James O'Donnell, 2024-25 Musician in Residence
One of the most celebrated concert organists, choral conductors, and liturgical musicians of our time, James O’Donnell served for more than a decade as Master of Music at Westminster Cathedral and for more than two decades as Organist and Master of the Choristers at Westminster Abbey. During his tenure at Westminster, O’Donnell directed the music for many nationally and internationally significant occasions, most notably the Abbey’s funeral service for Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the historic 2010 service attended by Pope Benedict XVI, and the 2011 wedding of Prince William and Catherine Middleton (Duke and Duchess of Cambridge), in addition to conducting the Choir of Westminster Abbey in many broadcasts, concerts, and tours.
James currently serves as Professor in the Practice of Organ at Yale Institute of Sacred Music and the Yale School of Music, where he teaches graduate level organ majors and other students in sacred music and directs a newly established professional liturgical vocal ensemble.
Christ Church is delighted to welcome him for his second appearance as our Musician in Residence. He will direct the choir in services at Christ Church on Sunday, March 2, and a complete schedule for the weekend will be published early in 2025.