THE LA AGO PODCAST
Remember that moment when you were first captivated by an organ? When the sounds and sensations drew you in and piqued your curiosity? When you saw an organ console up close for the first time and were overwhelmed by its complexity? When you just knew you wanted to learn how to play one? We all have memories like this and stories to tell about them. In each episode of The LA AGO Podcast, host Thompson Howell speaks with a different member of the Los Angeles Chapter, and occasional special guests, about their own love affair with the organ and how that passion informs their particular involvement with the organ world today. It's not just about what you've done; it's about why you do what you do. Whether you’re a church musician, a concert organist, a teacher, an organ builder or technician, a composer who writes for the organ or simply a fan of the organ and its music, you’ll enjoy hearing the stories of people who are passionate about the organ at every level.
About the Host
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A native of Boston, Massachusetts, Thompson Howell began piano lessons in third grade and quickly advanced. He began studying organ - first with Richard Griffin at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Dedham, Massachusetts, where Thompson sang in the choir, and then with Brian Jones, former Organist & Director of Music at Trinity Church in Boston’s Copley Square. Half way through high school, Thompson got the acting bug, which led him to the renowned theatre program at Northwestern University and ultimately to his primary profession today as a voice actor for radio & television commercials, television promos, movie trailers and narrations. Through it all, he has always maintained his love of the organ and studied for a time with Douglas Cleveland while living in Chicago. Since moving to Los Angeles in 2006, Thompson has served as Organist & Choir Director of St. Mary of The Angels Anglican Church in Los Feliz and Assistant Organist at St. Thomas The Apostle, Hollywood.
He also assisted and substituted regularly at St. John’s Cathedral. Seeking to find a good balance between his work in front of a microphone and on the organ bench. Thompson has found a nice niche as an in-demand assistant and substitute organist at many churches in the Los Angeles area including Hollywood United Methodist Church, Church of Our Saviour in San Gabriel, Calvary Presbyterian Church in South Pasadena, and St. James’ Episcopal Church in Los Angeles.