The LA AGO Podcast

Remember that moment when you were first captivated by an organ? When the sounds and sensations drew you in and piqued your curiosity? When you saw an organ console up close for the first time and was overwhelmed by its complexity? When you just knew you wanted to learn how to play one? We all have memories like this and stories to tell about them. In each episode of The LA AGO Podcast, host Thompson Howell speaks with a different member of the Los Angeles Chapter, and occasional special guests, about their own love affair with the organ and how that passion informs their particular involvement with the organ world today. It's not just about what you've done; it's about why you do what you do. Whether you’re a church musician, a concert organist, a teacher, an organ builder or technician, a composer who writes for the organ or simply a fan of the organ and its music, you’ll enjoy hearing the stories of people who are passionate about the organ at every level.

All Episodes

The LA AGO Podcast

Episode 18 (James Casey)

March 12, 2022 • Host: Thompson Howell • Season 3 • Episode 5

St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church in LA's Westwood neighborhood is the site of our next event on Monday, March 14th at 8pm - a Members' Recital featuring the church's Director of Music, Dr. Jeffrey Parola and Organist, Mr. James Casey. Complete details can be found at LAAGO.org.

This episode features James Casey in a conversation with host Thompson Howell as he shares his journey from tiny Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin to the heart of America's second largest city, Los Angeles. Jim talks about the ways he tries to find balance in his musical life as an organist, singer, and teacher; how the music program at school was his "home" as a kid; that one summer as the stadium organist for the Wisconsin Rapids Twins baseball team; the influence of prominent Lutheran musician Paul Manz on his own growth as a musician; how he found his real singing voice and busted out of the countertenor closet; and shares his secret to job longevity as a church organist.

Jim also provides a brief introduction to the Kodály method of music education and its importance to his teaching at St. Paul's School and gives thanks for the friendship and mentorship of two esteemed colleagues, James Buonemani and Christopher Walker. And a bunch more!

Listen at LAAGO.org or subscribe wherever you get your podcasts.

LINKS: