadcasts, international tours, CD recordings, weekly services, and concerts.
In the spring of 2020, James completed his Master of Music degree from the Eastman School of Music in Organ Performance and Literature. In 2021 he was honored to be named one of The Diapason’s “20 under 30,“ an accolade awarded to the most successful young artists in the field.
In the summer of 2023, his debut CD “Rhapsodic” was released on the Pro Organo recording label. Performed on the incredible E. & G. G. Hook & Hastings / Andover organ at St. Joseph’s Cathedral, Buffalo NY, it features works by Whitlock, Delius, Price, Howells, Vierne, Still, and Franck.
Currently, James serves as full time Interim Director of Music/Organist at Third Presbyterian Church in Rochester, NY. In this capacity he directs the Chancel Choir and the Third Church Choristers. Alongside this position, James is a candidate for the Doctor of Music Arts degree at the Eastman School of Music, Rochester, NY in the studio of Prof. David Higgs. He is represented in North America by Karen McFarlane Artists, Inc.
James Kealey is a young artist of great distinction who has appeared in recital in England, the U.S.A., and in Europe.
Jordan Prescott
Hailed as an "organ star" (The Baltimore Sun) whose playing "encompass[es] the church in a wild wind" (The Washington Post), Jordan Prescott has established himself as one of the leading organists, conductors, and academics of his generation. Having earned the Doctor of Musical Arts Degree from Peabody Conservatory, Dr. Prescott now serves on the music theory faculty there in addition to his work as Organist-Choirmaster of Grace and St. Peter’s Episcopal Church in Baltimore. He formerly taught on the keyboard faculty at the University of Maryland – Baltimore County. Frequently engaged as a performer and presenter, Jordan’s scholarship has been published in The American Organist and The Tracker magazines. Dr. Prescott holds the Associateship diploma from the American Guild of Organists and was named one of The Diapason magazine’s ’20 Under 30’ in 2019. Jordan is an avid marathon runner and a steadfast fan of the Baltimore Orioles.
Jordan Prescott has established himself as one of the leading organists, conductors, and academics of his generation.
Alcee Chriss
A featured star in the PBS documentary Pipe Dreams (2019), Alcee Chriss III is an organist and keyboardist from Fort Worth, TX. Dr. Chriss is the winner of the 2017 Canadian International Organ Competition and the Firmin Swinnen Silver Medal at the 2016 Longwood Gardens International Organ Competition. He has been celebrated for his “grace, skill and abundant proficiency” by the Journal Assist News, Albuquerque. And of his most recent solo recording at Montreal Symphony Hall, Art et Rhapsodie (2019), the American Record Guide wrote that “he plays with clarity, imagination, musicality, virtuosity, and yes, personality.”
Dr. Chriss has performed throughout North America and Europe. Recent and upcoming performances include the International Orgelsommer (Stuttgart, Germany), Stockholm City Hall (Sweden), and as soloist with the Montreal Symphony in a performance of Copland’s Symphony for Organ and Orchestra. Other engagements include the Princeton University Chapel, Spreckels Organ Pavilion and International Organ Summer Karlsruhe, Germany. In July 2022 he was a featured performer at the national convention of the American Guild of Organists, held in Seattle WA.
In July 2019, Dr. Chriss was appointed as University Organist and Artist-in-Residence at Wesleyan University, where he teaches courses in organ and keyboard skills. In October 2019, he was awarded his Doctorate of Music degree from McGill University, where he studied with Hans-Ola Ericsson. He previously studied at Oberlin Conservatory of Music where he received his Master’s degree in historical keyboard and a Bachelor’s degree in Organ Performance, studying with Olivier Latry, Marie-Louise Langlais, and James David Christie.
Dr. Chriss is active as a church musician, guest lecturer, and remains engaged with his lifelong love of gospel and jazz music. He is currently Assistant Organist at Trinity Church Wall Street, New York City, and serves on the editorial board of Vox Humana magazine.
Dr. Chriss has performed throughout North America and Europe. Recent and upcoming performances include the International Orgelsommer (Stuttgart, Germany), Stockholm City Hall (Sweden), and as soloist with the Montreal Symphony in a performance of Copland’s Symphony for Organ and Orchestra. Other engagements include the Princeton University Chapel, Spreckels Organ Pavilion and International Organ Summer Karlsruhe, Germany. In July 2022 he was a featured performer at the national convention of the American Guild of Organists, held in Seattle WA.
In July 2019, Dr. Chriss was appointed as University Organist and Artist-in-Residence at Wesleyan University, where he teaches courses in organ and keyboard skills. In October 2019, he was awarded his Doctorate of Music degree from McGill University, where he studied with Hans-Ola Ericsson. He previously studied at Oberlin Conservatory of Music where he received his Master’s degree in historical keyboard and a Bachelor’s degree in Organ Performance, studying with Olivier Latry, Marie-Louise Langlais, and James David Christie.
Dr. Chriss is active as a church musician, guest lecturer, and remains engaged with his lifelong love of gospel and jazz music. He is currently Assistant Organist at Trinity Church Wall Street, New York City, and serves on the editorial board of Vox Humana magazine.
A featured star in the PBS documentary Pipe Dreams (2019), Alcee Chriss III is an organist and keyboardist from Fort Worth, TX.
Marvin Mills
Native Philadelphian Marvin Mills is organist at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church in Kensington, Maryland. He is also music director of the acclaimed National Spiritual Ensemble, and guest artist with the Ritz Chamber Players, based in Jacksonville, Florida. Previous positions include Associate Minister of Music at National City Christian Church, Director of Music at All Souls Church, Unitarian, and University Organist at Howard University, all in Washington, DC.
Active with the District of Columbia Chapter of the American Guild of Organists since 1984, he has served as dean (1990-1992), board member, Foundation trustee, Regional Convention secretary, and chairman for regional and chapter competitions, exemplifying his commitment to the mission of the Guild and his belief in the expressive power of the organ as an instrument for use in worship and concert. Since 1995, he has also participated in the Guild’s Pipe Organ Encounters for Youth and Adults, helping all ages to experience various aspects of pipe organ study.
