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Gordon Stevenson's Biography
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Gordon Stevenson began playing piano at the age of 4. He subsequently enrolled in piano lessons and completed the examinations of the Associate Board of the Royal Schools of Music at the age of 6.
As the beneficiary of tuition assistance from a local teacher in his home town of Kilwinning in the south-west coast of Scotland, he was able to further his music education. He took advantage of many opportunities to develop his career throughout his teens, from performing in many high school productions and ensembles, to accompanying local operatic groups and performing jazz piano in hotel lounges!
At the age of 11, he was asked to stand in for the organist at a local church in his hometown. This was his introduction to the world of classical organ and choral music, and it was from this point that his love of ecclesiastical music and liturgy began.
He accepted organ tuition for several years from a well-known local organist, and subsequently began playing the organ and directing the choir in the church regularly by the age of 15. After graduating from high school, he went on to college and received an Associate Diploma in performance from The Trinity College of Music of London in 1998, before undertaking a Bachelors Degree in Music and Theology, which he received in 2003. He also took part in many recitals and performances at the University of Strathclyde, Glasgow until September of 2006. It was there he held the position as the accompanist to the University Chorus. He was also involved in the production of Carl Orff's "Carmina Burana" and Karl Jenkins's "The Armed Man".
Gordon received a Postgraduate Diploma in High School Teaching, which resulted in his working as a high school teacher at Kilmarnock Academy from 2004-2006. Since his early days at his local church in Kilwinning, he has held several church posts: Saint Peter-in-Chains, Ardrossan (RC)- regular organist from 1998, Director of Music from 2003; High Kirk of Stevenston (Presbyterian)- Director of Music from 1997-2001; St Ninian's Church, Troon (Anglican)- Organist for the weekly Choral Evensong from 1998-2000; Fullarton Church, Irvine (Presbyterian)- Director from 2001-2003; St Marnock's Church, Kilmarnock (Presbyterian)- Associate Organist/Choir Leader from 2005-2006.
Mr. Stevenson has remained firmly committed to the liturgical principles of the Roman Catholic Church; however, his involvement in other denominations has provided him with a rich insight into church music and understanding of liturgy. Over the many years as organist, and subsequently, Director, in his home parish of Saint Peter-in-Chains, Ardrossan, he has seen many exciting developments in the music program with the introduction of a full choir participating regularly in worship and the development and contributions from the young people through their music and instrumental groups. He hopes to bring some of this experience and encouragement to St. Mary’s Basilica.
Aside from his music, Gordon also likes to swim, walk and play golf.
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