Music adds an emotional element to liturgical worship, creating a mood of reverence and bringing the congregation together in songs of praise. As musicians, we both lead the hymns and offer our anthems as an integral part of the service. My wife Barbara, daughter Andrea and I have been active members of the St. Ambrose congregation since 1996. We were previously at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Ross, where I served as organist and keyboard leader of their contemporary “Folk Mass” for over twenty years. A graduate of Juilliard in Piano and pedagogy, I taught piano and opera at Indiana University before coming to California in 1966.
“Sing to Him, sing praises to Him; tell of all His wondrous works.” (I Chronicles 16:9)
At St. Ambrose each week, the choir shares music related to the lessons of the day, as well as joining with everyone in the hymns. As Scripture so often suggests, music is one way in which to offer our worship and share with others, as part of each service.
Singing and sacred music has long been a part of my life. I remember singing duets in church with my older sister since the age of four. It is a wonderful way to share the goodness of God. With singing being such an integral part of my life, that led me to Manhattan School of Music and a master’s degree in vocal performance. My late husband, James, and I performed recitals and oratorios together. I have been singing and directing choirs for many years, leading me to New York, Texas, Wisconsin, India, and now the Bay Area. It is a privilege to be able to share music with the congregation at St. Ambrose, as well as to be closer in miles to all of my family in the area.