Mr. Mills has performed for numerous chapters of The American Guild of Organists, was a featured recitalist in the Guild’s 1992 National, 1996 Centennial National conventions, and appeared at its 2010 Convention in Washington, DC. He opened the 1989 Wendell P. Whalum Concert Series at Morehouse College, performing for the entire student body. Presented in recital by the Washington National Cathedral in observance of Black History Month 1989, he was invited back for its 1995 and 2002 Summer Festival Series.
As clinician, he has given workshops for the Unitarian Universalists Musician’s Network, the Presbyterian Association of Musicians, Association of Disciples Musicians and at the regional and chapter levels of the American Guild of Organists spanning topics from the Negro Spiritual and organ music of Black Composers, to hymn playing, organ accompaniment and organ repertoire. He participated in a day-long seminar on the Sights and Sounds of the Pipe Organ sponsored by the Smithsonian Institute, focusing on the art of organ transcription using Moussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition as a model.
He has performed throughout the United States in such places as The Academy of Music, Philadelphia, The Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, The Barns, Wolf Trap Farm Park as well as historic churches in Krakow, Poland. He has appeared as guest artist with numerous choral groups including the Concert Artists of Baltimore, the Washington Bach Consort, the Cathedral Choral Society, the Folger Consort, Fairfax Choral Society, MasterSingers of Wilmington (DE), and Eastern Michigan University Chamber Choir. In the spring of 1992 Mr. Mills performed the complete organ works of Johann Sebastian Bach in a weekly series of fourteen programs on the 96 rank Rieger organ at All Souls Church, Unitarian. He made his west coast debut in July 1992 at the Spreckles Organ Pavilion International Organ Summer Concert Series in Balboa Park, San Diego and his New York City recital debut in July 1993 at the Riverside Church, returning in 2003. Concerto appearances include the Pittsburgh Symphony with conductor Isaiah Jackson (Rheinberger g minor), the Johns Hopkins Symphony (Rheinberger F major) and the Peabody Symphony (Rheinberger g minor). He has also performed with the Jacksonville Symphony in concertos by Handel, Rheinberger and Jongen as well as Hindemith’s Concerto for Organ and Orchestra. PipeDreams (Minnesota Public Radio) featured Mills in a broadcast Music of Color, his Kennedy Center Millennium Stage Recital was webcast.During the inaugural festival of the Fred J. Cooper Memorial Organ, Dobson organ Op. 76, in Verizon Hall of the Kimmel Center in Philadelphia, he was the first of five recitalists for the Saturday marathon.
For over a decade Mr. Mills has been a featured artist at the Shenandoah Valley Bach Festival as recitalist, chamber musician and choral conductor - preparing the Festival Chorus for major works such as: Haydn’s Creation, the Requiems of Mozart, Brahms and Verdi, Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9, and Handel’s Samson. A prize winning composer, his Four Spirituals for Denyce Graves have been performed throughout the country at colleges and universities by aspiring singers. A setting of a Phyllis Wheatley poem, On Virtue, was commissioned by the Cathedral of St. John the Divine for its Poets Corner. He made his theatrical conducting debut with the Washington Savoyards in its production of Scott Joplin’s Treemonisha in 2010 and is a vocal coach/staff pianist at Morgan State University.
Active with the District of Columbia Chapter of the American Guild of Organists since 1984, he has served as dean (1990-1992), board member, Foundation trustee, Regional Convention secretary, and chairman for regional and chapter competitions, exemplifying his commitment to the mission of the Guild and his belief in the expressive power of the organ as an instrument for use in worship and concert. Since 1995, he has also participated in the Guild’s Pipe Organ Encounters for Youth and Adults, helping all ages to experience various aspects of pipe organ study.
Mr. Mills has performed for numerous chapters of The American Guild of Organists, was a featured recitalist in the Guild’s 1992 National, 1996 Centennial National conventions, and appeared at its 2010 Convention in Washington, DC. He opened the 1989 Wendell P. Whalum Concert Series at Morehouse College, performing for the entire student body. Presented in recital by the Washington National Cathedral in observance of Black History Month 1989, he was invited back for its 1995 and 2002 Summer Festival Series.
As clinician, he has given workshops for the Unitarian Universalists Musician’s Network, the Presbyterian Association of Musicians, Association of Disciples Musicians and at the regional and chapter levels of the American Guild of Organists spanning topics from the Negro Spiritual and organ music of Black Composers, to hymn playing, organ accompaniment and organ repertoire. He participated in a day-long seminar on the Sights and Sounds of the Pipe Organ sponsored by the Smithsonian Institute, focusing on the art of organ transcription using Moussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition as a model.
He has performed throughout the United States in such places as The Academy of Music, Philadelphia, The Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, The Barns, Wolf Trap Farm Park as well as historic churches in Krakow, Poland. He has appeared as guest artist with numerous choral groups including the Concert Artists of Baltimore, the Washington Bach Consort, the Cathedral Choral Society, the Folger Consort, Fairfax Choral Society, MasterSingers of Wilmington (DE), and Eastern Michigan University Chamber Choir. In the spring of 1992 Mr. Mills performed the complete organ works of Johann Sebastian Bach in a weekly series of fourteen programs on the 96 rank Rieger organ at All Souls Church, Unitarian. He made his west coast debut in July 1992 at the Spreckles Organ Pavilion International Organ Summer Concert Series in Balboa Park, San Diego and his New York City recital debut in July 1993 at the Riverside Church, returning in 2003. Concerto appearances include the Pittsburgh Symphony with conductor Isaiah Jackson (Rheinberger g minor), the Johns Hopkins Symphony (Rheinberger F major) and the Peabody Symphony (Rheinberger g minor). He has also performed with the Jacksonville Symphony in concertos by Handel, Rheinberger and Jongen as well as Hindemith’s Concerto for Organ and Orchestra. PipeDreams (Minnesota Public Radio) featured Mills in a broadcast Music of Color, his Kennedy Center Millennium Stage Recital was webcast.During the inaugural festival of the Fred J. Cooper Memorial Organ, Dobson organ Op. 76, in Verizon Hall of the Kimmel Center in Philadelphia, he was the first of five recitalists for the Saturday marathon.
