As many of you already know, after considerable thought, prayer, and consultation with several of my trusted colleagues, friends and family members, I have submitted my letter announcing my retirement as Chancel Choir Director at Augustana Lutheran effective Sunday, November 3, 2019. I will continue directing the choir in worship services during the fall season, including September, October and through Sunday, November 3, 2019. This will include my conducting the Requiem by Bob Chilcott, a recently composed major choral composition appropriate for All Saints Sunday.
I have had a very rich career as a music conductor. I chose a few years ago to close out my music career by concentrating on music in worship. That has proved to be the right decision. The Chancel Choir members have been like family to Judy and me. I have been so blessed to be able to make beautiful music with these singers. They have been such close friends, and a stalwart example of The Christian Community in Action! I have shared with so many members of the congregation how strongly I feel that music in worship has been one of my most important callings. I have loved every minute of bringing the passion of music alive in the hearts and souls of my singers, players and the congregation as a whole. My life has been blessed.
In reflecting on my career as a conductor, I have so enjoyed looking back at my teaching and conducting years. I started conducting and being a music educator in 1961. From 1961 to 2001, I was an instrumental and choral music educator for 39 years. From 1961 to 2014, I taught community music (bands, symphonies and choruses) for 40 years, and from 1961 to 2019, I have directed church choirs for 30 years.
In closing my career, my involvement with music in worship at Augustana for thirteen years has been a superb experience. Press on!
Soli Deo Gloria.
Richard Larson
Celebrating Dick
Celebrate Dick and his work as Augustana’s Chancel Choir Director, Sunday, November 3!
Dick will be blessed during 10:30 a.m. worship and recognized during Coffee Hour in Fellowship Hall, 9–10 a.m.
Following the 7:30 p.m. All Saints concert, featuring a new Requiem by Bob Chilcott, Dick will be honored with a reception acknowledging his 13 years of conducting Augustana’s Chancel Choir in worship and concert and his celebrated 60-year conducting career!
