It is with deeply conflicting emotions that I inform you that Mr. Garmon J. N. Ashby, St. Philip's Director of Music since 2003, has resigned effective 01 August 2011. Garmon has accepted a new post as Performing Arts Department Chair, Choirmaster, and Organist at the Episcopal School, in Houston, Texas. I am sad because Garmon is a friend, valued colleague, and respected leader. He is a top-flight musician, who has infused into our worship diverse musical styles from classical, to more contemporary, American, British, South African, Latino, Celtic, and more. I greatly appreciate that for Garmon, liturgical music is not about performance, but about enriching and deepening worship by carrying themes and emphasizing thoughts in the day's Scriptures. I am happy for Garmon because he feels called to his new work, in which he will have a chance to grow and develop. New challenges are always exciting, and will bring out the best in him.
Garmon's last Sunday will be 26 June 2011. I will announce plans for saying "farewell and God speed" in the very near future.
I learned of Garmon's final decision on Saturday, 07 May 2011. St. Philip's Day was clearly not the day to go public with this announcement. I met with him over lunch on Monday to begin working out some details. I am consulting with wardens and other leaders over the next week to discuss a plan for an interim period, and for a search process for a new Director. I am committed to the excellence, flexibility, tradition, and innovation that have been the hallmarks of St. Philip's liturgical music. Before advertising a "position open," I want to be sure that our goals are clear, that funding is committed, and that we know what qualities and qualifications are necessary to lead one of the best music ministries in the Episcopal Church, and one of St. Philip's most significant evangelistic tools.
Faithfully yours,
John
The Reverend John E. Kitagawa, D. Min.
Rector
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