Timothy Olsen
Professor · Organ Performance
University of North Carolina School of the ArtsAbout
Timothy Olsen is the Kenan Professor of Organ at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts and Associate Professor of Organ at Salem College in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. He combines a holistic teaching philosophy emphasizing body awareness and technical health with rigorous score analysis and musical interpretation.
Education:
- D.M.A. in Organ Performance and Literature, Eastman School of Music
- M.A. in Theory Pedagogy, Eastman School of Music
- M.M. in Organ Performance and Literature, Eastman School of Music
- B.M. in Organ Performance, Concordia College
Olsen specializes in organ pedagogy, performance of 20th/21st-century repertoire, and baroque music on period instruments. His collaborative work with trumpeter Judith Saxton as the Saxton Olsen Duo spans over a decade, featuring premieres and imaginative programming.
Scientific Awards:
- AGO National Young Artists Competition First Prize (2002)
- Poister National Organ Competition Finalist (1998, 2001)
- John Rodland Memorial Organ Competition Finalist
- Seven dedicatory recitals for new/renovated organs
He also serves as Cantor at Augsburg Lutheran Church in Winston-Salem, directing music programs and adult choirs while mentoring interns.
