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World-renowned organist to be artist-in-residence at Evangel University

August 25, 2008
Contact: Paul K. Logsdon, director of public relations and publications (417) 865-2815, ext. 7292

Springfield, Mo. — World-renowned organist Mark Thallander will serve as artist-in-residence at Evangel University this year. He is only the second person in Evangel history to be designated as such.

Thallander is best known for his long and distinguished ministry at Dr. Robert Schuller’s church, the Crystal Cathedral in Garden Grove, Calif., where he assisted Schuller with “Hour of Power” television scripting and performed on TV many times during his 18-year tenure.

He is currently a freelance organist, an organ editor for the Fred Bock Music Company and an adjunct professor of organ at Glendale College.

“We are excited that Mark Thallander will be joining the Evangel University Music Department in this capacity,” said Dr. Michael Kolstad, music department chair. “Not only is he a world-class performer and teacher, he is a wonderful human being with much to offer our students.”

In recent years, he has served as a clinician and organist for national music and worship conferences, including the American Guild of Organists, the Royal Canadian College of Organists, the Fred Bock Institute of Music and national church conventions, such as the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church, the General Council of the Assemblies of God and the General Synod of the Reformed Church in America.

Thallander earned a Master of Arts degree in music at California State University and has completed doctoral level studies in sacred music and organ at the University of Southern California. For his undergrad work, he attended numerous schools, including Evangel University.

“Being invited to return to one’s alma mater is always a special honor and I am extremely excited to serve at Evangel University,” said Thallander. “I am looking forward to working alongside the stellar faculty and talented students, and sharing my passion for the unique and evolving role of the pipe organ in the ministry of music.”

Tragedy changes approach to music

During the summer of 2003, Thallander had a typically busy schedule, with performances ranging from Carnegie Hall to the Royal Canadian College of Organists. On August 3, 2003, he was involved in a tragic car accident that resulted in amputation of his left arm at the shoulder. Since then, he has learned to adapt to playing the organ with one arm and two feet.

Thallander will be available on Evangel’s campus the week of April 13-17. During that time, he will be working with organ students and assisting in various music classes as well as performing a concert in the chapel.

For more information, contact Dr. Michael Kolstad at 417-865-2715, ext. 7390.

Evangel University is a private, coeducational university that offers more than 100 undergraduate academic programs and eight master’s programs. Evangel draws students from all 50 states and abroad.