Closer with Song

Music is central to the cultures of all civilizations, from the most primitive to the most advanced. The instruments may differ, and the sounds they produce, but there is a common denominator: Music appeals directly, without the need for explanation or translation. Its attraction is spiritual and emotional rather than intellectual.

At St. James’, music is integral to our services and liturgy. Though it is entirely normal to have prayer and other services without music, the extra dimension of music enhances our appreciation and understanding of our spiritual experiences.

Watch as the St. James’ Compostela Choir sings the Introit and Kyrie from Maurice Durufle’s Requiem during the November 3, 2014 service of Choral Eucharist for All Souls’ Day.

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Hear Our Adult Choir
Adult Choirs
Help lead worship as a member of our adult choirs!
Children & Youth
Learn more about our chorister program for children & youth!
Bicentennial Organ
Learn more about St. James' Bicentennial Organ!
Music Staff

Meet the people with St. James’ who make the musical programs work!

Director of Music, Organist

Davis Wortman

Davis Wortman has been the Director of Music and organist for St. James’ since September 2000, marking over two decades in service to this parish. Under his direction, he provides the music of worship for all the principle services on Sundays, Feast Days and special occasions, using the talents, skills and gifts of both professional musicians of international caliber and dedicated parishioners devoted to celebrating worship in song. As the parish grows and adapts to change, he continuously supports the composition of new musical works and providing fresh music in different styles and genres, while rooted in Episcopal traditions and heritage. Dr. Wortman has been an organist, concert recitalist,
conductor, music director, organ design consultant and educator in his singular career and calling as a church musician. Prior to his current appointment at St. James’ he was the Choirmaster and Organist for St. Matthew’s Episcopal Cathedral in Dallas. His graduate studies were at the Yale University Institute of Sacred Music, followed by post-graduate studies at Yale Divinity School. He received his Doctorate of Musical Arts from Manhattan School of Music. True to his roots as an organist, he designed and installed St. James’ 96-rank Schoenstein organ as part of the 2010 Bicentennial Celebration of the founding of the church in 1810. A recording of the instrument, played by our artist-in-residence,
Stephen Tharp, received a Grammy nomination in 2018. He enjoys travel, fine foods and is extremely partial to the care and joy of canine companions

212-774-4233

dwortman@stjames.org

Associate for Music, Children's Choirs

Loraine Enlow

Loraine Enlow joined St. James’ staff in January 2015.  As Music Associate, she is responsible for the Children’s and Youth Choirs, assists with the adult choirs, and helps manage the many details that go into our vibrant music program at St. James’. Mrs. Enlow completed her undergraduate work at The New England Conservatory of Music, did graduate work at The University of Chicago in ethnomusicology, and post-graduate study in music education at both the Catholic University of America and the Hartt School of Music.  She regularly serves as guest conductor and clinician for choral festivals across North America. She is also working part-time on a doctorate in Biblical Interpretation at the Jewish Theological Seminary.

212-774-4200

Artist in Residence

Stephen Tharp

Stephen Tharp has been Artist-in-Residence at St. James’ Church since November 2014, serving as the principal organist for the 9:10 and 11:15 a.m. liturgies on Sunday. Stephen is an internationally-acclaimed concert organist, recording artist, and composer. Learn more at www.stephentharp.com.