Someone You Should Know: Wendy Shanahan-Richards 

I am a lifelong Chicagoan, and proud of it! My musical journey began when I was six years old. Music was very important to my parents, and I will always be grateful to them for the organ lessons I started as a young child. I can still recall practicing on the Hammond M100 organ in our living room, and loving it!

Although I came close to pursuing a career in music, my path took me to a career in health care instead.  Along the way, I studied jazz piano and the violin, and taught myself the basics of the flute.  Music has been and still is a source of inspiration and joy for me. 

In October of 2022, I entered the wonderful world of the pipe organ!  I was fortunate to learn about the Chicago International Organ Academy, founded by Dr. Phillip Kloeckner. Phillip is an amazing teacher.  I have found his teaching style to be exactly what I needed as a beginning organist:  focused on proper technique, inspiring, encouraging, and patient. Ten months in, and I continue to enjoy the journey!

I look forward to learning more about the NSAGO in the future!

Past Overtones