zoom_in Click to enlarge

Gerre Hancock

▲ ▼

description Gerre Hancock Overview

Gerre Hancock was an American organist and choirmaster renowned for his contributions to sacred music. From 1971 to 2004, he served as the Master of Choristers at Saint Thomas Church in New York City, where he directed the renowned choir of men and boys. He was particularly celebrated for his skill in organ improvisation, a hallmark of his performances and liturgical accompanying. His career cemented his reputation as a leading figure in 20th-century Anglican church music.

help Gerre Hancock FAQ

What was Gerre Hancock's position at Saint Thomas Church?

Gerre Hancock served as Organist and Master of Choristers at Saint Thomas Church on Fifth Avenue in New York City. He held that position from 1971 to 2004, leading the church's choir of men and boys.

Why is Gerre Hancock important in Anglican church music?

Hancock helped strengthen the musical reputation of Saint Thomas Church and its choir school. His work combined organ performance, choral direction, improvisation, and composition within the Episcopal tradition.

What was distinctive about Gerre Hancock's organ playing?

Hancock was especially celebrated as an improviser, a skill that shaped his work in worship and concerts. He also taught improvisation through institutions including Juilliard and the Institute of Sacred Music at Yale.

What is A Song to the Lamb by Gerre Hancock?

A Song to the Lamb is a setting of verses from the Book of Revelation for choir, organ, brass, and timpani. Hancock wrote it in 1973 for Hollis Grant, a director associated with the St. Dunstan's College of Sacred Music.