Donald Russell – Organist and Director of Music
Dr. Donald Russell is the Organist and Director of Music here at St John’s Anglican Church. He holds Associate Diplomas from both the Royal College of Organists (RCO) and the Royal Canadian College of Organists (RCCO) along with a Choir Master Diploma from the RCCO and a Diploma in Scared Music from the Royal School of Church Music.
Donald has recently studied organ with Wesley Warren, FRCO, and Mervyn Games, FRCO in Ottawa and began his organ studies in Halifax under David MacDonald. He has studied theory and composition with Dr. Phillip Lasser (Julliard) and Dr. Maya Badian.
Donald has a PhD from MIT in Mechanical Engineering and has spent many years as a Professor at Carleton University teaching and researching the biomechanics of music performance.
Barbara Butler – Organist Emerita
Barbara Butler is our Organist Emerita, a music educator well-known for championing the arts in Nova Scotia. With extensive degrees and awards, she has founded and directed numerous musical organizations, many of which have graced St. John’s. Barbara’s love of God is clearly articulated through her music, her gracious presence and wonderful desire to celebrate the spirituality of music.
Peter Allen – Chimer
Peter Allen has been principal chimer since 1997. He is a seventh chimer since the bells were presented more than a century ago. He is a talented musician and a cabinet maker.
