Joseph Ripka

Joseph Ripka is an internationally renowned organist, Adjunct Professor of Harpsichord, and Director of the Early Music Ensemble at Oklahoma City University. He serves as Canon Musician at St. Paul’s Cathedral in Oklahoma City, overseeing comprehensive choral programs including the Cathedral Chorister initiative. Additionally, he acts as Diocesan Music Missioner for the Episcopal Diocese of Oklahoma.

Education:

• Bachelor’s degrees in Organ and Piano Performance, St. Cloud State University
• Master’s degrees in Organ and Piano Performance, University of Kansas
• Artist Diploma in Organ Performance, Oberlin College
• Master’s degree in Organ Performance, Yale University

Research Interests: Specializes in Baroque and Renaissance repertoire, keyboard performance (organ, harpsichord, piano), and choral conducting. His work emphasizes historically informed performance practices and early music revival.

Awards:

• Winner of major international organ competitions
• Featured artist on American Public Media’s Pipedreams
• Recipient of acclaim for YouTube performances with millions of views

Advising & Leadership: Leads ensembles at St. Paul’s Cathedral, including two adult choirs and youth choristers. Conducts Handel’s Messiah and Bach/Buxtehude/Schutz cantatas. Active in Baroque ensemble collaborations as harpsichord continuo performer.

Performance Highlights: Performed with New World Symphony, Boston Philharmonic, and Boston Symphony Orchestra. European debuts in Paris, Amsterdam, and London, plus recitals at Westminster Cathedral, St. Paul’s Cathedral London, and others.