Music Program

Redeemer has a long tradition of liturgical music (including Pittsburgh’s last choir of men and boys, disbanded in the 1970’s) and is blessed with talented musicians willing to share their gifts. The Organist – Choirmaster, William Ogburn, is dedicated to preserving  sacred music, especially the Anglican choral tradition (from Plainsong and Anglican chant psalmody, to anthems and motets by Thomas Tallis, William Byrd, Christopher Tye, Edward Cuthbert Bairstow, C. H. H. Perry, Ralph Vaughan Williams, Herbert Howells, Everett Titcomb, and Healey Willan to name a few) while including the best of the American choral tradition (e.g. William Billings, Spirituals, Harold Friedell, etc.) and present-day compositions (e.g. Alastair Stout, John Becker, and John Bell). The Choir, comprising about 15 members, sings each Sunday from the second week in September through Trinity Sunday annually and occasionally for Evensongs and Services of Lessons and Carols.  Solo and ensemble performances by the parish’s instrumentalists and vocalists throughout the year provide an added dimension to the joyous sound of Redeemer.

Atlanta native William Ogburn has served as Organist – Choirmaster since 2005.  A graduate of Presbyterian College in Sacred Music – with honors, William is on the Executive Board of the Pittsburgh Chapter of the American Guild of Organists, where he serves as editor of the monthly newsletter, is a member of the Association of Anglican Musicians, sings with the Pittsburgh Compline Choir, and also serves on staff in the music school at Duquesne University.  William is also in discernment for priesthood in the Episcopal Church.

The organ at Redeemer was installed by Gress-Miles in 1979, although never completed.  Between 2006 and 2009 significant and sufficient funds were donated to rebuild.  Peter Luley of Luley and Associates was hired for the task.  The major changes include a new oboe at 4,’ 8,’ and 16,’ a redesigned console with draw knobs at a 45 degree angle, a 21-level memory bank, new wiring, and revoiced pipework.   Autumn 2010 is the slated completion date.  A concert series will follow to celebrate the project.  

For more information, please email william.ogburn@gmail.com.