I grew up in Portland, OR, and moved to the Seattle area (Auburn, WA) in high school. I began piano study at the age of 7, and organ study in high school. The son of two church musicians and organists, I was also involved in the musical life of the congregations I grew up in. As a high schooler, I attended Lutheran Summer Music, another formative musical experience.
I went to St. Olaf College for my undergraduate, studying organ with Dr. Catherine Rodland. There, I met my future wife, Valerie. After graduating with a Bachelor of Music, I earned my Master’s in Organ Performance at Eastman School of Music, studying with Prof. David Higgs. Post-graduatation, I served as the Association of Anglican Musicians Gerre Hancock Intern at St. James Episcopal Cathedral, Chicago, under the mentorship of Director of Music Stephen Buzard.
As a recitalist, I have performed around the United States and Canada, including the 2016 and 2017 conventions of the Organ Historical Society. Other venues include Methuen Memorial Music Hall, in Massachusetts, and St. Joseph’s Oratory, Montreal. Every organ has its own unique style and personality, which is one thing I love about being an organist.
In August, 2020, I was thrilled to begin my work at Central Lutheran Church. Central is a place steeped in the Lutheran liturgical tradition that I had grown to love during my time at St. Olaf, with a landmark organ, and most importantly, a warm, supportive, and talented community of people. As Director of Music and Principal Organist, I oversee the music department at Central, plan liturgical music in consultation with the pastors and choir director, and direct our children’s music program, the Choristers. It is a privilege to serve alongside so many wonderful people here.
My wife, Valerie, and I were married at Central in 2021. Valerie is a Music Therapist at Optage Hospice (Presbyterian Homes). We are both lovers of good food, sometimes cooking up a storm in the kitchen, and other times enjoying the Twin Cities restaurant scene. In my free time, I may be found cycling, hiking, and cross-country skiing. In particular, I enjoy backpacking trips in the Pacific Northwest mountains, often with my dad. Valerie and I enjoy travel as well, including a memorable 2022 trip to Alaska’s Denali National Park and Kenai Peninsula.