For over a decade Mr. Mills has been a featured artist at the Shenandoah Valley Bach Festival as recitalist, chamber musician and choral conductor - preparing the Festival Chorus for major works such as: Haydn’s Creation, the Requiems of Mozart, Brahms and Verdi, Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9, and Handel’s Samson. A prize winning composer, his Four Spirituals for Denyce Graves have been performed throughout the country at colleges and universities by aspiring singers. A setting of a Phyllis Wheatley poem, On Virtue, was commissioned by the Cathedral of St. John the Divine for its Poets Corner. He made his theatrical conducting debut with the Washington Savoyards in its production of Scott Joplin’s Treemonisha in 2010 and is a vocal coach/staff pianist at Morgan State University.
Native Philadelphian Marvin Mills is organist at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church in Kensington, Maryland.
Chuyoung Suter
Chuyoung Suter is an artist known for her lyrical and expressive playing on both the piano and organ. A native of Korea, she holds degrees in organ performance from Ewha Women’s University in Seoul and from Yale University in New Haven, CT. Her teachers were professors Moon-Kyung Chae, Thomas Murray, and Martin Jean. She has held positions as organist at churches in both Korea and in the US. Mrs. Suter is a multiple prize-winner at prestigious international organ competitions, including first prize in the 1995 Scholarship Competition of Westminster Choir College in Princeton, New Jersey; finalist in the 1998 Grand Prix de Chartres International Organ Competition in France; and finalist in the 2000 Dallas International Organ Competition in Dallas, TX. She recorded three CDs with the St. Francis Episcopal Church Choir, Potomac, Maryland. She has private piano students and she gives recitals and performs with various ensembles in the Washington, DC area. For 8 years, she was Head of Piano Study for the Choristers at Washington National Cathedral. She currently serves as Organist at Augustana Lutheran Church. Mrs. Suter is also a Group Fitness Instructor and Personal Trainer in the US Fitness health clubs in the Washington, DC area.
Chuyoung Suter is an artist known for her lyrical and expressive playing on both the piano and organ.
Christa Rakich
Concert and recording artist Christa Rakich performs widely throughout North America, Europe, and Japan. She is Visiting Professor of Organ at Oberlin Conservatory in Ohio through the academic year 2019-2020. Near her home in Connecticut, she maintains two Artist-in-Residencies: St. John’s Episcopal Church in West Hartford and the Congregational Church of Somers. Past Artist-in-Residencies have included the University of Pennsylvania and First Lutheran Church in Boston.
As a Fulbright Scholar, Christa Rakich studied with renowned Bach interpreter Anton Heiller at the Hochschule für Musik in Vienna, Austria. She holds Bachelor’s degrees in Organ and German from Oberlin College (Phi Beta Kappa). After receiving her Master’s degree with honors from New England Conservatory, she joined the faculty there, teaching for many years, and serving ultimately as department co-chair. She has also served on the faculties of Westminster Choir College, Brandeis University, and the University of Connecticut, and as Assistant University Organist at Harvard.
As a Fulbright Scholar, Christa Rakich studied with renowned Bach interpreter Anton Heiller at the Hochschule für Musik in Vienna, Austria. She holds Bachelor’s degrees in Organ and German from Oberlin College (Phi Beta Kappa). After receiving her Master’s degree with honors from New England Conservatory, she joined the faculty there, teaching for many years, and serving ultimately as department co-chair. She has also served on the faculties of Westminster Choir College, Brandeis University, and the University of Connecticut, and as Assistant University Organist at Harvard.
Concert and recording artist Christa Rakich performs widely throughout North America, Europe, and Japan.
Eric Plutz
Eric Plutz is University Organist at Princeton University. There his responsibilities include playing for weekly services at the Chapel, Academic Ceremonies, and solo concerts. He also manages the weekly After Noon Concert Series at the University Chapel, is Lecturer in Music and Instructor of Organ at Princeton University, and maintains a private studio. To honor Louis Vierne’s 150th birthday, Eric initiated The Vierne Project: performances of the complete organ symphonies. In addition to these ten performances across the country, a CD recording of the symphonies on six different instruments was released on the Affetto label in 2022. Mr. Plutz’s most recent recording, “B A C H – The Gamut from ‘A’ to ‘G’,” was released on the Affetto label in 2023. Showcasing organ works in A, B, C, D, E, F, and G, the album was recorded on the Mander/Skinner organ in Princeton University Chapel. More information is available at www.ericplutz.com.
Eric Plutz is University Organist at Princeton University. There his responsibilities include playing for weekly services at the Chapel, Academic Ceremonies, and solo concerts.
Bruce Stevens
Bruce Stevens is active as a recitalist in the U.S. and Europe and has performed frequently for national OHS conventions and regional AGO conventions. After receiving music degrees from the University of Richmond and the University of Illinois, he moved to Europe for three years of organ study, first in Copenhagen with Finn Viderø and Grethe Krogh and then in Vienna with Anton Heiller. Mr. Stevens was a finalist in the AGO organ performance competition as well as in other competitions held in Los Angeles and Fort Wayne. He has recorded seven discs for Raven Recordings, including a series of five CDs devoted to Josef Rheinberger’s organ sonatas played on various historic American organs. He is Instructor of Organ at the University of Richmond, Organist of Richmond’s First Presbyterian Church, Chairman of the Richmond Chapter AGO’s Organ Repertoire Recital Series, and the Director of Historic Organ Study Tours (HOST).
Bruce Stevens is active as a recitalist in the U.S. and Europe and has performed frequently for national OHS conventions and regional AGO conventions.
David Schelat
David Schelat is Minister of Music at First & Central Presbyterian Church in Wilmington, Delaware. At First & Central he directs all music for worship and is president and artistic director of Market Street Music (MSM), a non-profit corporation that creates musical experiences for audiences and musicians in the Delaware Valley. For MSM, he produces Thursday Noontime Concerts and Festival Concerts, as well as conducts Center City Chorale (a community choir of downtown workers), and Mastersingers of Wilmington (a concert choir of professional and amateur singers). Committed to new music, Mr. Schelat has facilitated commissions by Bruce Neswick, Gerald Near, and James Bassi and has conducted a number of Delaware premieres of recent compositions. In addition, he has explored a significant amount of secular and cross-cultural choral literature with the choral ensembles of First & Central and MSM.
As well as writing for the ensembles he conducts, he composes on commission. Recent commissions include Biblical Sketches for Trumpet and Organ (for the 2015 Mid-Atlantic AGO Convention in Pittsburgh), Anthem for the Annunciation and Before the Dawn of Time (for the 2013 SE Regional AGO Convention in Columbia, South Carolina) Fantasy for a Festive Occasion (for organist Marvin Mills), Organ Sonata (for organist Michael Britt), and What does the Lord require (for the East Liberty Presbyterian Church, Pittsburgh). His music appears in the catalogues of Oxford University Press, MorningStar Music, Selah Publishing Co., and Augsburg Fortress.
