Tryon Presbyterian names new music director

Published 12:45 pm Wednesday, July 12, 2023

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Drew Banzhoff has joined the staff of Tryon Presbyterian Church as music director and organist. Banzhoff is a 2023 graduate of the University of North Carolina School of the Arts in Winston-Salem.

He earned his degree in musical composition and was awarded the Sherwood Shaffer Prize in Composition during his senior year. He directed the UNCSA Symphony Orchestra last year in a performance of one of his compositions. A multi-instrumentalist and vocalist, Banzhoff has performed in a variety of church and secular settings. He has also been published by TrevCo Music of West Hartford, Conn.

Banzhoff will direct TPC’s Chancel Choir, but because several young families have begun worshipping at the church recently, he is interested in starting a children’s choir.

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He and his family are members of Black Mountain Presbyterian Church, where he has served as guest organist and choral conductor.

“As a lifelong Presbyterian, I strive to serve God in all things I do, and I seek to serve others through my musical endeavors to build a welcoming, peaceful and loving world for all,” he said.

Tryon Presbyterian is very pleased to have this talented young man leading its music ministry.

Makena James, who served as TPC’s interim organist, has left to begin graduate studies at the University of Southern California.

 

Submitted by Doug Clark