Saint Thomas Church Fifth Avenue is delighted to announce the appointment of Bethany Dame as the 2025–2026 Organ Scholar. She will join us in September.
Ms. Dame currently serves as Organ Scholar at the Church of the Redeemer in Baltimore and recently earned her Master’s degree in Organ Performance from the Peabody Conservatory of the Johns Hopkins University. She holds dual undergraduate degrees—a Bachelor of Science in Engineering and a Bachelor of Music in Organ Performance—from Hope College in Holland, Michigan, where she also pursued studies in piano, percussion, and physics.
In Baltimore, she studied accompaniment under Bert Landman and repertoire under Dr. Daniel Aune.
A native of Kentwood, Michigan, Bethany credits her well-honed coordination skills to her background as a competitive fencer.
She recently visited Saint Thomas to become acquainted with our staff and instruments, and we look forward to officially welcoming her this fall.
Acting Director of Music Nicolas Haigh writes:
Bethany’s candidacy immediately stood out amongst a strong field of applicants. Her enthusiasm for the work of the music program at Saint Thomas Church, her excellent musical credentials, and her prior experience working in a middle school will make her an excellent addition to the department. Richard and I are delighted that Bethany has accepted the position, and we look forward to welcoming her in September!
Bethany shares:
This is truly a dream job for me. I am thrilled for the opportunity to work with such talented and dedicated young musicians, especially in the heart of Manhattan. I’m excited to learn alongside them in the high-energy environment that is unique to Saint Thomas and cannot wait to start this Fall!