David Schelat is a frequent recitalist in the United States, and has been heard on the nationally syndicated program on National Public Media, “Pipedreams.” He has been heard in important venues such as Third Presbyterian Church in Chicago, Piccolo Spoleto Festival in Charleston, South Carolina, Cathedral of St. Philip in Atlanta; and the Grand Ballroom at Longwood Gardens in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania. He has performed as organist, conductor, or composer for five regional conventions of the AGO, as well as for conferences of the Hymn Society in the United States and Canada, and National Association of Pastoral Musicians.
As well as writing for the ensembles he conducts, he composes on commission. Recent commissions include Biblical Sketches for Trumpet and Organ (for the 2015 Mid-Atlantic AGO Convention in Pittsburgh), Anthem for the Annunciation and Before the Dawn of Time (for the 2013 SE Regional AGO Convention in Columbia, South Carolina) Fantasy for a Festive Occasion (for organist Marvin Mills), Organ Sonata (for organist Michael Britt), and What does the Lord require (for the East Liberty Presbyterian Church, Pittsburgh). His music appears in the catalogues of Oxford University Press, MorningStar Music, Selah Publishing Co., and Augsburg Fortress.
David Schelat is a frequent recitalist in the United States, and has been heard on the nationally syndicated program on National Public Media, “Pipedreams.” He has been heard in important venues such as Third Presbyterian Church in Chicago, Piccolo Spoleto Festival in Charleston, South Carolina, Cathedral of St. Philip in Atlanta; and the Grand Ballroom at Longwood Gardens in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania. He has performed as organist, conductor, or composer for five regional conventions of the AGO, as well as for conferences of the Hymn Society in the United States and Canada, and National Association of Pastoral Musicians.
David Schelat is a frequent recitalist in the United States, and has been heard on the nationally syndicated program on National Public Media, “Pipedreams.”
Michael Stefanek
Michael Stefanek is the Minister of Music at Brown Memorial Park Avenue Presbyterian Church in Baltimore, MD. From 2016-2024 Michael served as Director of Music Ministries at Asbury United Methodist Church in Salisbury, MD. In addition, Michael enjoyed being an active member of the local music community. He served as Dean of the Salisbury Chapter of the American Guild of Organists and was as an advisory board member of the Salisbury Symphony Orchestra. He has been a collaborative pianist with the Wicomico High School choir and served on a committee for a Sister Cities event that celebrated the 800th Anniversary of Salisbury Cathedral in England. Michael continues to serve on the board for the Salisbury Children’s Choir.
As a concert organist Michael has performed throughout the United States. Michael has been featured as an artist on “Delmarva in Performance” on WSCL 89.5 Delmarva Public Radio. In addition to the organ Michael has a love for choral music, which began at the age of 6 when he commenced singing in the Green Bay Boy Choir. He went on to sing in his high school choir, Oberlin College Musical Union, University of Michigan Choir, and the University of Michigan Early Music Ensemble. In 2018 Michael conducted the Ascension Oratorio of J. S. Bach at Asbury United Methodist Church in Salisbury, MD. In February of 2020 right before the pandemic hit Asbury’s choir joined forces with St. Alban’s Episcopal Church choir and the American Spiritual Ensemble for a concert featuring Duruflé’s Requiem.
Michael earned numerous awards, scholarships, and fellowships throughout his academic life. In the spring of 2001, he won second prize at the chapter level of the American Guild of Organists Regional Competition for Young Organists held in Cleveland, OH. In 2010 he was awarded a Rackham Graduate Student Research Grant that funded a chamber orchestra for Handel’s Concerto Op.4, No.4, which was performed on his second dissertation recital in Ann Arbor, MI.
Originally from Green Bay, WI Michael earned his Doctor of Musical Arts and Master of Music degrees in organ performance at the University of Michigan where he studied with James Kibbie and received additional coaching from Marilyn Mason. He received his Bachelor of Music degree in organ performance from Oberlin College Conservatory of Music where he studied with David Boe. While at Oberlin he also studied harpsichord with Lisa Goode Crawford. Michael began his organ studies in high school with Ruth Tweeten and had the unique opportunity to receive lessons at the Lutheran Summer Music Program in 1996 and 1997 with Martin Jean, Director of the Yale Institute of Sacred Music. Prior to pursuing organ, Michael was an accomplished pianist having studied with Bishop Michael Bent of Appleton, WI.
As a concert organist Michael has performed throughout the United States. Michael has been featured as an artist on “Delmarva in Performance” on WSCL 89.5 Delmarva Public Radio. In addition to the organ Michael has a love for choral music, which began at the age of 6 when he commenced singing in the Green Bay Boy Choir. He went on to sing in his high school choir, Oberlin College Musical Union, University of Michigan Choir, and the University of Michigan Early Music Ensemble. In 2018 Michael conducted the Ascension Oratorio of J. S. Bach at Asbury United Methodist Church in Salisbury, MD. In February of 2020 right before the pandemic hit Asbury’s choir joined forces with St. Alban’s Episcopal Church choir and the American Spiritual Ensemble for a concert featuring Duruflé’s Requiem.
Michael earned numerous awards, scholarships, and fellowships throughout his academic life. In the spring of 2001, he won second prize at the chapter level of the American Guild of Organists Regional Competition for Young Organists held in Cleveland, OH. In 2010 he was awarded a Rackham Graduate Student Research Grant that funded a chamber orchestra for Handel’s Concerto Op.4, No.4, which was performed on his second dissertation recital in Ann Arbor, MI.
Originally from Green Bay, WI Michael earned his Doctor of Musical Arts and Master of Music degrees in organ performance at the University of Michigan where he studied with James Kibbie and received additional coaching from Marilyn Mason. He received his Bachelor of Music degree in organ performance from Oberlin College Conservatory of Music where he studied with David Boe. While at Oberlin he also studied harpsichord with Lisa Goode Crawford. Michael began his organ studies in high school with Ruth Tweeten and had the unique opportunity to receive lessons at the Lutheran Summer Music Program in 1996 and 1997 with Martin Jean, Director of the Yale Institute of Sacred Music. Prior to pursuing organ, Michael was an accomplished pianist having studied with Bishop Michael Bent of Appleton, WI.
