Click here to add text.
J. DAVID HART
First Presbyterian Church
175 Lake Hollingsworth Drive
Lakeland, Florida
Enriching lives through Music in Worship
J. David Hart, Organist
First Presbyterian Church, Lakeland, FL
Each Sunday:
Classic Worship at 8:15 AM (Communion)
Classic Worship at 10:30 AM
Majestic music for the king of instruments played on our magnificent Austin Organ!
Dr. Daniel A. Gordon
Director of Fine Arts
Dr. John "Mike" Loudon
Pastor
The Rev. Mrs. Cecelia
Moore Wilhite
Assistant Pastor
Dr. J. David Hart
Organist
John Lowery
Recording & Sound Engineer
J. David Hart
Fellow, American Guild of Organists
D. Mus., Honoris causa
"A true musician and artist at the organ"
Widely recognized for his “passionate and brilliant” musical style, international concert and recording artist J. David Hart has performed over 700 concerts throughout the United States, Germany, Holland, Great Britain, Canada and Australia. He made his Carnegie Hall solo debut in 1989. A Fellow of the American Guild of Organists, Dr. Hart is considered one of the finest improvisateurs of our time. He has been a featured soloist with the finest conductors, orchestras and choral ensembles throughout the world.
In 2012, Hart was appointed Organist of First Presbyterian Church, Lakeland, Florida—a church of approximately 1,800 members with a Chancel Choir of some 60 singers, the Chapel Ensemble (a choral group open by audition) and Jubilation—singing repertoire of a less formal style. Each season, the church's Fine Arts Series presents spectacular concerts and recitals by renowned choirs and artists, attracting music lovers from Florida and other states. Hart will present a solo Organ Concert on the First Presbyterian Church Performing Arts Series in April, 2013.
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. In December, 2010, he received the honorary D.Mus. in Organ Artistry (Honoris causa) from the educational foundation of C.A.I. (Concert Artists International). He has performed with major orchestras and conductors throughout the world.
Dr. Hart's recital tours of Britain, Europe and Australia received critical acclaim. Hart has released 13 CD's, 5 DVD's and two volumes of Hymn Settings—highly regarded by musicians and music lovers everywhere.
—Peter Frick, rev. 2013
First Presbyterian Church
Lakeland, FL
Austin Organ, Op. 2754, 1994
Recent comments about Recordings
and Performances by J. David Hart
Recordings of Hey Orgelbau organ at Mellrichstadt and Johannus Organ in Denver:
I cannot tell you how much I have enjoyed your two recordings -- one on the Hey organ in Mellrichstadt and the other on the Johannus in Denver. They are my constant companions. Everytime I hear them I hear new things I hadn't realized before. I love everything on them, but my favorites include "It is well with my soul" and "The Lost Chord". You did a splendid job of dynamics and presented them so well that they bring a tear to my eyes and pull at my heartstrings. Some organists just play these organ masterpieces and Hymn arrangements. You live them! --from a Purchaser of Hart CD's
A note from a member of First Presbyterian Church, Lakeland, FL
This is simply a thank-you note for providing such a remarkable performance of Bach's Toccata and Fugue in d minor. It truly moved me to tears! You are greatly appreciated for making the 127th anniversary of the church remarkable, as is Mike's Sermon and Dan's leadership of the choir's anthem. I hope to meet you soon to thank you in person. May God bless you abundantly. (Name withheld)
I N T E R N A T I O N A L C O N C E R T O R G A N I S T
Thanksgiving -- Richard Purvis
Performed by J. David Hart
Filmed at Feike Asma Hall, Johannus Orgelbouw, b.v.
Ede, The Netherlands
