Desmond Tutu’s first visit to All Saints Church
What a thrill it was to be in the presence of this giant of peace, justice and reconciliation. I was awe-struck. This first visit was during the time that Apartheid was still very much the law of the land in South Africa. All Saints and the Anglican Church in South Africa had established a relationship, working together to help dismantle that system of extreme oppression. So, this visit was a celebration of that relationship and a re-commitment to the cause. It was the first time the All Saints choirs learned and sang "Nkosi Sikelel 'iAfrica". At each of the Archbishop's visit, over the years, I always remember his kindness and appreciation of the musicians. So very gracious.
The Mind of a Professional
The mind of a professional has a great deal to do with attitude. A lifetime of training, study and practice builds an attitude of excellence and a tolerance for only the very best in program and performance.
James Walker has this kind of attitude. And, >
Carrie Holzman-Little begins contracting instrumentalists
I remember when Carrie started doing this, especially because she was pregnant. The choir was doing a Howard Hanson piece with chamber ensemble, and she and I did a viola/organ piece together. I don’t know how she stood up to play. When I became Director of Music in 1991, she and I >
Young and Gifted
While keyboard training is very important at the beginning of any musical career, James found that although the spirit was willing, the body was, at times, uncooperative.
James finally made the stretch. And, with persistence and a couple of years, high notes were no longer an obstacle. Because of that early hard work, he was an >
His First Organ Shoes
Even at an early age, James was ambitious and, it’s rumored, he was a bit undersized when he prevailed upon his parents to purchase those first super shiny organ shoes.
Well, today James has no problem fitting into those well-used organ shoes and he certainly knows how to use them too.
You may have asked yourself, “Why >