Michael Stefanek is the Minister of Music at Brown Memorial Park Avenue Presbyterian Church in Baltimore, MD.
Midori Ataka
Originally from Kobe, Japan, Midori Ataka is currently pursuing a Doctor of Musical Arts degree in Organ Performance at Peabody Conservatory of Johns Hopkins University, under the instruction of Daniel Aune. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in music from Northwestern College, and Master of Music and Graduate Performance Diploma degrees from Peabody. She has studied with John Walker and James Hurd, performing in masterclasses with Nathan Laube, Jean-Baptiste Robin, Marilyn Keiser, and Alan Morrison.
As a musician, Midori received numerous scholarships including the Donald S. Sutherland Endowed Organ Scholarship and George M. Wagner Scholarship. In 2022, she was inducted into the Epsilon Omicron chapter of Pi Kappa Lambda in recognition of her musical and academic achievements. Midori and composer Victor Cui were selected as one of four organist/composer pairs to win a grant for the 2023 American Guild of Organist Student Commissioning Project.
Putting doctoral education as an academic priority, Midori currently works as a substitute organist for churches in Baltimore/DC area including the Cathedral of Mary Our Queen, Loyola University Maryland, and St. Paul’s Episcopal Church.
As a musician, Midori received numerous scholarships including the Donald S. Sutherland Endowed Organ Scholarship and George M. Wagner Scholarship. In 2022, she was inducted into the Epsilon Omicron chapter of Pi Kappa Lambda in recognition of her musical and academic achievements. Midori and composer Victor Cui were selected as one of four organist/composer pairs to win a grant for the 2023 American Guild of Organist Student Commissioning Project.
Putting doctoral education as an academic priority, Midori currently works as a substitute organist for churches in Baltimore/DC area including the Cathedral of Mary Our Queen, Loyola University Maryland, and St. Paul’s Episcopal Church.
Originally from Kobe, Japan, Midori Ataka is currently pursuing a Doctor of Musical Arts degree in Organ Performance at Peabody Conservatory of Johns Hopkins University, under the instruction of Daniel Aune.
Cameron Kuzepski
Cameron Kuzepski, a native to Wilmington, Delaware is an advocate of historical performance practice. He is an undergraduate student at the Peabody Institute of the Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, MD. There he is earning degrees in organ performance as well as harpsichord historical performance. His professors include Dr. Daniel Aune (organ) and Dr. Adam Pearl (harpsichord). Previous teachers and mentors include David Schelat (organ), Dawn Stevens (piano), Marjorie Eldreth and Margaret Badger. Cameron previously attended Cab Calloway School of the Arts, The Music School of Delaware and the Juilliard School’s Pre College Division.
As a historical keyboard player, at the Peabody Institute Cameron is in high demand as a continuo player and accompanist for many ensembles, most notably the Baltimore Baroque under the direction of Dr. John Moran and Risa Browder. In addition he can also be seen accompanying lessons, coachings, recitals, departmentals, and other historical performance based classes.
During the summer of 2018 Cameron studied orchestral conducting with Dr. Ovidiu Marinescu and Dr. Vera Volchansky in Vidin, Bulgaria with the International Musicians Academy along-side the Vidin Sinfonietta. There he developed a love for ensemble work and chamber music. In August of 2022, he participated in an internship with the Nederlandse Bachvereniging (Netherlands Bach Society) in Utrecht, Holland; one of his favorite musical organizations. There he spent two weeks studying historical performance practices as well as ensemble and rehearsal techniques. Over the past three years Cameron’s love for historical performance practices have grown tremendously. In June, 2023 he traveled to Paris, where he studied and played the organs of Saint-Gervais, Saint-Étienne-du-Mont, Saint-Sulpice, Saint-Vincent-de-Paul, Sainte-Trinité, Saint-François-Xavier, Saint-Clotilde, Saint Eustache and the Royal Chapel of the Palace of Versailles. Masterclass opportunities have been with Nathan Laube, Jean-Baptiste Robin, David Hurd and Jean Rondeau. In March, 2024 Cameron will participate in an internship with Tempesta di Mare in a performance of Vivaldi’s Juditha triumphans.
Outside of Cameron’s musical endeavors he enjoys spending time with loved ones, family, friends, and his girlfriend Caitlin. In addition he will take advantage of any opportunities to travel both domestically and internationally.
As a historical keyboard player, at the Peabody Institute Cameron is in high demand as a continuo player and accompanist for many ensembles, most notably the Baltimore Baroque under the direction of Dr. John Moran and Risa Browder. In addition he can also be seen accompanying lessons, coachings, recitals, departmentals, and other historical performance based classes.
During the summer of 2018 Cameron studied orchestral conducting with Dr. Ovidiu Marinescu and Dr. Vera Volchansky in Vidin, Bulgaria with the International Musicians Academy along-side the Vidin Sinfonietta. There he developed a love for ensemble work and chamber music. In August of 2022, he participated in an internship with the Nederlandse Bachvereniging (Netherlands Bach Society) in Utrecht, Holland; one of his favorite musical organizations. There he spent two weeks studying historical performance practices as well as ensemble and rehearsal techniques. Over the past three years Cameron’s love for historical performance practices have grown tremendously. In June, 2023 he traveled to Paris, where he studied and played the organs of Saint-Gervais, Saint-Étienne-du-Mont, Saint-Sulpice, Saint-Vincent-de-Paul, Sainte-Trinité, Saint-François-Xavier, Saint-Clotilde, Saint Eustache and the Royal Chapel of the Palace of Versailles. Masterclass opportunities have been with Nathan Laube, Jean-Baptiste Robin, David Hurd and Jean Rondeau. In March, 2024 Cameron will participate in an internship with Tempesta di Mare in a performance of Vivaldi’s Juditha triumphans.
Outside of Cameron’s musical endeavors he enjoys spending time with loved ones, family, friends, and his girlfriend Caitlin. In addition he will take advantage of any opportunities to travel both domestically and internationally.
Cameron Kuzepski, a native to Wilmington, Delaware is an advocate of historical performance practice.
Roy L. Belfield, Jr.
