John obetz organist biography from his birth

Visit www. My dad led a big, bold, beautiful life. S o Peter Obetz said as he eulogized his father, John Obetz—organist, teacher, mentor, family man, and friend to so many, who passed from this life on February 12, , at the age of He augmented his studies with trips to France for lessons with Marie-Claire Alain, and to the Netherlands to participate in the International Academy for Organists in Haarlem.

He served in this position from until his retirement in He retired from the conservatory in Said his son Peter:.

His playing and commentary, featured weekly on The Auditorium Organ radio program and broadcast nationwide for 26 years from to , brought organ music to millions of .

He loved teaching and more than anything, the thing that struck me this last couple of months has been the amazing appreciation expressed by so many students: heartfelt statements of thanks for believing in them, supporting them, and coaching them to play pieces they never thought they could play, and helping shape them into the musicians they are now.

The world continues to hear beautiful music that bears his influence. An ardent and active member of the American Guild of Organists, Dr. Obetz served on its national council for nineteen years, chairing several committees and accepting many volunteer and elected roles, including chapter dean, regional chair, and national treasurer.

His death came only two months after a suspicious CT scan in mid-December.

John Obetz, 81 of Leawood, KS, died February 12, at St. Luke's Hospice House.

His cancer was aggressive and efficient in attacking its host. Fortunately his was not a long, drawn-out death. He had 81 great years, a beautiful marriage of 61 years, a career that he loved and an ability to have influence on so many. His life was filled with loving, teaching, traveling and, as we all know, a lot of laughter.