About Music at St. George's

Music is important in the life of St. George’s. With our fine acoustics and sumptuous Ingram Music Suite, we have excellent resources, and the parish has a long tradition of the finest in Anglican church music. Previous directors have included Sam Batt Owens, well-known leader in Episcopal church music, composer Scott Withrow, noted choral conductor Gregg Colson and Dr. Wilma Jensen, now Organist/Choirmaster emerita, Dr. Murray Somerville, founder of Music City Baroque. Most recently, St. George's was directed by Dr. Mark Ring.

Our Associate Director of Music and Organist is Gerry Senechal.  Our accomplished musicians continue the tradition of high quality music as they lead five choirs and numerous guest artists in our worship and special programs and concerts throughout the year.  Sundays feature our adult choir, St. George’s and regularly scheduled opportunities for the Youth and Children’s Choirs.  

If you have any questions about the Music Programs at St. George's, please contact Kim Messer, Music Librarian & Administrator at 615-385-2150 x 253.

 

Music as Mission

This unique book tells the history of music at St. George's Church.  It can be purchased in the bookstore.  All proceeds are split evenly between the bookstore and the Music Scholarship Fund.

Formed as a mission of Christ Church, now Christ Church Cathedral, some 60 years ago, St. George's has from its very beginnings seen music as a prominent element of its worship.  This book traces the course of that story from its beginnings to the present day and offers glimpses into the future.  The writers were a group of parishioners bound together by their love for the church and its music, and they represent more than 150 years of choir service.  The book opens with an essay on the Anglican Church music tradition, and that element is woven into the fabric of the musical history.  The middle chapters relate the history of music staff and choirs, and the final chapter covers organs and bells.  Financial considerations, current music administration interviews, a long-range planning report, and furture plans are included in the appendices.  There is a helpful index of personal names. This book will be of interest not only to St. George's communicants but also to others in the local and regional musical community.  Churches of all denominations will find it a useful template for their own musical histories.