Roy L. Belfield, Jr., was born in 1968 and is a native of Petersburg, Virginia. He began his undergraduate studies in music at Dillard University in New Orleans, Louisiana. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Music from Morehouse College in Atlanta, Master's degrees in Music Education and Organ Performance from Florida State University in Tallahassee, and the Doctor of Musical Arts degree in Organ Performance from the University of Missouri-Kansas City Conservatory of Music. He has also completed additional studies in vocal pedagogy at the University of Alabama.
As an educator, Dr. Belfield has taught students from preschool to college. As a church musician, he has served six denominations throughout the country. He currently serves as Church Organist at United Metropolitan Missionary Baptist Church in Winston-Salem. As composer and arranger, Belfield has written works for chorus, voice and piano, and organ. His choral and organ compositions are published by Mark Foster, a division of Shawnee Press, MorningStar Music, GIA Publications, and Wayne Leupold Editions. Belfield’s articles have been published in The American Organist and Choral Journal.
Belfield is currently Assistant Professor of Music, University Organist, and Assistant Director of Choral Studies at Winston-Salem State University in North Carolina. At Winston-Salem State, he teaches Music Theory, Choral Arranging, and accompanies the Winston-Salem State University Choir. He also serves as director of Schola Cantorum, the University Men’s Ensemble. Belfield served on the faculty at Stillman College in Tuscaloosa, Alabama before coming to Winston-Salem State University.
As an educator, Dr. Belfield has taught students from preschool to college. As a church musician, he has served six denominations throughout the country. He currently serves as Church Organist at United Metropolitan Missionary Baptist Church in Winston-Salem. As composer and arranger, Belfield has written works for chorus, voice and piano, and organ. His choral and organ compositions are published by Mark Foster, a division of Shawnee Press, MorningStar Music, GIA Publications, and Wayne Leupold Editions. Belfield’s articles have been published in The American Organist and Choral Journal.
Belfield is currently Assistant Professor of Music, University Organist, and Assistant Director of Choral Studies at Winston-Salem State University in North Carolina. At Winston-Salem State, he teaches Music Theory, Choral Arranging, and accompanies the Winston-Salem State University Choir. He also serves as director of Schola Cantorum, the University Men’s Ensemble. Belfield served on the faculty at Stillman College in Tuscaloosa, Alabama before coming to Winston-Salem State University.
Roy L. Belfield, Jr., was born in 1968 and is a native of Petersburg, Virginia. He began his undergraduate studies in music at Dillard University in New Orleans, Louisiana.
Dominic Fiacco
Dominic Fiacco is a rising sophomore at the Eastman School of Music, where he is an organ performance major in Nathan Laube's studio. He previously studied with Stephen Best, lecturer in music at Hamilton College.
Fiacco has given many recitals, notably at the Cathedral Church of St. John the Divine in New York City and at the Cadet Chapel at West Point. He attended several summer intensives in Philadelphia, where he performed in Field Hall at the Curtis Institute of Music and on the Wanamaker Organ in Macy’s. In 2023, he played the dedicatory recital on Hamilton College’s new organ, later appearing with the Hamilton College Orchestra as soloist. He was also named to The Diapason's 20 under 30 Class of 2023.
Fiacco also studies piano, having won prizes in several competitions. Former teachers include Sar-Shalom Strong, lecturer in music at Hamilton College. Fiacco intends to become a concert organist.
Fiacco has given many recitals, notably at the Cathedral Church of St. John the Divine in New York City and at the Cadet Chapel at West Point. He attended several summer intensives in Philadelphia, where he performed in Field Hall at the Curtis Institute of Music and on the Wanamaker Organ in Macy’s. In 2023, he played the dedicatory recital on Hamilton College’s new organ, later appearing with the Hamilton College Orchestra as soloist. He was also named to The Diapason's 20 under 30 Class of 2023.
Fiacco also studies piano, having won prizes in several competitions. Former teachers include Sar-Shalom Strong, lecturer in music at Hamilton College. Fiacco intends to become a concert organist.
Dominic Fiacco is a rising sophomore at the Eastman School of Music, where he is an organ performance major in Nathan Laube's studio.
Christian Cang cuesta
Christian Cang cuesta is a pipe organist who seeks for his playing to connect emotionally and intellectually with his audiences. He pays particular attention to tempo and articulation in order to convey musical meaning.
Christian first taught himself Bach’s Little Fugue in G Minor on a Hammond before successfully auditioning for Peabody Conservatory. He is now a fifth-year student of Daniel Aune and serves as his organ scholar at Christ Lutheran Inner Harbor. Christian will graduate in 2025 with both his Masters and his Bachelor degrees.
At Peabody, he became a close collaborator of British composer Tristan Latchford. Christian has worked on movements from Women in the Bible and has premiered his evocative organ concerto, titled Tides.
Despite his dedication to the organ, Christian still misses the orchestra dearly and has started harp lessons as an outlet. He enjoys reading literature, learning languages, and writing reviews, poetry, and short stories.
Christian first taught himself Bach’s Little Fugue in G Minor on a Hammond before successfully auditioning for Peabody Conservatory. He is now a fifth-year student of Daniel Aune and serves as his organ scholar at Christ Lutheran Inner Harbor. Christian will graduate in 2025 with both his Masters and his Bachelor degrees.
At Peabody, he became a close collaborator of British composer Tristan Latchford. Christian has worked on movements from Women in the Bible and has premiered his evocative organ concerto, titled Tides.
Despite his dedication to the organ, Christian still misses the orchestra dearly and has started harp lessons as an outlet. He enjoys reading literature, learning languages, and writing reviews, poetry, and short stories.
Christian Cang cuesta is a pipe organist who seeks for his playing to connect emotionally and intellectually with his audiences.
W. Patrick Alston
A native Baltimorean W. Patrick Alston has performed throughout the United States and abroad as a solo artist, composer, and an accompanist in prestigious venues that include: The White House (3), Carnegie Hall, the Auditorium De Milan. He has served as organist, pianist, and music administrator for various churches in Baltimore City and has been active in church music for over thirty-five (35) years. He currently serves as the worship music consultant for New Shiloh Baptist Church in Baltimore. He is also a staff organist at the Sligo Seventh Day Adventist Church where he has served for 16 years of service. Recently, he has authored and composed two publications for organ performance through GIA Music.
