Organ Studio

Xavier Richardson

Music and English Major

Xavier

Xavier Wm Richardson is currently a senior at the University of Florida where he is double majoring in Music (Organ Performance) and English. A pupil of Dr. Laura Ellis, Xavier has been fortunate to hold directorship and leadership positions at various local churches in the Gainesville community during his undergraduate career. The churches and positions include: Greater Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church, Director of Music & Organist, and Spirit of Faith Christian Center, Director of Praise Bands and Assistant Choral Director where he currently serves. As an organ student, Mr. Richardson has been a featured recitalist in many of the local AGO (American Guild of Organists) sponsored events. Mr. Richardson recently served as the Project Leader and Choral Director for the 2010 Production of Handel's Messiah Rocks which was held on November 26, 2010. In addition, Mr. Richardson presented his degree recital in the fall of 2010 where the works of Bach, Alain, Saint-Saëns, Pierné, and Reger were featured. Mr. Richardson has participated in and attended the master classes and workshops of fine organists such as Dr. Pamela Decker, Professor of Organ at Arizona State University and Dr. Gerre Hancock, Professor of Organ at the University of Texas at Austin, and Dr. Eric Nelson, Director of Choral Studies at Emory University. Xavier's other instructors have included Dr. Kevin M. Sharpe (Piano), Dr. Frederic W. Fleischer (Organ), and Dr. Will Kesling (Choral Conducting). Mr. Richardson plans to attend law school following graduation.