Graeme Shields

he/him/his

October 4, 1992

Current Affiliation:
Redeemer Lutheran Church, Hinsdale, Illinois- Music Director

Past Affiliation:
Calvary Episcopal Church in Cincinnati, OH - Organ Scholar

Past Affiliation:
Western Michigan University - Adjunct Instructor

Composer

Performer

shields.graeme@gmail.com

Graeme Shields is a Canadian-born composer and organist whose influences range from the Lutheran music tradition to the experimental confidence of the avant-garde. His compositions, often exercises in dry humour and eccentricity, aim to articulate the mysteries of the past, the spirit, and the unknown. His music features repetition, audible process, stark juxtaposition, theatrical elements, and a bricolage approach to harmonic language. Through these features and influences, he has generated a body of work that breathes new life into ancient elements like old-world folk tunes and extinct pagan rituals.

Graeme has had works performed across the United States, Canada, and Russia at events such as Florida State University’s New Music Festival, Greenlight New Music Festival, and the Silver Sounds International Chamber Music Competition. He has also enjoyed artist residencies at Warbler’s Roost in South River, ON and Azule in Hot Springs, NC.

As an organist, Graeme is a founding member of Vital Organ Project (VOP); a program that facilitates the creation, education, and performance of new music featuring the abilities and distinction of the pipe organ. Through concerts of modern repertoire and ongoing premieres of new works, VOP showcases the true versatility of the organ and its relevance to the 21st century. Since its inception in 2017, VOP has been the catalyst for over 20 world premieres and 30 concert events across the US and Canada.

Graeme holds degrees from Western Michigan University and the University of Minnesota-Duluth. Primary teachers have included Christopher Biggs, Lisa Coons, and Justin Rubin.