He holds the following degrees, certificates, and honors: MM from the Peabody Institute of the Johns Hopkins University (2013) music education, honorary doctorate in sacred music from the Eastern Theological Seminary (2007), BA in piano performance from the University of Maryland Baltimore County (1996), Colleague certificate from the American Guild of Organists (1998).
He is married to Seanne Alston, and they are the proud parents of two children.
He holds the following degrees, certificates, and honors: MM from the Peabody Institute of the Johns Hopkins University (2013) music education, honorary doctorate in sacred music from the Eastern Theological Seminary (2007), BA in piano performance from the University of Maryland Baltimore County (1996), Colleague certificate from the American Guild of Organists (1998).
He is married to Seanne Alston, and they are the proud parents of two children.
A native Baltimorean W. Patrick Alston has performed throughout the United States and abroad as a solo artist, composer, and an accompanist.
Wendy Johnston
Wendy Johnston is Organist and Assistant Director of Music at Catonsville Presbyterian Church in Catonsville, Maryland. She has a Master of Music in Organ Performance from the Peabody Institute, and a Bachelor of Music from Shenandoah Conservatory. Teachers include John Walker, Wayne Wold, and Dale Krider.
During her graduate studies at Peabody, Ms. Johnston was named Organ Scholar at the historic Zion Lutheran Church in Baltimore. She has been coached by Martin Jean, Nathan Laube and Alan Morrison. During post-graduate study abroad, Wendy had additional coaching with Jean-Baptiste Robin at the Versailles Royal Chapel in Versailles, France.
Wendy has presented and taught at Brigham Young University Organ Workshops in Provo, Utah, and BYU Traveling Organ Workshops throughout the United States. She has an active teaching studio of students of all ages and levels.
Wendy Johnston is a member of the AGO and holds the Associateship Certificate.
During her graduate studies at Peabody, Ms. Johnston was named Organ Scholar at the historic Zion Lutheran Church in Baltimore. She has been coached by Martin Jean, Nathan Laube and Alan Morrison. During post-graduate study abroad, Wendy had additional coaching with Jean-Baptiste Robin at the Versailles Royal Chapel in Versailles, France.
Wendy has presented and taught at Brigham Young University Organ Workshops in Provo, Utah, and BYU Traveling Organ Workshops throughout the United States. She has an active teaching studio of students of all ages and levels.
Wendy Johnston is a member of the AGO and holds the Associateship Certificate.
Wendy Johnston is Organist and Assistant Director of Music at Catonsville Presbyterian Church in Catonsville, Maryland.
Ted Davis
Theodore S. (Ted) Davis is an active organ and harpsichord recitalist as well as a chamber music performer, educator, and conductor based in Baltimore. He has performed throughout the Eastern United States, as well as in England and Japan. He has achieved national recognition in organ-playing competitions, and is an active composer with works printed by two publishers. Since 2005, he has been organist and choirmaster at St. Bartholomew’s Episcopal Church in Baltimore, and previously held similar positions in Richmond, Virginia and Cambridge, Massachusetts. He recently received his doctoral degree from the Peabody Conservatory.
As part of the music series Ted has established at St. Bartholomew's, he conducts the church choir in choral evensong services, presents an annual “Bach at St. Bartholomew’s” series (music of J.S. Bach for organ and harpsichord), and conducts choral concerts. He also leads the newly-launched Choir School of West Baltimore, and is founder and music director of the concert Baroque Opera ensemble Opera Henriette.
As part of the music series Ted has established at St. Bartholomew's, he conducts the church choir in choral evensong services, presents an annual “Bach at St. Bartholomew’s” series (music of J.S. Bach for organ and harpsichord), and conducts choral concerts. He also leads the newly-launched Choir School of West Baltimore, and is founder and music director of the concert Baroque Opera ensemble Opera Henriette.
Theodore S. (Ted) Davis is an active organ and harpsichord recitalist as well as a chamber music performer, educator, and conductor based in Baltimore.
Nicole Keller
Nicole Keller is in demand as a concert artist, adjudicator, and clinician. She specializes in eclectic programs suited to instrument and audience with a desire to expand the listener’s horizons, pairing familiar sounds and genres with less familiar ones. Her performances with orchestras includes concertos, works for small chamber orchestra, and large works involving organ, harpsichord, and piano. Ms. Keller has extensive experience as a chamber musician and as a continuo player, including many performances of Bach’s St. Matthew and St. John Passions, the Christmas Oratorio, and the Mass in B minor in addition to a host of cantatas and baroque chamber music. She is faculty of the School of Music, Theatre & Dance at the University of Michigan.
Nicole Keller is in demand as a concert artist, adjudicator, and clinician.
Peter Crisafulli
Peter Crisafulli received both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in music from Northwestern University and has been a full-time church musician for fifty years. Published compositions include liturgical music, music for flute and keyboard, and choral and organ works. The history, design and construction of keyboard instruments is a passionate interest, and he has built his own chamber organ, regal, and harpsichord. Peter is an honorary member of the Sigma Alpha Iota professional music fraternity. He is active in church and music-related organizations, including the Organ Historical Society. As a recitalist, he has performed both solo and with his wife, Linda, a professional flutist, and he has performed for several O.H.S. conventions. Peter serves as Minister of Music at All Saints Church, Chevy Chase, Maryland, a position he has held since 1988.
Peter Crisafulli received both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in music from Northwestern University and has been a full-time church musician for fifty years.
Tedde Gibson
Tedde Gibson is a pianist and classical, Hammond and theatre organist, composer, arranger, and silent film scorer. The Tacoma, WA native began organ study at 16 with former AGO president Dr. Edward Hansen at the University of Puget Sound. Tedde later studied with Dr. Carol Terry and Dr. J. Melvin Butler at the University of Washington, classical organ improvisation with David Dahl, Pacific Lutheran University, and theatre organ arranging with Jonas Nordwall and Andy Crow.
East Coast coaches include Dr. Mickey Thomas Terry, Howard University, Dr. John Walker, and Donald Sutherland of Peabody Conservatory. He is the Director of Fine Arts at Mount Pleasant Church and Ministries in Baltimore, MD.
