Virginia D. Wilson

Desert Palms Church Organist

General Job Description: Virginia’s primary function is to contribute to the spiritual life of the church through her playing of hymns, organ/piano solos, and providing accompaniment for choirs and soloists. She is responsible for providing organ and piano music at both Sunday morning worship services, the Maundy Thursday services, Easter services, and the Christmas Eve services. In addition, she may perform during other special services and occasions through special arrangement.

Most Rewarding Part of Job: Virginia indicated her co-workers and the other folks she works with are appreciated and have provided enjoyment and satisfaction in her new position here at Desert Palms. Too, the opportunities she’s had to play various types of music have given her personal satisfaction and pleasure.

Most Challenging Part of Work: As a new staff member, Virginia has found remembering names to be somewhat of a challenge. Most of us can relate to that challenge, and it reminds us of the importance of wearing name tags! Then, too, it’s challenging to choose music that best fits with the topic of the day, yet is meaningful and appreciated by attendees.

Work Experience and Training: Virginia comes to Desert Palms with an impressive educational background and experiences in a variety of settings. She was awarded a B.A. in Music at Pacific Union College in Angwin, California; a M.A. degree in Music from Andrews University in Berrien Springs, Michigan; and a D.M.A. in Piano Performance by the University of Washington in Seattle, Washington.

Among her rich experiences as a musician are teaching in several public and private schools in Hawaii, Michigan, Bermuda, Washington, and Arizona. Further, she has planned, coordinated, and conducted or accompanied operettas, recitals, choral programs, artists; and has participated in concerto performances with college orchestras.

Virginia has shared her musical talents with several area churches, including the United Church of Sun City, Lutheran churches, and the Seventh-Day Adventist Church.

Off-Job Interests: Reading, hiking, traveling, and attending concerts are among her off-job activities of interest. Trips she has made to Western Europe and to Eastern Europe are especially memorable experiences. She also likes to write, and she puts this interest to work by writing newsletters and publicity articles for a piano club.

Personal Notes: Virginia is a rarity. She is a native of Phoenix, as is her 92-year-old mother (an artist), with whom she currently resides in Sun City! She was widowed ten years ago. While she has lived in several of the states mentioned above, she returned to Phoenix in 1980. Most of her life has been spent in the Phoenix area. Virginia is a member of the Seventh-Day Adventist Church.

We are fortunate to have such a fine musician join the Desert Palms staff as our church organist. Let’s all extend a warm welcome to Virginia!