Dr. Dianne Maynard-Christensen is a performer, teacher and church musician in the Rochester area. In addition to teaching organ at Nazareth College, she is on the music faculty at the Eastman School of Music, where she teaches part of the Sacred Music curriculum. She is also the Director of Music and Organist for Faith Lutheran Church in Rochester, NY, a position she has held since 1991. There she oversees a large music ministry consisting of many vocal, handbell, and instrumental ensembles for all ages. She also coordinates the liturgies as well as special services and concerts throughout the year.
Dr. Maynard has performed around the United States, as well as in Europe, the British Isles, Scandinavia, and Israel. She has also been heard on the nationally syndicated radio program, Pipedreams. She has given lectures and master classes in organ literature, church music, and various worship related topics for colleges, churches, and professional organizations around the United States.
A past Dean for several chapters of the American Guild of Organists, including the Rochester, NY Chapter, Dr. Maynard is committed to providing educational opportunities for organists of all ages. She has served as an adjudicator for organ competitions on both the national and regional levels. She also has a special interest in bringing the pipe organ to young people and has served on the faculty of a number of Pipe Organ Encounters in various states.
Dr. Maynard holds the Doctor of Music and the Master of Music degrees from the Eastman School of Music, where she studied with David Craighead, Russell Saunders, and David Higgs. Her Bachelor of Music degree in organ performance was earned under the tutelage of Larry Smith at Indiana University, where she was also awarded the prestigious Performer's Certificate. She has won prizes in a number of national organ competitions and is a member of several national honor societies.
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