First Presbyterian Church of Columbus, Indiana is initiating a special approach as Colin Andrews becomes Director of Music. First Presbyterian is expanding its music program to include a role as a teaching church, where promising organ students will have a chance to gain valuable experience as they complete their education. Professor Andrews will be sharing the position, over the years ahead, with Student Assistants, the first of whom is Catherine Elliott. The congregation is pleased to encourage this partnership which will enrich the congregation’s worship life, will encourage students of Church music, and will enhance the life of the larger Church.

Colin Andrews, who is an award-winning performer, an educator, and a church musician will begin his position as the Director of Music and Organist during the Easter Season of 2010. Colin was born in Bristol, England and studied at London’s Royal Academy of Music under Professors Douglas Hawkridge and Margaret MacDonald, in Geneva, Switzerland under Professor Lionel Rogg, and under private tutelage in Britain with Dame Gillian Weir. He has received many awards including prizes at the 1980 and 1982 Dublin International Organ Competitions in Ireland. In 1993, The Royal Academy of Music, London, bestowed an Associateship upon him in recognition of his distinguished performing career. He has performed at leading halls and cathedrals throughout the U.S, Europe and Asia. He is an outstanding teacher, serving as Adjunct Professor of Organ at Indiana University. Colin is married to Janette Fishell and lives in Bloomington.

Sharing duties with Colin will be Catherine Elliott, the congregation’s new Music Assistant and Children’s Choir Director. A native of Macon, Georgia, Catherine is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in organ performance at Indiana University, and was handpicked by Colin for this role. Catherine served as the Organist/Choirmaster at Trinity Episcopal Church in Chocowinity, North Carolina, and is presently in the same role at St Thomas Episcopal Church in Franklin, Indiana. Catherine has impressed us in the short time we’ve known her with her warm personality and excellent musical skills. She is a skilled vocalist and will sing in the choir many Sundays. Perhaps the best thing about her is her enthusiasm for working with youth and her desire to keep learning.

Tammy Pace
Administrative Assistant
First Presbyterian Church
(812) 372-3783
(812) 372-9533 Fax
E-mail: tammyp@fpccolumbus.org