He was featured on NBC Nightly News Weekend Edition, the PBS production of "Wicked in Concert," and has performed for AGO and ATOS conventions. Tedde is ex-officio of the American Theatre Organ Society. Augsburg Fortress publishes his organ compositions. www.teddegibson.com
East Coast coaches include Dr. Mickey Thomas Terry, Howard University, Dr. John Walker, and Donald Sutherland of Peabody Conservatory. He is the Director of Fine Arts at Mount Pleasant Church and Ministries in Baltimore, MD.
He was featured on NBC Nightly News Weekend Edition, the PBS production of "Wicked in Concert," and has performed for AGO and ATOS conventions. Tedde is ex-officio of the American Theatre Organ Society. Augsburg Fortress publishes his organ compositions. www.teddegibson.com
Tedde Gibson is a pianist and classical, Hammond and theatre organist, composer, arranger, and silent film scorer.
Andrew Johnson
Andrew Johnson, AAGO, ChM, plans to one day teach and inspire the next generation of performers, academics, and church musicians. A native of Bloomington, Illinois, he is currently pursuing a DMA degree in organ performance and literature at the Eastman School of Music, where he studies with David Higgs and serves as a teaching assistant in aural skills. Andrew previously earned an MM degree and a graduate performance diploma from the Peabody Conservatory, where he studied with Daniel Aune and was a graduate assistant in ear training. He earned a BM degree, summa cum laude, from Illinois Wesleyan University, studying organ with Susan Klotzbach and voice and choral conducting with J. Scott Ferguson. Additional private organ study has been with John Walker, Marie-Louise Langlais, and Jean-Baptiste Robin.
Andrew is assistant organist at Christ Church (Episcopal) in Rochester, New York, following tenures as organist and choirmaster at Mount Calvary Catholic Church in Baltimore, Maryland, and organist and choir director at Wesley United Methodist Church in Bloomington, Illinois.
An active member of the American Guild of Organists (AGO), Andrew serves as chair of the National Committee for Career Development and Support and earned the 2023 S. Lewis Elmer Award. His research has been published in The American Organist and The Tracker magazines and his competition credits include earning second place in the Sursa American Organ Competition (2022), first place in the inaugural James M. Weaver Prize in Organ Scholarship (2023), and being a semifinalist in the AGO National Young Artists Competition in Organ Performance (2024).
Andrew is assistant organist at Christ Church (Episcopal) in Rochester, New York, following tenures as organist and choirmaster at Mount Calvary Catholic Church in Baltimore, Maryland, and organist and choir director at Wesley United Methodist Church in Bloomington, Illinois.
An active member of the American Guild of Organists (AGO), Andrew serves as chair of the National Committee for Career Development and Support and earned the 2023 S. Lewis Elmer Award. His research has been published in The American Organist and The Tracker magazines and his competition credits include earning second place in the Sursa American Organ Competition (2022), first place in the inaugural James M. Weaver Prize in Organ Scholarship (2023), and being a semifinalist in the AGO National Young Artists Competition in Organ Performance (2024).
Andrew Johnson, AAGO, ChM, plans to one day teach and inspire the next generation of performers, academics, and church musicians.
Roshan Chakane
Roshan Chakane is a South African born organist and musical director, currently a Presidential Scholarship Organ Performance Doctoral student at the University of Notre Dame under the tutelage of Professor Kola Owolabi.
Roshan was born in Kimberley, South Africa. He commenced his career as a middle school student at the prestigious Drakensberg Boys’ Choir School, studying under Dr Marinda Snyman, and later completing his Bachelor of Music degree specializing in Organ Performance at Stellenbosch University under the tutelage of Dr Mario Nell.
Roshan has excelled as a performer throughout his career, and has won the top organ prizes and scholarships in South Africa. Career accolades include achieving distinction in his Grade 8 Organ and Piano examinations with the University of South Africa (UNISA), First Prize Winner of the ATKV Albert Engel Prize, and recipient of scholarships from the South African Church Organisation (SAKOV) and South African Music Rights Organisation (SAMRO) Academic Scholarships.
Roshan relocated to the US in 2016, graduating with a Masters degree in Organ Performance from Rutgers University’s Mason Gross School of the Arts, under the tutelage of Professor Renée Anne Louprette. During this time Roshan also received a number of accolades, including 1st Prize at The Brooklyn AGO competition in 2016, and was also awarded a Biggs Fellowship for the annual Organ Historical Society Conference held in Rochester, New York in July 2018.
Roshan is also an experienced musical director, including being the Musical Director at Northlink College in Bellville, Cape Town, and Director of Music at St Paul’s Anglican Church in Rondebosch, Cape Town. During his residency at Northlink College, Roshan directed the musicals Hair (2013), Evita (2014) and Sarafina (2015). Chakane is currently the Director of Music and organist at Chester Presbyterian Church in Chester, Virginia.
Roshan was born in Kimberley, South Africa. He commenced his career as a middle school student at the prestigious Drakensberg Boys’ Choir School, studying under Dr Marinda Snyman, and later completing his Bachelor of Music degree specializing in Organ Performance at Stellenbosch University under the tutelage of Dr Mario Nell.
Roshan has excelled as a performer throughout his career, and has won the top organ prizes and scholarships in South Africa. Career accolades include achieving distinction in his Grade 8 Organ and Piano examinations with the University of South Africa (UNISA), First Prize Winner of the ATKV Albert Engel Prize, and recipient of scholarships from the South African Church Organisation (SAKOV) and South African Music Rights Organisation (SAMRO) Academic Scholarships.
Roshan relocated to the US in 2016, graduating with a Masters degree in Organ Performance from Rutgers University’s Mason Gross School of the Arts, under the tutelage of Professor Renée Anne Louprette. During this time Roshan also received a number of accolades, including 1st Prize at The Brooklyn AGO competition in 2016, and was also awarded a Biggs Fellowship for the annual Organ Historical Society Conference held in Rochester, New York in July 2018.
Roshan is also an experienced musical director, including being the Musical Director at Northlink College in Bellville, Cape Town, and Director of Music at St Paul’s Anglican Church in Rondebosch, Cape Town. During his residency at Northlink College, Roshan directed the musicals Hair (2013), Evita (2014) and Sarafina (2015). Chakane is currently the Director of Music and organist at Chester Presbyterian Church in Chester, Virginia.
Roshan Chakane is a South African born organist and musical director, currently a Presidential Scholarship Organ Performance Doctoral student at the University of Notre Dame under the tutelage of Professor Kola Owolabi.