Honoring a Musical Legacy
Susan Panciera
Susan dedicated her entire professional life to the service of God as a church musician. For over 40 years, she cultivated vibrant church music programs involving all ages. Her deepest joy was leading congregations in liturgy and song from the organ. Susan served churches in Montana, Minnesota, New Jersey, Cambridge (Great Britain), Topeka and Lindsborg, Kansas, Oklahoma City and for the final 21 years of her career – Boston Avenue United Methodist Church in Tulsa, Oklahoma. In her words, “It is a privilege to bring people closer to God through music. Sharing in music can move people to a different place...transport them out of themselves.”
BM, Church Music/Organ, 1982
St. Olaf College
Westminster Choir College
MM, Church Music/Organ, 1984
Kansas University
DMA, Organ, 1997
A Pillar of the Community
A Passion for the Organ
Susan's 21-year tenure as Organist and Director of Handbell Ministries at Boston Avenue United Methodist Church was fueled by her love of pipe organs. After inheriting an excellent 105-rank M.P. Möller, Susan spearheaded the installation in 2017 of Boston Avenue's current organ, a stunning 76-rank Foley Baker instrument.
A Legacy of Ministry
Throughout her entire career, Susan taught, conducted, and guided musicians in a variety of settings. Whether in group rehearsals or private study, Susan always supported and challenged people to experience holy presence through active music making.
Community Leadership
As a leader in the American Guild of Organists (AGO) Tulsa Chapter, Susan worked tirelessly to encourage the education and practice of sacred music throughout the community.