J David Hart, International Concert Organist

"A true musician and artist at the organ"

Widely recognized for his “passionate and brilliant” style, international concert and recording artist J. David Hart has performed as solo organist at churches, schools, universities and institutions throughout the United States and around the globe. He made his Carnegie Hall debut in 1989. A Fellow of the American Guild of Organists, Dr. Hart has received glowing reviews in the United States, Germany, Holland, Great Britain, Canada and Australia. Hailed as a skilled improvisateur, he has been a featured performer with distinguished orchestras and conductors throughout the world. In December, 2010, he received the honorary D.Mus. in Organ Artistry (Honoris causa) from the educational foundation of C.A.I.

In 2012, Hart was appointed Organist of the First Presbyterian Church of Lakeland, Florida -- a church of approximately 2,200 members with a Professional Ensemble (Chapel Choir) open by audition only, a Jubilation Ensemble and full Chancel Choir of some 60 singers. Additionally, handbell choirs and childrens choirs round out the church's inner musical program. This is all guided by Dr. Daniel Gordon, Director of Fine Arts Ministries, formerly of Crane School of Music in New York. Beyond that, the church's Fine Arts Series presents National and International Choirs and Artists each year, attracting music lovers from Florida and other states.

Dr. Hart earned both Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from Carnegie Mellon University and later was appointed a member of its eminent music faculty where he served until 1990. Robert Croan, writer for Opera News, refers to Hart’s “technical virtuosity on the organ and other keyboard instruments. Most significant, perhaps, is his consummate musical comprehension, years of experience and a total dedication to the art of music.”

Hart's lovely choral setting of Adoro te devote ("Humbly We Adore Thee") has been published by Cantica Nova Publications and his published organ arrangement of the hymn, “It is Well with My Soul”, has now been performed by hundreds of musicians throughout the world. In March 2007, Dr. Hart's solo recital tour of Germany received rave reviews. While there, he recorded a CD on the Hey Orgelbau organ of St. Kilian's Church, Mellrichstadt. In 2007, he received further acclaim for his concert tour of Australia where he played over 30 solo performances and workshops. He maintains a close association both with Johannus Orgelbouw, b.v. of Ede, The Netherlands and Hey Orgelbau of Urspringen, Germany (outside Frankfurt).