On Saturday, Feb. 24, at 5 p.m., Walla Walla University will host an organ recital in the University Church featuring Paul Richard Olson, organist and choirmaster at Grace Church, Brooklyn Heights, New York. Olson’s program will feature works by Bruhns, Piroye, Bach, Oncley, Bédard, and Praetorius.

Olson grew up in the Pacific Northwest near Seattle. His career as a musician began young. When he was four years old he started learning to play the piano, and by the time he was 10 he was serving as a pianist for church service. After he graduated from high school he began to work as a parish musician in churches throughout the Northwest.

Olson studied organ and sacred music at Pacific Lutheran University. He earned a master of music degree in organ performance and music literature from the University of Oregon and did postgraduate work at the University of Washington.

He has performed in both regional and national conventions with the American Guild of Organists, as well as at universities, colleges, and churches around the country. Olson also serves as an accompanist for singers and choral groups around the country, most particularly in New York City.

Everyone is welcome to attend this free event held at the University Church, 212 S.W. Fourth St., College Place.

Posted Feb. 22, 2018