Brigid Cantagallo
As with all of us, the path to where we end up is often winding with many detours along the way. It does make life interesting!
Growing up in rural Minnesota, I was blessed to have been taught for 10 years by my dear piano teacher, Sister Eugenia. In 6th grade, she asked me if I would be interested in accompanying daily Mass on the organ in our parish. I think Sister was hoping, and possibly praying, for an occasional well-earned break! This opportunity surely made a tremendous impact on my life. And it was also a lot of fun!
I enrolled at University of Wisconsin, Eau Claire following high school. There I completed a Bachelor of Music Therapy degree, with concentration in organ and piano.
My husband and I began our lives together here in northern Illinois. I was employed as a Registered Music Therapist with special needs children and adults for several years. Music therapy – a most interesting and exciting profession!
A few years later, we were blessed with our three children at which time I spent my days with our children and my evenings teaching piano.
However, the liturgical music interest soon came back! I then studied several years with the late Dr. Sally Cherrington-Beggs. “Dr. Sally” tirelessly challenged me to further develop my organ skills and begin once again. I went on to serve at the Presbyterian Church of Barrington for 6 years. Presently, I serve as organist at the Lutheran Church of the Holy Spirit in Lincolnshire. This warm and welcoming congregation set in the forest preserve has been my church home for 13 years. Maggie Kemper has been a wonderful teacher as I further work to develop as a music minister and organist. As we know, this challenge is never completed!
I am so grateful for all the musicians and educators that have given me such wonderful experiences in music. And I look forward to getting to know more of our Chapter members in the years ahead.
Brigid Cantagallo